South Africa is grappling with a staggering unemployment rate of 32.9%, a disconcerting figure as revealed by Statistics South Africa. In the face of this pressing challenge, numerous female entrepreneurs from Newcastle, Utrecht, and Dannhauser gathered for a transformative workshop aimed at bolstering both the local economy and employment opportunities.

Approximately 100 enterprising women descended upon the Amajuba District Municipality on Tuesday morning, 22 August 2023, to engage in a workshop that cast a spotlight on women in business.
The event, organised in collaboration with Ithala Development Finance Corporation and the Amajuba District Municipality’s Local Economic Development Unit, drew support from an array of organisations. This included the KwaZulu-Natal Treasury, Small Enterprise Development Unit, Department of Social Development, Economic Development, Tourism & Environmental Affairs Women Empowerment Unit, and Small Finance Development Agency.
The shared mission of these entities was to drive business sector growth by empowering women. Throughout the event, participants were treated to comprehensive presentations, insightful policy discussions, and valuable insights into accessing financial resources. Furthermore, various industries showcased enticing business opportunities, underscoring the event’s commitment to fostering women’s roles in business.
Andile Mabaso, a representative of Ithala Development Finance Corporation, underscored the multifaceted benefits of the initiative, stating, “Information is the key to success. We are providing the guests with the relevant information to key partners who can assist them with funding and help them develop their businesses.”
Mabaso additionally highlighted that this initiative could not only elevate women as business leaders but also infuse a positive impact on the economy and potentially reduce the unemployment rate.
Explaining the significance of the initiative, Mabaso said that the goal was to bridge the gender gaps, particularly in industries that are predominantly male dominated. “We want women to have the same opportunities as men and to enter the business sector fully aware of the possibilities that await them, so they can achieve success.”
Among the inspiring businesswomen present was Anele Jili, a 24 year old entrepreneur who runs a catering and decoration business. Jili voiced her aspiration to not only grow her business but also contribute to the economy by providing employment opportunities. She acknowledged the challenges faced by young business owners like herself and expressed optimism about learning strategies to ensure business sustainability through the workshop.
“I want to be able to provide employment and grow my business, but at the moment it is difficult finding gigs, as few people want to hire a young business owner,” she began.
Sinethemba Nene, the visionary behind “Lokshin Bite,” a show that celebrates local township foods, shared her unique journey. Nene recognised the increasing competition in her industry and expressed her eagerness to learn tactics for expanding her enterprise and creating more employment opportunities.
“The industry is saturated with people, as anyone can now have a show. I studied media after school, but a person with no qualifications can now run a show,” said Nene, highlighting the importance of standing out from her competition.
Additionally, she said her career had the potential to combat unemployment. “I need camera people, a makeup artist, someone to do the wardrobe, and so on.” She further added that her career would also in turn help food establishments in townships to grow, making it important for her to learn as much as possible.
Delisile Nkosi, a hair salon proprietor, saw the workshop as a gateway to elevate her business and advance her entrepreneurial ambitions. Nkosi expressed her desire to take her salon to new heights and pass on her expertise to others. Her hopes are centred on enhancing her business to the point where she could provide jobs and impart her unique hairstyling techniques.
With nearly 100 determined women invested in harnessing the power of the business sector for economic development, the workshop’s impact is poised to reverberate.
As women gather insights, build networks, and uncover opportunities, the potential to invigorate the local economy and contribute to addressing the unemployment crisis becomes increasingly evident.
As women take strides toward transformative change, their efforts resonate not only within their businesses but also in the broader socioeconomic landscape of South Africa.
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Comments 1
I read story about the women in business here in Newcastle.I am in carpentry business and I need a partner who is knowledgeable in this field that can help me as I am still a novis in this field.