A massive need was identified to establish a powerful group of South African businesswomen who not only would benefit from a networking group, but would also be willing to offer mentorship to our next generation of businesswomen. The idea to create the Women4Women Network was born.

 

From this conception, the Network has quickly blossomed into some amazing ideas, initiatives and needs.

 

Nelson Mandela wisely said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”  Never were more true words spoken.

 

With the unemployment rate hovering around 25%, South Africans are in the midst of a job crisis, and it is only getting worse.  Although the administrative principle is dedicated to creating new jobs, there is only so much that can be done from a government perspective.  So what can the average person do to alleviate this problem?  The only way to create jobs is through entrepreneurism.  Instead of people looking for jobs, they will be creating their own jobs in turn, be able to provide work for others. Small business is going to be the saving grace of our economy, but we need to empower and educate the youth to think this way.  It is a change in mindset.  Gone are the days when parents thought their children must study to get a degree, then find a steady job where they will stay and progress for the rest of their lives.  That this would allow them to retire and live happily ever after.

 

The Millionaire2Billionaire conference offered some insight into this matter.  James Caan – better known as a “Dragon” from the UK’s popular BBC TV series - Dragon’s Den, explained how the UK government is working to combat their unemployment by promoting entrepreneurism and small to medium business in the UK.  The aim is to support young people with funding and mentoring, enabling them to start up new businesses in the UK.  James and his board of entrepreneurial ambassador’s head up the government scheme, providing loans of around £2,500 to the 18 - 30 year olds to start their own businesses.  Originally, the goal of Start-Up Loans was to help 1 000 businesses obtain government and private sector investments to fund their new ventures. However, as of 2014, James Caan has helped provide funding and mentorship to more than 18,000 business start-ups.  Just imagine what could be achieved if we could do this in South Africa? 

 

Rather than sitting around as observers, the Women4Women Network has been established to promote entrepreneurism in South Africa, and to take it a step further - to the Women of South Africa.