The I’M IN Entrepreneurial Programme, in collaboration with Telkom’s Enterprise and Supplier Development unit, Telkom FutureMakers, JP Morgan, and the Embassy of Ireland, celebrated a significant milestone – the graduation of 30 start-ups founded by female students. Held in Rosebank, Johannesburg, this event marks not only the culmination of their journey but also signals a promising start as these graduates embark on the next chapter of their entrepreneurial endeavours. Armed with newfound skills, knowledge, and unwavering determination, they are poised for success in the world of business.
I’M IN Ideation: Igniting Female Entrepreneurship
I’M IN Ideation beams brightly as a beacon for female students from universities and colleges in lower living standard measure (LSM) areas. It stands as a robust platform, offering essential resources, mentorship, and guidance crucial for confidently entering the entrepreneurial arena. Beyond merely fostering businesses, this initiative embodies a deep commitment to nurturing innovation and empowering women who have historically faced barriers to entrepreneurial opportunities.
“The I’M IN Entrepreneurial Programme acts as a catalyst for high-growth tech startups, particularly focusing on empowering entrepreneurs who encounter resource accessibility challenges,” shared Dr. Mmaki Jantjies, Group Executive of Innovation and Transformation at Telkom.
The symbiotic partnership between I’M IN and Telkom FutureMakers plays a pivotal role in this noble endeavour. By championing black-owned, high-growth tech startups, they not only unlock opportunities for technically skilled entrepreneurs but also facilitate access to resources that were previously out of reach for many.
Fostering Innovation, Fuelling Progress
The ripple effects of initiatives like I’M IN Ideation extend far beyond the confines of a graduation ceremony. By nurturing creativity and empowering aspiring female entrepreneurs in tandem with Telkom FutureMakers, it nurtures a new cohort of trailblazers poised to ignite positive change in their communities and propel the nation’s economic advancement.
As Tshepo Phetla, Head of Business Development at Telkom FutureMakers, eloquently articulates, “This targeted approach is poised to transform access to entrepreneurial resources and opportunities, empowering students from underserved communities to unleash their potential and establish sustainable tech-driven enterprises.”
Towards a Promising Horizon
The graduation ceremony not only commemorates past triumphs but also serves as a harbinger of the promising horizon ahead. With stalwart support from organisations like Telkom FutureMakers and initiatives like I’M IN Ideation, the journey of female entrepreneurs in South Africa brims with boundless possibilities.
“As we applaud the graduates of our Ideation program, we spotlight the trailblazing women start-ups whose entrepreneurial spirit and ingenuity have ignited positive change” states Mohau Polo Leteka, Founder and Director at I’M IN Accelerator. “It gives us a great sense of achievement as this programme reaffirms our commitment to financial inclusion of the youth and particularly young women.
“The success of this cohort demonstrates our relentless commitment to identify the young women at grassroots level and support them to achieve their entrepreneurial dreams” Leteka continues. “Supporting, funding and scaling entrepreneurial businesses are the fundamental aspects of our programmes. This graduation marks a significant milestone showcasing innovation, agility and great concepts that have the potential to disrupt traditional industries. We will ensure that the cohort graduates are fully supported in their next phase of growing their businesses, through customised investor readiness programmes and appropriate funding instruments.”
Let us exult in the achievements of these visionary women and reaffirm our unwavering commitment to standing by their side every step of the way. Together, let us forge a future where every woman is empowered to thrive and excel in the entrepreneurial landscape. A fitting celebration as South Africa celebrates 30 years of Freedom.
