As part of the Social Employment Fund (SEF), the Economic Development Partnership convenes the Social Employment Network (SEN), a community of practice that connects Strategic Implementing Partners (SIPs) and supports collaborative learning. To extend this learning beyond the network, the SEN hosts a series of webinars designed to showcase the depth of expertise within SIPs and highlight the critical role civil society plays in shaping public employment. These sessions not only amplify SIP voices but also help reframe how Public Employment Programmes (PEPs) are understood, demonstrating that they are not just about job creation, but also about building community assets, strengthening local ecosystems, and drawing on the innovation and lived experience of civil society organisations.
The first SEN webinar explored the role of social enterprises in driving socio-economic development. It introduced what social enterprises are, why they matter for CSOs and NGOs working in the SEF and similar initiatives, and how to establish one. The session highlighted how social enterprises can sustain and grow community services, respond to values-driven consumer demand, create opportunities in distressed areas, and act as change agents—helping shift local economies toward sustainability and shared benefit.
Ayanda Machi’s Journey of Growth, Empowerment, and Gratitude
Ayanda Machi, from Mthwalume, Umzumbe Municipality, expresses his heartfelt gratitude for the incredible opportunity to participate in the Social Employment Fund (SEF) Programme under the mentorship of Mr. Msawenkosi Ndelu. Over the past 18 months, Ayanda has...
Ngwamba’s Charcoal Revolution: Turning Agricultural Waste into Sustainable Energy
What began as a ‘in the mean-time’ side job in Given Ngwamba’s garage in Mpumalanga, has evolved into a thriving business making waves in the eco-friendly charcoal industry across the country. For some years Given faced the harsh reality of unemployment despite...
Shaunita Pace: Rebuilding hope and transforming Betrams, Johannesburg
Background In the heart of Bertrams, Johannesburg, Shaunita Pace faced a life fraught with challenges. At the age of 28, Shaunita struggled with joblessness, a pervasive issue affecting an estimated 8.4 million South Africans. Personal crises compounded the financial...
Transforming Cosmo City: Maria Ndaba’s Journey from Cleaner to Business Owner & Community Leader
Cosmo City in Gauteng faces significant socio-economic challenges typical of rapidly growing urban areas. High unemployment rates prevail due to limited job opportunities locally and in nearby urban centres, leading to widespread financial insecurity and poverty among...
Innovative Strategic Partnerships with Nal’ibali and weFEEDsa on the 27th May 2024 from 10–11:30AM
Innovative Strategic Partnerships Unpacking strategies on how to leverage private sector partnerships to strengthen and grow your organisation. Webinar with Nal’Ibali and weFEEDsa on 27th May 2024 from 10 – 11:30 AM.
Aquaponics: Could this be a solution for enhancing employment opportunities and addressing nutrition in marginalised communities? With Janet Lee Ogilvie and Kararegra Mashava, from INMED South Africa.
As part of the Social Employment Fund (SEF), the Economic Development Partnership convenes the Social Employment Network (SEN), a community of practice that connects Strategic Implementing Partners (SIPs) and supports collaborative learning. To extend this learning...
Self-discovery through education (Mpumalanga)
Introduction Mpumalanga grapples with high unemployment rates, particularly among its youth population. With limited access to job opportunities and economic resources, many young people find themselves unemployed or underemployed, hindering their ability to...
Self-discovery through education (Mpumalanga)
Introduction Mpumalanga grapples with high unemployment rates, particularly among its youth population. With limited access to job opportunities and economic resources, many young people find themselves unemployed or underemployed, hindering their ability to...
Making animal feed from invasive plants (Limpopo)
Case Study: Making animal feed from invasive plants. Background The Impact Catalyst's Social Employment Fund (SEF) programme addresses the dual challenge of environmental degradation and socio-economic needs in communities across the Northern Cape, Limpopo,...
Transformation through agriculture
Introduction The Social Employment Fund (SEF) proudly presents a compilation of impactful stories, highlighting the transformative power of its agricultural programme. Through partnerships with local hosts and a commitment to the theme "Vuka Usebenze" (Wake up and...