​ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH

16 September 2020

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

POWERFUL WOMEN IN BUSINESS ENGAGEMENT KICK-STARTS #DBF22

The Durban Business Fair’s Women Economic Empowerment engagement hosted on 15 September on digital platforms and at Moses Mabhida Stadium was not just a ‘talk shop’ but delved right into the heart of current and available disruptive value chain opportunities for women in business.

The panel discussion was led by female entrepreneurs who have vast of experience in the business world. These include Ayanda Njilo, Chief Operations Officer of Induduzo Bespoke Funerals, Lynette Ntuli, founder and Chief Executive Officer of Innate Investment Solutions and Transnet Chief Procurement Officer, Thandi Sabelo.

The women’s webinar which discussed opportunities presented by technological advancements in business officially kick-started the 22nd Durban Business Fair (DBF) series of empowerment engagements to run until 27 September under the theme ‘Experience the journey of innovation’.

Sabelo said: “There is a time where you must diversify. Such disruptions are not always negative but presents change which needs to be embraced for positive outcomes.”

She mentioned several opportunities available at Transnet that women can unlock and made training referrals to qualify for such. “Most of the company’s equipment uses high-tech components that women can supply as well as available port driving services opportunities. Women must not be afraid to take on such big projects.”

Speakers went deeper on why digitally driven business models are crucial now and even post Covid-19 in order for female entrepreneurs to lead transformation. Njilo and Ntuli made practical examples of how the use of technology benefits their businesses.

Still to come on the DBF digital platforms, is a business engagement session on 22 September comprising a panel of renowned entrepreneurs who will provide insight around navigating a rapidly changing business landscape as a result of Covid-19. Entrepreneurs such as Sbu Leope, founder of Mofaya energy drink and social entrepreneur, Nomfundo Njibe, founder of Chic Cosmetics and Director of Lusizo IT solutions, Lindo Makhaye will be part of the panel.

Furthermore, on 23 September prominent names such as Thebe Ikalafeng founder and CEO of Brand Leadership Group, Sylvester Chauke, founder and architect at DNA Brand Architects, an award winning marketing leader and serial entrepreneur, Nox Magwaza and Sphelele Mjadu, Head of Public Relations and Marketing at Unilever SA, will facilitate the deliberations on ‘Crisis Marketing’-finding opportunities and trends amid Covid-19.

In addition, youth will be jolted to rise above challenges through the Youth Business Connect seminar on 25 September under the topic of ‘Integrate to Innovate-not all is lost’. Successful young entrepreneurs will headline this session. Themba Nkosi, a property entrepreneur and music producer popularly known as ‘Dj Euphonik, Mandisa Ntombela of Global Shaper and actress and entrepreneur Phindile Gwala will facilitate this session.

Moreover, the Flavours of Durban competition is underway until 22 September. It will culminate in the main cookery culinary experience which takes place on 24 September at Max’s Lifestyle and will feature renowned chefs Somizi Mhlongo of Dinner at Somizi’s television cooking show, Chef Shanko Ndabisa of Shanko’s Kitchen and owner of Lungi’s corner, Chef Lungi Nhlanhla.

Residents are urged to post a short video of any dish that defines ‘Durban Flavour’ and tag DBF social media pages. The winner will walk away with a hamper including a set of cookware and will cook alongside celebrity chefs on 24 September where they will be showcasing cooking tips of local cuisine in celebration of Heritage Day.

In its quest to support aspiring entrepreneurs to break into different industries, the City has set aside a three-day ‘Pitch My Idea’ from 25 to 27 September. The most economically viable business idea will walk away with several sponsored prizes including business mentorship and publicity material.

Also, from 23 to 25 September, the City will be streaming live a fashion show extravaganza featuring 25 designers on www.durbanfashionfair.com and be broadcast on eTv in October.

Meanwhile, the DBF excellence awards 2020 online applications has commenced for past small, medium and micro enterprises exhibitors. Applications will close on 9 October and winners will be announced in November. To apply go to: www.dbnbusinessfair.com
Follow DBF and DFF pages to stay updated. For DBF @DBNBusinessFair (Twitter) @Durban Business Fair (Facebook) and @durban_business_fair on Instagram. For DFF @ Durban Fashion Fair (Facebook), @DbFashion_Fair (Instagram and Twitter).

For more information or to RSVP for one of the programmes, kindly email: angel@ikhono.co.za or call 031 266 9937.

ENDS

Issued by the eThekwini Municipality’s Acting Head of Communication Mandla Nsele. For more information contact eThekwini Municipality’s Spokesperson Msawakhe Mayisela on 060 966 4220