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IZWI June 2001
Izwi - Cato Manor Community Newspaper
Vol.44
June 2001
Sponsored by the
European Union
Sponsored by the European Union
Published by the Cato Manor
Development Association
Cato Manor Development Association
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Izwi - Cato Manor Community Newspaper


The newly crowned Durban Youth Mayor, Donovan Govender (right), and his deputy Sihle Ngubane.

Leading from the front is one of the many ingredients that make a good leader. This was evident when Donovan Govender of Bonela was chosen as the Durban Youth Mayor for the year 2001.

Every year about 40 schools participate in the programme which is organised by the Durban Metro Council. Each school sent two candidates from its student council. This exercise provides youth with an opportunity to see how the council functions. Real programmes are initiated by the youth council which change the lives of the youth throughout the Durban region.
Donovan was representing Durban High School where he is already showing his prowess as a leader. During his tenure of office Cato Manor youths can look forward to programmes that are geared towards their education.
“We hope to implement educational programmes on social issues. HIV\AIDS is devastating our society. The youth has an important role to play in educating others. Education is the key to empowerment. We are working in tandem with the councillors to have these programmes implemented,” said Donovan.

Finance for young entrepreneurs

Are you aged between 18 and 34 and aspire to run your own business. It is time you stopped searching because Pioneers of the Future is committed to assist you in realising your dream.
Pioneers of the Future is a Durban-based organisation that helps young people to start their own businesses. It is backed by the Department of Economic Development and Tourism and provides business start-up funding to the youth of KwaZulu-Natal because government recognises that SMMEs are one of many viable options for job creation.
According to research, only 10% of school leavers find jobs in the formal sector, while 70% of the economically active population are youths.
To be in line for financial assistance applicants need to hold a valid South African identity document and be able to attend workshops on how to operate a successful business and how to draw up a viable business plan. They must also be unemployed.
If the applicants meet the criteria and complete the workshops, they are in line to receive a loan to the tune of R3 000 to start their own business. The loan is repayable on agreed terms.
During the launch of this project, Pioneers of the Future chairman, Phumlani Phewa said: “Youth must be encouraged to enter into the business world. It is a sure means of providing jobs, will promote economic growth and help fight crime and poverty. If we can get youth involved then we will have helped this province immensely.” Pioneers of the Future are currently running a programme called The Entrepreneurship Skills Training for Self Reliance which is aimed at empowering the youth and enabling them to take informed business decisions.
To receive assistance, visit the Pioneers of the Future offices at Room 104, 369 JHI Building, Smith Street, or phone
307 7882.
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