Youth Innovators Empowered by Absa and Allan Gray Centre’s ‘I Grew It’ Campaign

Absa, in collaboration with the Allan Gray Centre for Africa Entrepreneurship, recently hosted a transformative Youth Entrepreneurship Dialogue to address South Africa’s youth unemployment crisis. Held in Bryanston on February 19, the event served as a platform for inspiring young entrepreneurs through the impactful I Grew It campaign.

With youth unemployment reaching a staggering 45%, the dialogue aimed to empower the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs. Industry leaders, policymakers, and aspiring entrepreneurs gathered to exchange ideas and craft solutions to foster youth entrepreneurship.

Steven Zwane, Absa’s managing executive of corporate citizenship, shared the bank’s vision for youth empowerment and economic resilience. “Now more than ever, it’s essential to invest in the dreams and aspirations of our youth. We believe in growth, inclusion, and the power of storytelling. We are enabling the next generation to dream big, learn passionately, and create intentionally—today, for tomorrow’s success,” Zwane said.

Absa’s approach focuses on financial inclusion and entrepreneurship, aiming to guide youth into entrepreneurial action. By offering tailored financial solutions and expertise, the bank is empowering individuals while contributing to the country and continent’s broader economic development. “Every story and journey has the potential to inspire, and we want to be part of that journey,” Zwane added.

Phumlani Nkontwana, director of the Allan Gray Centre for Africa Entrepreneurship, emphasized the importance of building ecosystems that support young entrepreneurs. Nkontwana highlighted the role of data and research in understanding the unique challenges young innovators face, which is key to nurturing innovation and growth.

“This is just the beginning. Our goal is to create multiple platforms where young entrepreneurs can engage with support organizations and share insights to shape the future of entrepreneurship,” Nkontwana said.

This dialogue marks the start of an ongoing effort to empower and support South Africa’s youth entrepreneurs, creating opportunities for success and growth.

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Soured: The Sandton Chronicle