By: Wendy Manjeya
Metropolitan, alongside local communities is leading the fight against unemployment in villages and townships with its Collective Shapers programme. This initiative tackles the critical issue of rising unemployment by invigorating employer interest in expanding job opportunities. This is done by identifying and supporting emerging entrepreneurs and SMEs.
More than 7.9 million people are unemployed in the country, with the official unemployment rate standing at 32.9%. Launched in 2021, the Collective Shapers programme equips young entrepreneurs with the skills and resources needed to scale their businesses, create jobs within their communities, build networks, and gain market access. Following successful launches in Polokwane and Tshwane, the programme was launched in KwaZulu-Natal last month. It is tailored to the unique needs of the region’s vibrant agricultural sector.
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Applications are currently open. Participants will be mentored and have access to personalised resources to grow their businesses. Metropolitan CEO Peter Tshiguvho emphasised the organisation’s unwavering commitment to empowering young people economically and stimulating job creation within communities. “The government has a role to play in ensuring safety, but realistically, they cannot solve every issue alone. The more the private sector can assist, the better for the communities we serve,” Tshiguvho acknowledged.
He said that the post-pandemic initiative reflected Metropolitan’s commitment to give back to the communities it operated in, living up to the “collective shapers” name. The programme collaborates with communities to identify young people (aged 18–35) with small businesses that require funding to become economic drivers. Ntuthuko Shezi, who is the founder of Livestock Wealth and a community shaper, is just one example of the impact of the programme.
Recognising agriculture’s potential to combat unemployment, Shezi champions initiatives that empower young people through agricultural ventures, and advocates for robust training and access to the markets. His journey from humble beginnings to entrepreneurial success exemplifies the transformative power of determination and hard work. Despite initial challenges, he diversified his business ventures, eventually establishing a thriving export trade in livestock and agricultural products.
Through his unwavering commitment to empowering others, Shezi has created over 125 jobs and continues to inspire budding entrepreneurs. In partnership with Collective Shapers, Shezi is pioneering initiatives to break down barriers to entry in agriculture. He provides training and support to aspiring farmers.
