26/11/2025
Honouring Excellence at the Standard Bank Cohort 3 Township Business Development Programme Certification Ceremony!
On 20 November 2025, Standard Bank South Africa, in partnership with the Gauteng Provincial Treasury and Classic Oriental Consultancy, proudly celebrated the success of Cohort 3 at the Township Business Development Programme Certification Ceremony, held at the elegant ANEW Hotel Parktonian Johannesburg.
This inspiring ceremony marked a major milestone for 100 dedicated entrepreneurs from across Gauteng’s five regions, who completed an impactful six-weeks business development journey designed to strengthen and elevate township-based businesses. Classic Oriental Consultancy Chief Executive Officer Lebo Rapoo commended the entrepreneurs for their perseverance, discipline, and commitment to improving both their business operations and personal development.
Throughout the programme, participants gained valuable insights through specialised workshops covering key business fundamentals, including:
• SMME Landscape in South Africa
• Entrepreneurship and Innovation
• Sales, Marketing & Customer Attraction
• Legal & Statutory Compliance
• Financial Management Essentials
• Cultural and Emotional Intelligence
As part of the programme, business owners showcased their capabilities through 3-minute pitch videos, presenting their business models, growth opportunities, and funding requirements.
Congratulations to the Top 20 Winners!
These outstanding entrepreneurs—Top 4 from each of Gauteng’s five regions—were recognized with exciting prizes sponsored by Standard Bank.
A heartfelt appreciation goes to our Master of Ceremonies, Itumeleng Makgato, CEO of Something About Francis, for steering the programme with professionalism and grace. We also extend our gratitude to keynote speaker Mr. Nhlanhla Mposula, CEO of Ecolabs Africa, for delivering a powerful and motivating testimonial on resilience, business growth, and navigating entrepreneurial challenges.
Special Thanks To:
• Kelly Machaba, Acting Director: Supplier Management & Development, Gauteng Provincial Treasury, and her team
• The Standard Bank Enterprise and Supplier Development Unit-Your unwavering support continues to make it possible for Classic Oriental Consultancy to empower and uplift entrepreneurs across the province.
To all participants and winners—well done! We look forward to witnessing your continued growth and the remarkable impact you will create in your communities.