At SMG, we believe in the power of collaboration and education to make a significant difference in the world. Our dedication to creating a lasting impact on people’s lives led us to partner with the Durban University of Technology (DUT) on a project named EmpowerEDpreneurs.
EmpowerEDpreneurs is a unique project that links academia, entrepreneurship, and social upliftment. It is designed to empower academic students, student entrepreneurs, and student social leaders by creating a collaborative environment where all parties can benefit from shared knowledge, skills, and resources.
Our involvement in the project included hosting an industry immersion experience at the SMG Grenadier and SMG BMW Umhlanga dealerships. Additionally, our marketing team, conducted a skills development workshop focusing on the customer journey. Our participants gained invaluable insights into marketing, branding, and project management, equipping them to make a significant impact in their education journeys.
The collaboration with SMG has had a profound and lasting impact on both the academic and community levels. DUT Lecturer and Project Leader, Yâchal du Plessis, remarked, “Our partnership with SMG exemplifies the positive, long-lasting impact that industry collaborations can have. Thanks to SMG’s involvement, the project received top honours and 1st place at the 2024 DUT Engagement Awards.”
Through the EmpowerEDpreneurs project, SMG Cares has embraced the principle of “help the few, to help the many.” This initiative has positively influenced over 150 academic students, 12 entrepreneurs, and 7 NGOs in the Durban and Pietermaritzburg communities. These beneficiaries are now creating job opportunities and providing care for those in need, thus amplifying the impact of this collaborative effort.
SMG Cares is not just about corporate social responsibility; it’s about building bridges between education, business, and community service. We are proud to play a role in empowering future leaders and innovators who will continue to drive positive change in their communities.