Samkelo Ndlovu: A Visionary Leader Poised to Transform Student Entrepreneurship in South Africa
In a historic appointment, Samkelo Ndlovu, a dynamic and passionate Bachelor of Laws student entrepreneur from the University of Zululand (UNIZULU), has been named the National Deputy Chairperson of the Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) Student Entrepreneurs Community of Practice (SP CoP).
This prestigious role, effective immediately, will see him serve a three-year term until March 2027, during which he aims to drive innovation, collaboration, and entrepreneurial growth among students across South Africa.
Hailing from Ixopo in KwaZulu-Natal, Ndlovu is no stranger to leadership and innovation. As a former president of Entrepreneurial Action for a Sustainable World (ENACTUS) and the first Innovation Champion at UNIZULU, he has consistently demonstrated his commitment to empowering students and fostering entrepreneurial thinking. His groundbreaking initiatives, such as Entrepreneurship Masterclasses and Mzansi’s New Tomorrow Conversations, have already left an indelible mark on the entrepreneurial landscape. Now, as he steps into this national role, he is ready to take his vision to new heights.
One of Ndlovu’s key responsibilities as Deputy Chairperson is to ensure effective communication and collaboration among CoP members. His strategy is both dynamic and inclusive, focusing on relationship-building and shared initiatives.
“We’re currently fostering connections through weekly meetings every Wednesday, where we engage in meaningful discussions about pressing issues in our country. One exciting strategy I envision is to develop a joint business idea that all CoP members can collaborate on, where each member takes on specific responsibilities. This approach not only strengthens our teamwork but also allows us to leverage our diverse strengths towards a common goal,” he said.
His vision for fostering entrepreneurship and innovation among students is both ambitious and inspiring. He envisions a South Africa that prioritises production over consumption, where students are equipped to tackle real-world challenges and drive sustainable change. He emphasises the importance of decolonising thinking and equipping students with practical skills to address issues like graduate unemployment and youth employability.
He said to foster entrepreneurship and innovation among students across South Africa, we must first envision the kind of nation we aspire to be. He believes we should strive for a South Africa that prioritises production over consumption. “By embedding this mindset within our universities, we can cultivate a generation of champions who are not only innovative but also proactive in addressing real-world challenges,” explained Ndlovu.
Ndlovu’s appointment is not just a personal achievement but also a historic moment for UNIZULU as this is a first national leader for entrepreneurship to emerge from the institution.
During his three-year term, Ndlovu plans to prioritise the transformative “One Student, One Business” project, which aims to involve every student in entrepreneurial activities.
“This initiative aims to engage every student in entrepreneurial activities, empowering them to graduate not just with a degree, but with a tangible business plan or even a thriving business of their own. Imagine a future where each student walks across the graduation stage holding a roadmap to their entrepreneurial dreams,” said a hopeful Ndlovu.
Reflecting on his appointment, the student was filled with gratitude and a sense of purpose, and he acknowledged the mentors, colleagues, and loved ones who have supported him along his journey.
“First and foremost, I want to thank my faculty advisor, Dr Nkonde, who has been an invaluable mentor throughout my entrepreneurial path. I also want to extend my deepest appreciation to Prof Nomlomo, the DVC for Teaching and Learning, for her unwavering support of entrepreneurship at UNIZULU. As I reflect on my appointment as a National Deputy Chairperson of EDHE SP CoP, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of happiness and gratitude. It feels like a beautiful blessing, one that I owe entirely to God. This appointment is not just a title; it’s a responsibility that I take to heart. I want to make a meaningful impact, inspire others, and give back to the community that has embraced me,” he shared.
– Nomvelo Xulu
Picture: Xolani Ncube