AfriForum has launched its ninth Entrepreneur of the Year competition, offering a prize of R50,000 and other awards to the winner. The competition is open to owners of profitable businesses that have been operating in Afrikaans for more than 1,000 days but less than ten years. The competition aims to recognize and support Afrikaans entrepreneurs who have already established their businesses.
The competition, which started in 2017, has attracted over 520 entrepreneurs from across South Africa. This year's competition will not only focus on selecting a winner but also provide participants with practical business knowledge. All participants will have the opportunity to attend six masterclasses presented by experts in fields such as marketing, business management, and intellectual property law.
The masterclasses will be presented by renowned experts, including Jandré de Beer, founder of e-commerce and digital marketing agency V8 Media; Johann Smith, lecturer at Akademia's Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences; and Christiaan Steyn, specialist attorney in intellectual property law and founder of STEYN IP. These sessions will equip participants with valuable insights and skills to grow their businesses.
In addition to the masterclasses, entrepreneurs who make it to the final round will receive personalized business coaching. The five finalists will be mentored by experienced entrepreneurs and business leaders, including Rhona Erasmus, co-founder and co-director of REALSKIN and owner of Trouvaille Boutique day spa; Kobus Galloway, illustrator, writer, and creative force behind Idees vol vrees; and business strategist and entrepreneur Juanita Vorster.
According to Deon de Jager, manager of AfriForum's Business Network, the competition provides entrepreneurs with an opportunity to take their businesses to the next level and receive recognition for their hard work. The competition also aims to celebrate the stories and achievements of Afrikaans entrepreneurs who contribute to the economy and their communities.
Entries for the competition close on September 30, and the public will be able to vote for their favorite participants from October 3. The top ten semifinalists will be announced on October 19, and the five finalists will be revealed on October 23. The final round of the competition will take place on November 10 and 11 in Pretoria.
Entrepreneurs who meet the requirements can find more information about the competition and register on AfriForum's Business Network website. The competition offers a unique platform for Afrikaans entrepreneurs to showcase their businesses and compete for a prestigious prize.
Key points
- The winner of the competition will receive a prize of R50,000 and other awards.
- The competition provides entrepreneurs with practical business knowledge and personalized coaching.
- Entries for the competition close on September 30.
