Geraldine had a strong aspiration to embark on her entrepreneurial journey, but she faced significant challenges due to a lack of resources, tools, and capital. Her upbringing in the Cape Flats exposed her to the harsh realities of violence, with daily concerns about safety during her journey to the Sozo Education centre.
Geraldine’s life took a positive turn when she received support from Sozo to pursue an accredited course in acrylic and sculpture nails. Her participation in the Sozo Skills programme proved to be a pivotal moment in her life. It was during this period that she took the bold step of launching her own business, formalizing it by registering with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC).
More recently, Geraldine further enhanced her entrepreneurial skills by participating in an accredited NQF Level 4 Business Management Training programme, specifically in New Venture Creation. This opportunity arose through valuable partnerships forged with Sozo. Geraldine’s journey exemplifies the kind of impact Sozo strives to achieve through the Genesis Entrepreneurship Incubator Hub.
Geraldine’s story reflects the immense growth potential inherent in young entrepreneurs like her. With the right guidance, mentoring, accountability structures, and a nurturing peer-to-peer collaborative environment, her business is poised for significant success.
The vision to empower young individuals in Vrygrond, helping them transition from a state of disengagement with education, employment, or training to becoming motivated, inspired, and economically contributing members of the community is no longer just a “Sozo dream.” It is a tangible reality being realized through the dedicated efforts and impactful programs of Sozo. Geraldine’s journey is just one of the many success stories that highlight the transformative effect of Sozo’s initiatives on the lives of young entrepreneurs in the community.