Foundation ignites creativity through youths 

By Confidente Reporter

THE One Economy Foundation ‘ONE’ has recognised the critical role of innovative youth entrepreneurship in stimulating local economic development.
In line with the ethos of investing in the growth of micro-entrepreneurs, ONE hosted a two-day masterclass from April 23 to 24 in Ongwediva under the theme, ‘Building capacity, transforming businesses and improving socio-economic outcomes’.

According to Hilma Petrus, communication officer at One Economy Foundation, the training was attended by 19 youth micro-entrepreneurs from Oshana, Oshikoto, Ohangwena and Omusati regions respectively.

“The masterclass strengthened the capacity, confidence, networks and capital of youth micro-entrepreneurs, thereby better positioning them to build sustainable, impactful and profitable businesses.

The entrepreneurs benefited from an array of business skills development sessions, including market research, design thinking, financing opportunities, mental health, marketing and scaling and growth strategies.

“The highlight of the training was an exhilarating pitch competition where 10 micro-entrepreneurs battled it out for exciting cash prizes.

After an intense round of pitches and questions, Wilbard Wilhem, founder of Shityeni Trading Cc (manufacturing sector) emerged as the pitch competition winner and Gabriel Shilongo, owner of Okalongo Vegetable Supplies (agricultural sector) as the runner-up.

The winners walked away with N$15 000 and N$10 000 cash prizes as well as business mentoring,” Petrus explained.