For Lusanda Medje and Sesetu Dingane, entrepreneurship is not merely a means of earning a living, but a path to achieving independence, self-confidence, and creating opportunities despite the challenges they face.
These two young women, residing in Delft and Nyanga Crossroads respectively, are among 44 young people with disabilities who completed an 18-month enterprise creation training program by Engen in February 2026.
Upon completing the program, the women were able to apply the skills acquired to establish their own businesses, transforming their ideas into growth-potential projects.
Lusanda Medje, who lives with epilepsy, founded M-Scent Perfumes. This company sells affordable fragrances for men and women, and also offers personal shopping services, sportswear, as well as hair and skincare products.
Medje noted that although it is sometimes difficult, her experience has made her stronger, taught her never to give up, and motivated her to work hard on developing her business. She emphasized that the training program helped her gain the practical knowledge necessary to manage and expand her venture, as well as boost her confidence.
Sesetu Dingane, who lives with depression and anxiety, owns Mamzondi Collection. Her business includes selling sportswear, skincare and haircare products, and providing personal shopping services.
Dingane believes that one of the most valuable takeaways from the program was learning about target audience identification and more effective financial management. She added that the program helped her develop business ideas, manage funds wisely, and understand the market she aims to reach. In the future, Dingane plans to open her own beauty salon.
The New Venture Creation Learnership ran from September 2024 to February 2026 and was designed to provide young people with disabilities with practical entrepreneurial skills. Participants worked towards NQF Level 2 and NQF Level 4 qualifications while receiving business mentorship and digital skills development.
Engen Skills Development Facilitator Pontsho Matshediso stated that the program's goal is to help participants turn their potential into tangible opportunities. He noted that Lusanda and Sesetu demonstrate what is possible when determination is combined with practical skills and support.
CSI Engen Manager Olwethu Mdabula emphasized that supporting young women through education and skills development can have a broader impact on communities. She stated that empowering young women through education and skills development is crucial for building inclusive economic growth. Mdabula named Lusanda and Sesetu as inspiring examples of women who create opportunities for themselves and contribute to strengthening more resilient communities.
During South Africa's Women's Month, the stories of Medje and Dingane highlight the importance of access to skills, mentorship, and opportunities in building a sustainable future for young women. Their examples also show that living with a disability should not hinder ambition; with determination, support, and the right skills, both women prove that entrepreneurial dreams can become a business that serves as a foundation for greater independence and hope.