UKZN Showcases Innovation and Impact at 2025 Social Entrepreneurs’ Demo Day

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), in partnership with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA), hosted the ‘2025 Social Entrepreneurs’ Demo Day’ on October 24 at the Archie Gumede Conference Centre in Durban.

The annual event showcased the achievements of emerging social entrepreneurs from across the province and marked the culmination of the KwaZulu-Natal Social Economy Development Programme (SEDP).

Now in its twelfth year, the SEDP – fondly known as the ‘Champions Programme’ – is a collaborative initiative between UKZN and EDTEA that has trained and supported over 250 social entrepreneurs since its inception in 2013. The programme equips participants with skills to scale their enterprises while creating meaningful social and economic impact in their communities.

In his welcome address, Professor Ernest Khalema, Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the College of Law and Management Studies, commended the 2025 cohort for their creativity, resilience, and commitment to community transformation.

“Your work in fields ranging from waste management and agro-processing to education, health, and digital innovation demonstrates that entrepreneurship is not only about profit, but about people – about finding local solutions to local challenges,” he said.

He further applauded the collaboration between academia, government and the private sector, noting that the SEDP demonstrates the power of collective action in building a more inclusive provincial economy.

“This collaboration stands as a shining example of how universities, government and the private sector can work together to shape a more sustainable future,” he added.

The Demo Day featured 22 presentations by this year’s cohort of social entrepreneurs representing all corners of KwaZulu-Natal – from the uMkhanyakude to the Ugu districts. Their enterprises spanned diverse sectors, including agriculture, arts and culture, waste management, education, and health.

Dr Mlondi Vilakazi, UKZN’s Regional and Local Economic Development Project Manager, lauded the entrepreneurs for their courage and innovation:

“Each project tells a story of service and transformation. This year, our champions have turned challenges into opportunities, creating jobs, strengthening communities, and advancing sustainable development. Their efforts stand as a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to drive meaningful change even in uncertain times.”

The event also featured an inspiring keynote address by Mr Peter-Paul Ngwenya, founder of Gagasi FM and several other ventures rooted in the spirit of paying it forward. Drawing from his own entrepreneurial journey, Ngwenya reminded the audience that “you are never too small to make a contribution”. His words left the room energised, underscoring the belief that meaningful change often begins with a single, purposeful idea.

The event recognised these outstanding participants through certificate and trophy presentations, as well as the Absa Overall Social Entrepreneur Award worth R25 000 presented to three champions to help further develop their businesses. Winners were: Ms Farieda Jali of Active Minds Society, Mr Phakamani Ndlovu of Phakamani Empowerment, and Ms Zamakhabazela Mkhize of SAAH Learning Centre.

EDTEA’s Mr Ranveer Persad delivered closing remarks, reaffirming the department’s continued support for social innovation and community development.

As the event concluded, delegates, funders and entrepreneurs reflected on a shared vision of enterprises that not only drive economic value but also deliver lasting social change across KwaZulu-Natal.

Words: Lungile Ngubelanga

Photographs: Hesper Cele