30/07/2026
4.5 million.
That's the estimated number of South Africans living with disabilities.
For years, conversations around entrepreneurship have rightly focused on youth, women and township economies. Yet millions of people with disabilities have remained on the margins, despite the talent, ideas and ambition they bring.
One of the most compelling discussions at the FETSI Digital Futures Summit, "From Tabled to Next: What Happens When You Back the People Everyone Skipped," challenged us to rethink what inclusive economic growth really means.
The conversation wasn't centred on barriers. It focused on what becomes possible when intentional support meets unrealised potential through accessible technology, meaningful investment and opportunities that enable people to participate fully in the economy.
An inclusive economy is not built by recognising potential alone. It is built by creating pathways for people to turn that potential into lasting impact.
The future of entrepreneurship depends on ensuring that no one is overlooked and that every entrepreneur has the opportunity to contribute, innovate and succeed.
Because 4.5 million people should never be an afterthought. They are an essential part of South Africa's future.
Thank you to Fetsi Impact Hub, Technology Innovation Agency, MICT SETA, SANRAL and MTN Group for bringing together meaningful conversations on innovation and entrepreneurship.
