The Minister of Small Business Development, Ms Stella Tembisa Ndabeni, invites members of the media to attend the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) Portfolio Youth Day Commemoration and the launch of the Peo Pele Youth Fund, which will take place in QwaQwa, Free State, on Saturday, 27 June 2026.The Peo Pele Youth Fund is a revitalised youth entrepreneurship support programme aimed at expanding access to funding, business development support, and market opportunities for young entrepreneursThe event marks 50 years since the 1976 Youth Uprising, honouring the courage and sacrifices of young people who contributed to South Africa’s liberation.
The commemoration will also focus on the next frontier of freedom, economic inclusion, ownership, and entrepreneurship for young people.Hosted across various municipalities within the Thabo Mofutsanyana District Municipality, the programme combines commemoration with various interventions to advance youth entrepreneurship and economic participation.
The programme includes:A week-long Youth Enterprise Readiness Campaign, running from 22 June 2026, featuring practical skills development and entrepreneurship training across various sectors, including nail technology, wig making, baking and confectionery, artificial intelligence (AI), and roboticsInformal Micro Enterprise Development Programme (IMEDP) equipment handover on 26 June 2026, led by the Minister of Small Business Development A Symbolic Youth Enterprise Walk on 27 June 2026, reflecting on the journey from political freedom to economic empowerment.A Youth Imbizo, led by the Minister of Small Business Development together with other dignitaries on 27 June 2026.
A Market Village showcasing youth-owned enterprises, pop-up markets, and the Spaza Shop Support Fund outreach, running from 22 June 2026.Integrated mobile services-on-wheels providing access to government services, financial institutions, and entrepreneurship ecosystem partners.
The commemoration aims to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs by connecting young people with funding, business development support, markets, and opportunities for sustainable economic participation.
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