FESA newsletter # 1
Thank you for signing up
Thank you for joining our contact list. Your support helps us build a network that supports our credibility, attracts additional interest in our work, and strengthens our ability to engage potential sponsors.
As mentioned, we’ll keep communications low-key—around four newsletters per year—with a similarly measured approach to fundraising. We’re grateful you’re here, and we welcome your feedback anytime at contact@fosterentrepreneurssouthafrica.org
About our work
In short, we support people starting micro-businesses in South Africa.
Youth unemployment remains extremely high—by some estimates, up to 60%. While the formal sector contributes to job creation, the greatest opportunity lies in enabling self-employed entrepreneurs in the informal sector. This work helps break cycles of intergenerational poverty while contributing to economic growth. Today, the informal sector accounts for roughly 18% of South Africa’s GDP.
You can learn more about our approach and impact on our website.
FESA updates
We’re expecting to receive charitable status from the Canada Revenue Agency by July 2026. In the meantime, we’re focused on building strong foundations:
Strengthening and expanding our partnership with Aspire Youth (see below)
Expanding the knowledge and skills of our Board
Advancing our 5-year strategy
Launching social media channels
Planning a 2027 fundraiser
Expanding our network of people (like you!) who wish to support our organization
We’re also exploring additional mentorship initiatives where we connect experienced professionals in our network with young aspiring entrepreneurs in South Africa. If you’re interested, please contact us at contact@fosterentrepreneurssouthafrica.org
Aspire Youth updates
Aspire Youth identifies young people who have not completed school, many of whom have faced abuse, violence, or are at risk of anti-social behaviour. These young people are motivated to work hard to start and successfully grow their businesses with the support of Aspire Youth and FESA.
Their 18-month program includes five phases and culminates in income generation. Notably, 85% of graduates in 2023–2024 reached a monthly income of R8,000–R12,000 within 18 months.
The program also takes a holistic approach, including emotional support such as trauma counselling.
FESA co-founder Rod Benson recently visited Cape Town, where he met participants and learned about their journeys. He later wrote a blog about his visit.
A few observations on South Africa
Given that many of you have a connection to South Africa, we’re including a short opinion piece on the country’s current state.
The Boks!
We can’t talk about South Africa without talking about the Bokke. South Africa’s rugby team, the Springboks, remain national icons—and we proudly support them from afar.
In 2026, they face a demanding schedule, including four matches against the All Blacks and the inaugural Nations Cup. Looking ahead, they’ll defend their Rugby World Cup title in Australia in 2027 after already winning the tournament four times.
With experienced leaders like Malcolm Marx and rising stars such as Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, hopes are high.
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