Social entrepreneurs who have managed to create opportunities for youth could be recognised for their contributions via The Western Cape Department of Social Development’s Ministerial Youth Excellence Awards, says researcher consultant for Impumelelo at the Stellenbosch Academy for Social Innovation, Chrischar Rock.

“For us it is important to unearth social entrepreneurship,” says Rock.

“We believe that it is not entrepreneurship if it does not uplift our society. Entrepreneurship should make a difference in the lives of the community.”

Awarding categories include youth leadership development, youth transition and change, and youth rural and farm development.

The awards, launched in 2014, are hosted in partnership with the Impumelelo Social Innovations Centre, and are sponsored by Nedbank and Old Mutual.

Candidates are awarded brass, gold or silver metals depending how successful their business has been.

“In addition, there are two special Ministerial Awards which are named in honour of the memory of Daniela De Wee, who died after she was swept away by a river she was attempting to cross to get to an exam, and in memory of Shandre Aries, who was killed tragically in gang cross-fire earlier this year,” says Rock.

The Academy provides an opportunity for entrepreneurs to assist government with job creation.

“The Western Cape government has recognized the need for adopting this approach, as no government can address these challenges alone. As such, our response to the challenges faced by youth are guided by the Provincial Youth Development Strategy and the new Provincial Strategic Plans,” says Rock.

To view the criteria for applications or to apply visit The Stellenbosch Academy on http://www.usb-ed.com. VOC (Nailah Cornelissen)