Six learners from New Horizon High School in Harrismith will be leaving the country for Moscow in Russia to participate at the Student for the Advancement of Global Entrepreneurship (SAGE) World Championships from the 8 to 12 August 2014. They will be representing Free State and competing with other entrepreneurially inspired learners from all over the world.
This exciting youth empowerment entrepreneurship programme is the initiative of SAGE, a non-profit organisation which aims to enhance entrepreneurship skills in high school learners. In its 12th year this year, this programme has got 55 countries participating.
This programme resonates well with the department’s programme of SMME incubation and entrepreneur development. Speaking on this programme, MEC Mosebenzi Zwane said innovation and creativity drive entrepreneurial success. To this end, the department commits to supporting SMME Incubation Programme where all business ideas can be lodged and assessed.
These learners already have an existing business named Bokamoso which is a non- profit business that organises events in and around the community of Harrismith. Their business is just on two main aspects of Socially Responsible Business and Social Enterprise Business on which the following are important; business plan, innovation, creativity, sustainability, the impact that their business have in the community, etc.
They got the inspiration of venturing into events management business after they have successfully organised several parties for the Hope House orphanage for HIV/AIDS orphans in Harrismith.
Seitebatso Khomari, one of the learners who are going to Russia said they are very happy and motivated as a team. “We have worked hard to get this far and we cannot wait to go to Russia. This opportunity will definitely open doors for us in the future. We will also get to network internationally and learn about our peer’s experiences and challenges”, said Seitebatso.
The prizes for the winners will be as follows; 1st prize will get 2000$, 2nd prize is 1000$, 3rd prize is 500$ and an international mentorship at a global level. MEC Mosebenzi Zwane wished the learners and their mentors well in their endeavours and told them to come back home as winners.
For media enquiries please contact:
Kgotso Tau
Cell: 082 833 9595
E-mail: tauk@detea.fs.gov.za
Issued by: Free State Tourism, Economic Development and Environmental Affairs
SOURCE - gov.za
BUSINESS
