Since joining Siyakhula a year ago, I have been inspired by the Entrepreneurs in our programme and their undiminished spirit in the face of unprecedented challenges facing our country. It has been an educational and moving experience to come face-to-face with the men and women behind some of the companies and get a first hand account of their journeys.

My intention was to begin by focusing mainly on Siyakhula’s strategy, policies, governance structures and putting together the resources to drive our mission. However, I was fortunate to step into an organisation where a lot of the groundwork had been done by my predecessors, to whom I owe a great debt of gratitude. This gave me some space to visit some of the Companies in our programme and get on with the primary task of providing them with development support.

We have not been able to reach everybody, but I am proud of the progress we have already made, and it is largely due to dedication, hard work and support of my team and colleagues.

Lesego Ramatlhape joined Siyakhula as Programme Manager in June from our Automotive and Logistics Division and hit the ground running along with Musa Mokhobole who also joined as Administrator. A special thanks also goes to the members of the re-established Siyakhula Investment Committee and Siyakhula Board headed by our Chairperson, Noluvo “Vovo” Ngcwabe whose guidance and support enabled us to move quickly through the myriad of tasks that needed to be accomplished.

Our Financial Year ended in September, and so as we look to the new year, we will further explore different ways to reach and actively engage with the Entrepreneurs in the Siyakhula Programme and our stakeholders. We have established the new Siyakhula e-newsletter through which we will provide regular updates on our progress and initiatives, as well as information on available support to SMMEs. We will also feature a few of the businesses supported by Siyakhula and their journeys as a way of providing them with additional market exposure. This will hopefully also provide our Entrepreneurs with a clear view of challenges faced by their peers and how some are navigating their way through them. Entrepreneurship is a difficult and lonely journey. Through these features we hope to motivate others to persevere through their challenges.

Lastly, a request to you our readers. Please help us come up with a fitting name for our e-newsletter. We are looking for a name that captures the essence of "Siyakhula". Dig deep as a "surprise" awaits the winner of the challenge. We also welcome feedback and suggestions you may have for subject and information you would like to see in the newsletter.

Yours truly,
Prudence Gololo
Barloworld Siyakhula: Managing Director

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