Authored by: Captain SA | SA Rainbow News | 15 October 2025 | Tembisa, Gauteng
In a remarkable display of unity, innovation, and township empowerment, SA Young Vision Advertising and Marketing (Pty) Ltd successfully hosted the Business Symposium, Activation Day, and Career Exhibition on 15 October 2025 at Mahashi Street, Ecaleni Section, Tembisa.
The event brought together a wide range of entrepreneurs, corporate partners, government departments, youth organizations, and community members, all united by one mission — to empower the youth, promote entrepreneurship, and stimulate local economic transformation in South Africa’s townships.
The program began with a heartfelt welcome from Mr. Nathi Mnguni, who expressed gratitude to all guests, stakeholders, and attendees for making the day possible. The audience was honoured by the presence of Councillor T. Mbathane (Ward 4), whose participation symbolized strong local government commitment to community-driven development and youth empowerment.
Following the opening, entrepreneur and visionary leader Mr. Elias Sibeko, widely known as Captain SA, delivered the welcome speech and official introduction. As the founder of SA Young Vision Advertising and Marketing and SA Rainbow News, Mr. Sibeko emphasized the importance of self-empowerment, innovation, and unity among youth and township entrepreneurs.
“Our strength lies in working together and supporting one another. Every young person has the potential to build something great — we just need to believe, collaborate, and act,” said Captain SA.
The day featured a dynamic lineup of presentations from key partners, each contributing valuable knowledge and opportunities:
Ms. Tamia Mandikane from Get Informed Youth Empowerment Organization opened with a presentation focused on information access, career awareness, and youth engagement.
Mr. Shaun Khumalo from Zooks Financial Services educated attendees on financial management, credit responsibility, and the importance of saving.
Ms. Lebo Phala from Showmax highlighted how digital creativity and media innovation can open career and business pathways for young South Africans.
Mr. Jupiter from the Department of Employment and Labour shared updates on employment services, job placement assistance, and workplace readiness programs.
Mr. Sonti from the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) gave a detailed presentation on funding and business support opportunities available to aspiring young entrepreneurs.
Mr. Micah Mkhabela representing the City of Ekurhuleni discussed municipal initiatives supporting township businesses and local economic growth.
Lesego from Old Mutual provided insights on financial planning and long-term investment strategies.
Ms. Gladys from Spark Agro Life inspired the audience with a talk on agricultural entrepreneurship, specializing in wellness products such as peptide coffee, collagen, and a variety of mageu products, highlighting agribusiness as a key solution to youth and adult unemployment.
Vote of Thanks and Empowering Message from Captain SA
The event concluded with a powerful vote of thanks by Mr. Elias Sibeko (Captain SA), who expressed deep appreciation to everyone who attended and contributed to the success of the symposium.
He reminded all in attendance that collaboration and consistency are the keys to unlocking South Africa’s potential.
“Nothing can beat us if we come together and work as a united team. The change we seek in our communities begins with us — our ideas, our drive, and our determination to succeed,” said Captain SA.
He also introduced the SA Young Vision Slice & Sip Fast Food Business Activation, describing it as more than just a spaza shop — but a centre of empowerment and opportunity. This initiative will serve as a model for professional township businesses, offering employment, skills development, and community upliftment opportunities.
The Business Symposium and Career Exhibition proved to be a vital platform for empowerment, networking, and collaboration. Stakeholders provided practical assistance with CV crafting, interview preparation, job placements, and funding advice, giving attendees actionable tools to improve their career and business prospects.
The presence of institutions like NYDA and the Department of Employment and Labour ensured that participants were directly connected with real, life-changing opportunities.
For many, the event represented a turning point — a moment to recognize that through collaboration and the right mindset, unemployment and poverty can be overcome.
A special tribute was made to Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa (CCBSA), one of the event’s major stakeholders, for its unwavering support in advancing the township economy transformation agenda.
“Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa made this dream possible through their belief in youth empowerment and their commitment to transforming local economies,” Captain SA said in closing.
Sincere appreciation also goes to Alex FM Radio Station for their vital role in spreading the message about the event and engaging the community through their platform. Their coverage helped ensure that the people of Tembisa came out in large numbers, making the day a true community celebration of empowerment and opportunity.
The partnership between SA Young Vision, community leaders, media partners, and corporate sponsors demonstrates what can be achieved when business and community come together for a shared purpose — empowerment, progress, and prosperity.
The success of the SA Young Vision Business Symposium and Career Exhibition marks the beginning of a new chapter in township development and youth empowerment. It stands as a clear reminder that with vision, unity, and purpose, communities can create their own opportunities and shape their destinies.
The event not only celebrated success stories but also ignited new dreams — reminding South Africans that the fight against unemployment and poverty begins with taking the first step.
