The normally quiet Bakwena ba Mogopa offices in Hebron, North West came alive with energy, ambition, and a renewed sense of possibility as South Africa’s fibre network giant, Net Nine Nine hosted a dynamic Entrepreneurs and Employment Information Day aimed at empowering local residents to participate meaningfully in the business world.
The event, which drew a strong turnout from community members, aspiring entrepreneurs, and established business owners, proved to be a major success, both in attendance and impact all aimed at sucking in from career guidance and information opportunities.
From the early hours of the day, the venue, tribal office, buzzed with activity as locals gathered with curiosity and enthusiasm, and stalls set along the road and inside the chieftaincy home.
The purpose of the event was clear – to equip individuals with knowledge, inspire innovation, and encourage participation in the growing digital economy, which seem to have been far-fetched for village youth.
GATEWAY TO OPPORTUNITIES ON ENTREPRENEURS DAY!
For many attendees, this was not just another community gathering – it was a gateway to opportunity, and they participated in all the presentations, and other left with huge prizes that will change their lifestyle and parachute their dreams.
At the heart of the event was a panel of experienced speakers from various sectors, each bringing valuable insights into entrepreneurship, digital transformation, and the importance of connectivity in today’s economy.
The discussions focused heavily on practical steps to start and sustain a business, overcoming common barriers, and leveraging technology to reach wider markets.
One of the key themes that emerged throughout the day was the importance of aligning with the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR).
Speakers emphasised that access to reliable internet is no longer a luxury but a necessity for anyone looking to thrive in modern business – from online marketing to e-commerce platforms.
UNLOCKING WINDOW TO THE BUSINESS WORLD!
One speaker indicated that digital tools are reshaping how businesses operate, and those without connectivity risk being left behind, a risk that the youth wouldn’t like to take.
Net99 used the platform to reinforce its mission of connecting communities through affordable and reliable internet services, with the affordable packages starting at R379 monthly for a 20/10Mbps – uninterruptable.
Representatives highlighted how internet access can unlock new opportunities, especially in areas like Hebron where many small businesses are still operating offline, and about 90% informally without being registered.
By bridging this digital gap, Net99 aims to ensure that local entrepreneurs can compete on a broader scale.
Adding to the vibrancy of the event were local business owners who showcased their products and services, from shoe designs, fashion and food to tech services and crafts, the diversity of businesses on display reflected the untapped potential within the community.
The exhibition area became a hub of interaction, where attendees could explore different brands, ask questions, and even make purchases.
Some shared that it was their first time attending an event focused entirely on entrepreneurship, while others noted that the information provided was both practical and motivating.
The atmosphere throughout the day was one of optimism, with a shared belief that success is achievable with the right tools and mindset.
Workshops and informal discussions also played a significant role in the day’s success. Participants engaged in conversations about funding, marketing strategies, and the challenges of running a business in a competitive environment.
These interactions helped demystify entrepreneurship, making it more accessible to those who may have previously felt excluded from the business world.
Net99’s approach goes beyond simply providing internet services, it is about building ecosystems where communities can thrive.
By hosting events like Entrepreneurs Day, the company is actively contributing to economic development at a grassroots level, and recognises that connectivity is a powerful enabler, but it must be paired with education and support to truly make a difference.
There ohhs and ahhs at the end of the successful day when four attendees realised their dreams when two nail technicians won their start-up kit, one make-up artist took home a complete set to kick-off her business, and one mathematics tutor won a laptop to continue educating learners.
The winners had to pitch their business ideas and the panel, which was made of business people from different sectors, deliberated on who must get the prices, and the voices from the crowd also played a significant role.
Event organiser Zoleka Mashiane, Net99’s Events Coordinator,?????????????
As the day came to a close, there was a clear sense that something meaningful had taken place, with all switching their attention to the store launch, which is on the other side of the street where champagne corks.
Conversations continued long after the formal program ended, with attendees exchanging contact details and discussing future plans.
