Metropolitan’s Collective Shapers boosts SA’s youth entrepreneurs

The Metropolitan Collective Shapers programme is helping youth entrepreneurs accelerate their small businesses to be sustainable, create jobs, strengthen families and uplift communities.

Speaking to 702’s Bongani Bingwa, Chief Marketing Officer Lindiwe Gumede said throughout Metropolitan’s 128-year history, it has focused on giving back to the community.

The Collective Shapers programme provides youth entrepreneurs with a combination of business and soft skills.

“Without mentorship, without the right kind of support, we have seen 70% to 80% of businesses fail in the first five years. For us to be progressive and for the entrepreneurs to grow, we have to give that kind of support,” she said.

Gumede explained that the programme looks at young entrepreneurs who are already in their first 12 months of their business, and teaches them foundation skills, specific business operations, and problem-solving to unlock their business’s full potential.

It has recently expanded nationally, calling on young entrepreneurs from the logistics and agriculture sectors.

Collective Shapers has seen significant success, with participants expanding their businesses.

Many have created employment opportunities and become role models within their communities.

“When companies grow, they employ more people, who are then able to feed their families, and are also able to grow progressively in the community,” she said.

To listen to Gumede, use the audio player below: