South Africa’s entrepreneurial landscape continues to shine, thanks to individuals whose determination, innovation, and passion for business growth and community upliftment inspire industries and create lasting impact. At the forefront of this progress are the exceptional winners of Black Umbrellas 10th Annual National Enterprise Development Awards (NEDAs), who have demonstrated the transformative power of entrepreneurship.
Black Umbrellas is a Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation partner entity, and drives its enterprise development mission for an inclusive and empowered society.
Sinazo Ncindi: Revolutionising Housing with Noni Property Developments
Winner: Top Entrepreneur – Masakhe Programme
Location: Bloemfontein
Sinazo Ncindi, inspired by her grandfather’s entrepreneurial spirit, launched Noni Property Developments in 2022 with a clear mission: to provide sustainable housing solutions for South Africans. Her journey with the Black Umbrellas Masakhe Programme began in September 2023, equipping her with essential business skills like compliance with tax laws and strategic marketing.
Sinazo’s achievements include a remarkable 33.32% turnover growth, expanding her team, and becoming the youngest board member of the Multi-let Owners Association. Her commitment to innovation and community impact positions Noni Property Developments as a leader in real estate.
Johnson Bongani Vetbooi: A Trailblazer in Security Solutions with Bolwa Security Services
Winner: Entrepreneur of the Year Award and Top Entrepreneur – Asindize Programme
Location: Johannesburg
With 23 years of experience in the security sector, Johnson Bongani Vetbooi founded Bolwa Security Services, specialising in tailored security solutions. Enrolling in the Black Umbrellas programme in 2019, Johnson honed his business management skills, propelling his monthly revenue from R20,000 to R650,000 and expanding his team from three to 106 employees.
Black Umbrellas’ Asindize Programme fostered Johnson’s leadership and operational efficiency, driving Bolwa Security Services to national prominence. Johnson envisions scaling new heights with a strong foundation in financial management and strategic growth.
Quinty Rabophala: Cultivating Success at Kenokatha Farms
Winner: Top Entrepreneur – Siyakhula Programme and Woman-Owned Business
Location: Johannesburg
Farming is both a legacy and a passion for Quinty Rabophala, founder of Kenokatha Farms. Combining her agricultural expertise with innovative business strategies, she has transformed her small-scale operations into a thriving venture with multiple farms.
Despite market access challenges, Quinty’s participation in the Siyakhula Programme offered solutions through enhanced record-keeping, compliance, and business model refinement. She is now poised for further growth, exploring waste management alongside vegetable farming. Quinty’s resilience and forward-thinking approach ensure her continued success in agriculture.
Dr. Lydia Jaceni: Championing Wellness with Komani Health Shop
Winner: Youth-Owned Business Champion and Black Umbrellas Ambassador of the Year
Location: Queenstown, Eastern Cape
As a naturopath and therapeutic massage therapist, Dr. Lydia Jaceni founded Komani Health Shop in 2017 to promote holistic health. Specialising in natural remedies and therapies, Lydia aims to enhance physical and mental well-being across her community.
Her recognition as Black Umbrellas Ambassador of the Year underscores her advocacy for sustainable health solutions. Lydia’s unwavering dedication to empowering others through wellness and her continuous innovation mark her as a leader in natural health.
These entrepreneurs exemplify the transformative impact of the Black Umbrellas programme. Through resilience, strategic guidance, and a passion for community upliftment, they have not only built thriving businesses but have also created jobs and inspired others.
As South Africa moves forward, stories like those of Sinazo, Johnson, Quinty, and Lydia are a testament to the potential of entrepreneurship to help shape a future of inclusion and prosperity.