Regent Business School Partners with uMhlanga Business Network and Non-Profits to Drive Social Impact

Durban, South Africa – November 2024 – In a groundbreaking move towards social and economic transformation, Regent Business School (RBS) has partnered with the uMhlanga Business Network (UBN) and several non-profit organisations to launch an innovative initiative redefining social entrepreneurship in South Africa.

Unveiled during a breakfast workshop at Durban’s Pavilion Hotel, the Tri-Partnership for Good focuses on equipping non-profits with entrepreneurial skills and sustainable strategies to address pressing societal needs effectively.

Fostering Capacity-Building and Self-Sustainability

This partnership aims to deliver long-lasting change to the non-profit sector through enhanced operational efficiency, managerial expertise, and governance. By building self-sustaining, community-driven projects, the initiative supports non-profits in achieving greater impact.

RBS staff and students will collaborate with UBN professionals to identify and address critical needs within participating non-profits. This unique model for social entrepreneurship prioritises local impact by focusing on mentorship, training, and capacity-building for community leaders.

Building Lasting Impact Through Education

Dr Ronel Blom, Dean of Research at Regent Business School, emphasised the institution’s commitment to transformative education:“At Regent Business School, we believe in the power of education as a transformative tool, not just within the classroom but across society. Through this partnership, we aim to equip non-profits with the skills and resources needed to operate as self-sustaining entities. Our students and faculty are eager to support these organisations through practical training and development, generating innovative, impactful solutions to social challenges.”

Insights from Expert Panel Discussions

The Pavilion Hotel workshop featured a distinguished panel of experts, including:

• Dr Ronel Blom (Dean of Research, Regent Business School)
• Dr Anthony Diesel (RBS DBA Alumnus and Director, Southern Africa Partners SA)
• Devan Munien (Chief Quality Officer, Regent Business School)
• Ashok Sewnarain (Founder and Vice President, UBN)
• Dr Suren Lutchminarayan (Founder and President, UBN)
• Ravin Rajoo (Deputy President, UBN, and practising attorney)

Discussions centred on practical pathways for non-profits to achieve self-sufficiency, including data-driven decision-making, effective financial management, and technological integration for streamlined operations.

Empowering Non-Profits for Greater Social Impact

South Africa’s non-profit sector often faces significant challenges due to limited resources and funding. The Tri-Partnership for Good offers a holistic support structure to amplify the impact of these organisations on the communities they serve.

RBS’s involvement signals an investment in developing socially conscious business leaders. Students will engage in internships and volunteer opportunities within participating non-profits starting in the new year. This hands-on experience fosters an understanding of sustainable impact and prepares students to contribute meaningfully to society.

Expanding Reach Through Future Workshops

The partnership will host ongoing workshops to promote collaboration between profit-driven and non-profit entities. These sessions will empower non-profits by introducing innovative approaches, building alliances, and driving community engagement. RBS, UBN, and other stakeholders remain dedicated to fostering a socially inclusive future.

For further information or to arrange interviews, call +27 31 304 4626 or email study@regent.ac.za.

Image Caption:From left: Deputy President of UBN and practising attorney Ravin Rajoo, Chief Quality Officer at Regent Business School Devan Munien, Dr Anthony Diesel, Founder of UBN Ashok Sewnarain. Seated: Founder of UBN Dr Suren Lutchminarayan and Dean of Research at Regent Business School Dr Ronel Blom.

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