In addition to receiving certificates for completing the training, three entrepreneurs received a combined total of R75 000 in business support.
GEORGE NEWS – Entrepreneurs play a critical role in the development of the Garden Route region and help shape its future.
“Your work has the power to bring sustainable change, create jobs, and uplift communities across the Garden Route,” said Garden Route District Municipality Mayor Andrew Stroebel to participants of The Entrepreneur 2024, at the awards ceremony last Friday.
The event was held at Nelson Mandela University’s (NMU) George campus, where 21 entrepreneurs received their certificates for completing this intensive training and mentorship programme for local businesses.
The programme is sponsored by Airports Company South Africa (Acsa) and hosted by the George Business Chamber (GBC).
In addition to the certificates, three entrepreneurs received a combined total of R75 000 in business support.
While only 21 of the more than 50 applications could be accepted, the vision is to at least double the number of successful applicants.
“We expect more next year. We want to get at least 40 because 20 entrepreneurs aren’t enough for George,” said Adele Potgieter, director of the GBC.
The winner of the programme, Themkosi ‘Benson’ Mkize of Kwanonqaba Industries Eden Tyres, received R40 000 to support his business, along with a one-year membership to the GBC. In second place, Precious Life received R25 000 in support, while South Cape Recruit secured R10 000 for third place.
“I want to thank my team at the office and the whole George Entrepreneur for being so kind and listening and helping to uplift our entrepreneurs even in the townships, because I started this business not really knowing what it is that I’m doing, but I know one thing for sure: I am an entrepreneur,” said Mkize.
Dr Willie Cilliers, chairperson of the Afrikaanse Handelsinstituut, said that it is important for the local business chamber and the municipality to work together towards economic growth and job creation.
“We need to work together, business and the government, to enable a better economy,” said Cilliers.
Stroebel acknowledged the commitment and resilience each entrepreneur has shown in pursuing their business goals.
He emphasised that entrepreneurship in the Garden Route holds particular significance, as the region is not only known for its landscapes but also as a vibrant community eager for growth and innovation.
He stressed that these entrepreneurs play a key role in shaping the area’s future by bringing new ideas, creating jobs, and fostering sustainable development.
Stroebel said that the Garden Route is a “catalyst for inspiration” and a unique setting that encourages entrepreneurs to think bigger and aim higher.
He encouraged them to embrace their own creative paths rather than mimic others, noting that true entrepreneurship lies in innovation and originality.
He congratulated the top three achievers, but reminded everyone that success is not defined by awards alone – it is about perseverance, learning from challenges, and continually striving for improvement.
Supporting sponsors for the programme include George Herald and Algoa FM as media partners, along with NMU and AHI Western Cape.
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