The Big Shoutout: Empowering young entrepreneurs
Updated | By Reeshni Chetty-McConnachie
Minenhle Nzama sat down with Stacey and J Sbu to discuss The Big Shoutout, a life changing campaign.

As Youth Day approaches, it's essential to highlight initiatives that support young South Africans, particularly small business owners.
The Big Shoutout is a campaign aimed at promoting and empowering youth entrepreneurs in KwaZulu-Natal. This initiative provides a platform for young business owners to showcase their talents, products and services while gaining access to markets and support.
The Big Shoutout is open to business owners or future business owners based in KZN, aged 18-35. Whether you're a local fashion designer, food innovator, homegrown lifestyle brand or tech specialist, this initiative is designed to shine a spotlight on you.
By participating in The Big Shoutout, entrepreneurs will gain access to a personalised online store, social media support, and opportunities to connect with big companies like Durban Chamber of Commerce and ABSA.
Stacey and J Sbu spoke with Minenhle Nzama, one of the main members behind The Big Shoutout, to learn more about the initiative. Minenhle specialises in e-commerce software development and was inspired to create The Big Shoutout after realising the challenges faced by small businesses in accessing markets and support.
"I wrecked my brain trying to figure out how I can use my skill to help my peers," he explains. "I want to help people gain access to more, go from living hand to mouth to creating a business that is sustainable."
Minenhle's motivation for creating The Big Shoutout stems from his own experiences and the opportunities he's had in life.
"I'm grateful for all the opportunities I've had and the people who have helped me get to where I am going," he says. "These opportunities won't mean anything if I don't need to pay it forward, I need to pay it forward."
The initiative will provide participants with access to markets, mentorship, and support, helping them to overcome the challenges faced by small businesses. "Businesses need the fuel for their fire," Minenhle explains. "You'll get a personalised online store and you can reach other markets as long as you're willing to put in that elbow grease."
To enter The Big Shoutout, interested entrepreneurs can visit https://thebigshoutout.ntmedia.co.za/the-big-shoutout and click on the orange button to apply. The initiative is open to youth entrepreneurs in businesses, with main directors and shareholders required to be between 18-35 years old.
The Big Shoutout is a valuable opportunity for young entrepreneurs in KZN to gain exposure, support, and access to markets. With the support of big companies like Durban Chamber of Commerce and ABSA, this initiative has the potential to make a significant impact on the lives of young business owners. By empowering youth entrepreneurs, The Big Shoutout is helping to create a brighter future for South Africa.
Apply now: https://thebigshoutout.ntmedia.co.za/the-big-shoutout
Entry form: https://forms.gle/5VYgfPfdZC3gAxCK7
Age requirement: 18-35
Eligibility: Youth entrepreneurs in businesses based in KZN
Benefits: Access to markets, mentorship, support, personalised online store, and social media support

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