Meta hosts small business forum

It also featured a series of panel discussions and workshops that were designed with the intention to empower attendees to take their businesses to the next level.

Attendees included:

• policymakers
• SMB experts and owners
• content creators, and
• media.

Attendees were given the opportunity to connect and network while gaining insights and inspiration from other entrepreneurs who have been using Meta technologies.

Meta experts also shared tips on how to leverage creative digital tools, such as Reels, as well as how to monetise and grow on Facebook and Instagram to connect with customers.

Nomonde Gongxeka-Seopa, head of public policy SADC at Meta, says, “We are proud of the turnout of the forum. This is part of our ongoing commitment to provide access and skills that help SMBs increase employment opportunities, incomes, address gender equity gaps and increase cross-border trading.”

“In many African countries, SMBs account for 50% or more of job creation. At Meta, we recognise small businesses as a key engine and driver of economic growth and development, which is why this event was so important to us,” adds Gongxeka-Seopa.

“It gave us an opportunity to connect with entrepreneurs virtually and in person to offer advice on how they can establish, grow, and leverage tools like Reels, personalised ads and WhatsApp Business to help them reach their intended audiences — making sure their good ideas are found,” Gongxeka-Seopa says.

Hon Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, MEC for finance and e-government at the Gauteng Provincial Government, adds, “We are excited to be part of this wonderful initiative. The development of SMMEs is a priority for us as it is the only way to create more jobs for our people.”

“We have created the e-waste management system to empower SMMEs and offer growth opportunities to their businesses. These include training on recycling of e-waste and the creation of new gadgets from old or used material,” says Nkomo-Ralehoko.

“By digitising government services, we are hoping to increase innovative ideas that will assist the government to deliver better services. We have witnessed young people creating robots from electronic waste. This is quite an inspiration,” Nkomo-Ralehoko adds.

Acting executive manager of the Seda Technology Programme Colin Leshou says, “In the current age, digital tools play a critical role in the success and growth of any small business. As Seda, we’ve witnessed the type of impact it has had on the businesses of our tech-savvy clients.”

“It is, therefore, essential that South African entrepreneurs firstly acquire the skills to effectively utilise these tools and resources to ensure that they not only take advantage of the present available opportunities but also look into the future to play a part in the evolution of the Metaverse,” concludes Leshou.

The event also served as a space to discuss how best to prioritise the inclusion of young people and women in the digital economy.

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