First Graduates Of Mentorship Programme

Sanlam and the University of the Western Cape UWC have celebrated the graduation of the inaugural cohort from the Fellows Leadership and Mentoring Programme. This initiative, supported by a R900,000 approximately 47,223 grant from Sanlam, aims to equip 23 small, medium, and micro enterprises SMMEs with the necessary skills and support for sustainable growth. The programme, managed by UWC's Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation CEI, offers accredited training, leadership coaching, and mentorship.

Participants complete National Qualifications Framework Level 5 courses that cover core business practices and receive tailored coaching from experienced business leaders. This year, post-incubation support was also introduced to provide ongoing guidance, helping the businesses stay competitive and resilient.

According to Shadi Chauke, Sanlam Group Executive Market Development and Sustainability, SMMEs are crucial to South Africas economy, driving job creation and long-term prosperity. Chauke highlighted Sanlam's commitment to empowering communities through both financial and business support.

The National Development Plan of South Africa envisions SMMEs creating 90 of new jobs by 2030, making initiatives like this essential for fostering sustainable business growth and contributing to employment and economic progress.