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Business fair shines spotlight on youth and women owned businesses
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Date: 2022-06-28 13:09:44

Business fair shines spotlight on youth and women owned businesses

The quality and innovative products offered by youth and women owned businesses was highlighted during the South Regional Durban Business Fair (DBF) that took place at the KwaMnyandu Shopping Centre from 24 to 26 June.

The business development exhibition attracted approximately 13 500 attendees who came out to support about 120 local businesses that were showcasing over the three days. 

Asanda Zondi, 21, from uMlazi is the founder of Siqalosisha which manufactures cleaning products such as pine disinfectant and dishwashing liquid among others. The company also offers commercial cleaning services.

Zondi said she is grateful for the South Regional DBF as it provided an opportunity for her new business. 

She was able to forge business linkages which she hopes will grow into partnerships and new working deals.  “On top of being exposed to potential buyers, we also had the opportunity to market our products on radio. It was my first time exhibiting but I will definitely be back!” she said.

Fikile Khuzwayo, 35, founder of ‘Fiks the Coffee Queen’ opened in 2020 and had a good three days at the exhibition. Her stand was among the busiest at the exhibition with attendees enthralled with the ease which she brews a variety of coffees.

“I worked in restaurants and I love coffee, so I decided to purse my dream of becoming a coffee queen,” she said.

Khuzwayo’s business is located at 139 Essenwood Road. She made about R6 000 in cash sales at the exhibition. This excludes card sales. “I cannot describe the exposure my business received from exhibiting at the Fair as well as the other opportunities. Thank you to the Municipality.”

Thandeka Jali was one of the best stand winners and walked away with a one-year Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry membership, a free exhibition stand at the main DBF taking place in September, R3 000 to buy business necessities at Waltons, and marketing airtime. she applauded the Municipality for presenting a platform where she was able to create awareness about her company, Lactease. 

Lactease was founded in late 2020 and manufactures a breastfeeding tonic that enhances breastmilk production. 

Chairperson of the Economic Development and Planning Committee Councillor Thanduxolo Sabelo said the South Regional DBF was a resounding success. He said it was heart-warming to hear from businesses owners how the platform has had such a positive impact on the growth of their businesses. 

The South Regional DBF featured several empowerment seminars and masterclasses aimed at transferring knowledge and skills to business owners. These included a contractor development indaba, youth and women empowerment indaba, digital marketing masterclass, a beauty and make-up masterclass, and many more.