On Friday, 8 August 2025, the Allan Gray Makers Entrepreneurship Inter-College Challenge kicked off with an electrifying burst of energy and innovation. Eight TVET colleges from the Northern and Western Cape gathered under the bold theme “Challenge Today, Change Tomorrow”, showcasing groundbreaking business concepts designed to transform communities and industries.

The day began with inspiring words from prominent leaders, including Mr. Xolelo Brian Phike (Northlink CEO), Dr. Colleen Cozett (Northlink College), and Mr. Brian Madalane (Acting DHET Regional Manager), all of whom highlighted the vital role of entrepreneurship in driving economic transformation, resilience, and opportunity for South Africa’s youth.

Competition was fierce across four dynamic categories:

• Innovative Business Idea (For students with a profitable business concept ready to launch.)
• Tech Business (For existing businesses offering technology-related products or services.)
• Trade Business (For existing skilled trades businesses in Construction, Plumbing, Electrical, Mechanical, Carpentry, etc.)
• General Business (For existing businesses that don’t fit into the other categories.)

Representatives from the following colleges impressed the judges and audience alike:, Boland TVET College, College of Cape Town, False Bay TVET College, Northern Cape Rural TVET College (NCR), Northern Cape Urban TVET College (NCU), Northlink TVET College, South Cape TVET College and West Coast TVET College.

Mrs. Wendy Adams, Registrar at Boland College, expressed her pride and excitement for the event:  “What an electrifying start to the Allan Gray Makers Entrepreneurship Inter-College Challenge! The creativity, courage, and commitment shown by our TVET students prove that they are more than just participants; they are pioneers. As TVETrepreneurs, they are taking up space in the business world, solving real problems, and building futures not only for themselves but for their communities.”

Entrepreneurship is a key focus area for Boland College, forming an integral part of our vision to prepare students not just for the job market, but to be creators of opportunity. We are committed to building and fostering the spirit of entrepreneurship through practical learning, mentorship, and platforms like the Allan Gray Makers competition. Our mission is to see more of our graduates become employers, innovators, and leaders who drive positive change.

The Allan Gray Makers programme aims to foster a culture where TVET graduates not only seek employment but actively create it. By equipping students with practical skills, business knowledge, and a platform to showcase their ideas, the competition helps position TVET students as catalysts for change in the South African economy.

Although none of our students walked away as category winners, Boland College is immensely proud of each one’s commitment, courage, and entrepreneurial spirit. Their dedication to presenting innovative solutions and tackling real-world challenges embodies the very essence of a TVETrepreneur.

We are especially proud of Honjiswa Dutywa, who, while not winning in her category, captured the judges’ attention with her vision and determination. So inspired were they by her potential that they offered her a special prize — a mentorship opportunity to guide and support her on her entrepreneurial journey. This recognition is a testament to the fact that success is not only measured by trophies, but by the doors your ideas can open.