Teen entrepreneurs shine through iAccelerate SA Competition Day

YOUNG entrepreneurs from around the province came together in the first edition of iAccelerate SA (iASA) to learn the fundamentals of entrepreneurship and launch their first venture.

- THEOLIN TEMBO

The high school teenagers participating in the four-month, fully-funded programme were exposed to established entrepreneurs, industry leaders, investors and more for mentorship and guidance on their journeys.

The programme culminated in a final pitch day competition, where the young entrepreneurs pitched their ventures to a panel of judges and potential investors. The pitches reflected the creativity, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit proudly fostered under the leadership of Rayhaan Survé and the iASA team.

The iASA Competition Day included a networking lunch, which provided the students with an opportunity to connect with investors and key players driving innovation in South Africa and concluded with the announcement of the competition winners.

Attendees witnessed young high school learners step up and deliver their pitches for their startup businesses with a cool, calm and collected demeanour.

The four startups included:

• Excelle Media, a social media agency aiming to amplify the voices of SMMEs and help them grow their online presence.

• SlaéPure, an organic healthcare product geared towards tackling teen acne.

• Ukukhanya Wellness Organisation seeks to address mental health issues in a way that blends Western therapy and African culture.

• Upcycle Chiq, a sustainable fashion brand geared towards reducing textile waste by utilising recycled materials.