In efforts to help address the pressing challenges of unemployment, the Silulo Foundation has launched a new walk-in business and career centre in Dunoon, near Milnerton in Cape Town.
The centre, made possible through the support of the Astron Energy Development Fund (AEDF), is a significant milestone in the foundation’s ongoing commitment to create hope and a path to economic independence for under-resourced communities like Dunoon.
The Silulo Foundation was established in 2023 to help bridge the digital divide so that disadvantaged communities and individuals are not left behind by the digital transformation. The foundation seeks to empower communities through programmes focused on entrepreneurship and skills development.
The centre, which was formally opened by Silulo Foundation founder, Luvuyo Rani, and Head of the AEDF, Debbie Parker, on 21 August 2024, will focus on digital skills training and development initiatives for unemployed youth and budding entrepreneurs, It will also provide training for small business owners, allowing them to formalise and grow their businesses.
Over the three years of the partnership between the Silulo Foundation and the AEDF, the initiative will seek to empower 240 entrepreneurs through the foundation’s 10-month entrepreneurship programme. The programme provides training, business support services, mentorship and access to meeting rooms, workspaces and the tools needed for a successful business.
Additionally, 600 unemployed youth will be enrolled in a free six-month digital skills training programme”. This programme is equipping them with the tools they need for work readiness and career growth.
Dunoon community leader, Lundi Wulana, said the centre would serve as a beacon of hope for residents of the community and surrounding areas.
“We have so many young people who are eager and willing but need the resources and investment in terms of training and equipping them with skills to help them become economically active citizens,” Wulana said. “This centre will go a long way towards empowering people in Dunoon and surrounding areas.”
Rani said: “At Silulo Foundation, we believe in the power of community-driven change. That’s why we’re excited for the launch of this business and career centre. Through our partnership with AEDF, we’re not just providing resources, we’re building a supportive network where ideas
flourish, partnerships form, and dreams become reality. Together, we’re building a brighter future for Dunoon and beyond.”
The R220 million Astron Energy Development Fund was launched by fuel giant Astron Energy in December 2022 to empower small businesses in the Astron Energy value chain as well as its linked communities such as Dunoon. The company operates its crude oil refinery in Milnerton and has a network of over 800 service stations which it is in the process of rebranding from Caltex to Astron Energy.
Debbie Parker said: “The AEDF is committed to bringing about sustainable, visible change and prosperity for small businesses in the Astron Energy value chain and in the communities surrounding our operations. By partnering with the Silulo Foundation, we aim to support the foundation’s commitment to drive positive community change and create opportunities for individuals and businesses. This is in line with our purpose of securing our future, together.”
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