Putting power to transformation within the Energy sector

Friday, 7 September 2018 saw the official graduation ceremony of SMME beneficiaries off the bespoke Enterprise and Supplier Development programme, aptly named ‘Enegro’, meaning Energy Growth. This was a partnership between Avon & Dedisa Peaking Power and SAICA Enterprise Development (previously housed under The Hope Factory NPC). The purpose was to provide a customised incubation programme, aimed at developing a network of energy consultants to support the Energy sector in South Africa.

The aim of the project was to increase the number of Black consultants and professionals within this key sector in both KwaZulu Natal as well as the Eastern Cape, and in this regard, it was successful. The first of its kind, it highlights the commitment that Avon & Dedisa have towards transformation.

Says Tebogo More, CEO of Avon and Dedisa Peaking Power, “As companies, Avon and Dedisa have proven their dependability and reliability by contributing to the supply of stable and on demand energy to South Africa when required. The companies are proud to be a part of the Energy transition in the country and are committed to the transformation of the sector by participating beyond providing Reliable Electricity to South Africa. To this end, Avon and Dedisa, through its Enterprise and Supplier Development initiative, have committed to supporting the development of Black post graduate Engineering intellects into becoming entrepreneurs by encouraging them to apply their innovation and creativity in finding new energy solutions for the continent.”

Programme participant Mareka Mokwatlo, owner of Ahinasa Development Partners, says, “The mentoring programme assisted me in learning how to ‘package’ my skills set for a more focused and viable business model. I learnt the valuable lesson on how to, as a ‘solopreneur’, balance working on the business, as much as in the business.”

Another inspired SMME owner, Nomaxabiso Johnson of Lethu’Mtha Project Consulting, says, “Being on the programme has helped me grow as an entrepreneur. I have learnt important business concepts that have helped me to clearly define my business goals and objectives. The support, mentoring and guidance that I received from the SAICA Enterprise Development staff has been an important tool in growing my business and I will always be grateful for the opportunity I was given by being part of this programme. My company is now ready to offer its consulting services to the energy sector with confidence!”

The second intake of SMMEs will commence next month. Once again, SAICA Enterprise Development will work closely with chosen Masters and Doctorate Students on a 12-month mentorship programme, providing holistic business skills to establish and grow their consultancies. The activities of Enegro will be directed towards addressing B-BBEE compliance in terms of Enterprise and Supplier Development, as well as Preferential Procurement.

“We are delighted to have partnered with Avon and Dedisa Peaking Power to produce the first bespoke customised programme to boost transformation within the Energy sector. This sector plays a vital role in the South African economy and transforming its supply chain remains crucial. We welcome the impact it will have and hope it encourages other players to follow suit.” says Annie McWalter, CEO of SAICA Enterprise Development.