The second Soweto Investment Conference officially kicked off on 22 June 2023 and for the next two days all roads will lead to the Johannesburg Expo Centre. Delegates and investors were welcomed in style and entered the venue on a red carpet. Inside a local band entertained guests until proceedings commenced and local entrepreneurs were setting up their stalls to exhibit their products. A variety of goods were exhibited from local entrepreneurs, ranging from home essentials, beauty accessories, clothing to footwear.
Thami Faleni is one of the exhibitors who arrived early to set up her stall. Her colourful and bright products are striking. Her brand is Imbokodo Collections and she makes beautiful backpacks and fanny packs. She also exhibits her products in Vilakazi Street, Soweto.
This year marks her first time at the conference, and she is elated to be part of the experience.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to showcase my work here,” she says.
Keabetswe Shabi is showcasing her bags, hats, shoes, and earrings which are all handmade and inspired by African culture. Her brand is Mama Kea Designs. “I’m excited and happy to be here.
It is part of exposure and an amazing opportunity to meet people,” Shabi says.
Kay Molefe’s brand is Kay’s Casas Decor and she is exhibiting home and body essentials like diffusers, candles, bath salts and body creams. She is excited about the opportunity to be part of the conference.
The Soweto Investment conference is initiated by Soweto Tourism and Business Development Association working committee in collaboration with strategic partners.
It aims to attract local and international investors and partners who are interested in creating Soweto into an environment that is economically sustainable, business friendly and ecologically welcoming.
This year’s theme is “Township Economic Development” and the four focus areas are trade and investment, energy security and alternative energy supply to the business community in Soweto, infrastructure development, safety and security, and environment.
Guest can look forward to an enriching programme on both days and panel discussions with professionals.
Member of Mayoral Committee for Development Planning in the City of Johannesburg, Cllr Eunice Mgcina, will take part in a panel discussion on infrastructure development tomorrow, Friday 23 June 2023, on the second day of the conference.
Written by Brümilda Swartbooi
22/06/2023