SBU's extensive incubation programme ensures that the low levels of sustainable entrepreneurship amongst 100% black owned businesses in South Africa are addressed. SBU operates eight business incubators in the country and has benefited over 2,000 entrepreneurs. The Mooinooi incubator currently boasts 43 clients in full incubation and 13 in the pre-incubation phase.
"I am humbled by the results that we have achieved so far. The Mooinooi incubator is only 23 months old and it is competing with other more established incubators. I would like to thank our main donor, Lonmin, for making it possible for us to improve the lives of small business owners, to promote entrepreneurship as a career of choice and for making this prestigious event possible," said Precious Tshabalala, regional manager of the Mooinooi business incubator.
At the launch of the incubator, the mining company shared its goal of doubling its contribution towards local entrepreneurs over the next five years. To date, the incubator has improved access to mining procurement opportunities for the entrepreneurs. This has resulted in increased job creation within the Mooinooi community and surrounding areas.
"The Mooinooi business incubator continues to eradicate the perception that the surrounding mining community have no capacity and skills. The partnership between Lonmin and Shanduka Black Umbrellas has unearthed hidden talents through the creation of a nurturing environment allowing businesses to grow," said Lerato Moelebatsi, Lonmin's Communication and Public Affairs executive vice-president.
At the awards ceremony a variety of businesses were honoured, from mine waste removal to construction, and each star was given their chance to shine. Phakwe Mining (Pty) Ltd, a construction and mine cleaning company started by Tommy Maboe, took second place in two different categories: Best Performing Company and Best SBU Ambassador.
Phakwe Mining was also awarded first place in the Most Jobs Created category for creating 210 jobs. Aredireng Transport & Labour Hire (Pty) Ltd was awarded second place in the Most Jobs Created category. The company, owned by Mogomotsi Komane, contributed to the community through the creation of 42 jobs. Third place in the Most Jobs Created category was awarded to Little Rock Trading (Pty) Ltd, owned by Grace Kgomongwe, for creating 22 jobs.
First place in the Best Performing Company category was awarded to Modi Mining (Pty) Ltd, owned by Samuel Molesi. Concentrate Carriers (Pty) Ltd, a mining commodities transportation services provider, owned by Lesego Kgobane, followed in third place in the Best Performing Company category. Ikatiseng Construction (Pty) Ltd, owned by Meadow Thlapi was honoured with the first place position in the Best SBU Ambassador category with Stylish Wood, a manufacturing firm owned by Cecilia Mbombi taking third place.
The Mooinooi Enterprise Development awards were the culmination of a series of regional awards which took place throughout the country in the seven other regions which SBU operates. The SBU National Enterprise Development Awards will see the top three businesses in each category from around the country battle it out for national honour. and be recognised for their accomplishments and contribution to their respective communities.
