Entrepreneurs from the Mamelodi Business Hub (MBH) met with international students from Zeppellin University in Germany during an inspiring Transcultural Student Research Group (TSRG) trip organised by the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) South Africa, hosted at the University of Pretoria.

The week-long trip brought together international students and experts for an enriching experience centred on sustainability and transcultural collaboration in the Global North and South. There was a strong focus on fostering international cooperation – and solutions – on pressing global issues.

The Transcultural Student Research Group of the Transcultural Caravan Network at Zeppelin University in Friedrichshafen, Germany, is part of the Baden-Württemberg-STIPENDIUM for University Students –BWS plus, a program of the Baden-Württemberg Stiftung. It was initiated in 2017 by the Leadership Excellence Institute Zeppelin (LEIZ) at Zeppelin University, which aims to provide students with a transcultural learning experience.

The participants arrived at Future Africa, University of Pretoria, on 21 July 2024, marking the start of the engaging week. They were treated to a welcome dinner before a week-long exploration into sustainability with students and entrepreneurs from Pretoria's Mamelodi Campus hub.  

"Engaging with a township entrepreneurship hub offers a unique opportunity for transcultural research groups to witness firsthand the innovative spirit and resilience that drive local economies. It’s a vivid reminder that entrepreneurship transcends borders and cultures, revealing shared human ingenuity in the face of diverse challenges,” says Ms. Priscilla Morley, the Network Manager for  Sustainable Development Solutions Network South Africa based at UP’s Albert Luthuli Leadership Institute in the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences.

This year’s theme, “Transcultural Perspectives on Sustainable Future(s),” encouraged participants to delve into topics ranging from business sustainability and global stakeholder management to eco-cultural restoration and technological innovations for a sustainable future.

Participants were divided into research groups based on their interests, working collaboratively on specific research questions. Their efforts will culminate in a joint publication as part of the "Transcultural Management Series" by Metropolis Publisher, highlighting their findings and contributions to the academic community.

Proceedings began with opening remarks from Vice Chancellor Prof. Themba Mosia, who expressed enthusiasm and passion for youth engagement and urged young students to develop innovative solutions to address world challenges. Prominent speakers participated in a panel discussion, including Professor Flavia Senkubuge, who emphasised the importance of contextual relevance in education and reminded students that gaining knowledge should translate to real-world applications. Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Loretta Feris encouraged students to see themselves as change agents and the importance of positively impacting the world.

The week-long engagements saw delegates undertake a tour of Constitution Hill. This historic fort was converted into a notorious prison, and several political leaders, including Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi, spent time here. Delegates also enjoyed a cultural culinary experience at Siga Restaurant in Alexandra.

Discussions followed on the importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) and its ongoing relevance in today's corporate and social environments. Onyi Nwaneri, Afrika Tikkun’s Group CEO,addressed the need for critical thinking skills, emphasising their role in developing solutions and effective leadership.

Students tasted South Africa's rich cultural heritage through art and historical exhibitions at the Javett Art Centre. They also visited the Nelson Mandela Foundation (NMF) and the Apartheid Museum, gaining profound insights into South Africa’s historical and cultural journey, concluding with various cuisines.

When the focus shifted to entrepreneurship with a visit to the Mamelodi Business Hub, students interacted with young innovators from townships, witnessing dedicated individuals' achievements firsthand. The hub showcases the entrepreneurial spirit and resilience within South African communities, highlighting successful businesses started by young people from underprivileged backgrounds.

“As one of the organisers of this transformative South African research trip, I am deeply honoured to have facilitated such an impactful experience for our students. This trip fostered profound intercultural engagements and provided invaluable insights into the contrast of the Global North and South,” says Kamagano Sethono, the Assistant Network Manager of Sustainable Development Solutions Network South Africa.

By immersing themselves in South Africa's rich cultural and historical contexts, Sethono says the students gained a deeper understanding of the local challenges and advancements, significantly enriching their research.

Onthatile Msweli, a UP BCom Hons Economics student with the Transcultural Student Research Group, says the Mamelodi Business Hub is a beacon of support and hope for emerging entrepreneurs and local businesses in the Mamelodi community and beyond. Msweli says the TSRG Student Trip exemplifies the power of transcultural dialogue and cooperation in shaping a sustainable and inclusive future. The event underscored the importance of global collaboration in addressing the complex challenges of our time, leaving a lasting impact on all who participated.

“The Hub stands as a practical example of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals of Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8) and Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure (SDG 9). Aspiring entrepreneurs are provided with free services, resources, and inspirational content that empowers them to turn their business dreams into reality.

“During our visit, we had the opportunity to meet the managers of the Hub, Samantha Rabie and Carto Abrams-Swarts, dedicated business consultants; Because of Samantha and Carto’s commitment, several entrepreneurs  have benefited from the Hub's support. I was particularly inspired by the youth of these entrepreneurs and the immense potential for job creation their businesses held. In a country grappling with one of the world’s highest unemployment rates, hearing these young entrepreneurs passionately discuss their small businesses ignited a spark of hope for South Africa's future.”

The MBH boasts an impressive database of 400 entrepreneurs, each receiving tailored support from skilled business consultants.

One success story that stood out was Koketso, a talented fashion designer specialising in denim wear, who has been provided with an on-campus office space for his production needs. The Hub’s impact extends beyond its immediate community, having collaborated with major corporations such as ABSA, PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PwC), and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in initiatives supporting small businesses.

This partnership between academia, local entrepreneurs, and established corporations creates a powerful ecosystem for nurturing business growth and innovation. The Hub supports a remarkable diversity of businesses, ranging from fragrances and candles to cutting-edge motion design and animation.

“The Mamelodi Business Hub stands as a testament to the power of education, support, and community in fostering economic growth and individual empowerment,” adds Msweli.

Teboho Ntisa, the founder of Teboho & Co, describes the session as informative and engaging. “It broadened my perspective on how business is conducted and how matters around us impact our business. It also showed me how similar South Africa is to other countries like Germany in terms of doing business. Hearing other entrepreneurs and prospective entrepreneurs share their stories gave me hope that it is doable despite the hardships we face.”

Samkelo Lokotwayo, the founder and chief executive officer of the Inkanyezi Vision Group, says he was thrilled to discuss his business journey with European students at the Hub.

“Entrepreneurship is a journey filled with many lessons and tests which fuel the passion to shift from dreams to realisation. I believe the European students had a chance to explore the possibilities of working with people passionate about the growth of the business culture. Mamelodi Business Hub is a true gateway to learning the importance of public engagement and the necessity of gathering knowledge within the industries we have in South Africa and internationally,” says Lokotwayo.