Authored by: Lunga Dweba (Strategy & Risk Advisor, GI Advisory) Commissioned by: Bonisile Fortunate Shongwe (Managing Director, Lamatsamo Holdings)
In 2024, at the request of Carolina Employment Business & Training Centre (CEBT), a Section 18A organization, Lamatsamo Holdings embarked on a transformative journey to support women entrepreneurs in South Africa. This initiative, coordinated by GI Advisory, represents a comprehensive approach to community development through economic empowerment.
It combines direct business support with strategic community strengthening, creating sustainable pathways for economic development and stability. The program’s inaugural beneficiaries demonstrate significant business growth and community impact, validating our model’s effectiveness.
Seedling Academy, founded by first-place winner Bridget Moema, has established a sustainable private education institution serving local families while creating employment opportunities. Operating without government subsidies, the academy demonstrates strong revenue potential through its core education services and auxiliary programs. Beyond business success, Seedling Academy’s impact extends to community development through Bridget’s youth empowerment initiatives and support for vulnerable students.
Runner-up BIRO Chemical Company, under Boitumelo Mandla‘s leadership, achieved 57% product line expansion and established recurring revenue through an innovative refill program serving 40+ households. The company’s environmentally conscious model and SABS certification pursuit position it for market expansion. Monthly customer spending demonstrates strong scalability potential.
Strategic Partnerships for 2025
This validated model presents opportunities across sectors for implementation support, direct investment, and knowledge exchange. It aligns with multiple stakeholder mandates:
- Private Sector: Mining and industrial companies through ESD programs
- Public Sector: DWYPD, SEDA, CSPS, DIRCO, COGTA, and DSD
- International Partners: United Nations (UN Women, UNESCO, etc), African Union, and SADC
Join Us in Scaling This Proven Model
We invite stakeholders to explore partnership opportunities in the Empower Her Future initiative 2025.
To discuss how your organization can participate in this validated approach to enterprise development and community transformation, please contact Lunga Dweba at info@giadvisory.co.za or Bonisile Fortunate Shongwe at fortunate@lamatsamoholdings.co.za.
