At enke, our mission is to equip young people with the skills and opportunities needed to secure employment, pursue education, engage in enterprise, or access training. As we work towards these long-term goals, sustainability remains at the core of our efforts. A critical question we encountered was how to support our alumni who have embarked on entrepreneurial journeys but are facing challenges in accessing the resources needed to grow and sustain their businesses. In response to this need, the Ignite Venture Business Generator was born.
The enke Ignite Ventures Business Generator is a pioneering initiative designed to empower young entrepreneurs within the enke Alumni network by providing them with the skills, resources, and support necessary to thrive in today’s competitive business landscape. From almost 100 applications, we have selected 17 enke Alumni entrepreneurs to participate in this year’s pilot. Through a series of workshops, mentorship sessions, and networking opportunities, participants will be equipped with the tools and knowledge needed to turn their innovative ideas into successful ventures. enke: Ignite Ventures is made possible with the investment of E-Squared.
The launch was attended by key partners, including e-squared and the keynote speaker was Mr Setlogane Manchidi delivered an inspiring message grounded on motivating our entrepreneurs to continue in their endeavours as this will provide solution to those around them. An interesting fact Mr Manchidi was one of the first people to invest in the vision of enke at its early stages.
We also had an incredible Motivational address from our key funder from E-squared Mr Siphelele Ndlovu. Explaining the heart behind e-squared passionately investing in this program was amazing. The reality is poverty and unemployment are not a problem for some but is an issue for all. Therefore, we all have to play our part in reducing the unemployment rate. And investing in the Ignite Ventures Business Generator is investing in that reduction.
As the 17 participants received their tablets and left the event, they did so with renewed inspiration and determination to play a pivotal role in growing our economy and solving critical societal challenges. The Ignite Ventures Business Generator is not just an initiative; it is a beacon of hope and a catalyst for sustainable change.
To find out more about this program visit –https://www.enke.org.za/program/alumni-business-generator/
Also check out this awesome video about the event: enke Ignite Ventures Business Generator Launch 2024 (youtube.com)
