The art of entrepreneurial engagement: Scooler R100k Clash winners

Chris van Gass, founder of Artvark

With so many fantastic entries, the judges decided to extend the R10,000 worth of coaching to nine runners-up instead of only four, namely, Werner Bronkhorst, Mfezeko Mncube, Zoe Prinsloo, Courtney and Tayla Van Wyk, Junior Mtungwa, Koketso Phasha, Caleb Lafford, Abiyah Swart and Tsianda Netsianda. Furthermore, the remaining Top 20 were offered one hour of business coaching to acknowledge their efforts.

Says Leon Lategan, CEO of The Lions Den and founder of Scooler, “We were amazed and excited at the calibre and number of entries into the competition, which just goes to show the potential that our youth in this country represent in the entrepreneurial space.” He adds that more than that awareness of The School Entrepreneur Movement has been created, which was the ultimate aim of launching the Scooler R100k Clash – students are now mindful of the platform where they can access valuable information about how to run a business; how to secure funding for their businesses; how to connect with like-minded youth and expose their existing school businesses / money-making initiatives to the community, corporates and investors.

The judging panel had a hard time whittling down the hundreds of entries to find their winner and nine runners-up but are delighted with the votes being cast Artvark’s way - Chris van Gass’s platform gives every school child the opportunity to upload and sell their art online. Commenting on his win, van Gass says, “I speak for the entire Artvark team when I say that we cannot wait to use this amazing opportunity to reach more schools and empower more children. Thank you!”

The runners-ups:

1. Werner Bronkhorst is an artist doing commission work as well as customizing of clothes (prints) and he offers art tutorials.
   
2. Mfezeko Mncube sells mouth-watering true African/Kasi Kotas/Bunny chows with a modern twist.
   
3. Zoe Prinsloo sells biodegradable straws.
   
4. Courtney and Tayla Van Wyk create custom tie-dye items.
   
5. Junior Mtungwa owns a mobile car wash business and also does minor car repairs.
   
6. Koketso Phasha produces casual clothing with his own unique brand.
   
7. Caleb Lafford buys, renovates and sells furniture.
   
8. Abiyah Swart sells plants and cacti in beautiful customized pots.
   
9. Tsianda Netsianda produces rap and hip-hop music.
   

The School Entrepreneur Movement remain steadfast in their efforts to develop and encourage an entrepreneurial spirit in our schools, to help bring down the high unemployment rate in our country, and to inspire our youth to explore other options to shape their futures.

For more information, visit www.scooler.co.za