SAMBA 2024 was an initiative designed to develop and uplift businesses and communities in the informal sector, recognizing their significant contributions to the economic outcomes of our country. The Informal Economy Development Forum (IEDF) identified the need to focus on development and recognition in this vital sector.
The program was open to businesses from across South Africa, providing them with various training programs, mentorships, and market readiness support. Additionally, the importance of corporate social impact was emphasized, and these businesses excelled in giving back and empowering others.
Our Top 30 businesses had the opportunity to exhibit and network at SAITEX from June 11th to 13th. On June 14th, we proudly announced our category winners and the SAMBA 2024 Entrepreneur of the Year.
We are immensely grateful to our Platinum partner, W&R SETA, and the many others who have supported SAMBA 2024. Their continued support is crucial to our future endeavors.
SAMBA 2024 has created a meaningful impact and has undoubtedly changed the lives of many.
Announcing Our SAMBA 2024 Winner- Syndiah James (First Light Imports & Exports) – Gauteng
We are thrilled to announce and celebrate the outstanding achievements of Syndiah James, the winner of our SAMBA award. Syndiah, the inspiring force behind First Light Imports And Exports, has distinguished herself through exceptional dedication, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to both personal growth and the empowerment of others.
From the outset of the program, Syndiah demonstrated an unparalleled drive to excel. Her commitment to personal and professional development set a high standard, and her accomplishments are a testament to her relentless pursuit of excellence. However, what truly sets Syndiah apart is her selflessness and dedication to helping others succeed alongside her.
Syndiah consistently went above and beyond, not only meeting but exceeding the program’s rigorous expectations. She embraced every challenge, transforming obstacles into opportunities for growth. Her performance in all aspects of the program has been exemplary, reflecting her deep understanding, skill, and passion.
Moreover, Syndiah has been a beacon of support and empowerment for her peers. Whether it was offering a helping hand, sharing her insights, or providing encouragement, she played an integral role in fostering a collaborative and uplifting environment. Her leadership and mentorship inspired and motivated others, creating a ripple effect of positive impact.
Her contributions extend beyond her immediate achievements. Syndiah’s company, First Light Imports And Exports, is dedicated to manufacturing pads and addressing pad poverty, a crucial issue affecting many women. Through this initiative, she is not only providing essential products but also championing women’s empowerment. Her efforts have not only helped her fellow participants reach their goals but have also strengthened our community as a whole.
In recognition of her outstanding achievements, dedication to excellence, and unwavering support for others, we are proud to honor Syndiah James as our SAMBA winner. She exemplifies what it means to lead with integrity, compassion, and excellence. We look forward to seeing her continue to make a difference and inspire those around her.
Congratulations to our exceptional SAMBA winner, Syndiah James from First Light Imports and Exports! Your journey of excellence and empowerment is a true testament to the spirit of our program, and we are incredibly proud of all you have accomplished.
NikiNathi Developments – Gauteng
We are thrilled to announce the winner of this year’s Outstanding Corporate Social Impact Award: Petronella Goliath from NikiNathi Developments. Her exceptional dedication to uplifting the community has set a new standard for corporate responsibility and compassion.
Throughout the year, Petronella has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to our Corporate Social Impact (CSI) campaigns. She not only raised significant funds to support these initiatives but also invested her time and energy in empowering young women. By mentoring them and steering them away from negative societal influences, she has inspired them to harness their skills and talents to build brighter futures.
Petronella’s impact extends beyond individual mentorship. In a heartwarming display of solidarity, she supported a fellow entrepreneur in the SAMBA program who manufactures sanitary pads. By purchasing these pads and integrating them into her own organization’s programs, she addressed a crucial need in the community while simultaneously supporting another local business. This collaborative approach has amplified the positive impact of her efforts, creating a ripple effect of change.
Her heart of gold and deep compassion for young women are evident in all that she does. Petronella’s unwavering dedication to uplifting others and fostering community support truly embodies the spirit of Corporate Social Impact.
We are honoured to celebrate Petronella Goliath’s incredible contributions. Her tireless efforts and heartfelt compassion have made a lasting difference in the lives of many. Congratulations, Petronella! Your remarkable work inspires us all and sets a shining example of what can be achieved when business and community come together.
Eden Empire – Mpumalanga
We are thrilled to announce that Mbali Mbuyisa of Eden Empire has been honored with the prestigious Rising Star (Youth Entrepreneur) Award. This award recognizes her exceptional talent, vision, and unwavering determination in building a thriving business.
From the very beginning, Mbali has demonstrated an extraordinary ability to seize opportunities and turn them into successful ventures. She has taken everything she learned from the SAMBA program and seamlessly integrated it into her business practices, making phenomenal strides in the process. Her relentless pursuit of excellence has set her apart, showcasing her capability to excel in every category of the program.
As a young entrepreneur and a woman in a competitive field, Mbali has faced and bravely overcome numerous challenges. Her resilience and innovative spirit have not only enabled her to stand out amongst her peers but have also made her a beacon of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs. Her journey is a testament to what can be achieved through hard work, dedication, and a never-give-up attitude.
Her success with Eden Empire is a shining example of the incredible potential within our youth. Her story inspires all of us and reminds us of the boundless possibilities that lie ahead when passion meets perseverance. We are immensely proud of her achievements, and it is with great honor that we recognize her remarkable contributions and the bright future she is shaping for herself and others.
Congratulations once again to Mbali Mbuyisa of Eden Empire on receiving the Rising Star (Youth Entrepreneur) Award! We look forward to witnessing her continued success and the impact she will undoubtedly make in the entrepreneurial world.
G. Sisozi Pty LTD – Gauteng
We are thrilled to announce that Mrs. Lulami P. Mali has been honoured with the Informal Economy Legacy Award. This prestigious accolade recognizes her outstanding contributions to the Informal Trader sector over the past 29 years.
Mrs. Mali has dedicated her life to her community and the development of the informal economy. Her tireless efforts to support fellow entrepreneurs, share her valuable skills, and create empowering hubs for others have set her apart as a true leader. Her passion for fostering collaboration and growth within her community is both inspiring and impactful.
Known for her unwavering commitment and heartfelt compassion, Mrs. Mali is a beacon of hope and a pillar of strength. She embodies the spirit of the informal economy through her selflessness and dedication to building a brighter future for all.
We are incredibly proud to celebrate Mrs. Lulami P. Mali’s achievements and look forward to witnessing the continued positive influence she will undoubtedly have on her community and beyond. Congratulations, Mrs. Mali!
Lunama Trading – Northern Cape
We are thrilled to announce that the recipient of this year’s Award for Excellence in Marketing is Lucretia Mayekiso of Lunama Trading.
Lucretia has demonstrated exceptional marketing prowess and creativity, which have significantly contributed to the growth and success of Lunama Trading. Her strategic vision and innovative campaigns have not only driven the company’s marketing efforts but have also greatly enhanced its brand image.
One of Lucretia’s standout achievements was her orchestration of the SAMBA TikTok dance challenge. Her creativity and flair made this campaign an effortless success, capturing the attention of a wide audience and creating a viral sensation. This challenge not only showcased her exceptional marketing talents but also took the company’s engagement to new heights.
Lucretia’s ability to leverage modern marketing techniques, including social media and digital campaigns, has been instrumental in Lunama Trading’s success. Her dedication, innovation, and outstanding marketing skills make her a deserving recipient of this prestigious award.
We are incredibly proud to honour Lucretia Mayekiso and celebrate her remarkable contributions to the field of marketing. Congratulations, Lucretia, on this well-deserved recognition!
