JA South Africa is Empowering the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs

We are shining a spotlight on Junior Achievement South Africa (JA South Africa), one of our Corporate Social Investment (CSI) partners dedicated to transforming the lives of South African youth. For more than seven years, Sasfin has proudly partnered with JA South Africa from a social economic development perspective to support its mission of empowering youth with essential skills in financial health, entrepreneurship, and work readiness.

We kicked off Youth Month by speaking to Nelo Spies, Executive Director of JA South Africa, and Miriam Maphaesa, a teacher and mentor for the JA South Africa programs funded by Sasfin.

We then met Bonga Khumalo, the National programs Manager of JA South Africa, and Valentine Mabaso, a recipient of the JA South Africa high school programs.

To end Youth Month, we met students from Rhodesfield Technical High School who were involved in the JA Enterprise program in 2023. Mmowa Terrence Kgarudi, and Happiness Sithole shared what they learned from the program and how it has changed their lives. 

The Team Player

Happiness Sithole participated in the JA Enterprise program during grade 10 at Rhodesfield High School. She discovered the joy of teamwork and the importance of understanding and valuing her peers. Reflecting on her experience, she shares, “If you want to do something – go for it.” Through the program, Happiness learned vital skills in entrepreneurship, business management, and teamwork. Happiness’s journey didn’t just teach her about business; it empowered her to believe in herself and her capabilities. Entrepreneurship, she says, builds self-esteem as it empowers you to create your own source of income instead of relying on others.

The Problem Solver

Mmowa Terrence Kgarudi, another JA SA alumni, took on a significant challenge with his team, “Aspires of Change”. They developed an underground water tank solution to address water scarcity and contamination issues in their community. More than just a technical endeavour, this project was a lesson in teamwork and problem-solving. For Terrence, communication was the key to their success. “Learn to communicate. Communication is the most important gateway into business. Without it, you can’t effectively brainstorm or develop good ideas,” he advises. Terrence’s story is a powerful example of how young minds can tackle real-world problems with creativity and collaboration.