By Noko Mashilo
In a bid to address unemployment, promote entrepreneurship, and unlock opportunities for young people, Baphalane Ba Mantserre Development Trust, through its Non-Profit Company, will host the inaugural Mantserre Career and Entrepreneurship Expo at the Mantserre Community Hall in Mantserre village, North West on the 19 June 2026 under the theme: “Community Wealth Building for Economic Wellbeing.
The Expo comes at a time when many households in Mantserre and surrounding communities continue to face unemployment, poverty, food insecurity, and limited access to career development opportunities. The initiative seeks to connect young people with information, skills, networks, and opportunities that can improve their economic prospects.
Harry Monye, Director of Baphalane Ba Mantserre Non-Profit Company, said the Expo is a direct response to the challenges facing local communities.
“Many young people have the talent and ambition to succeed but often lack access to opportunities. This Expo will bring those opportunities closer to the people by connecting them with institutions, employers, and entrepreneurs. Our aim is not only to help young people find employment, but also to inspire entrepreneurship and innovation as drivers of local economic growth,” said Monye.
He further said the Expo will serve as a platform for learners, unemployed youth, graduates, entrepreneurs, government institutions, training providers, and private-sector stakeholders to engage and create pathways for development.
“Participants will gain access to information on bursaries, learnerships, internships, skills programmes, funding opportunities, and career pathways. Learners in Grades 10–12 will receive guidance on subject choices, tertiary education, career planning, and alternative routes to success.
Entrepreneurship will be a key focus, with aspiring business owners benefiting from networking opportunities, business development support, financial literacy sessions, mentorship, and information on funding and compliance,” he explained.
He also said exhibitors will include universities, TVET colleges, SETAs, government departments, private companies, development agencies, and youth organisations. “Special attention will be given to STEM careers, innovation, entrepreneurship, and opportunities for persons with disabilities, Together, we can build pathways to prosperity, unlock potential, and create sustainable economic wellbeing for future generations,” he concluded.
