Background

We have effectively formed a Collective of Entrepreneurs who were running or managing a business, and it was time to consider those who had hopes or dreams (or needs) to start their own entrepreneurial journey. Can we help or support? Do we know of established businesses who had failed to break into the informal sector / township market? We should find out more…..

The Interview

For insight in the topic we need look no further than GG Alcock, whose website and books give us a good understanding on the how to unlock the potential of this enormous market. To quote from his website “The informal business sector is the next great frontier and it is undergoing an economic revolution – a new world of small people doing big things, transforming the continent”.

He has coined a new phrase ‘kasinomics’ and his latest book is a must read – “Kasinomic Revolution”.

Take time to go through his website:

www.ggalcock.com

As a working example of an informal sector initiative, let us have a look at Masivuselele (Let us Inspire) NPC, led by Bongekile Ngcobo and Grant Edkins, who both have much experience in community development. Working with the community, they have helped to form a group of entrepreneurs, who are going on a journey towards seeking financial freedom, as a means to tackling community issues.

For those looking for an entry level income earning opportunity, Business in a Box offers a one day training workshop that teaches the basics of business, places potential entrepreneurs in a like-minded group and starts them on a journey into seeing and realising opportunities around them. For further information contact One Life Foundation to book for the next course.

The Group Discussion

We were very privileged to have Bongekile Ngcobo from Masivuselele NPC and Jay Mannikam, CEO of the One Life Foundation, attend the Zoom meeting.

Jay gave feedback of the upcoming workshop for 20 potential entrepreneurs who had been selected from various church sites in the area. He was looking to match each of the 20 with a sponsor or mentor who would provide encouragement, mentorship and accountability. There was a need for experienced business people to help bring through the next generation of entrepreneur. The opportunity to work and gain an income or an extra income, is a real need in these times.

Bruce Williams gave exceptional insight into the world of the entrepreneur whether male or female, experienced or novice, with his compelling observation that common characteristics of a successful entrepreneur are personal Motivation and Attitude and the Framework (Business Plan, Mentorship), in which they are operated. He indicated that he would be willing to speak at the Workshop to carry that message through to the trainers and participants, where it could become part of the training material.