Mzwandile Dhlamini
Youth in Business & Entrepreneurship
Nominee's Province:
Mpumalanga
Age:
32
Project Name/Description:
Founder – Zikode Multi Enterprise
Mzwandile Dhlamini describes himself as a young individual driven by a fervent dedication to advancing youth development through innovation. “I firmly believe in staying abreast of the latest trends and adapting to changes as they occur. The ever-evolving landscape of the media industry serves as constant inspiration for me to strive for excellence in equipping and nurturing the potential of young people,” he says. Some of Dhlamini’s greatest achievements include his participation in the Activate! Programme in 2020. “I've had the privilege of collaborating with prominent institutions such as loveLife, the Sun of Joy Foundation, SRHR Programme, the YALI Network, My Brother’s Keeper and VOC FM (in Ermelo),” he mentions. Zikode Multi-Enterprise is dedicated to harnessing the potential of the Fourth Industrial Revolution to effect positive change in the community. Initiatives such as Zikode Bulletin, a digital newspaper funded by the Media Development and Diversity Agency, and Zikode Media TV serve as platforms for fostering youth development. Reflecting on the role of youth-led businesses in driving economic growth and innovation as South Africa celebrates 30 years of democracy, Dhlamini states: “Youth-led businesses have been instrumental in creating job opportunities, especially in sectors such as technology, agriculture, and creative industries.” “Entrepreneurship empowers young people by providing them with the opportunity to take control of their destinies. By running their own businesses, young entrepreneurs gain valuable skills, experiences, and networks that empower them to pursue their goals and contribute meaningfully to the economy,” he adds.
