Nompumelelo’s mission is to revive and spur SSME sector
Chamber appoints new Business Development Advisor
ONLY two weeks on the job as the Zululand Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (ZCCI) Business Development Advisor, Nompumelelo Ndlela already has a strong set of goals to spur on the local SMME sector.
The born-and-bred Zululander recently returned to Richards Bay after six years in Johannesburg where she acted as Chief Operations Manager for economic development and consulting firm Adamopix, and founded her business Success Way, which focuses on getting emerging entrepreneurs on their feet.
At the top of her to do list is to offer direct mentorship to small business owners using her vast experience from working with agencies such as SEDA (Small Enterprise Development Agency), NYDA (National Youth Development Agency) and the Gauteng Enterprise Propeller.
‘I’ve noticed most entrepreneurs’ challenges are common, mostly access to finance and knowledge,’ said Ndlela.
‘I want to bring to the chamber a more aggressive way of fast-tracking business development in this area by personally imparting day-to-day knowledge and how to obtain financial assistance to successfully run an enterprise.
‘We also have to attract more struggling entrepreneurs through social media, including startups in townships and rural areas.
‘I intend to set aside a day every week to go to, for instance, eSikhaleni and eNseleni and offer consultation to those who cannot always make the trip to Richards Bay or Empangeni.
‘Another priority is to boost businesses in the hospitality sector through the ZCCI’s new Tourism Forum.
‘I’m looking forward to meeting the different players in the industry and I will be sending out a list of monthly tourism-related events via email and social media.
‘Last, but not least, I want to assist with ensuring the chamber and city’s plans are aligned – this will be vital for SMMEs to thrive.’
Her list of qualifications include a National Certificate in Commerce & Industry, a National Diploma in Human Resources and a Bachelor’s Degree in Management at the Durban University of Technology, as well as a Master’s Degree in Business Administration at Mancosa (Management College of Southern Africa) and a post-graduate certificate in New Venture Creation & Enterprise Development at Wits University.
‘Those afraid of failure never accomplish success,’ said Ndlela.
‘We need to inspire more youth in this area to become entrepreneurs.
‘I feel it should be a subject in the national curriculum to equip them with the knowledge to become wealth creators, and not just consumers.
‘I am also extremely passionate about giving back to our communities and uplifting those in need.’
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