The summit's theme, "Empowering the next wave of South African innovators and changemakers," shone a spotlight on community-based founders who are not just building businesses but also driving powerful movements. Attendees gained valuable tools, insights, and real-world opportunities to create sustainable ventures, especially crucial in an economy where over 45% of youth face unemployment.
Investing in Potential: A Vision for Youth Entrepreneurship
Connie Matlejoane, Founder of the Leruo Foundation, set an inspiring tone for the day. "Our goal is to ignite something powerful. We see what others often overlook, we see potential, brilliance, hustle," she said. Matlejoane emphasised that South Africa's youth are actively creating jobs, not just waiting for them. "When we invest in young entrepreneurs, especially women, we’re investing in future wealth and stronger communities. Talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not, and this summit is a step toward changing that."
Divine Soft Wins R100,000 in Changemaker's Pitch Competition
A major highlight of the summit was the Changemaker’s Pitch Competition, where 18 community-based businesses showcased their innovative ideas to a panel of esteemed judges. Pitches ranged from tutoring and entertainment services to plumbing, recycled fashion, and unique food and beverage concepts.
The top prize of R100,000 cash was awarded to Brian Sakara for his outstanding pitch for Divine Soft. His company, B2B Divine Innovation (Pty) Ltd, manufactures a proudly South African line of recycled toilet paper in Olifantsfontein, Johannesburg.
Sakara shared his powerful mission: "My mission is to deliver dignity through quality, affordability and community-based distribution of hygiene products. This prize will help us scale, from stock and logistics to reseller incentives and skills development, while staying true to our purpose of community upliftment.” He plans to reinvest the prize money into expanding Divine Soft’s community reseller network and launching a "Softness with a Purpose" campaign, creating more job opportunities across the value chain.
The judging panel, which included Adelaide Matlejoane, Matsie Mpshe, and Tukisang Senne, evaluated pitches based on business viability, innovation, traction, sustainability, pitch delivery, and social impact.
Inspiring Speakers and Future Growth
The summit also featured a strong lineup of speakers who provided practical advice and personal inspiration:
- Brian Mthembu on building customer loyalty beyond satisfaction.
- Azola Mzekandaba on embracing entrepreneurial timing and leading with courage.
- Chris Voysey on effective communication and self-branding for young founders.
Keynote speaker Dr. Mankodi Moitse, CEO of Kagiso Trust, highlighted the global impact of entrepreneurs, stating, “Eighty percent of global employment is created by entrepreneurs. There are pockets of hope everywhere, and we must support them.” She also advised entrepreneurs to "hold complexity without collapsing" in today's unpredictable world. Dr. Reuel Khoza, a respected industry leader, shared encouraging words on resilience and leadership, reminding attendees that "history is shaped by those who rise above limitations and act with purpose."
Continued Support: Changemakers Incubation Programme
Following the summit's success, the Leruo Foundation will continue its commitment to young business leaders through its intensive 10-month Changemakers Incubation Programme. This next phase offers:
- Expert-led training
- One-on-one mentorship
- Practical workshops covering financial management, legal compliance, leadership, and pitching skills
The program will culminate in a competitive funding opportunity, where the top three performing businesses will receive seed grants of R250,000, R150,000, and R100,000, respectively. Through this initiative, the Leruo Foundation is dedicated to equipping promising Youthpreneurs to build sustainable businesses and drive meaningful community impact.
Are you a young entrepreneur ready to take your venture to the next level? Keep an eye on the Leruo Foundation's initiatives for future opportunities!
