On 28 November 2025, the Enock Mathebula Foundation hosted its 2nd Annual Entrepreneurship Event at the Park Inn Hotel, Polokwane. The event brought together industry leaders, innovators, and aspiring entrepreneurs for a powerful day of inspiration, mentorship, and practical business engagement.
Designed as a dynamic platform to empower, educate, and connect entrepreneurs from across South Africa, the annual event continues to play a critical role in fostering innovation, knowledge sharing, and meaningful networks. Its core objective is to equip emerging business leaders with practical insights and tools that enable them to build sustainable and impactful enterprises.
The programme was expertly guided by Dr Bonginkosi Dladlama, who served as master of ceremonies, ensuring a seamless flow of dialogue and engagement throughout the day. The event was officially opened by Dr Enock Mathebula, Founder of the Enock Mathebula Foundation, who outlined the purpose of the gathering: to provide entrepreneurs with access to mentorship, strategic guidance, and opportunities that transform ideas into viable and scalable businesses.
The keynote address was delivered by the MEC of Limpopo Economic Development and Tourism, who shared valuable insights into the province’s economic vision, policy direction, and opportunities available for small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs). Complementing this, representatives from Standard Bank offered expert guidance on business financing and SMME support, empowering attendees with practical knowledge on accessing funding and financial resources critical for growth.
Adding a personal and relatable dimension to the programme, pharmacist-turned-entrepreneur Kgope Sello shared his entrepreneurial journey, offering inspiration on transitioning from a professional career into business ownership. His story underscored the importance of resilience, adaptability, and leveraging existing skills to build a successful enterprise.
The event featured an impressive lineup of distinguished speakers,
including:
·
Graham Kevin Soden,
Mining Engineer and Executive with over four decades of experience across
Southern Africa, who shared insights on leadership, strategic thinking, and
operational excellence.
·
Lerato Sekgobela,
Publisher and Editor of Discover Limpopo Magazine,
who spoke about innovation, inclusive leadership, and promoting tourism, media,
and investment opportunities in the province.
· Rali Mampeule, real estate and digital infrastructure entrepreneur and investor, who highlighted the importance of building businesses that create sustainable socio-economic impact.
·
Dr Maropene T.D.
Rapholo, Head of the Department of Geology and Mining at the
University of Limpopo, who emphasised sustainable resource management and the
value of collaboration between academia and industry.
· Prof Tholene Sodi, Clinical Psychologist and Professor of Psychology, who explored the intersection of mental health, resilience, and leadership, highlighting emotional intelligence as a key driver of entrepreneurial success.
The programme concluded with an engaging panel discussion, allowing attendees to interact directly with the speakers, ask critical questions, and gain actionable strategies for business growth, overcoming challenges, and identifying opportunities in a competitive economic environment.
The 2nd Annual Enock Mathebula Foundation Entrepreneurship Event reaffirmed
the Foundation’s commitment to mentorship, learning, and economic empowerment.
By bridging the gap between emerging entrepreneurs and seasoned industry
leaders, the Foundation continues to cultivate a space where knowledge,
experience, and inspiration converge—empowering South Africa’s next generation
of entrepreneurs to shape a resilient, innovative, and prosperous future.