Post by Johannesburg Business School (JBS)

Yesterday, the Johannesburg Business School (JBS), through its Centre for Entrepreneurship, hosted the first day of the three-day JBSCE × B-BBEE Commission Youth Month Symposium under the theme "Youth, Economic Justice and the Future of Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment." Bringing together business leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs and young professionals, the discussions explored the role of youth in advancing economic justice, transformation and inclusive growth in South Africa. Opening the dialogue, JBS Executive Dean Prof. Alistair Mokoena CMSA, Bcom, LLB, MBA, MDP, EDP, PhD, DBA. challenged attendees to imagine a future in which young people lead Africa's transformation through innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology-driven solutions. Representing the National Empowerment Fund, Mr Nhlahla Nyembe reminded participants that transformation becomes meaningful when it creates businesses, jobs and sustainable opportunities. He encouraged aspiring entrepreneurs to learn from failure, seek mentorship and remain committed to turning ideas into action, emphasising that ideas alone do not build businesses — execution does. Delivering the keynote address, B-BBEE Commissioner Mr Tshediso Matona, reflected on the ongoing pursuit of economic justice and inclusion, urging young people to become active participants in shaping South Africa's future. He encouraged the next generation to engage rather than withdraw, reminding attendees that progress depends on active citizens, ethical leadership, and young people willing to take responsibility for change. The keynote was followed by an engaging intergenerational dialogue moderated by Ms Boitumelo Kgobotlo, featuring Ms Ayanda Masina of the Black Business Council Youth Desk, Ms Aphiwe Tafeni of the Black Management Forum, and Commissioner Matona. The discussion explored entrepreneurship, access to markets and funding, economic inclusion, social justice and the importance of collaboration in overcoming barriers faced by young people. Leaving attendees with a powerful call to action, Commissioner Matona echoed the well-known African proverb: "If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together." He concluded by challenging participants to consider a simple but important question: "How do we move forward together towards our desired future?" The conversation continued today, with the symposium's final day being tomorrow, 26 June 2026, as participants explored practical pathways towards a more inclusive and empowered future. At JBS, these are the conversations that matter. By creating platforms for meaningful dialogue, critical thinking and collaboration, we continue to cultivate, challenge and equip the leaders of tomorrow to drive sustainable transformation and inclusive economic growth. Tetsoane Keshy Prof Adri Drotskie Lumkile Mnintshana Wendy Gertse #JBS #UJAllTheWay #YouthMonth #B-BBEE #EconomicJustice #Entrepreneurship #YouthEmpowerment #InclusiveGrowth #Leadership