Africanbank recently celebrated the graduation of several small to medium entrepreneurs (SMMEs) from its year-long Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) Programme, a milestone event held at the bank’s Dr. Sam Motsuenyane Building. This initiative, a cornerstone of African Bank’s mission, aims to promote the inclusion of black-owned enterprises in the mainstream economy by providing them with the necessary tools, resources, and mentorship to thrive.
The ESD Programme offered comprehensive support to the participants, including business readiness, investor readiness, technical assistance, access to market opportunities, and business mentorship. In collaboration with 22 On Sloane, a startup campus in Johannesburg, Africanbank extended its reach to empower these entrepreneurs further. This partnership is part of Africanbank’s broader strategy to nurture entrepreneurship and drive innovation within local communities.
Edna Sathekga-Montse, Group Chief Transformation & Sustainability Officer at Africanbank, spoke on the programme’s success, saying: “Our ESD programme embodies the spirit of Africanbank. We are committed to the growth of black-owned enterprises and ensuring they have the support they need to thrive in the mainstream economy. These SMMEs have shown incredible determination and resilience, and it has been an honour to witness their journeys. We look forward to seeing the remarkable impact they will make in their respective industries.”
One of the standout graduates from the programme is Moses Mukhari, founder of MoFM Radio, a multimedia company specialising in film and photography. With a team of passionate storytellers, MoFM Radio has carved a niche in the industry by capturing the uniqueness of every moment through its documentaries, commercials, wedding videos, and other creative productions. With over five years of experience, MoFM Radio is dedicated to producing high-quality content that not only meets but exceeds client expectations.
In July, the SMME participants, including MoFM Radio, had the opportunity to pitch for a special grant from Africanbank aimed at enhancing their financial sustainability and capacity for growth. Out of the numerous pitches, six participants were selected to receive discretionary grants of R200,000 each. The recipients included:
Tiny Selowa – Aylah Hair Products
Mpho Mogodiri – Indigenous Delights
Thapelo Mampane – Fuel My Gains
Patrick Ndlovu – Home Based Laundry
Moses Mukhari – MoFM Radio
Caroline Tshawe – Taro Space
Bongani Ntombela, Director at 22 On Sloane, highlighted the significance of this collaboration: “Partnering with Africanbankhas allowed us to extend our reach and provide essential support to emerging businesses. The success of these graduates demonstrates the positive impact that comprehensive mentorship and financial backing can have on the growth and sustainability of small enterprises.”
The graduation ceremony not only marked the culmination of a transformative journey for these entrepreneurs but also underscored Africanbank’s unwavering commitment to inclusivity and sustainability. As these businesses embark on their next phase of growth, they carry with them the support and guidance needed to make a lasting impact in their respective industries.
For MoFM Radio, the grant from Africanbank is a stepping stone to expanding its creative offerings and reaching new heights in the film and photography industry. As the company continues to grow, it remains focused on its core mission: to tell authentic stories that resonate with audiences and capture the essence of every moment.