Local Business Network - Community Partnership
The Local Business Network represents the heart of our community’s commitment to education. Since 2021, this collective of local entrepreneurs has been instrumental in connecting our students with real-world learning opportunities.
Network Members
Our partnership includes over 25 local businesses across various sectors:
Retail and Services
- Soweto Fresh Market
- Community Hardware Store
- Local Pharmacy Network
- Transportation Services
- Beauty and Wellness Centers
Professional Services
- Accounting Firms
- Legal Aid Clinics
- Healthcare Providers
- Construction Companies
- IT Support Services
Food and Hospitality
- Local Restaurants
- Catering Services
- Bakeries and Cafes
- Event Planning Services
Partnership Contributions
Financial Support
- Monthly sponsorship fund of R15,000
- Emergency assistance for student needs
- Equipment and supplies donations
- Event funding and support
Career Development Programs
- Business Mentorship: Monthly visits from entrepreneurs
- Career Days: Quarterly career exploration events
- Job Shadowing: Grade 6-7 students visit local businesses
- Entrepreneurship Workshops: Teaching business basics
Work Experience Opportunities
- Summer holiday work experience programs
- After-school job opportunities for older students
- Parent employment opportunities
- Skills development workshops
Community Events
- Annual School Business Fair
- Community Clean-up Days
- Cultural Celebration Events
- Sports Day Sponsorships
Student Impact Programs
Young Entrepreneurs Club
- Weekly business skills workshops
- Mini-market days at school
- Business plan competitions
- Seed funding for student projects
Life Skills Development
- Financial literacy workshops
- Communication skills training
- Leadership development programs
- Community service projects
Career Exploration
- Industry exposure visits
- Professional guest speakers
- Skills assessment programs
- Higher education guidance
Community Benefits
Economic Development
- Created 18 new local jobs
- Supported 5 new business startups
- Increased local spending by 25%
- Enhanced business-school partnerships
Social Impact
- Strengthened community bonds
- Improved school-business relationships
- Enhanced local pride and ownership
- Increased civic participation
Success Stories
Student Achievements
- 12 students started small businesses
- 8 students received business scholarships
- 15 students gained work experience
- 20+ students developed entrepreneurial skills
Community Wins
- 3 new businesses opened near the school
- Parent employment rate increased by 30%
- Community events attendance doubled
- Local business revenue increased by 20%
Annual Initiatives
School Business Fair
- Student-run market stalls
- Local business exhibitions
- Career guidance sessions
- Networking opportunities
Scholarship Program
- Merit-based academic scholarships
- Business skills development awards
- Leadership recognition prizes
- Community service acknowledgments
Skills Development Workshops
- Digital marketing basics
- Customer service excellence
- Financial management
- Business communication
Future Plans
2024 Objectives
- Expand network to 40 businesses
- Launch youth business incubator
- Create apprenticeship programs
- Develop online learning platform
Long-term Vision
- Establish permanent business education center
- Create student-run enterprises
- Develop community marketplace
- Build sustainable economic ecosystem
How to Get Involved
For Businesses
- Join our monthly network meetings
- Sponsor specific school programs
- Offer mentorship opportunities
- Provide work experience placements
For Students
- Participate in entrepreneurship club
- Attend career development workshops
- Apply for work experience programs
- Join business skills competitions
Contact Information
Network Coordinator: Mrs. Nomsa Mthembu
Email: education@sowetobusiness.co.za
Phone: +27 11 987-6543
Meeting Location: Community Center, Soweto
Meeting Time: First Friday of every month, 6:00 PM
“When local businesses invest in education, we’re not just supporting a school – we’re building the foundation for our community’s future prosperity. Every child we help today becomes a leader, entrepreneur, or professional who will strengthen our community tomorrow.” - Local Business Network Mission