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Project Summary

The SEDA Virtual Youth Enterprise Coaching Program (YECP) was a 12-month program designed to support youth-owned businesses in the Thabo Mofutsanyana District of South Africa. Funded by the Small Enterprise Development Agency (Seda), the program focused on practical coaching to enhance self-awareness and drive sustainable business growth. This was the first 100% virtual YECP programme, delivered amidst the challenging operating environment created by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Program Objectives

  • To facilitate the creation of an enabling operating environment for business enterprises.
  • To facilitate the building of sustainable and competitive small business enterprises.
  • To facilitate access to non-financial resources, capacity building, products, and services.
  • To act as a business information hub for business enterprises.
  • To allow small business enterprises to share experiences, create networking opportunities, and learn from each other.
  • To provide advice and support to the enterprises.

Program Activities

  • Group Coaching Sessions: 20 online group coaching sessions were held, covering topics such as personal development, entrepreneurship leadership, financial management, funding readiness, tax compliance, digitalization, certification and accreditation, human resource management, branding and marketing, business planning, productivity and quality management, pitching and networking, compliance and contract management, and e-commerce.
  • Individual Coaching Sessions: One-on-one coaching sessions were conducted to provide personalized guidance and support to each entrepreneur.
  • Strategy Bootcamp: A 2-day virtual bootcamp was held to orient the participants, develop shared group objectives, and support the development of enterprise strategies and growth plans.
  • Self-Mastery Bootcamp: A 3-day in-person bootcamp focused on personal development and team building.
  • Guest Speakers: Professionals and industry experts were invited to share their knowledge and insights on various topics during the group coaching sessions.
  • Online Platform: Sothaba Institute Platform was utilised for communication, information sharing, and distribution of assignments.

Outcomes of Activities

  • Improved Business Performance: Participating enterprises showed a 2% increase in total turnover (from R6,059,026 to R6,200,591) over the program period.
  • Job Creation: The participating enterprises created 34 new full-time jobs, a 30% increase from the previous year.
  • Enhanced Business Knowledge: The program equipped entrepreneurs with a better understanding of various business aspects, including financial management, leadership, human resources, marketing, and technology.
  • Increased Confidence: The coaching method helped boost the confidence of participants as business owners.
  • Stronger Networks: Participants formed connections with other entrepreneurs, Seda representatives, and industry experts.
  • Improved Technology Skills: Participants learned how to use online platforms such as Zoom and the Sothaba Institute Platform.

Success Stories and Achievements

  • KemiChem: Implemented proper financial management systems, became compliant with SARS, UIF, and CIPC, and connected with SABS for product testing.
  • Bow Nanas: Regained motivation to continue with the business and received invaluable support and guidance.
  • Breezy World: Received funding from Seda and NYDA, improved self-awareness, and gained more knowledge about entrepreneurship.
  • Antonicornellius: Progressed to a growth stage, became compliant and funding ready, and was registered with Proudly South African.
  • CareyM: Gained personal and professional development, improved business practices, and was able to pursue further education.

Conclusion

YECP demonstrated the positive impact of coaching programs on youth-owned SMMEs. Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and the limitations of a virtual format, the program succeeded in empowering participants with the knowledge, skills, and networks needed to improve their businesses. The success stories and the reported increase in turnover and employment highlight the effectiveness of the program in supporting the growth and sustainability of youth-owned businesses in the Thabo Mofutsanyana District.