CDI Creative Exchange explores youth Innovation in the growing hemp economy

As global industries move towards more sustainable materials and practices, hemp is fast emerging as a catalyst for innovation and inclusive economic growth. In October, our latest CDI Creative Exchange event explored the potential under the theme Exploring the Hemp Ecosystem and Youth Entrepreneurship Opportunities.

The event was hosted in the Atrium of the Transwerke Building at Constitution Hill in Johannesburg – where our CDI Johannesburg office is based – as part of our Orange Corners Designs programme, which has just completed recruitment for its 2026 intake of innovative local entrepreneurs.

The Creative Exchange, an event hosted regularly by the CDI for over 20 years, brought together a dynamic mix of young innovators and industry experts to unpack the opportunities within South Africa’s evolving hemp industry – from cultivation and processing to product design, manufacturing, and policy.

With the sector on the brink of expansion following new regulatory developments, the discussion highlighted just how relevant hemp has become as a driver of green entrepreneurship and job creation, particularly for youth.

Three guest speakers shared valuable insights spanning the hemp value chain: Bradley Jackson and Modise Nalane of REM, and Linda Siboto, co-founder of Cheeba Academy, Africa’s leading cannabis and hemp education institution.

Jackson opened the session with a practical look at the agricultural heart of the industry. He took participants through the production cycle – from genetics and seed selection to cultivation, harvesting, and processing – emphasising how innovation at farm level underpins both sustainability and profitability across the value chain.

Nalane then offered a strategic view of the broader hemp market, outlining global and regional trends, investor interest, and the rise of vertically integrated business models. He showcased Green Route Hemp Industries in Walkerville, Africa’s first vertically integrated hemp processing centre, as an example of how South African entrepreneurs can create value through local production and innovation.

Concluding the expert contributions, Siboto turned the focus to the policy, education, and advocacy frameworks shaping the hemp and cannabis sectors. Representing Cheeba Academy, he highlighted the importance of public education and community engagement in demystifying the plant, opening career pathways, and ensuring inclusive growth. His message of awareness and skills development strongly resonated with participants eager to explore new business opportunities in the space.

The interactive discussion that followed reflected the energy and creativity of the group. Participants explored ways to apply their talents across the hemp value chain – from product development and design to digital storytelling and even gaming as tools for education and advocacy.

While the group acknowledged that legislative hurdles remain, particularly around medical and edible applications, the session ended with a strong sense of optimism. Participants agreed that hemp holds significant potential as a platform for youth-driven innovation, sustainability, and entrepreneurship.

Mohau Memeza, Project Coordinator in our CDI Johannesburg office, says that, “Once again, the CDI’s Creative Exchange has demonstrated its value as a platform for connection, collaboration, and creative thinking.”

“Supported by the Orange Corners Designs programme, these sessions give emerging entrepreneurs access to expert knowledge, networks, and inspiration to transform their ideas into sustainable ventures. By linking young innovators with industry leaders, the Creative Exchange continues to strengthen South Africa’s creative ecosystem and empower the next generation of changemakers.”

Contact our Johannesburg office if you would like to find out more:

Physical Address:
Transwerke Studios, 2 Sam Hancock St, Braamfontein, Johannesburg, 2017

CDI office in Johannesburg – contact:

Email Khanyisile Mpuang (Manager) on  Khanyisile.Mpuang@thecdi.org.za

Email Mohau Memeza (Co-ordinator) on Mohau.Memeza@thecdi.org.za

Call the team on: 021 276 2444