THE YOUTH OF TODAY

Youth day is a very special day that brings back memories and a history that shapes our country. We should be proud of what our parents fought for. However, I question what’s there to fight for today. It was 36 years ago when enthusiastic and eager young people demonstrated their rejections to the new policy of apartheid. 

Still, I question what’s there to fight for today? It seems as if our youth have relaxed, and have rather settled for the growing culture of entitlement – being dependent on the government for jobs, subsidies and other incentives. This has resulted in the nation becoming consumers rather than producers.

We preach social inequalities, the high rate of HIV and crime, but instead of coming up with solutions for this “young nation” – we should realize that the mindset and willpower of the youth today tend to exacerbate the problem. Let us all refuse and reject to sit back, but rather stand up and have the zeal to make something of our lives .We cannot wait for the government to provide solutions to all our challenges, the onus is on us to help one another through the spirit of Ubuntu which encourages sharing and unity.

By: Tsholofelo Mosala

WE COMMEMORATE YOUTH DAY - 16 JUNE 1976

"A new breed of visionary leaders will enforce the change
So in this way we'll be leading
A breath of fresh air is welcome, 
Claustrophobic is the atmosphere that surrounds us
Breaking news in the media is all we see
Only negativity about our people living carefree
Hopefully, our democracy has paved the way so we achieve:
Emancipation mentally and economically - that's what we need"


Extract taken from a theme song written by Gift Mposula in view of honouring the youth of June 16 1976.

FREEDOM GONE WRONG

As a democratic country we have one of the most democratic constitutions in the world, and I believe that we as a new South Africa, we have come to misinterpret the rights that we have. Responding to the recent Zuma Painting if my memory serves me well, all citizens have a right to freedom of expression whether it be through art, music, poetry or any other possible form. These rights are recognized as important elements of our democracy.

But we have become a community that has forgotten that there is a difference between practicing your rights to freely expressing yourself- and abusing those rights. When one freely expresses himself/herself it should not be at the expense of another person’s dignity, morals, values and humanity. In expressing yourself be sure that you don’t humiliate or offend any person. With rights come responsibilities and it’s your duty to ensure that whatever you do, you don’t victimize or undermine any other person’s right.

Written by Tshegofatso Mosala

IGNORED, NEGLECTED AND FORGOTTEN

Living in a democratic country for almost two decades there is a feeling that a lot has been done but more still needs to be done. When we became liberated it was clear everyone will be granted democratic value, fundamental human rights and social justice. But living in this democracy I’m disappointed that there are more problems such as the high rate of unemployment, economic inequities among societies, services not delivered, poverty, crime and lack of opportunities. And all these social ills affect ‘us’ young people, the majority of which are unable to be employed because they lack experience, and can’t further their education because there isn’t enough funding for higher education studies. Others have small businesses but without assistance, and therefore they can’t prosper.

What is this saying to us as a people? Is this the democracy that our father’s mothers, aunts fought for? To live in a democracy that doesn’t even recognize its own young citizens? I feel like although we are freed, young people in this country are still exiled, there are no opportunities, no one seems to be listening to us, no clarity on youth subsidy. No one cares!

Written By: Tshegofatso Mosala

Please note that all opinions expressed by the author in this article are her own.

BLACKS ARE NO FOOLS

As a young person I’m so fascinated by music and admire artists who have grown and taken this craft as a platform to voice their opinions so as to educate and entertain people. But I grew very concerned and somewhat disappointed with Slikour’s music video and the lyrics in his song entitled “Blacks are Fools.” Although there is a powerful message in the song, the title made me upset and angry. I think artists are creative and will do anything to draw media attention - that’s what I think lead this youngster to choose such a title. In his TV interviews he refused to apologise for suggesting that blacks are fools, and claimed that he is misinterpreted and misunderstood.


To even suggest that blacks are fools is foolish looking at the political and social histories of the African people. We have come a long way. Firstly from being enslaved for 400 years by the British and American powers, being colonized in our own countries by Europeans, being deprived of rights, abused and discriminated and underestimated by the apartheid government, and he has the audacity to say we are nothing , liabilities and stupid?! .

It is profound and derogatory to take such a controversial stance, considering the recent election of the first ever black president in the USA. The legacies of stalwarts - such as Steve Biko, Solomon Mahlangu, Chris Hani, Albert Luthuli, and Winnie Mandela who fought so hard for social justice, fundamental human rights and democratic value in South Africa – are put to shame by such irresponsible comments.

He (Slikour) is where he is today because of Black people who died in the Sharpeville Massacre, as well as those who were exiled in the north , east, and west Africa during the apartheid years. Women who marched in 1956, the youth who died in 1976, and some of his fans’ extended families will benefit from the death of individuals such as Andries Tatane. Due to the death of Andries Tatane, shockwaves spread throughout the nation, and as such a lot is being changed in his area (Ficksburg) to deliver service. We have well-respected and well- educated Black people such as Eskia Mphahle for example; individuals who we can be proud of. In conclusion: Blacks are not fools.


Written By: Tshegofatso Mosala

Please note that all opinions expressed by the author of this article are her own.

SHOWCASING YOUTH TALENT

One of the goals of Makoya Entrepreneurs is to provide a platform for the youth to expose their talents, be it through artistic expression, writing or insight on current affairs or entrepreneurship etc. In this way we are able to create an advertising platform for these individuals to not only showcase their talent, but also to ensure that they are empowered by connecting with the right people in whichever industry.


We recently came across Tshegofatso Mosala (22) - a BA (African and International Politics) Graduate from UNISA whose passion lies in politics and writing. Having founded the “Youth Consciousness Movement” in Soshanguve Pretoria, which is an NGO that aims to empower young people who are unemployed, disadvantaged, unskilled or in trouble with the law – we decided to showcase some of her work.

Some of Mosala’s achievements include winning an essay competition run by Metro FM as well as a writing challenge run by Radio 2000. We are pleased to have her contribute to the Makoya Entrepreneurs Blog.

A WELCOME SHIFT IN BEE LAWS

“The amendments would seek to address criticism that BEE was only creating a class of passive black shareholders rather than entrepreneurs actively engaged in economic activity.” (Business Report)

This is positive news for the so-called Makoya Entrepreneurs who will now be afforded the opportunity to take ownership of the South African economy through BEE transactions. In this context Makoya Entrepreneurs refers to those businesses that enhance production and bolster growth in the economy.

The Department of Trade and Industry has announced that the shift is from equity deals to enterprise development. This will allay criticism that BEE is creating a class of passive black shareholders rather than entrepreneurs actively engaged in economic activity. The growing culture of entitlement and BEE-fronting needs to be addressed; a small group of politically connected black businessmen should not be the only beneficiaries of lucrative BEE deals.

BEE deals centred on enterprise development will ensure sustainable economic growth because small businesses will be supported by the big corporates. In this way, small businesses will thrive, and more jobs created. It is refreshing to have companies such as Microsoft South Africa invest funds to the tune of 475 million ($69 million) in black-owned software firms to meet BEE rules, rather than selling an equity stake to black investors.

Foreign and local firms will now be encouraged to follow suit. The amendments to BEE laws to accommodate enterprise development –if well executed- will go a long way towards sustainable economic development in the country.

Source: http://www.iol.co.za/business/business-news/sa-signals-shift-in-bee-laws-1.1059231

YOUNG VERSATILE ENTREPRENEURS

We recently came across an interesting magazine entitled "Wealthwise Magazine" (www.wealthwisemag.com) which provides an insightful look at business in a South African context.

Turn to page 32 and read an article on "Young Entrepreneurs" - the profiled entrepreneur being KK Diaz, Managing Member at Rekopane Dot Biz.

KK epitomises the essence of what we call a Makoya Entrepreneur - a highly versatile entrepreneur having run a record label (music) business in the past, to becoming the Managing Member of a Johannesburg-based payroll and accounting solutions company.

Furthermore, KK has the social motivation to address the high rate of failure in business through the provision of payroll and accounting systems to boost a firm's bottom line (profit). Read more on page 32-34 of the Wealthwise Magazine by following the link below:


http://issuu.com/wealthwise/docs/wealthwise_march_2011,


So for your payroll and accounting systems solutions contact Rekopane Dot Biz at :

Tel: +2711 838 8267
Cell: 2782 866 1187
http://www.rekopanepayroll.co.za/

YOUTHFUL BRANDS MAKE THEIR MARK

As MAKOYA ENTREPRENEURS one of our goals is to promote young, upcoming influential entrepreneurs in the industry. The first business we identified was the BIZKID CORPORATION run by 18 year old Tshepang Motshwadiba. This digital solutions and on-line media business has since grown from strength to strength. Take a look at their latest ...work for the AMAKIPKIP brand at:

http://amakipkip.wordpress.com/

PREVIEW OF JHB FASHION WEEK AT FASHION KAPITOL

Given our passion for identifying and promoting upcoming brands as well as viewing artistic expression, we attended this year’s JHB Fashion week at Fashion Kapitol in JHB Central.

 The event was a success and was thoroughly enjoyed by those who attended. The only concern I had – which is something to improve on next year- is to ensure that there is more exposure for the designers exhibiting their clothing.

Having a lively music festival on one hand and promoting upcoming fashion designers on the other, does conflict with increasing the awareness of the brands on display. There were some exceptions, however, for e.g. the Amakipkip and Vandal brands which effectively used models and music artists to promote their brands.

With regard to the choice of music, I propose that lounge music be played during intervals to allow guests to browse around, do some shopping and thereafter view the fashion show.

Special thanks must go to Nomi and the other event organisers for a great show.

WE WELCOME ON BOARD OUR FIRST AFFILIATE PARTNER: THE BUSINESS PLACE

PATRIOTIC INVESTMENT ON INFRASTRUCTURE?

"The fund has something of a 'feel good' factor that states on its fact sheet: The fund is positioned to give investors a sense of pride in their growing nation" (Marc Ashton-Finweek)

Given the rampant infrastructure investments taking place throughout Africa, and the growing emphasis on socially responsible investments that benefit the broader community, a fund that fits both these criteria has become more suitable for investors. One such fund is the Stanlib Nationbuilder Fund.

This fund invests in equity and non-equity vehicles (the "fruits") which accrue from Government and private enterprise infrastructure investments (the "trees").

What is also quite interesting - in my view - is that the portfolio is positioned for the "aggressive" high risk - high return type of investor. The portfolio comprises Exxaro Resources (6.1%), Massmart Holdings (6%), AVI (5.75%) plus construction giants Group Five Holdings, Murray and Roberts and Aveng.

Asset managers advise investors to remain bullish (buy shares) on infrastructure developments in South Africa at this time as the prospects are "attractive."

Makoya Entrepreneurs promotes the culture of investment and saving, so these kind of investment options - particularly those that lean towards the economic development of South Africa - are strongly supported. 

GIFT MPOSULA (MAKOYA ENTREPRENEURS)

MAKOYA LIFESTYLE PHOTO SHOOT

We thought of doing something fun and out of the box in line with the theme of "creative visionaries," so we came up with the concept: MAKOYA LIFESTYLE PHOTO SHOOT. Take a glimpse below of what we had in mind. Watch this space... For the full shoot, check out the following link: http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Makoya-Entrepreneurs/172099326163353

 

COMPETITIVENESS KEY TO SA'S ECONOMIC GROWTH

"Business leaders and economists believe that key to to kickstarting the economy will be improved competitiveness, driving down the cost of doing business, improving the human development component and encouraging entrepreneurship" (Andile Ntingi - City Press).

At the heart of this economic revival lies logistics group Transnet and electricity supplier Eskom. An R846 billion infrastructure development programme has been initiated to adress the performance of these parastatals.

So, on one hand we need to improve rail network infrastructure and reduce congestion at the country's ports to make it easier and profitable for exporters to sell their products abroad. Whilst on the other hand, we need to have sufficient electricity capacity (reduced load-shedding) to facilitate large-scale mining projects.

So an opportunity has presented itself - let's find creative ways in which we can "partner" with the infrastructure development programme to improve the performance of Transnet and Eskom. 

SPONSORSHIP PAY-BACK UNDERMINES EVENT CREDIBILITY

"Sponsorship is a crucial part of brand-building today but marrying the money with credible content is crucial for today's discerning consumer" (Dion Chang - City Press)"

In Dion Chang's opinion the Miss SA pageant was lacklustre because the event organisers were so busy trying to provide ROI for the sponsors through increased advertising during the event, that this ultimately compromised the credibility of the event.

Today's sophisticated consumers hardly respond to traditional methods of advertising (e.g. billboards and banners); brand experiences and emotional connections are more effective. "Force-feeding" a sponsor to an audience during a prestigious event so as to keep the bean counters happy, kills the essence of the event.

2011 AND BEYOND

Welcome back people, we hope you all had a fantastic festive season, let's pick up from where we left off. There are great things to look forward to this year in terms of content, artistic expression, events etc. Buckle up and enjoy the ride & hey feel free to partcipate.. MAKOYA ENTREPRENEURS, let's go!

MISSION OF MAKOYA ENTREPRENEURS

"A strong economy is one that has a good number of profitable and sustainable enterprises that boost the economy. By partnering with both the corporate and public sectors, as challenging as it may be, South Africa can work towards becoming a strong economy. We believe that by working together –'as creative visionaries in business leadership' - we can do more!"  (Gift Mposula - MAKOYA ENTREPRENEURS)

SEASON'S GREETINGS

We would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a blessed festive season, we hope u all have a peaceful and joyful Xmas & new year!! Also, we would like to thank u for supporting our vision of creative visionaries in business leadership..MAKOYA ENTREPRENEURS which was established only a few months ago.

By pursuing this initiative, we're all doing our bit to shift mindsets towards entrepreneurship so as to ensure the sustainable economic empowerment of our nation. Let's make it happen!

WORLD YOUTH FESTIVAL

"The objective is to unite the youth of the world and mobilise them around the banner of promoting universal principles of peace, freedom and social transformation to create a world free of human rights abuses and creation of sustainable environments"

Comment by NYDA Executive Chairperson Andile Lungisa regarding the motivation behind the World Youth Festival which was held from 13-21 Dec in Pretoria.

We support this initiative, and hope that it will consistently achieve its desired results.

Thought for the day

I quote "...the national and international importance of the event (World Youth Festival), and the ­impact on local youth development, cultural integration, dialogue as well as promoting unity among the youth of the world were considered."

This was the response by the National Lottery Distribution chairperson Alfred Nevhuthanda when questioned about the R40 million funding of the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) to host a youth and student festival. This has left the South African NGO sector fuming since many NGO's have had to scale down on operations due to lack of funds.

I guess one way to look at this situation is to ask whether it is best to fund projects that play a social entrepreneurship role (which give back to communities) rather than those that are merely charitable organisations which are, to great extent, unsustainable. So do we give hand-outs on a regular basis, or do we aid NGOs which contribute to skills development and training in the economy?