Kwanele Kenneth Tshabalala is a young entrepreneur who decided to take it upon his hands to empower budding entrepreneurs in Soweto with his network – Soweto Business Network. Soweto Business Network is a social media movement that is aimed at providing ample visibility to small businesses through its large following, and entrepreneurialmentorship.
When did you establish Soweto Business Network?
I established Soweto Business Network in November 2014.
What inspired the establishment of the network?
There were no cost effective platforms I could use to market my then home improvement business in and around Soweto, so i decided to start Soweto Business Network, only to find out there were plenty entrepreneurs who needed that service.
Did you study anything entrepreneurial related?
I did a business management course at Emndeni Skills Development Centre and Entrepreneurship Training at Awethu Project where I acquired skills required to establish a business and mentor other entrepreneurs.
What challenges are you facing as a young black entrepreneur?
Access to funding is one of our challenges, however, we are doing our best to grow the movement despite the challenges.
How important is mentorship to you in business?
Mentorship is very important; hence we invite experienced mentors to our monthly Soweto Game Changers Networking Sessions, so that Entrepreneurs can connect with them and learn. Our next event will be on 11th October from 09:30 to 12:00 at Morris Isaacson Centre for Music in Soweto , themed ‘Financial Wellness’ and entry is free.
Do you have any employees, if yes, how many people do you employ?
Yes, we have 3 employees.
Do you feel enough is being done to empower young people who want to pursue entrepreneurship? If not, what do you feel is lacking?
The government is making a great effort to empower young entrepreneur, however, we need more Incubation Hubs in the townships to ensure that entrepreneurs are knowledge and skills ready to establish businesses that will be profitable and create employment opportunities.
What are your highlights since you established SBN?
My greatest highlight is seeing our mentees thrive as a result of the impact we’ve had in their businesses and lot of them have invited us to their businesses to witness their growth.That makes us realise that there’s room for what we do.
What else can we look forward to on Soweto Business Network?
We have recently acquired sponsors to launch our very own awards to acknowledged and celebrate the hard work of Sowetan entrepreneurs, organisations and groups that are making a difference in our community.
