Across South Africa, many young people are already participating in the economy through small businesses, side hustles and informal enterprises. Whether selling meals, repairing devices, offering digital services or providing beauty treatments, they have demonstrated initiative, secured customers and gained practical business experience. Rather than focusing solely on helping young people start businesses, enterprise development should also support those already trading to strengthen their operations, generate sustainable income and eventually create employment opportunities for others.

Effective support begins by identifying the specific barriers preventing a business from taking its next step toward growth. Practical upskilling, business mentorship, access to customers and targeted support can help entrepreneurs improve pricing, financial management, service delivery and compliance. As businesses become stronger and more sustainable, they are better positioned to employ others, creating a cycle of local economic participation and youth employment within their communities.

By recognising a promising side hustle as a potential future employer, enterprise development initiatives can move beyond business creation towards building stronger local economies and lasting employment opportunities.