Calling all young farmers and agripreneurs in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). The Metropolitan Collective Shapers is ready to support you in scaling your farming business.
The youth empowerment programme, established in 2021, is dedicated to equipping young entrepreneurs with the tools they need to grow their businesses, create jobs, and break into new markets.
Following triumphant rollouts in Polokwane and Tshwane, the KZN chapter is set to tap into the region’s rich agricultural potential.
Phumla Mavundla, the head of marketing: product and channel at Metropolitan, said agriculture is a cornerstone of KZN’s economy, providing numerous opportunities for innovation and growth. However, young entrepreneurs often face barriers to entry, such as limited access to resources, training, and market opportunities.
The Metropolitan Collective Shapers seeks to address these challenges by offering a comprehensive support system for entrepreneurs in this sector.
“Metropolitan’s Collective Shapers philosophy is built around a ‘hand up, not a hand out’ approach; which fosters self-sufficiency and innovation, whilst being supported by experts.
“With youth unemployment alarmingly high, our initiative in KZN’s agricultural sector aims to leverage the province’s rich resources and young talent to spur economic growth and build sustainable and resilient communities.”
Beyond insurance products and partnering with South Africans on the journey to financial progress, Metropolitan is committed to people and making a real impact in communities. As part of the programme, Metropolitan will also host a virtual masterclass, accessible to youth entrepreneurs from across the country.
Application process
Participants will benefit from bespoke training modules that address the soft skills as well as specific sector nuances and needs of the local agriculture industry. Additionally, they will have access to experienced business mentors who provide continuous guidance throughout the programme.
Top-performing businesses will receive business cash injections, providing crucial financial support to help scale their operations. Furthermore, it offers market access opportunities, connecting participants to essential networks that facilitate business growth and sustainability.
To participate in the Metropolitan Collective Shapers programme, applicants should be between the ages of 18 and 35 and should permanently reside in South Africa.
The initiative seeks youth-owned businesses that are 100% South African, prioritising those that are historically disadvantaged, including people living with disabilities.
Businesses must have been operating for at least 12 months within the formal or informal agriculture sector in KZN, with the director fully dedicated to the business. Importantly, the business needs to be an established entity, serving as the main venture for the applicant rather than a part-time endeavour.
Previous successes and future outlook
The Metropolitan Collective Shapers programme has already made a significant impact in Polokwane and Tshwane, helping young entrepreneurs in farming and the food & hospitality industries reach new business heights.
Speaking about the programme, Benjamin Nkanyane, who runs Davhuha Farming Enterprises and participated in 2021, shared his experience.
He said, “Metropolitan Collective Shapers took me out of my comfort zone and reignited my passion for farming. I have learned to think strategically about expanding my business, which now operates on a three-hectare farm, produces over 45 000 heads of vegetables, employs 15 farmworkers, and supplies a school feeding scheme.”
Metropolitan has partnered with experts in entrepreneurship and agriculture to support more youth. This year, it continues its collaboration with Uber to provide disadvantaged young job seekers with Uber vouchers, ensuring they can attend job interviews and access employment opportunities.
Applications are open until 30 June 2024. The official programme will commence on 1 July and run until 31 December 2024. For more information and to apply, click here.
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