Transforming entrepreneurs from Box 2 Boss
Fresh off the heels of the 2022 State of the Nation Address, it seems only fitting that the Bizniz in a Box, extensive rebranding process appropriately responds to the changing needs of South African entrepreneurs. At the heart of this rebrand is a change of name from Bizniz in a Box to Box2Boss, giving a refreshing perspective on entrepreneurship within the township economy at a time when our country needs it the most.
With unemployment at an all-time high, rising to 34.9% in the third quarter of 2021 and youth unemployment rate just below 66%, there is a need to tap into the spirit of entrepreneurship that has always been a feature of South African society and a way of life for many.
To design the best programme for the current entrepreneurial landscape, CCBSA reviewed the data of the initial round of participants. Based on the previous Bizniz in a Box participants. The results showed a significant shift in need from that of youth empowerment only to that of women and the more experienced entrepreneurs who seek specific support across varying chapters of their business ventures.
“Our entrepreneurs have spoken, and we have listened. The Box2Boss rebranding highlights this change and hopes to be a better solution for the entrepreneurs of 2022. We need to be responsive and in tune with what our communities are asking for. It is by no means a handout but rather, support that will enable them to create their own livelihoods and be catapulted to the next level,” says Nozicelo Ngcobo, Public Affairs, Comms & Sustainability Director at Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa.
To be considered to participate in the Box2Boss programme, candidates must be 24 years and older, have at least one year of entrepreneurial experience, and they must be an active member of the community. Ideally, each applicant’s business should address the needs of the local community such as convenience stores, fast foods stores, car washes and tshisanyamas.
For the last 7 years, CCBSA’s Bizniz in a Box has contributed meaningfully towards reducing youth unemployment. The initiative has enabled entrepreneurs to curate a developed business operations ecosystem, improve their skills, access capital, significantly improve supply chain development and inspire hope. To date, the initiative has trained over 700 entrepreneurs.
Box2Boss is dedicated to investing in and uplifting the township economy, therefore, supporting the country’s development agenda. It is designed to transform aspirant entrepreneurs into fully-fledged businesspeople who can build businesses, create jobs, and provide a livelihood for themselves and others.
“By helping and supporting one entrepreneur at a time, we believe Box2Boss will help enable, empower and create opportunities for entrepreneurs to build a brighter future for themselves and the communities around them.” concludes Ngcobo.
For any further information, send your queries to [email protected].