NJR Steel & Seeds of Africa: Empowering South Africa's Growth Together

In the heart of South Africa, a remarkable journey of transformation is taking place, one that promises to uplift communities, ignite dreams, and create pathways to a brighter future.

Seeds of Africa, an inspiring non-profit organization, is at the forefront of this movement, championing the cause of entrepreneurial job creation and economic inclusivity. With a mission to break the cycle of poverty, Seeds of Africa's Seeds of Change Program provides access to entrepreneurial training, mentorship, seed capital, and ongoing business support, empowering individuals to thrive and transform their lives.

Over the past 23 years, NJR Steel has been a steadfast partner in this transformative endeavour. Our collaboration with Seeds of Africa has ignited the fires of economic revival within local communities, creating lasting pathways towards progress. As they commemorated Mandela Day this year, NJR Steel joined forces with Seeds of Africa's Enterprise Development and Supplier Development Programs, supplying materials for a day of interaction with businesses that have benefited from the Seeds of Change program.

This heart-warming event served as a testament to the program's success, showcasing how the joint support from NJR Steel and Seeds of Africa has led to real and sustainable transformation in people's lives.

Reflecting on this inspirational day, Seeds of Africa’s Chief Operations Manager, Sally Viljoen, shared,

The impact of this collaboration is evident in the stories of entrepreneurs like Luvhani of M&G Food Services, Maria of Kwazi Laundry, Maible of Lala's Beauty, Rueben of Everyday Car Wash, and many others.

Each business represents a beacon of hope and resilience, a living testament to the collective achievements that can be attained when partnerships with purpose come together.

Beyond these heartening stories, the partnership between NJR Steel and Seeds of Africa underscores a critical component of lasting change: Supplier Development.

By incorporating several Seeds of Change small businesses into our supply chain, NJR Steel not only contributes to their growth and sustainability but we also provide a platform for these businesses to showcase their products and services. This holistic approach to economic growth stimulates local economies, fosters job creation, and uplifts the community as a whole.

NJR Steel CEO, Colin Chapman, shares,

The first step in building a lasting supplier development relationship is ensuring the entrepreneurs and their businesses have the education and support required for start-up success. This is achieved through Seeds of Africa’s Seeds of Change Enterprise Development Program, a comprehensive step-by-step initiative that since its inception in 2019, has helped more than 229 individuals develop and grow their own small businesses.

You can find out more about the Seeds of Change Program here

The programme offers various components to ensure the holistic development of the beneficiaries. Firstly, the Micro MBA equips participants with essential business management skills and knowledge. Through this program, entrepreneurs gain a deeper understanding of key business principles, financial management, marketing strategies, and operational efficiency.

This goes hand-in-hand with the Siyazakhela Business Literacy Program which not only imparts general business skills but also provides beneficiaries with smart phones and technology training, enabling them to access digital resources and stay connected.

Ongoing coaching and mentorship form an integral part of the program. Beneficiaries receive personalized guidance and support from experienced mentors who provide valuable insights, industry knowledge, and advice on business challenges. This mentorship helps entrepreneurs navigate obstacles, make informed decisions, and assists them in connecting with potential future customers and industry role-players.

Access to the Seeds of Africa Business Hub is also provided, creating a collaborative environment where entrepreneurs can network, share ideas, and access resources such as internet connection, computers and printers. The Business Hub serves as a platform for collaboration, learning, and fostering a supportive community of like-minded individuals.

One of the key features of the Seeds of Change Enterprise Development Programme is the provision of seed capital to businesses that demonstrate competence and the ability to utilize the capital effectively for business growth. This financial support aims to catalyze business expansion, enable investment in critical resources, and unlock opportunities for scaling up.

To get involved in mentorship, or to support the Seeds of Change Program, contact Seeds of Africa here

The graduate business owners then become part of the Seeds of Change Supplier Development Programme. Compliance with supplier development requirements is an important component of B-BBEE compliance for businesses operating in South Africa. By actively engaging in supplier development, companies demonstrate their commitment to promoting economic transformation, job creation, and inclusive growth in the country.

Under the B-BBEE Codes of Good Practice, companies are encouraged to procure goods and services from previously disadvantaged suppliers and allocate a certain percentage of their procurement spend to such suppliers. NJR Steel's commitment to Supplier Development not only strengthens its own supply chain but also has a ripple effect on the broader economy. These SMEs, in turn, have the opportunity to reinvest in their communities, supporting local employment, socio-economic development, and sustainable growth.

These small businesses serve as excellent examples of B-BBEE Supplier Development, both within NJR Steel's operations, and of how other companies can create meaningful supplier development partnerships and contribute to creating a more inclusive business landscape.

Akunamlilo Fire Fighting Services & Supplies

Akunamlilo specializes in fire fighting services and supplies, providing crucial safety solutions to NJR Steel and its operations.

Ayoba Steel

Ayoba Steel is a steel business established in Cosmo City with the support of NJR Steel. This collaboration demonstrates NJR Steel's efforts to foster entrepreneurship and create sustainable opportunities in local communities.

Beake Engineering

Beake Engineering is an engineering company that manufactures products for NJR Steel's Rustenburg branch.

Bohlalepele

Bohlalepele serves as a security company for NJR Steel's central buying operations.

Bonimpumelelo

Bonimpumelelo operates an onsite canteen at the NJR Labore facility, serving delicious food catering to the needs of NJR Steel employees.

Brimo Consulting

Brimo Consulting provides digital marketing & design services for various NJR Steel branches. NJR also funded a business vehicle for Brimo Consulting.

Hamara Holdings

Hamara Holdings is a steel manufacturing company supported by NJR Steel.

Lamesh

Lamesh is another steel manufacturing company that receives support from NJR Steel. NJR Steel's engagement with Lamesh underscores their dedication to empowering local steel manufacturers.

Mokaleng Electrical

Mokaleng Electrical is an electrical company that provides services to various NJR Steel branches.

Ntuthuko Cleaning Company & Supplies

Ntuthuko serves as a cleaning company and cleaning supplies provider.

Preen Clean

Preen Clean is a cleaning company and supplies provider supported by NJR Steel. NJR Steel also provided funding assistance for a business vehicle.

Thobela Three Sisters

Thobela Three Sisters supplies cleaning products to NJR branches.

Tholotech CC

Tholotech CC's involvement provides onsite shredding and recycling at NJR’s Labore facility.

To find out more about these businesses, or to get information on how you can support Seeds of Africa, visit their website here