22-04-2025
Youth empowered through business masterclass
Aspiring entrepreneurs from the Vanderbijlpark Campus of the North-West University (NWU), alongside members of the local community, recently gathered for an enlightening masterclass led by successful entrepreneur and author Willem Gous.
The event focused on equipping participants with the knowledge, tools, and mindset required to successfully launch and manage sideline businesses.
Gous, the author of the best-selling Side Hustle Success, shared invaluable insights into the world of entrepreneurship, encouraging attendees to think beyond traditional start-up models. His approach emphasised the importance of creating self-sustaining micro-businesses that do not rely on external funding. This perspective resonated deeply with the diverse group of attendees, who gained practical strategies and innovative approaches to turning their ideas into income-generating ventures.
During the masterclass, Gous addressed the common misconception that starting a business requires significant capital investment. 'Starting a business is not about having a lot of money first. You do not need the money to start a business,' he emphasised, challenging participants to reconsider their approach to entrepreneurship. His insights sought to empower individuals to start small and scale their ideas without being hindered by financial constraints.
The event also provided attendees with a unique opportunity to learn about the key principles of running a side business, with a focus on managing time effectively, understanding market needs, and leveraging available resources. Gous' practical tips and straightforward strategies allowed participants to envision a clear pathway from idea to execution, even for those with little to no prior business experience.
The masterclass left a lasting impact on its participants. Many attendees expressed how the session had shifted their perspective on entrepreneurship, offering them new ways to approach their current or future business ventures. One participant shared that they were able to implement Willem's strategies to manage their existing business more effectively.
The first 100 attendees were given complimentary copies of Side Hustle Success, providing them with the opportunity to delve deeper into Gous' proven methods for building and managing a side business. The free book served as a valuable resource for continued learning, reinforcing the lessons shared during the masterclass and helping participants take practical steps toward realising their entrepreneurial goals.
The event highlighted the ongoing support available through the NWU's Bhive Enterprise Development Centre (EDC), which plays a crucial role in helping entrepreneurs at various stages of their business journey. The Bhive EDC provides access to resources, mentorship and networking opportunities, further empowering individuals to turn their ideas into successful businesses. Interested entrepreneurs are encouraged to visit the bhive EDC website for more information on registration and available services.
Dr Johann Landsberg, senior lecturer at the School of Management Sciences, praised the success of the masterclass. He said that this masterclass exemplifies the NWU's commitment to fostering an entrepreneurial spirit in the local community.
'Through initiatives like this, the university is not only helping individuals to succeed but also contributing to the broader economic development and innovation of the region,' he said, adding that the event was a fantastic opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs to gain practical, real-world insights into launching their businesses.
'Willem Gous's approach to entrepreneurship, emphasising low-cost start-up strategies and self-sustaining models, resonates with the needs of our community. It is clear that the masterclass not only inspired participants but also equipped them with the tools to turn their ideas into successful ventures.'
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