The first Johannesburg cohort of the Orange Corners Designs programme has officially graduated, marking a major milestone for the initiative which is empowering young creative entrepreneurs to grow sustainable businesses that create impact and drive innovation.

Launched in 2024, the Orange Corners Designs programme is part of the global Orange Corners accelerator, an initiative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands. In South Africa, the programme is proudly managed by the Craft and Design Institute (CDI). This 12-month programme supports 20 young South African entrepreneurs between the ages of 18 and 35 in each city it operates – Johannesburg and Cape Town – equipping them with the tools, training and mentorship to scale their businesses and amplify their impact.

The Johannesburg cohort, who began their journey in April 2024, completed the programme on 20 May 2025. Throughout the year, participants benefited from a dynamic curriculum covering key areas such as Business Development, Product Development, Financial Management, Market Access, and Intellectual Property. Design-led Thinking was a core theme, encouraging participants to reimagine their business challenges through creative problem-solving.

In addition to structured learning, the cohort engaged in Creative Exchange sessions in 2024 with partners such as the Gauteng Tourism Authority, National Empowerment Fund, and Games for Africa – creating meaningful connections and learning opportunities across sectors.

The introduction of the Orange Corners Innovation Fund (OCIF), also managed by CDI, provided additional momentum. The fund offers selected participants the financial support needed to implement their strategies to grow.

The graduation celebration brought together a diverse group of stakeholders – those who have contributed to the success of the programme, as well as prospective partners eager to engage with the next phases of the initiative. In her opening remarks, the CDI’s Group CEO, Erica Elk, applauded the resilience and exceptional character of the participants, reminding everyone that this graduation marks not an end, but a continuation of the entrepreneurial journey.

Guest speaker Thoko Modise, General Manager of Communications at Brand South Africa, inspired the audience by emphasising the importance of nation branding and the vital role that young business leaders play in shaping South Africa’s global image. She encouraged participants to grow their enterprises and share the powerful stories behind their work.

A heartfelt video message from Carmen Kurvers of the Netherlands Enterprise Agency, funders of the programme, further underscored the global support behind the initiative.

Programme Coordinator for Johannesburg, Mohau Memeza, reflected on the journey:
"Launching the programme from CDI’s new Braamfontein offices symbolised a new chapter for our work in the city. It has been inspiring to witness the progress of this talented group – each participant brought passion and purpose to their enterprise, and we are excited to see how they will continue to grow post-programme."

Jewellery designer and founder of Peachyplum.rsa, Phindile Kotane, credits the programme with accelerating both her personal and professional growth. “It has been a transformative experience that elevated my business approach through mentorship and practical workshops.”

Rico Nyathi emphasised the value of the support he received from the Orange Corners Designs team, particularly in learning to integrate self-care into his business strategy. “This shift has contributed to a more sustainable and effective business model,” he said.

For Zwakele Zondo, owner of Something in a Box , the programme underscored the vital role of collaboration and community. “The entrepreneurship is not a solo journey, and building strong networks is essential for long-term success.”

Graduate Sfiso Mthethwa of Maphike Attorneys Inc gave an inspiring speech that highlighted the impact of the programme and called on the cohort to harness the power of the network for future growth - read his speech here. "As we walk across this stage today, let us remember: this isn’t just a graduation — it’s a call to build. Not in isolation. But in partnership. In unity. In purpose," he noted.

Following the formal proceedings, participants from both Johannesburg Cohort 1 and 2 connected with guests from a range of organisations including the Gauteng Tourism Authority, Productivity SA, Wakanda Food Incubator, Tourvest, Viridian, Arts and Culture Trust, Harambee, Messe Frankfurt Exhibition, and Johannesburg Business School.

With a strong foundation laid, Orange Corners Designs is already building on its success. The second Johannesburg cohort began earlier this year, and a second cohort in Cape Town started last month.

“This impactful year has underscored the programme’s value in catalysing innovation and entrepreneurship – not only in Johannesburg but also in Cape Town, where the first cohort will complete their programme cycle later this year,” says Khanya Mpuang, Orange Corners Designs Programme Manager.

Mpuang also announced that graduates will continue to benefit through the Orange Corners Alumni Programme, in partnership with 4VCA, which offers access to international mentors, funding and investment as well as valuable networking opportunities.

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