Chwaita Momoza, a student at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), has been selected to represent South Africa at the Middle East, Pakistan and Africa Student Entrepreneurship Competition (MEPA). At this event, she will compete against some of the region's most promising young entrepreneurs.
Competition Details and Selection
The competition is scheduled to take place in Cape Town from July 27 to 28. It will bring together over twenty student entrepreneurs from the Middle East, Pakistan, and Africa who will compete for a spot in the global finals. Momoza passed three qualification rounds, including a university competition, a provincial stage, and the South African GSEA National Competition, to earn her place. She is one of two South Africans selected to participate in the MEPA event.
Business and Education
Momoza, an undergraduate student majoring in 'Computer Science and Information Technology', is co-owner of an online furniture store that she launched in July 2025 after identifying a gap in the South African online furniture market. The business was created to solve common customer problems such as unreliable delivery, inconsistent product quality, damaged goods, and poor after-sales service.
According to Momoza, the knowledge gained through her bachelor's degree has directly influenced the management and development of her company. She noted that studying data analysis, operational process improvement, digital platforms, and e-commerce helped her think strategically and create scalable systems.
Company Growth
Originally from Matatile in the Eastern Cape, Momoza oversees the company's strategy, branding, marketing, logistics, customer experience, and business development. Operating on a hybrid model combining local production, international sourcing, and e-commerce, the company currently employs seven staff members. Despite being only one year old, it has expanded its product range, opened its first warehouse complex, strengthened quality control processes, and achieved revenue exceeding 700,000 South African Rand.
Prospects and Support
Momoza believes that participating in the MEPA competition will provide an opportunity to test her business on the international stage and learn from experienced entrepreneurs. She expressed hope that this experience will accelerate the company's growth and open doors to long-term entrepreneurial networks. UKZN Director of Corporate Relations, Dr. Norma Zondo, congratulated Momoza on her achievement, stating that the university is proud that one of its students is representing South Africa internationally. Zondo emphasized that Chwaita's journey reflects the creativity, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit that the university strives to foster in its students.
