The City of Cape Town is calling on those aged between 18 and 30, who are interested in entrepreneurship, to apply to the Raymond Ackerman Academy of Entrepreneurial Development. Applications close on 30 May 2013.
As part of the City’s commitment to creating an Opportunity City in which each person is provided with the maximum opportunities to succeed, we are pleased to partner with the Raymond Ackerman Academy of Entrepreneurial Development. This is part of this administration’s efforts to foster economic development and entrepreneurship, particularly focused on the youth.
“Empowering young individuals and providing them with the skills to succeed remains key to the City. This particular programme is not only testament to that, but has resulted in real change to the lives of many young people. The effects of this programme are not only experienced by those who take part, but also the various people they will employ through the businesses that will be opened subsequent to this initiative,” says Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Development, Environment and Spatial Planning Councillor Garreth Bloor.
The six-month, full-time programme provides a unique opportunity to learn and improve life and business skills. A 2012 alumni survey of the academy found that approximately 40 businesses had been started as a result of the programme.
Sizwe Nzima, a 2012 graduate from the programme, was recently listed as one of the Forbes Magazine’s 30-under-30 Africa’s Best Young Entrepreneurs for his business Iyeza Express.
Sonia le Roux, the 25-year-old owner of printing and graphics company Kay-Sean’s Designs, says the programme made her realise that she was born for bigger things.
“This is exactly the attitude the City of Cape Town endeavours to instil in young Capetonians through the opportunities that we, and others, create,” says Councillor Bloor.
The programme not only gives young people a start, but also continued support and motivation to graduates who go on to become entrepreneurs.
“We as the City are excited to be part of this initiative and will continue to support projects that encourage entrepreneurial growth and development,” says Councillor Bloor.
Students are required to pay R1 950 for the course, which is valued at approximately R20 000 per student. The programme is subsidised by Raymond Ackerman. Students who are unable to meet the financial requirement can contact the academy for financial assistance.
For more information, visit www.ackermanacademy.co.za.
