BUILDING THRIVING COMMUNITIES THROUGH YOUTH EMPOWERMENT: THE STORY OF JULIUS MABUNDA AND MANY MORE
At Junior Achievement South Africa (JA South Africa), we firmly believe that empowered youth are the heartbeat of thriving communities. In April and May 2025, with the generous support of Sasfin Private Bank, we successfully implemented the Youth Enterprise Development Programme (YEDP) and the Entrepreneurship Accelerator Programme in Mamelodi, Pretoria. These initiatives equipped 70 out-of-school youth at the Entokozweni Resource Centre with practical entrepreneurial skills, financial literacy, and invaluable mentorship.
Over two months, participants engaged in a comprehensive 10-session journey that not only strengthened their business knowledge but also built their confidence and sense of purpose.
Participants were supported to:
Start or grow their own businesses
Register their businesses officially
Access microfinance opportunities
Connect with mentors and role models from within their communities
All with the aim of going beyond job seeking, towards becoming job creators.
The success of the programme was built on strong partnerships with local facilitators, established entrepreneurs, and small business service providers. Together, they delivered sessions that were relevant, accessible, and deeply empowering. From interactive workshops to hands-on support with business registration, every step created ripples of hope and opportunity throughout Mamelodi and its surrounding areas.
Together with Sasfin, JA South Africa continues to grow the next generation of entrepreneurs, one dream at a time.
A shining example of this impact is Julius Mabunda, who transformed his 3D printing side hustle into a thriving business through the JA South Africa Enterprise Accelerator Programme.
Before joining the programme, Julius struggled with financial management and almost gave up on his dream. “I was running at a loss and didn’t know how to manage time or money,” he shared.
Through the Accelerator, Julius gained structure, mentorship, and the guidance he needed. He learned to manage his workflow, improved client communication, and gained the confidence to officially register his business. He even approached the Department of Science and Technology to explore growth opportunities—something he never imagined before.
“This programme taught me not only how to run a business, but how to be humble, focused, and ready for greatness,” Julius said.
Today, Julius is scaling up his operations, expanding his customer base, and planning to train and employ other young people from his community.
His journey is proof that with the right support, passion can lead to meaningful and lasting change—for individuals, families, and entire communities.
