Boland College students have once again demonstrated that technical and vocational education is not only about preparing young people for the workplace, but also about equipping them to create opportunities, build businesses and contribute to economic growth.

Four aspiring entrepreneurs, Lusanda Nyhivane, Lathitha Tintelo, Nicole van Turha and Pelokazi Luxande, recently represented Boland College at the Inspire Education Regional Entrepreneurship Competition in Upington, competing alongside some of the region’s promising young entrepreneurs. The competition provided a platform for participants to showcase their entrepreneurial thinking across four categories: I Have a Business Idea, I Have a General Business, I Have a Tech Business, and I Have a Trade Business.

The Boland College representatives earned their places at the regional competition following strong performances at the College’s Inter-Campus Entrepreneurship Competition earlier this year.

Beyond the competitive element, the regional event offered students an opportunity to test their ideas, connect with like-minded entrepreneurs, build valuable networks, gain insight from industry experts and strengthen the confidence and skills required to turn ideas into sustainable ventures.

Boland College Principal, Mr Charles Goodwin, said entrepreneurship plays an important role in preparing students for an evolving economy. “Entrepreneurship gives our students the opportunity to see themselves not only as future employees, but as innovators, business owners and creators of opportunities. At Boland College, we want our students to have the confidence to apply their skills, identify opportunities and contribute meaningfully to their communities. When we invest in entrepreneurship, we invest in young people who have the potential to create opportunities not only for themselves, but for others.”

Boland College is particularly proud to celebrate two podium finishes at the regional competition. Pelokazi Luxande secured third place in the I Have a Trade Business category, while Lathitha Tintelo achieved third place in the I Have a General Business category. Their achievements are a testament to the creativity, hard work and perseverance required to take an entrepreneurial venture from an idea to a competitive business proposition.

The College also commends Lusanda Nyhivane and Nicole van Turha for representing Boland College with professionalism, confidence and determination. Competing against some of the region’s strongest emerging entrepreneurs is no small achievement, and all four students embraced the opportunity to challenge themselves, learn and grow.

Initiatives such as the Inspire Entrepreneurship Competition demonstrate the important role TVET colleges can play in developing future entrepreneurs. Practical and vocational skills can provide the foundation not only for employment, but also for self-employment, innovation and the creation of new enterprises.

For Boland College, entrepreneurship is about encouraging students to recognise that the skills they develop today can become the businesses, livelihoods and employment opportunities of tomorrow.

Boland College congratulates Lusanda Nyhivane, Lathitha Tintelo, Nicole van Turha and Pelokazi Luxande for proudly representing the College and taking another bold step in their entrepreneurial journeys.