False Bay TVET College’s Celebration of Innovation at the 2024 Allan Gray Maker Inter-College Student Entrepreneurship Pitching Competition

False Bay TVET College’s Centre for Entrepreneurship recently hosted the eagerly awaited internal rounds of the Allan Gray Makers 2024 inter-college student entrepreneurship pitching competition. This event highlighted the creativity, commitment, and entrepreneurial spirit of False Bay TVET College students, marking a pivotal moment in their academic and entrepreneurial paths.

An Opportunity for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Held at the main hall of False Bay TVET College’s Westlake Campus, the event provided a platform for students to present their business ideas to a distinguished panel of judges. The success of the event was bolstered by support from key stakeholders such as Absa, the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), and the Western Cape Chamber of Commerce, who provided essential mentorship and guidance for the student entrepreneurs.

The judging panel consisted of three experienced industry professionals: Ms. Mona-Lisa Maposa from Absa, Ms. Linda Roopen from the Western Cape Chamber of Commerce, and Mr. Xolani Bodlo from NYDA. They carefully assessed the student pitches, offering invaluable feedback to ensure a fair and thorough evaluation process.

Acknowledging Excellence
The competition was divided into three categories: “I Have a Business Idea,” “I Have a Tech Business,” and “I Have a General Business.” Each category featured intense competition and showcased a wide array of innovative ideas from the students.

Winners of the competition included:

Category 1: I Have a Business Idea
1st Place: Mr. Lutho Nono with his Ice Made business idea.
2nd Place: Mr. Justice Ncube with Green Clean Services.
3rd Place: Mr. Corvalia Bitsindou with a Solar Panel business idea.

Category 2: I Have a Tech Business
1st Place: Ms. Buhle Ndudula with a Public Transport Management Application.
2nd Place: Mr. Sethu Klaas with eco-conscious luxury car catering.
3rd Place: Mr. Lyle Boonzaaier with Investigation Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT).

Category 3: I Have a General Business
1st Place: Ms. Rashaad Sambaba with Everything Stationery.
2nd Place: Ms. Nicole Plaatjies with Kirmic Shoe Business.
3rd Place: Abraham Tsekoa with a Digital Marketing & Education Services business idea.

These winners impressed the judges with their innovative concepts, market viability, and entrepreneurial enthusiasm, showcasing the high level of entrepreneurship fostered at False Bay TVET College.

Celebrating the Spirit of Entrepreneurship
The Allan Gray Makers Student Entrepreneurship program, in collaboration with the Centre for Entrepreneurship at False Bay TVET College, plays a vital role in equipping students with essential skills and nurturing their entrepreneurial mindset. This competition not only provided practical experience but also offered valuable networking opportunities with industry professionals.

A Heartfelt Thank You
The Centre for Entrepreneurship at False Bay TVET College expresses its sincere gratitude to all participants for their creativity and dedication. Special thanks also go to the adjudicators for their expert insights and to Absa for their generous sponsorship, which significantly contributed to the event’s success.

As False Bay TVET College reflects on the accomplishments of this year’s competition, the institution reaffirms its commitment to nurturing and supporting the entrepreneurial ambitions of its students. The future appears bright as these young entrepreneurs continue to innovate and effect change in their respective fields.

For more information about the competition or upcoming events, please reach out to False Bay TVET College’s Centre for Entrepreneurship-Rapid Incubator at 021 201 1215.