Durban, South Africa – JCI Durban proudly announces the successful conclusion of the first-ever Creative Young Entrepreneur (CYE) Pitch Competition, an event dedicated to nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship among local youth. This vibrant celebration of creativity and entrepreneurial spirit brought together young innovators, industry experts, and strategic partners, all united by a commitment to sustainable economic opportunity.
Three standout entrepreneurs emerged victorious:
• 1st Place: BioAge – An innovative biotechnology company focused on accelerating natural plant growth processes.
• 2nd Place: Ugu Laboratories – Recognized for advancing local research with accurate and efficient testing to improve patient health.
• 3rd Place: AgriValue – Applauded for enhancing food security and empowering rural farmers through sustainable agricultural technology.
The CYE Pitch Competition was made possible through partnerships with Innovate Durban, Dark Taste, Wola Africa, Asante Tech Solutions, NYDA, Moses Kotane Research Institute, GoDigitalSA Foundation, and the Global Shapers Durban Hub. These partners shared JCI Durban’s vision of supporting young entrepreneurs, offering mentorship and opportunities to connect with industry leaders.
An inspiring lineup of speakers from KZN EDTEA, Liberty, and CareerKits also contributed invaluable insights on resilience, growth, and navigating the evolving business landscape. Their presentations left attendees motivated and equipped to seize new opportunities, underscoring the role of youth development in advancing economic progress.
More than just a competition, the CYE Pitch Competition was a transformative experience. Through insightful workshops and impactful networking sessions, young entrepreneurs left with renewed energy and valuable connections to shape their future endeavors.
JCI Durban President Phumelele Mbobo shared, “With ongoing support from our partners, we are confident that the entrepreneurial spirit fostered at this event will inspire many more to step forward with bold ideas that redefine South Africa’s economic landscape. As Durban gears up to host the JCI Africa & Middle East Conference in May 2025, we are especially excited for our young entrepreneurs to showcase their talents on a global stage.”
About JCI Durban
JCI Durban is part of the Junior Chamber International, a global network of active citizens working to drive positive change. Through events like the CYE Pitch Competition, JCI Durban is dedicated to empowering young South Africans by providing platforms for learning, leadership, and business innovation.
