By Nikolas Archontis
As tradition has it, the end of a school year calls for a celebration. In the case of GEAP and the Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) the celebration took place on 22 February 2023. That was the Graduation Day for the 38 enterprises successfully completing export-related, business development training. It was also the day for acknowledging great achievements: the creation of more than 300 jobs, the generation of more than ZAR300 million between 2020 and 2023, and contribution back to the community.
According to JCCI CEO, Ms. Bernadette Zeiler, the Chamber management and associate mentors proudly call their top achievers “Diamonds”. I don’t know if diamonds are a girl’s best friend. But I know that the Scottish writer Thomas Carlyle was true when said: “no pressure, no diamonds”.
In a crowded room of enthusiastic – thanks to the amazing MC, Mr. Malesela Manaka, business representatives, everyone raised their glasses and gave a big shout-out to:
- The ones literally forged in fire,
- The ones that changed career paths and chased their dreams,
- The disruptors and innovators,
- The single mothers, working both at home and their business.
The resilience and perseverance, as success factors, were also highlighted in the inspiring keynote speech, by Ms. Jacki Mpondo-Hendricks, urging entrepreneurs to drive forward in a competitive world.
And then it was fashion show time. The creations of Emerald Stone by the fabulous Khomotso Talane turned the heat up in the room. Maybe it was also the bubbly wine of Mzansi Craft or the royally inspired Luc Mo Wines, talking. But the cheering came also from those drinking juice from Loxion Fruits; what can I say.
Truth be told, some had even more reasons to celebrate. Like Mr. Peter Mokoena of Probable Trading and Ms Dumisa Simakuhle of Dukisa Projects receiving each ZAR 300,000 grants from Standard Bank. Or Teboho Mangakane of Chabi Manufacturers, proudly announcing that day his contract with Coricraft.
One thing is for sure, as signaled by giz Team Leader, Mr. Gavin Watson “now it’s time to…accelerate”. And everyone agreed. Don’t take my word for it, just watch the video.
Video link: BUSINESS -JCCI AWARDS - YouTube
