ORT Jet - Two Decades of Transformation – Celebrating the Power of Mentorship to Build Dreams and Futures

The air at The Houghton Golf Club on Thursday evening was charged with a sense of triumph and shared purpose as ORT Jet celebrated a momentous milestone: 20 years of empowering entrepreneurs and igniting economic growth across South Africa. 

This wasn’t just an event; it was a reunion of dreamers, mentors, community architects, and partners, all gathered to honour two decades of vision, grit, and profound impact. What began in 2005 as a heartfelt initiative to support just 16 businesses has blossomed into a powerful movement, an ecosystem that has since championed over 3,200 businesses, touching the lives of more than 30,000 beneficiaries. With 278 businesses currently thriving in its network, ORT Jet stands as a living testament to the enduring power of mentorship and collective action. 

Inspired by a Higher Purpose The genesis of ORT Jet in 2003 was sparked by a noble vision: to embody the highest form of charity, helping people stand on their own feet. Founders, inspired by the teachings of Maimonides, imagined a practical, sustainable way to build livelihoods. What started with passionate meetings among friends and industry experts quickly grew into an essential organisation, proving that business expertise combined with communal responsibility is the ultimate catalyst for change. 

The evening, guided by Master of Ceremonies David Zidel, paid special tribute to the extraordinary visionaries who laid the foundation. Their belief created a platform where mentorship transforms potential into tangible achievement, ensuring not just business success, but the dignity and stability of families. 

The Heartbeat of the Evening Guests were welcomed into an atmosphere of warmth and connection, setting the stage for an evening of inspiration. Helene Itzkin, Head of ORT Jet, delivered a powerful opening address, reflecting on the organisation's mission: to inspire leadership and cultivate a community where potential is not just recognised, but fully realised. Two decades ago, a small group of visionary leaders lit a spark in the belief that empowering one business owner uplifts a family, strengthens a community, and contributes to a stronger South Africa. From that spark, thousands of stories have emerged—stories of courage, reinvention, resilience, and remarkable results. 

Moving addresses from Chief Rabbi Dr Warren Goldstein, Deputy Chief of Mission Mr Ariel Seidman, Roland Sassoon, and keynote speaker David Shapiro of Sasfin Securities underscored the critical role of entrepreneurship in national prosperity. 

Insights from David Shapiro David Shapiro’s keynote offered a compelling perspective on 20 years of business turbulence and transformation. He reflected on major global disruptions—from the 1998 Asian financial crisis and 9/11 to the COVID-19 pandemic, AI innovations, and the ongoing reshaping of markets—highlighting that success is never a straight line, but an obstacle course of crises and change. 

He noted that technology, from smartphones to artificial intelligence, continues to redefine industries and consumer behaviour, creating both unprecedented opportunities and complex challenges. Yet amidst all this, he stressed the timeless fundamentals of business: building customers, cultivating individuality, and fostering trust. His ten guiding principles—ranging from prioritising client relationships and responding promptly, to maintaining reputation and dressing with respect—reminded the audience that mentorship is about equipping entrepreneurs with enduring tools to navigate uncertainty while maintaining human connection and ethical business practices. 

David concluded with a resonant message: crises and technology will keep coming, but by adapting, mentoring, and staying committed to core principles, entrepreneurs can thrive and shape resilient businesses. 

Honouring the Heroes of Mentorship The gala culminated in the presentation of awards to individuals who embody the tireless spirit of ORT Jet: 

• Business of the Year: Karen Schneid, founder of Ooh LaLa Artisan Confectionery, for turning a lifelong passion into an internationally acclaimed artisanal brand. 
• Mentor of the Year: Paul Silverman, for his unwavering commitment to guiding entrepreneurs toward sustainable, high-impact growth. 
• Consultant of the Year: Gary Epstein, for his strategic insight and profound impact across multiple small businesses. 
• Rising Star Award: Nadine Hocter, founder of Sheer Bliss, honoured for her innovation in corporate wellness and dedication to mentoring the next generation. 

ORT Jet Chairman Steve Zagey acknowledged the unwavering dedication of mentors, facilitators, and entrepreneurs, the true backbone of the organisation’s success. The evening concluded with a symbolic cake-cutting ceremony with the founders, celebrating two decades of shared achievement and community. 

ORT SA CEO Ariellah Rosenberg closed the night with a forward-looking message of gratitude and inspiration, confidently looking ahead to the next 20 years of growth, innovation, and empowerment. 

The Journey Continues ORT Jet has evolved far beyond a programme; it is a thriving community where dedication and expertise unite to create lasting impact. Its legacy, built on supporting over 3,200 businesses and touching the lives of 30,000 beneficiaries, is a powerful affirmation that a commitment to community can truly transform lives. 

The message is clear: the journey continues. Two decades on, ORT Jet stands as undeniable proof that mentorship, community, and courage can transform not only businesses, but the very fabric of society.