logo
Youth empowered through business masterclass

Youth empowered through business masterclass

The Citizen22-04-2025
Aspiring entrepreneurs from the Vanderbijlpark Campus of the North-West University (NWU), alongside members of the local community, recently gathered for an enlightening masterclass led by successful entrepreneur and author Willem Gous.
The event focused on equipping participants with the knowledge, tools, and mindset required to successfully launch and manage sideline businesses.
Gous, the author of the best-selling Side Hustle Success, shared invaluable insights into the world of entrepreneurship, encouraging attendees to think beyond traditional start-up models. His approach emphasised the importance of creating self-sustaining micro-businesses that do not rely on external funding. This perspective resonated deeply with the diverse group of attendees, who gained practical strategies and innovative approaches to turning their ideas into income-generating ventures.
During the masterclass, Gous addressed the common misconception that starting a business requires significant capital investment. 'Starting a business is not about having a lot of money first. You do not need the money to start a business,' he emphasised, challenging participants to reconsider their approach to entrepreneurship. His insights sought to empower individuals to start small and scale their ideas without being hindered by financial constraints.
The event also provided attendees with a unique opportunity to learn about the key principles of running a side business, with a focus on managing time effectively, understanding market needs, and leveraging available resources. Gous' practical tips and straightforward strategies allowed participants to envision a clear pathway from idea to execution, even for those with little to no prior business experience.
The masterclass left a lasting impact on its participants. Many attendees expressed how the session had shifted their perspective on entrepreneurship, offering them new ways to approach their current or future business ventures. One participant shared that they were able to implement Willem's strategies to manage their existing business more effectively.
The first 100 attendees were given complimentary copies of Side Hustle Success, providing them with the opportunity to delve deeper into Gous' proven methods for building and managing a side business. The free book served as a valuable resource for continued learning, reinforcing the lessons shared during the masterclass and helping participants take practical steps toward realising their entrepreneurial goals.
The event highlighted the ongoing support available through the NWU's Bhive Enterprise Development Centre (EDC), which plays a crucial role in helping entrepreneurs at various stages of their business journey. The Bhive EDC provides access to resources, mentorship and networking opportunities, further empowering individuals to turn their ideas into successful businesses. Interested entrepreneurs are encouraged to visit the bhive EDC website for more information on registration and available services.
Dr Johann Landsberg, senior lecturer at the School of Management Sciences, praised the success of the masterclass. He said that this masterclass exemplifies the NWU's commitment to fostering an entrepreneurial spirit in the local community.
'Through initiatives like this, the university is not only helping individuals to succeed but also contributing to the broader economic development and innovation of the region,' he said, adding that the event was a fantastic opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs to gain practical, real-world insights into launching their businesses.
'Willem Gous's approach to entrepreneurship, emphasising low-cost start-up strategies and self-sustaining models, resonates with the needs of our community. It is clear that the masterclass not only inspired participants but also equipped them with the tools to turn their ideas into successful ventures.'
At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Oceans Umhlanga launches luxury residential tower valued at R1. 4 billion
Oceans Umhlanga launches luxury residential tower valued at R1. 4 billion

IOL News

time7 hours ago

  • IOL News

Oceans Umhlanga launches luxury residential tower valued at R1. 4 billion

Oceans Umhlanga is making waves in the local real estate market with the official launch of its high-end North Oceans Umhlanga Residential Tower, valued at R1.4 billion. The event, scheduled for tomorrow, marks a significant stride in the region's economic and social transformation, amplifying KwaZulu-Natal's ambitious revitalisation agenda. According to Brian Mpono, CEO of Oceans Umhlanga Development, the North Tower is an integral part of the larger R4.3 billion Oceans Umhlanga Mixed Use Development, which encompasses the internationally recognised Oceans Mall and the five star Radisson Blu Durban Umhlanga Hotel. 'The launch isn't just another property unveiling; it's a celebration of Durban's evolution,' expressed an excited Mpono. 'This project reflects a vision brought to life through the tenacity and perseverance of our developers, Vivian Reddy and Rob Alexander.' Mpono noted that the project had already drawn international attention to KwaZulu-Natal's potential. Its North Tower will introduce over 258 luxury apartments, ranging from studios to four bedroom units, all designed to boast breathtaking ocean views along Africa's East Coast. Each unit features premium finishes with direct access to the adjacent Oceans Mall, setting a new standard for luxury residential offerings in the region. Beyond the aesthetics and amenities, Mpono stressed that the real impact of the North Tower was rooted in its focus on transformation. About 50% of the workforce employed in the North Tower's construction comprised young Black South Africans, with a notable representation of young Black women. 'It is critical for us that our development reflects the diversity of our communities,' added Mpono, highlighting the inclusive nature of this ambitious project. Equally significant was the commercial aspect of the Oceans Umhlanga development. Currently, 50% of the retail space within Oceans Mall is owned by Black entrepreneurs, with 12 out of 14 restaurants run by Black owners. This commitment to inclusivity has already generated over 25,000 jobs during the construction phase, many of which had been filled by individuals from neighbouring communities like Inanda, Ntuzuma, KwaMashu, and Blackburn. 'These developments signify a paradigm shift for areas once considered remote from large-scale investments,' said Mpono. 'We are witnessing real change: young people thriving in flagship boutiques, women steering successful restaurants, and fathers securing stable employment in logistics and security. These statistics aren't mere numbers; they represent families with renewed hope and dignity.' Strategically situated on Lagoon Drive, the North Oceans Umhlanga Residential Tower aspires to be a landmark investment for the region, promising long-term value. Envisioned to integrate exclusive lifestyle amenities, residents will enjoy resort style pools, concierge services, yoga zones, children's play areas, and seamless access to the beachfront promenade. Final economic impact statistics, as well as glimpses into future investments, including an anticipated R1.3 billion leisure investment for the upcoming South Tower, are expected to be announced during the anticipated launch event. The event will draw civic leaders and government officials, including the Mayor and the Premier of KwaZulu-Natal. DAILY NEWS

Hunters benefit rural communities
Hunters benefit rural communities

eNCA

time2 days ago

  • eNCA

Hunters benefit rural communities

POTCHEFSTROOM - Hunting tourism contributes more than R44-billion to South Africa's economy. A study by North-West University shows that both local and international trophy hunting have recovered since the Covid-19 pandemic and are now playing a key role in the economy. The benefits go beyond tourism, reaching sectors like agriculture, trade, transport, accommodation, and personal services. Professor Peet van der Merwe, a tourism management lecturer at North-West University, says hunting tourism fits well in rural areas where there are few economic opportunities and it contributes significantly to wildlife conservation and local development.

How private land is outpacing national parks in supporting South Africa's wildlife
How private land is outpacing national parks in supporting South Africa's wildlife

IOL News

time17-07-2025

  • IOL News

How private land is outpacing national parks in supporting South Africa's wildlife

Simbavati Hilltop Lodge. Image: Supplied Private land now hosts more of South Africa's wildlife population than national parks. This is according to a new study led by Professor Peet van der Merwe and Professor Andrea Saayman from the North-West University titled, 'Assessing the contributions of hunting tourism to the South African economy: a post‑Covid analysis,' which calculates hunting tourism's annual contribution to South Africa's economy at a staggering USD2.5 billion(about R44.03 billion). They said the figure is not just large, but transformative. The study argues that hunting revenue has underwritten significant rewilding efforts. The researchers also point to a powerful conservation dividend. They said, contrary to popular belief, regulated hunting creates financial incentives for landowners to protect and repopulate wild species. Without such incentives, they said, many might revert to traditional farming, leading to habitat loss and diminished biodiversity. The analysis said hunting tourism's lifeblood flows into rural economies, often bypassed by mainstream tourism. It said provinces like Limpopo benefit enormously from the inflow, with private game farms-many converted from struggling livestock operations-thriving through sustainable use. The professors said perhaps the most striking finding is employment, as approximately 95 000 jobs in South Africa depended on hunting tourism. Many of these roles, such as trackers, farm hands and cleaners, require limited formal education, making the sector a vital source of income in a country grappling with a 32.9% unemployment rate. Over 60% of these jobs fall within low-skilled categories, underscoring hunting tourism's outsized impact on South Africa's most vulnerable workers. While to some, hunting remains morally fraught, this study emphasises that economic survival for many rural communities hinges on this industry. Importantly, its authors said the research does not gloss over ethical concerns. Instead, they said it calls for measured policy, recognising hunting tourism's proven contribution to jobs, conservation and poverty alleviation. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading Moreover, they said the sector's resilience post-Covid is telling as international travel resumes, South Africa has found in hunting tourism a niche that not only endures but thrives. They said this speaks to a broader shift in post-pandemic tourism: towards immersive, exclusive, and at times, controversial experiences. With sectors like agriculture, hospitality, and logistics all feeding off the hunting economy, the study urges policymakers to acknowledge and protect this value chain. It said that legislation around land use, conservation and hunting quotas must be grounded in economic realities and not mere ideological preferences. They said that missteps in that regard could jeopardise both wildlife and livelihoods. 'Hunting tourism may not be everyone's idea of a sustainable economy. Yet, in South Africa's post-pandemic landscape, it is delivering where others have faltered. It supports rural economies, funds conservation, and employs tens of thousands, many of them low-income workers with few alternatives.' The professors said that in a world seeking green growth with social equity, the rifle may be a more unexpected ally than critics cared to admit. Local hunters, who are mostly middle-aged men from provinces like Gauteng, make up the bulk of this economic activity. With each local hunter spending an average of USD3,594 per season, their collective annual spend tops USD718 million. International hunters, often affluent retirees from the United States, spend far more per trip, an average of USD32,663. primarily on game, trophies, accommodation, and daily rates. Though fewer in number, their spending adds another USD169 million to the tally. But the study said the significance goes beyond raw expenditure. It said that employing a Social Accounting Matrix (SAM), the researchers found a production multiplier of 2.97. In lay terms: for every USD1 spent, an additional USD1.97 is generated in economic activity. The ripple effect spreads across agriculture, trade, accommodation, transport, and personal services. Delivering the Department of Tourism Budget Vote last week, Minister Patricia de Lille said over the past financial year 2024/25, South Africa experienced an upswing in tourism, with an increase in international visitors, reaching a peak of 9.1 million. She said domestic overnight travel continued its upward trajectory, with 40 million trips recorded, up from 37.7 million in the previous year. International tourists contributed a total foreign direct spend of R92.8 billion in the previous financial year, while domestic tourism grew by 7.6%, reaching R133.1 billion in the 2024/25 financial year. On a policy level, the department said it completed and implemented the Tourism Master Plan and finalised the Tourism White Paper and Tourism Route Development Marketing Plan.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store