Unemployment and hardship weigh heavily on Mantserre, but a new expo offers a glimmer of hope. Community leaders, educators, and entrepreneurs are coming together to bridge opportunity gaps—where skills, local talent, and optimism may finally combine to shape a brighter economic future for the area’s youth.
By Noko Mashilo
In a determined drive to combat unemployment, foster entrepreneurship, and open doors for the youth, the Baphalane Ba Mantserre Development Trust, through its implementing agent, Baphalane Ba Mantserre Not for Profit Company, will host the first-ever Mantserre Career and Entrepreneurship Expo on 19 June 2026 at the Mantserre Community Hall.
The event carries the theme: “Community Wealth Building for Economic Wellbeing.”
This Expo arrives at a crucial moment for Mantserre and nearby communities, where many families are facing tough economic times, high unemployment, food insecurity, and limited prospects for career advancement. Despite several social development projects over the years, the need for lasting economic empowerment and practical skills development is more pressing than ever.
Harry Monye, Director of Baphalane Ba Mantserre Not for Profit Company, describes the Expo as a direct response to the challenges confronting local communities—a clear commitment to creating real opportunities for the youth.
“For far too long, young people in our communities have had the drive, ambition, and potential to thrive, but have lacked access to information, networks, and opportunity. Through the Mantserre Career and Entrepreneurship Expo, we aim to bridge this gap by bringing opportunities directly to people. Our aim is not just to assist young people in finding jobs, but also to inspire entrepreneurship, innovation, and active participation in the local economy,” Monye said.
He emphasised that community wealth building begins when people are empowered with knowledge, skills, and access to real opportunities. “This Expo is about restoring hope, opening doors, and making sure no young person is left behind due to a lack of guidance or support.”
Monye explained that the Mantserre Career and Entrepreneurship Expo will be far more than just a platform for information sharing. “It’s designed as a vibrant meeting ground for learners, unemployed youth, graduates, entrepreneurs, government bodies, training providers, and private sector players—all coming together to create meaningful opportunities for growth and development.”
He added that the Expo aims to close the information gap that often keeps young people from accessing bursaries, learnerships, internships, skills development programmes, and jobs. “By engaging directly with exhibitors and industry professionals, participants will gain valuable insight into career paths, education requirements, funding possibilities, and new sectors of the economy.”
For learners in Grades 10 to 12, the Expo will offer guidance on subject choices, university applications, career counselling, and alternative routes to success beyond university. It will also shine a light on high-demand careers and technical skills, such as engineering, artisan trades, accounting, agriculture, and other sectors that drive economic growth.
The event will also strongly champion entrepreneurship as a real route to economic participation and job creation. “Aspiring and established business owners will benefit from networking, business development support, financial literacy sessions, compliance workshops, funding information, and mentorship—all aimed at strengthening local businesses and stimulating economic activity within the Moses Kotane Local Municipality.”
A wide array of exhibitors is expected: universities, TVET colleges, SETAs, government departments, private companies, development agencies, youth organisations, and specialised training providers. There will be a special focus on STEM careers, entrepreneurship, innovation, and opportunities for persons with disabilities and special needs.
Monye said the Expo is about more than individual empowerment; it is about building collaboration among those dedicated to community advancement and economic inclusion. “By bringing together institutions, employers, educators, entrepreneurs, and young people, this event hopes to build a stronger talent pipeline, expand access to opportunities, and support the long-term creation of community wealth.”
The Mantserre Career and Entrepreneurship Expo is an investment in the future of our communities—a shared promise that no young person will be left out, for a lack of information or opportunity.
“Together, we can carve out new paths to prosperity, unlock potential, and secure lasting economic wellbeing for generations to come,” Monye emphasised.