A spirit of celebration and achievement recently filled the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Vanderbijlpark Campus as community entrepreneurs gathered to receive their certificates for completing the Student Training for Entrepreneurial Promotion (STEP) programme.
The training sessions, offered through a partnership between the NWU and the Vaal United Business Forum (VUBF), equipped participants with practical business skills during sessions.
The event was coordinated by the bhive Enterprise Development Centre (EDC), the hub for entrepreneurship and enterprise development at the university.
The ceremony brought together participants, partners and supporters to honour the dedication and hard work demonstrated throughout the programme.
Although the training concluded at the end of 2025, the official certificate ceremony was intentionally hosted this year to ensure that participants received the recognition they deserved. The atmosphere was celebratory and inspiring, reflecting the resilience and ambition of local entrepreneurs who continue to drive economic activity in the Vaal region.
A highlight of the ceremony was the presence of Elizabeth Panya, a remarkable 72-year-old entrepreneur who completed the STEP programme. Despite her age, she continues to successfully operate multiple businesses, including catering services, a mobile bar and a florist enterprise. Her story moved many in attendance and served as a powerful reminder that entrepreneurship has no age limit.
Sharing her reflections she said: “Age is not a limitation; it is an advantage. I have learned that, as long as you are breathing, you can still build, still grow and still dream. The STEP programme reminded me that learning never stops, and neither should we.”
Her words were met with warm applause and captured the true spirit of the event – resilience, lifelong learning and courage.
Martin Manmohan, project manager of the Entrepreneurship Ecosystem at the NWU, emphasised the importance of collaboration in building sustainable businesses. “Entrepreneurship does not thrive in isolation. It flourishes in an ecosystem where institutions, business forums and communities work together to create opportunities, provide mentorship and unlock potential. The STEP programme is a practical example of how partnerships can transform lives and strengthen local economies,” he said.
Dr Johann Landsberg, manager of the bhive EDC, highlighted the broader impact of the initiative. “At the bhive EDC, our mission is to empower entrepreneurs with relevant skills, practical tools and ongoing support. When community members succeed in business, the entire community benefits. These certificates represent more than completion of a course; they represent growth, resilience and a commitment to building a sustainable future,” he noted.
He added that through initiatives like this, the university continues to demonstrate its commitment to community engagement, economic development and the empowerment of local entrepreneurs in the Vaal region.
From left are Martin Manmohan, project manager of the NWU Entrepreneurship Ecosystem, Bernise Richardson, event organiser, Elizabeth Panya, entrepreneur, and Dr Johann Landsberg, manager of the bhive EDC.
