Twenty small and medium youth-owned businesses each received R10 000 financial aid to grow their businesses through the Youth in Business programme

AS the curtain closes on what has been a successful Youth Month for the City, 20 small and medium sized youthowned businesses have each received R10 000 financial aid. Led by the Chairperson of the Governance and Human Capital Committee Councillor Nkosenhle Madlala, the aim of the programme was to inject financial aid into the emerging businesses.

The programme was also attended by the US Consulate to Durban and a Belgium delegation. Councillor Madlala congratulated the recipients of the R10 000 funding. “Our youth development policy is more than just a directive; it is a promise to nurture the aspirations of young people and to provide them with the tools they need to succeed.” He further said the Mayoral Youth Development Office will continue to aid emerging businesses and encourage entrepreneurship. “The establishment of a youth fund remains a cornerstone of our youth development policy. This fund is not only a financial reservoir but a beacon of our unwavering support and belief in your potential. 

It helps us set the agenda for the coming year, ensuring that we continue to align our efforts with your evolving needs and aspirations,” Councillor Madlala added. Mayoral Youth Development Office Manager Nokuthula Hlophe said the Office will continue to forge and strengthen relations with sister cities to promote youth development throughout the City. “The Belgium delegation has shown their support by handing over 35 printers to previously disadvantaged schools.

This is a true testament of our growth and reach outside Municipal borders,” said Hlophe. Funding recipient Sandile Mhlanga was grateful for the cash injection into his business. “We appreciate what the Municipality has done for our businesses. As business owners, we wish the programme well and that it grows to greater heights.”