With the official launch of the annual #YouthStartCT challenge done and dusted, it is now up to the entrants to bring their A-game to ensure top honours. Read more below:
The challenge was officially launched via a livestream event by Executive Mayor, Alderman Dan Plato and Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services, Councillor Zahid Badroodien last night.
In the next week, entrants will attend training sessions to help them prepare for their pitch presentations.
#YouthStartCT gives young people between the ages of 18 and 35 the opportunity to present business ideas that have long-term potential, but also stimulate job creation.
‘Young people are innovative and creative. These ideas only need the right guidance and support to grow and be effective. Innovation is how we create employment and the City of Cape Town supports these efforts to grow businesses and increase employment opportunities. The YouthStartChallenge is another way we are providing a platform and support for innovation, so great ideas can become great businesses,’ said Executive Mayor Dan Plato.
In exchange, the City provides training and development opportunities for qualifying start-ups.
The first elimination round is on 5 June, where the Top 50 will be announced. In the weeks thereafter, 50 will be whittled down to 25 and then the Top 10.
The winners will be announced on 30 June 2021.
Among the entries, 13 were from entrepreneurs in Khayelitsha, six from Mitchells Plain, five from Philippi and four from Langa.
Most of the contestants are in their 20s, and the gender split is 58% male and 42% female.
‘I’m really excited to see what our contestants have up their sleeves. It is always so encouraging to see young people step up with great ideas, wanting to make a positive contribution to society and uplift their communities in the process. What’s even more encouraging is that, no matter who walks away with the prizes at the end of the month, there is something to gain from this experience for all concerned,’ said Councillor Badroodien.
Source: City Of Cape Town