The Township Economy Awards 2024 celebrated businesses and individuals excelling in areas such as innovation, entrepreneurship, and social impact. This event highlighted the critical role of the township economy in driving inclusive growth and fostering sustainable development.

Day 1 Key Discussions:

Green Economy eKasi: 

Discussions highlighted sustainable energy solutions and insights for township entrepreneurs in areas such as recycling, eco-friendly manufacturing, and urban farming. “It is very important to engage with investors and collaboration partners that are aligned with your vision and objectives” said Hleziphi Siyothula, founder of Mtshizana. 

Furthermore, Maluta Netshaula, Senior Lead for the Green Economy Portfolio at Nedbank highlighted the importance of information access for township entrepreneurs and participationin relevant incubator programmes.

The Power of Manufacturing: 

The summit explored the vast potential for scaling manufacturingbusinesses within townships, emphasising the sector’s contribution to job creation and economic inclusivity. Fulton Ramaphakela, CEO of Vimba Group mentioned the importance of leading supply to end-useras a manufacturer. 

He openly shared his longevity as an entrepreneur stating that he has beenformally unemployed since 1996 and has been self-employed in the backroom and apartment rentalbusiness since. His story inspired attendees to not be short sighted but look beyond their entrepreneurial horizon.

The Power of Transportation: 

Delegates explored business opportunities in the transportationand logistics sector. This key industry subject was unpacked by panelists, Godiragetse Mogajane,founder of Delivery Ka Speed, Sipho Nxumalo, Manager of the Skills Development Programme atTETA, Tshepo Mekoa, the founder and CEO of Brima Logistics as well as Freddie Mahhumane,founder and CEO of KasiD Township Delivery. 

Day 2 Summit Key Discussions:

Backroom Market eKasi:

Our inaugural panel discussion, “Backroom Market ekasi,” yielded valuable insights from esteemed panelists such as Modicai Mnculwane, Lusanda Netshitenszhe, and Cobus Truter. The discussion highlighted the importance of formalising investments, with Netshitenszhenoting, “Backrooms are supposed to bring long-term assets.” 

Truter emphasized the potential fortownships to drive economic growth but cautioned that “what’s holding us back is capital.”Mnculwane stressed the need for effective credit management, stating, “We need to understandhow to manage credit.” Ultimately, the discussion underscored the need for innovation, strategicplanning, and financial literacy to unlock the untapped potential of township economies.

Retail & Agriculture:

The second panel of the day shone a spotlight on Retail, featuring insightfuldiscussions with Tom Mkhwanazi and Sheldon Tatchell. Sheldon Tatchell shared his remarkablejourney, from humble beginnings in Eldorado Park to taking Legends Barber to the international stage. 

He offered words of wisdom, saying, “Do not despise small beginnings” and “Do everything toget your brand seen.” Tom Mkhwanazi, representing SETA, highlighted the impactful programsavailable to entrepreneurs, stressing the importance of training and development. “The training doesbecome impactful,” he emphasized.

Technology & Innovation: 

The panel discussion, “Innovating the Future: Technology & Innovation,”featured insightful contributions from Zine Nkukwane, Lizzy Mogale, and Ntsako Mgiba. Keytakeaways from the discussion included Nkukwana’s emphasis on the role of technology inpromoting township businesses, stating, “Township entrepreneurs are using technology to get theirbusinesses out there” and “There is nothing wrong with being a Township entrepreneur.” 

The panel also highlighted the importance of digital skills development, with the suggestion to “Give peoplebasic digital skills.” Furthermore, the discussion underscored the significance of embracinginnovation, as “Companies of the future are built today.” This session served as a powerful reminderof the transformative potential of digital innovation in empowering business growth and unlockingopportunities for township entrepreneurs.

The summit successfully facilitated meaningful a dialogue, networking opportunities and knowledgesharing among participants. “The experience was informative; we managed to get people todownload our Salema App. It was my first time presenting our business on such a big stage however Icould not miss this grand opportunity. I would like to thank TEA for always supporting small enterprises coming from rural areas as we are coming all the way from Taung”, said Botshelo, a delegate from Salema App, a former Kasi Pitching Challenge beneficiary.

The Township Economy Award Winners:

Agricultural Excellence Award: 

Agrishelves Group, Lindelani Xhanti

Construction Champion Award: 

Protilagor Projects, Musa Mbatha

Creative, Arts & Culture Award:

Sir Alba Tutoring and Arts Academy, Albert Zitha

Entrepreneur with Disability Award:

Definitive Brand Culture (Pty) Ltd, Khwezi Mthembu

Food & Beverage Award: 

Nosso-Sunflower Oil (Pty) Ltd, Calab Baloyi

Green Economy Award: 

Enoch And Petros Innovative Creations, Mthimkhulu Qhayiyana

Health & Wellness Award: 

The Blend Wellness, Gugulethu Masondo

Manufacturing Excellence Award:

Borotho Bakery Enterprise (Pty) Ltd, Refiloe Rantekoa

Professional Services Award: 

Young Barber Shop, Le-more Jannetjies

Retail Excellence Award: 

ANDURA (Pty) Ltd, Lindokuhle Mnisi

Service Excellence Award:

AMA X-RAYS, Aphiwe Madikizela

Social & Community Impact Award: 

Siyoyisile Indlala Community Farm and Projects, Nthabiseng Mkhize

Technology & Innovation Award:

Kaymores Marketing Agency, Kissmart Tshabalala

Transport Award: 

Delivery Ka Speed Pty Ltd, Godiragetse Mogajane

Lifetime Achievement Awards:

Ritha Zwane, Dr. T Mazwai

Chairman’s Award: 

Thulani Ntshuntshe

Female Entrepreneur of the Year:

AMA X-RAYS, Aphiwe Madikizela

Male Entrepreneur of the Year: 

Delivery Ka Speed Pty Ltd

Youth Entrepreneur of the Year:

Delivery Ka Speed Pty Ltd 

The 2024 Township Economy Awards concluded with a renewed commitment to building a thriving township economy. Bulelani Balabala, founder of TEA brought this incredible event to a close with heartfelt thanks to our sponsors, the municipality, and, most importantly, the entrepreneurs who rise every day to make a difference. 

In his parting words, Bulelani reminded us of the power of innovation: “You can show someone how you can rethink the space.” Let’s continue to transform, elevate, andinspire!Together, we celebrate the achievements of township entrepreneurs and look forward to greater innovation and collaboration in the Township Economy Awards 2025!

Save the Date: The Next Township Economy Awards & Summit 2025

We’re excited to announce that the Township Economy Summit and Awards will be back in 2025! Building on the success of this year’s gathering, we’re taking things to the next level, continuing our mission to empower and celebrate the vibrant township business community.

What to Expect

Engaging Sessions: 

From thought-provoking panels to practical workshops.

Showcasing Excellence:

The Awards will once again honour township trailblazers across various categories.

Networking Opportunities: 

Connect with like-minded individuals and industry leaders.

Stay tuned for more information. Let’s come together to shape the future of the township economy!

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