Building Stronger Communities: JB Marks Drives Growth Through Education, Inclusion, Youth Empowerment, and Informal Trade Support
- Karen Scheepers
- Aug 18
- 4 min read
JB Marks Local Municipality has demonstrated a multi-faceted commitment to strengthening communities across Potchefstroom and Ventersdorp. Through a series of targeted programmes, workshops, and partnerships, the municipality has addressed pressing needs ranging from financial literacy for NPOs and NPCs, to disability awareness, youth empowerment, and support for informal traders.
Together, these initiatives highlight a broader vision for inclusive growth, sustainable development, and stronger community partnerships that inspire confidence among residents, donors, and stakeholders alike.
Financial Literacy for NPOs and NPCs
On 12 August 2025, the Local Economic Development (LED) unit hosted a Financial Literacy Workshop in Potchefstroom, led by Professor Ermie Steenkamp from North-West University’s School of Economics. This event marked the first of two workshops designed to strengthen the financial management capacity of non-profit organisations (NPOs) and non-profit companies (NPCs) operating within the municipality.
The workshop emphasised the importance of compliance and accountability as a cornerstone for building trust with partners, donors, and funders. Participants were introduced to key concepts in financial governance, reporting, and ethical stewardship of funds, equipping them with the knowledge to operate more effectively. By empowering NPOs and NPCs to meet regulatory standards, the municipality aims to ensure that these organisations remain sustainable and continue providing vital services to their communities.
The second session is scheduled for 19 August 2025 in Ventersdorp, where local NPOs will take the spotlight. This follow-up workshop will continue the focus on building financially responsible organisations that not only inspire confidence but also expand their ability to deliver tangible impact in society.
Supporting Informal Traders and Growing Local Economies
On 12 August 2025, the municipality also turned its attention to another vital sector of the local economy: informal traders. Through an engagement hosted by the LED and Rural Development Unit, a partnership was formalised with the Hawkers Association to enhance support for traders who play a critical role in the day-to-day lives of residents.
The session aimed to strengthen dialogue between government and informal traders, ensuring that their voices are included in economic planning and development strategies. Among the outcomes of the meeting was the decision to establish a dedicated LED desk at the Potchefstroom Taxi Rank from 18–22 August 2025. During this period, hawkers and informal traders will receive hands-on assistance with business registration, compliance requirements, and access to available municipal opportunities.
This initiative highlights the municipality’s recognition of the informal economy as a driver of resilience, livelihoods, and growth. By equipping traders with the tools to operate legally and sustainably, JB Marks seeks to unlock their potential and create a more inclusive economy that benefits both the entrepreneurs and the wider community.
Promoting Disability Awareness and Inclusion
Two days later, on 14 August 2025, the Disability Desk in the Office of the Executive Mayor, working in collaboration with the LED Socio-Economic Development Unit, joined the 2nd Annual Disability Awareness Program hosted at North-West University. The programme centred on the lived experiences of persons with disabilities and the need for ongoing dialogue around inclusivity.
The event encouraged participants to reflect on the barriers that still prevent full participation of persons with disabilities in education, employment, and public life. With a strong turnout from both the university community and the public, the programme showcased the willingness of society to embrace diversity and foster greater empathy. However, it also highlighted the reality that much more needs to be done to achieve true inclusivity in South Africa’s democracy.
Municipal officials reaffirmed their commitment to building inclusive spaces where every resident can thrive regardless of physical or social challenges. By placing disability awareness at the forefront, the municipality aims to change perceptions, influence policy, and strengthen the fabric of a community that celebrates all its members.
Empowering Youth Through Strategic Partnerships
Also on 14 August 2025, the LED Socio-Economic Development Unit, in collaboration with the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) and youth-led non-profit organisation Athletes In Need (AIN), launched a significant youth empowerment programme. This initiative represents a milestone in tackling unemployment and building the skills base of young people in the North West Province.
Through the partnership, 550 youth have been placed in internships across the province, earning stipends while receiving structured mentorship and valuable workplace experience. The initiative seeks not only to provide immediate opportunities but also to build long-term employability, preparing participants to take on greater roles in the economy.
The programme was launched with a community clean-up in Ikageng, Klerksdorp, and Ventersdorp. This activity set the tone for unity and purpose, underscoring the role of young people in shaping the communities they live in. In addition to the internships, a new learnership project involving 25 more youth is currently in development, offering expanded opportunities in the months ahead.
This partnership between government, civil society, and youth organisations serves as a blueprint for future initiatives, where collective action can provide scalable solutions to pressing social and economic challenges.
Final Remarks
The initiatives rolled out between 12–14 August 2025 reflect a municipality working to address diverse community needs through education, awareness, partnerships, and direct support. From equipping NPOs with financial literacy, promoting disability inclusivity, and empowering young people through internships, to creating opportunities for informal traders, these programmes collectively illustrate a holistic approach to community development.
By investing in people and strengthening institutions, JB Marks Local Municipality demonstrates that building inclusive, resilient, and accountable communities requires collaboration across all sectors. As these efforts continue, residents, stakeholders, and partners are invited to join in sustaining the momentum towards growth and transformation.
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