News Bulletin of 5 June 2025, 4pm

The Metropolitan Collective Shapers (MCS) programme is helping young entrepreneurs in Sandton by providing mental, emotional, and financial support—not just capital.
Phumla Mavundla, Metropolitan’s marketing head, says the programme builds resilience to help entrepreneurs handle both business and personal challenges.
With 60% of South African youth needing mental health support, MCS integrates coaching and peer learning alongside financial literacy and strategic training.
Dr Tshepiso Matentjie, a psychologist on the programme, notes that pressure in Sandton’s fast-paced business scene can lead to burnout without proper support.
Mavundla adds that MCS offers ongoing, sector-specific training and networking, aiming to turn passion into sustainable businesses.

The National Empowerment Fund is setting its sights on youth and women-led businesses under the leadership of new CEO, Mzi Dayimani.
Dayimani says the best way to silence critics of BEE is through job creation and economic growth.
He’s backing a new R100 billion Transformation Fund to scale up support for black entrepreneurs over the next five years.
The NEF also aims to boost manufacturing, tourism and renewable energy while growing its reach in townships and rural areas.
Dayimani says transformation must be used as a tool for development — and not be weighed down by perceptions of corruption.

WarmFees recently held its first Winter Knights blanket drive in the West Rand, gathering 667 blankets for the homeless and animal shelters.
The free event at Berlin Bear featured live music from Martin Bester, with surprise performances by Prime Circle and The Parlotones, bringing the community together for a heartfelt cause.
Organised by Round Table North Ridge 117 with Berlin Bear and supported by Jacaranda FM, the drive received strong community support.
Wynand Warren, chairperson of Round Table 117, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming response and confirmed more blanket drives are planned.