SAB Foundation Tholoana Enterprise Programme graduates create new jobs

According to reports, 68 businesses within the SAB Foundation Tholoana Enterprise Programme collectively recorded a 31% increase in turnover growth, created 169 new jobs, and sustained 483 jobs. This indicates that the programme is positively assisting SMEs in their growth even during the pandemic. 

SAB Foundation Tholoana Enterprise Programme graduates create new jobs

Bridgit Evans, Director of the SAB Foundation highlights the importance of supporting entrepreneurial growth in the country and the exponential growth displayed by the programme’s participating entrepreneurs.

“Entrepreneurs are crucial to the growth of our economy, and developing them is essential to create jobs and uplift historically disadvantaged members of our society. During one of the toughest economic times in recent history, we have been inspired by these entrepreneurs who made the commitment, and in many cases, pivoted their businesses, to not only survive, but indeed in many cases, grow. Seeing them being able to flourish gives us hope for the SME sector and we were both amazed and inspired to find that 100% of them survived last year. It shows that with mentorship and guidance entrepreneurs can be given the tools and the confidence to build sustainable business and create jobs.”

Recognising SMEs

Graduates of the programme were recognised for their achievements at a ceremony held earlier this month. 

The grand prize, the Tholoana Award, was awarded to Sabelo Lindani, the owner of Contour Enviro Group based in Somerset West, Western Cape. Sabelo Throughout the programme, Sabelo demonstrated commitment to driving his business forward, experienced exceptional growth performance (92%), and showed potential for future growth.

The Contour Training Academy (CTA) specialises in environmental support services, such as capacity development and environmental consulting. Sabelo’s team manage quality management administration, environmental education and provide project assistance in the environmental and tourism sectors.

Lindani comments on receiving the award. 

“It’s been an incredible journey for me. Entrepreneurship is exciting and scary at the same time. The assistance and support we received on the programme helped us refocus. What really helped me was having a mentor who would not let me give up, even when I wanted to. The growth in my business has been wonderful. We started on the programme with three employees and now we have 55,”

According to the SAB Foundation Tholoana Enterprise Programme, all 68 of the participating businesses generated jobs and grew during the pandemic. 

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Featured image: (Supplied)