South Africa - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

The DownSouth eAfrica (DSA) Sports Programme is a community-driven initiative dedicated to youth development, talent management, and creating positive, structured sports opportunities for underprivileged youth.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

Comprehensive, community-driven initiative focused on youth development, talent management, and structured sports opportunities. - Mission: Transform the local sports scene, foster health, discipline, and excellence. - Committee Formation: Established a committee with representatives from eight high schools to oversee programme development. - Enhancing Sports Leagues: Strengthening existing leagues (soccer, netball, volleyball). - Expanding to include rugby, swimming, and hockey. - Facility Refurbishment: Committed to upgrading and installing high-quality sports facilities to increase competition and participation. - Talent Acquisition Programme: Identifying, supporting, and guiding standout talents with resources and mentorship. - After-School Youth Programmes: Providing structured programmes to keep youth engaged and off the streets, addressing drug abuse and criminal activity. - Qualified Coaches: Employing experienced coaches to ensure the programme is impactful

01.02 What is the main problem you are trying to solve?

- Lack of Structured Sports Activities: - Absence of organized and resource-supported sports programmes for youth. - Youth Involvement in Negative Behaviors: - High rates of drug abuse and criminal activity due to lack of positive after-school activities. - Dormant Local Sports Scene: - Inactive sports culture with insufficient resources, facilities, and organizational structures. - Unemployment Among Qualified Youth: - Qualified, unemployed young people lack opportunities to contribute to sports development and youth mentorship. - Inadequate Sports Infrastructure: - Poorly maintained and substandard sports facilities that limit safe and effective use. - Lack of Talent Identification and Support: Absence of formal mechanisms to identify and nurture young sporting talents.

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your project intends to provide (at least 3).

- Youth Development: - Provides structured activities to keep youth engaged. - Reduces involvement in drug abuse and criminal activity. - Talent Management: - Identifies and nurtures standout sports talents. - Offers mentorship and resources for athletic development. - Community Cohesion: - Fosters a sense of community through sports events and festivals. - Encourages positive interactions and relationships among community members. - Employment Opportunities: - Creates jobs for qualified, unemployed youth as coaches, mentors, and administrative staff. - Improved Sports Facilities: - Upgrades and maintains safe, high-quality sports facilities. - Expands sports offerings to include rugby, swimming, hockey, and more. - Increases participation and competition in various sports disciplines. - Provides constructive outlets for youth after schools - Volunteer and Rehabilitation Opportunities - Offers volunteer roles for youth who have been involved in criminal activity

01.04 Please describe who exactly your project is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

- Youth Participants: - Students from 8 initial high schools, expanding to more schools over time. - At-risk youth needing positive after-school activities and mentorship. - High-Potential Athletes: - Young athletes with standout talents in various sports disciplines. - Athletes needing resources, mentorship, and guidance to excel. - Qualified Unemployed Youth: - Young people in the community who are qualified but unemployed. - Potential coaches, mentors, and administrative staff. - Local Schools: - Schools benefiting from enhanced sports facilities and structured programmes. - Schools looking for improved sports infrastructure and activities. - Community Members: - Residents benefiting from increased community cohesion through sports events. - Volunteers, especially those previously involved in criminal activities, seeking positive engagement. - Local Businesses: - Businesses gaining economic benefits from increased community engagement and events. -

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2023-07-27

01.06 How many other partners are associated with your business venture?

3

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

1

01.08 Please describe the profile of each of the other partners (skills, experience, etc.)

1. Shaen Nthabiseng Hlongwane (African/Youth/Female) - Safa coaching license. Owns and runs own soccer club. Head coach at St. Stithians College. 2. Katleho Tsotetsi (African/Youth/Male) - Safa qualified coaching license. Owns and runs own soccer club. Sports and physical education coordinator at Benoni West Primary School. 3. Isaac Zithulele Ndhlovu (African/Male) - Running license and coaching license. Owns and runs athletics club.

01.09 If you have a website, a social media page (Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin…), or app, please provide the link here:

https://www.instagram.com/downsoutheafrica_sport?igsh=MXU2Z2I3bmJvcjVncQ==

01.10 Which industry best describes your project?

Other: Sports management

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

- Job Creation: - Provides employment opportunities in coaching, administration, and facility maintenance. - Generates part-time and full-time positions within the programme and related activities. - Skill Development: - Offers training and development programmes to enhance employability. - Equips youth with valuable skills such as leadership, teamwork, and discipline. - Economic Opportunities: - Stimulates local economy by increasing demand for goods and services related to sports. - Encourages local businesses to participate and sponsor events, boosting their visibility and revenue. - Educational Support: - Provides scholarships and support for educational advancement through sports achievements. - Reduces financial barriers to education by integrating sports with academic support. - Community Empowerment: - Engages community members in volunteer roles, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility. - Encourages local initiatives and entrepreneurship.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

5

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

Creating Employment Opportunities: - Provides jobs for qualified, unemployed youth as coaches, mentors, and administrative staff. - Generates additional roles through event organization, facility maintenance, and programme coordination

02.03.01 My project contributes to the Good health and well-being goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

- Physical Activity: - Promotes regular exercise and fitness. - Mental Health: - Reduces stress and anxiety through sports. - Boosts self-esteem and sense of accomplishment. - Healthy Lifestyles: - Educates on nutrition and exercise. - Discourages drug abuse and criminal activity. - Community and Social Well-Being: - Fosters community and social interaction. - Builds teamwork and communication skills. - Positive Role Models: - Provides guidance from qualified coaches and mentors. - Encourages leadership and responsibility. - Accessible Sports Facilities: - Improves access to safe, well-maintained facilities. - Promotes widespread participation in sports. - Long-term Health Benefits: - Establishes lifelong habits of physical activity. - Reduces risk of chronic diseases.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

- Enhanced Focus and Discipline: - Promotes discipline and time management through structured sports activities. - Improves focus and academic performance. - Complementary Learning: - Integrates physical education with academic curricula. - Provides practical learning experiences and life skills. - Engagement and Attendance: - Increases student engagement and school attendance through attractive sports programmes. - Reduces dropout rates by keeping students interested in school. - Holistic Development: - Supports overall personal development, including physical, mental, and emotional well-being. - Encourages teamwork, leadership, and social skills. - Extracurricular Opportunities: - Provides additional opportunities for learning and growth outside the classroom. - Enhances student portfolios with sports achievements. - Positive School Environment: - Fosters a positive, inclusive school culture. - Encourages school spirit and a sense of belonging.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

- Equal Opportunities: - Provides sports opportunities for both boys and girls. - Ensures equal access to resources and facilities for all genders. - Inclusive Participation: - Encourages girls to participate in sports traditionally dominated by boys. - Promotes mixed-gender teams and events where appropriate. - Role Models: - Highlights female athletes and coaches as role models. - Promotes gender diversity in coaching and leadership positions. - Skill Development: - Develops leadership, teamwork, and confidence in both boys and girls. - Provides mentorship and support for female participants. - Community Engagement: - Engages families and community members in promoting gender equality in sports. - Organizes campaigns and events that celebrate achievements of both genders. - Safe Environment: - Ensures a safe and supportive environment for all participants. - Implements policies to prevent and address gender-based discrimination and harassment.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

- Facility Upgrades: - Includes installation of clean water systems in refurbished sports facilities. - Ensures proper sanitation facilities (toilets, showers) at sports venues. - Awareness Campaigns: - Educates youth and community about the importance of clean water and hygiene practices. - Integrates clean water and sanitation topics into programme activities. - Partnerships: - Collaborates with local authorities and organizations to improve water and sanitation infrastructure. - Leverages partnerships to secure resources for water and sanitation improvements. - Healthy Practices: - Promotes proper hydration and hygiene practices among participants. - Encourages regular handwashing and maintenance of clean facilities. - Community Impact: - Sets a standard for clean and sanitary conditions in community spaces. - Raises community standards and expectations for water and sanitation. - Sustainable Practices: - Advocates for sustainable water use and sanitation

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

- Sustainable Facility Upgrades: - Incorporates renewable energy sources (e.g., solar panels) in sports facility refurbishments. - Ensures energy-efficient lighting and equipment in all sports venues. - Energy Education: - Educates youth and community on the importance of clean and affordable energy. - Partnerships: - Collaborates with local energy providers and environmental organizations to implement clean energy solutions. - Energy Management Practices: - Promotes energy-saving practices in daily operations of sports facilities. - Encourages the use of energy-efficient appliances and technology. - Community Impact: - Sets an example of sustainable energy use in the community. - Raises awareness and encourages adoption of clean energy practices among community members. - Future Initiatives: - Plans to expand clean energy projects to all sports facilities. - Monitors and evaluates energy usage to continuously improve energy efficiency and sustainability.

02.08.01 My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

7 - Strongly Agree

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification

- Job Creation: - Provides employment opportunities for coaches, mentors, and administrative staff. - Creates roles in facility maintenance, event organization, and programme coordination. - Skill Development: - Offers training and development programmes for youth in sports and related fields. - Enhances employability through leadership, teamwork, and organizational skills. - Entrepreneurial Opportunities: - Encourages local businesses to sponsor and support sports events. - Economic Stimulation: - Boosts local economy by attracting participants and spectators to events. - Positive Youth Engagement: - Reduces crime and anti-social behavior, creating a safer and more stable community. - Prepares youth for future employment by instilling discipline and work ethics. - Community Empowerment: - Engages community members in volunteer and leadership roles. - Promotes community-led initiatives and sustainable economic development.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

- Facility Upgrades: - Enhances local sports infrastructure with modern, safe, and high-quality facilities. - Introduces state-of-the-art equipment and technology in sports venues. - Innovative Practices: - Implements innovative training methods and sports programmes. - Partnerships: - Collaborates with industry leaders and organizations to bring best practices and advanced solutions. - Leverages partnerships to access cutting-edge sports technology and infrastructure improvements. - Sustainable Infrastructure: - Integrates renewable energy and eco-friendly practices in facility upgrades. - Skill Development: - Provides training in modern sports management and technical skills. - Encourages innovation and creative problem-solving among participants and staff. - Economic Stimulation: - Attracts investment and funding for sports infrastructure projects. - Stimulates local economy through construction and maintenance of upgraded facilities.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

- Equal Access: - Provides sports opportunities to all youth, regardless of socioeconomic status. - Ensures inclusive participation across different genders, abilities, and backgrounds. - Resource Distribution: - Equitably distributes sports equipment and resources to underprivileged schools and communities. - Upgrades facilities in marginalized areas to match those in more affluent regions. - Support for Vulnerable Groups: - Targets at-risk youth, including those involved in drug abuse or criminal activity, offering them positive outlets and mentorship. - Includes initiatives for youth with disabilities to participate in sports. - Talent Identification: - Identifies and nurtures talents from all demographics, providing equal opportunities for advancement. - Supports talented athletes from disadvantaged backgrounds with resources and mentorship. - Community Engagement - Encourages volunteerism and leadership among previously marginalized individuals.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

- Community Engagement: - Fosters community cohesion through sports events and activities that bring people together. - Encourages active participation and volunteerism, strengthening community bonds. - Youth Development: - Provides structured after-school programmes that engage youth in positive activities. - Reduces crime and anti-social behavior by offering constructive outlets for energy and talent. - Health and Well-being: - Promotes physical and mental health through regular sports activities and healthy lifestyle education. - Supports overall well-being, contributing to a healthier and more active community. - Sustainable Practices: - Integrates renewable energy solutions and sustainable practices in sports facilities. - Educates the community about the importance of sustainability through programme activities. - Talent Development: - Identifies and nurtures local talent, providing pathways for youth to pursue higher education and professional careers.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

- Sustainable Practices: - Implements eco-friendly practices in facility management and sports events. - Encourages the use of sustainable materials and resources in sports equipment and infrastructure. - Resource Management: - Promotes efficient use of resources, reducing waste and minimizing environmental impact. - Educates participants on the importance of conserving water, energy, and other resources. - Recycling Initiatives: - Introduces recycling programmes at sports facilities and events. - Encourages the reuse and recycling of sports equipment and materials. - Educational Campaigns: - Raises awareness about responsible consumption and production among youth and the community. - Integrates lessons on sustainability and environmental stewardship into programme activities. - Local Sourcing: - Supports local businesses by sourcing materials and services locally. - Reduces carbon footprint by minimizing transportation needs.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

- Renewable Energy Use: - Incorporates solar panels and other renewable energy sources in sports facility upgrades. - Promotes the use of clean energy to power sports events and facilities. - Energy Efficiency: - Implements energy-saving practices, such as LED lighting and energy-efficient appliances. - Educates participants on the importance of reducing energy consumption. - Sustainable Transportation: - Encourages carpooling, biking, and the use of public transportation for attending sports events. - Organizes events that promote eco-friendly transportation options. - Environmental Education: - Raises awareness about climate change and its impacts through educational programmes and activities. - Integrates climate action topics into sports training and community events. - Recycling and Waste Reduction: - Implements recycling programmes at sports facilities and events. - Reduces waste by promoting reusable materials and minimizing single-use plastics.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

- Environmental Education: - Educates participants and the community about the importance of marine conservation. - Integrates topics on ocean health and marine ecosystems into programme activities and workshops. - Marine Conservation Projects: - Partners with local environmental organizations to support marine conservation initiatives. - Involves participants in projects such as coral reef restoration and marine wildlife protection. - Reducing Plastic Use: - Implements measures to reduce single-use plastics in sports events and activities. - Promotes the use of reusable bottles, bags, and other materials to minimize marine pollution. - **Awareness Campaigns:** - Conducts campaigns to raise awareness about marine pollution and its effects on ocean health. - Engages youth in advocacy for policies and practices that protect marine resources. - Support for Marine Research: - Collaborates with research institutions to support studies on marine ecosystems and biodivers

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

- Environmental Education: - Educates participants and the community about the importance of terrestrial ecosystems and forest conservation. - Integrates topics on biodiversity, sustainable land use, and forest management into programme activities and workshops. - Tree Planting Initiatives: - Organizes community tree planting events to restore deforested and degraded areas. - Promotes reforestation and afforestation efforts in collaboration with local environmental groups. - Sustainable Land Use Practices: - Encourages sustainable agricultural and land use practices to prevent soil degradation and habitat loss. - Educates the community about the benefits of sustainable farming and land stewardship. - Forest Conservation Projects: - Partners with local and national organizations to support forest conservation and management initiatives. - Involves participants in projects aimed at protecting and sustainably managing local environmental groups

02.16.01 My project contributes to the Peace justice and strong institutions goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

- Educational Outreach: - Educates participants about their rights and responsibilities, promoting a culture of lawfulness and respect for the rule of law. - Raises awareness about the importance of justice and fairness in society. - Volunteer and Mentorship Programmes: - Engages community members, including those who have previously been involved in criminal activities, in volunteer and mentorship roles. - Provides opportunities for reformed individuals to positively contribute to society and reconnect with their community. - Building Accountable Institutions: - Works with local schools, clubs, and government bodies to establish transparent and accountable governance structures for the programme. - Encourages participatory decision-making processes involving all stakeholders. - Monitoring and Evaluation: - Implements robust monitoring and evaluation systems to ensure transparency and accountability in programme operations.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

- Collaborative Efforts: - Partners with local schools, clubs, and government bodies to implement the programme. - Works with local and provincial government for resource support and policy alignment. - Educational Institutions: - Collaborates with the Department of Education to align the programme with school curricula. - Seeks to ensure smooth integration of sports activities with academic schedules. - Private Sector Engagement: - Seeks financial and material support from private sector companies and businesses. - Encourages local businesses to sponsor events and provide resources. - Environmental Organizations: - Partners with environmental groups to support sustainable practices and conservation efforts. - Engages in joint projects for habitat restoration and environmental education. - Resource Sharing: - Shares resources and best practices with partner organizations. - Coordinates efforts to maximize impact and avoid duplication of services.

05.01 There are a large number of customers who already use a product/service very similar to the product/service we envision creating.

2

05.02 The product/service we envision creating represents an entirely new type of product/service.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.03 The product/service we envision creating could be described as a new technology.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.04 The product/service we envision creating is an improvement on an existing product or service.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.05 The product/service we envision creating could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.06 The product/service we envision creating responds to a demand or need that has not been satisfied by other products/services.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.07 The product/service we envision creating is a new version of an old product/service.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.08 Justification

- Holistic Youth Development: - Combines sports with life skills, education support, and personal development. - Integrates talent identification and management. - Community-Driven Model: - Engages community members in planning and execution. - Offers volunteer opportunities for reformed youth. - Broad Range of Sports: - Enhances existing leagues and introduces new sports. - Encourages diverse participation across sports disciplines. - Infrastructure Development: - Focuses on upgrading and maintaining sports facilities. - Ensures safe, accessible, and high-quality - Educational Integration: - Aligns sports activities with academic schedules. - Includes educational support to balance sports and academics. - Qualified Coaching: - Employs qualified and experienced coaches. - Emphasizes personal growth, discipline, and sportsmanship. - Environmental Responsibility: - Incorporates environmental education and sustainable practices.

05.09 Who are your main potential competitors and what makes you stand out from them?

Our main competitor is Government. - Current Government Shortcomings: - Insufficient allocation of resources towards sports infrastructure and maintenance in our community. - Lack of effective coordination and support for sports leagues and activities. - Limited focus on expanding sports opportunities and integrating new sports. - Inadequate support for youth development and after-school programmes. - Opportunity for DSA Sports Programme: - Fill the gap left by the government's inadequate support. - Provide well-maintained sports facilities and infrastructure. - Establish and coordinate comprehensive sports leagues and tournaments. - Introduce and support new sports disciplines. - Ensure schools and local clubs are equipped with necessary resources. - Assist young athletes in achieving their potential through structured programmes. - Offer structured, positive after-school activities to keep youth engaged and away from negative influences

10.06 Are you initiating actions within your community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs?

1. Training and Workshops: - Mentorship Programs: Connects aspiring female entrepreneurs with successful businesswomen for guidance, support, and mentorship. 2. Networking Opportunities: - Community Engagement: Encourages local female entrepreneurs to participate in community events, fostering a supportive business ecosystem. 4. Advocacy and Awareness: - Highlighting Success Stories: Publicizes the achievements of female entrepreneurs in local media, newsletters, and social media to inspire others. - Gender Equality Campaigns: Runs campaigns and initiatives to promote gender equality in the business sector and raise awareness about the importance of female entrepreneurship. 5. Educational Programmes: - Youth Programs: Introduces young girls to entrepreneurship through school programs and extracurricular activities, fostering early interest and skills development. 6. Partnerships: - Collaborations: Collaborates with local organizations that support female entrepreneurship