On Wednesday, 17th October 2018, the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation hosted its annual Legacy Business Breakfast at the Sandton Convention Centre. The event was graced by the presence of esteemed guests, including the keynote speaker, Paul Mashatile, the Treasurer-General of the African National Congress (ANC).
The theme of the breakfast was “Unlocking the Potential of Youth in Business”. It aimed to address the challenges faced by young entrepreneurs and provide them with the necessary tools and resources to succeed in the business world. The event also aimed to celebrate the legacy of struggle stalwart, Ahmed Kathrada, and his commitment to social justice and economic transformation.
In his keynote address, Mashatile emphasized the importance of youth empowerment and the role of the private sector in driving economic growth and job creation. He highlighted the need for collaboration between government, business, and civil society to create an enabling environment for young entrepreneurs to thrive.
Mashatile also spoke about the ANC’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for business development and investment. He mentioned the various initiatives and policies that the government has put in place to support small and medium enterprises, such as the Youth Employment Service (YES) and the Black Industrialists Programme.
The Treasurer-General also addressed the issue of corruption and its impact on the economy. He stressed the need for ethical leadership and accountability in both the public and private sectors. Mashatile urged young entrepreneurs to conduct their businesses with integrity and to be agents of change in their communities.
The event also featured a panel discussion with successful young entrepreneurs who shared their experiences and insights on how to overcome challenges and achieve success in business. The panelists encouraged the youth to be resilient, innovative, and to never give up on their dreams.
The Legacy Business Breakfast was not only a platform for discussing business and entrepreneurship, but it also served as a tribute to the late Ahmed Kathrada. Mashatile paid homage to the struggle icon and his unwavering commitment to the values of democracy, equality, and social justice. He urged the youth to follow in Kathrada’s footsteps and to use their skills and talents to make a positive impact in society.
The event was attended by a diverse audience, including young entrepreneurs, business leaders, government officials, and members of civil society. It provided a valuable opportunity for networking and collaboration, as well as for learning from the experiences of others.
In his closing remarks, Mashatile expressed his gratitude to the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation for organizing such a meaningful event. He commended the Foundation for its tireless efforts in promoting social justice and economic transformation in South Africa.
The Legacy Business Breakfast was a resounding success, leaving attendees inspired and motivated to make a difference in their communities. It was a testament to the power of collaboration and the potential of young people to drive change and contribute to the economic development of our country.
In conclusion, Paul Mashatile’s keynote address at the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation Legacy Business Breakfast was a call to action for all stakeholders to work together towards unlocking the potential of youth in business. It was a reminder that with determination, hard work, and ethical leadership, the youth can overcome any challenges and achieve success in the business world. Let us all heed this call and continue to build a better future for the generations to come.
