Breaking Barriers while Building Success

Every great journey begins with a single decision to keep going, even when the odds seem stacked against you. For Elisa Moremi, entrepreneurship has never been about following the easiest path. It has been about creating one.

As the founder of ELI NKONE ENGINEERING (Pty) Ltd, Elisa has chosen to build her business in the engineering sector, an industry where women remain significantly underrepresented. Her determination to succeed reflects not only her entrepreneurial ambition but also her commitment to challenging perceptions and demonstrating that talent, innovation, and leadership know no gender.

That determination led her to participate in the Youth Entrepreneurship Development Program (YEDP) funded by Mastercard, where she joined other aspiring entrepreneurs committed to strengthening their businesses and expanding their potential. Across 16 interactive sessions, participants explored essential aspects of entrepreneurship, from business growth strategies and financial planning to leadership, resilience, and long-term sustainability.

For Elisa, one of the most valuable aspects of the program was the opportunity to learn alongside other entrepreneurs. Through mentorship and networking, she connected with individuals who shared their experiences, offered practical advice, and encouraged one another through the challenges of building a business. These relationships reinforced an important truth: entrepreneurship may begin with an individual vision, but lasting success is often built through collaboration and a strong support network.

An important milestone in Elisa's journey came through the R5,000 seed funding awarded as part of the program. More than financial support, the investment represents confidence in her vision and provides additional resources to help grow ELI NKONE ENGINEERING (Pty) Ltd. Combined with the knowledge and connections gained throughout the program, the funding positions her to continue expanding her business while creating value within South Africa's engineering sector.

Elisa's story reflects the broader purpose of YEDP. The program is not simply about supporting individual businesses. It is about investing in entrepreneurs who will create employment, strengthen local economies, and inspire others to pursue their own ambitions. Every business launched, every challenge overcome, and every milestone achieved contributes to a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem for South Africa's young people.

Across the country, countless aspiring entrepreneurs have innovative ideas and the determination to succeed. What many need is access to practical training, experienced mentors, supportive networks, and opportunities to transform ambition into action. By investing in young entrepreneurs today, we are helping build businesses that can create lasting economic and social value for years to come.

Today, Elisa is looking to take the next step in her entrepreneurial journey. She is seeking an apprenticeship opportunity where she can gain hands-on industry experience, strengthen her technical expertise, and continue growing as an engineer and business owner. She would also greatly benefit from the donation of a vehicle diagnostic machine and a professional automotive toolbox, equipment that would enable her to expand the services offered by ELI NKONE ENGINEERING (Pty) Ltd and better serve her clients.

If you or your organization can offer an apprenticeship, donate equipment, or provide industry connections, we encourage you to contact JA South Africa. Together, we can help unlock the full potential of talented entrepreneurs like Elisa, proving that when opportunity meets determination, barriers become breakthroughs and dreams become thriving businesses.