By Luphomlo Joka, Managing Director at Global Leadership Consultants and author of The Ultimate Leader Shift.
At Global Leadership Consultants (GLC), our strategic focus is to unlock the potential of individuals, enterprises, and communities through structured development, advisory services, and hands-on implementation.
Why We Partnered with JumpStart
Our partnership with JumpStart, within the Gift of the Givers Foundation ecosystem, is a direct extension of this strategic intent. From a skills transfer and mentorship perspective, JumpStart serves as a high-impact platform to engage high school learners through the JumpStart Club.
GLC’s approach goes beyond knowledge and skills transfer. We mentor learners and focus on shaping mindset, building confidence, and instilling a culture of problem-solving, innovation, and accountability. The goal is to reposition learners from passive consumers of information to active contributors within the South African economy.
Entrepreneurship as Early Intervention
That said, our involvement with the JumpStart programme is equally driven by an entrepreneurship agenda.
We recognise that South Africa’s economic sustainability is dependent on developing an early-stage pipeline of entrepreneurs.
JumpStart enables proactive intervention by exposing learners to various skills development, business fundamentals, financial literacy, and opportunity recognition while their perspectives are still forming.
This early intervention delivers three key outcomes. It enhances employability through critical thinking and adaptability. It strengthens the pipeline of future entrepreneurs who are better equipped to launch and sustain enterprises. It also advances long-term economic inclusion by positioning young people as active economic participants.
Closing the Gap for the Next Generation On a personal level, I often reflect on how different the trajectory would have been if I had early exposure to entrepreneurship and leadership. This initiative is about closing that gap for the next generation. We are positioning entrepreneurship as aspirational, relevant, and a viable first choice.
Looking Ahead: A Tailored Learning Experience for JumpStart Learners
Building on this collaboration, GLC is developing an online entrepreneurship course exclusively for JumpStartClub members. The course is designed to equip learners with practical skills, hands-on experience, and the confidence to start, launch, and manage small businesses or social enterprises. This early intervention will help in preparing them to apply what they learn beyond the classroom and create meaningful impact in their schools and communities.
About JumpStart
JumpStart, powered by Gift of the Givers Foundation, is a 100% free and inclusive youth development and leadership programme for South African high schools.
To learn more about the JumpStart Programme or explore partnership opportunities, visit: www.jumpstartza.com
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