Founders - Veliswa Mhlope and Wandile Ranelo
By Simamkele Teka
De Aar
A community initiative is gaining momentum in De Aar as Siyakha Enterprise and Learning Hub continues to empower residents through practical skills development and training.
Founded by Veliswa Mhlope and Wandile Renelo, the Hub was established to address the need for accessible education and economic participation in the region. With a focus on digital literacy, entrepreneurship and community upliftment, Siyakha is positioning itself as a key driver of local development.
Mhlope, who holds an MBA in SMME Sustainability, said the initiative was created to provide sustainable opportunities and ensure communities are not left behind in an increasingly digital and competitive world. Her co-founder Renelo, born and raised in De Aar, said the Hub aims to bridge the gap between potential and opportunity by equipping residents with the tools to succeed.
Operating from St John’s Primary School, the Hub runs a computer lab sponsored by Lilitha PV. The facility gives participants a dedicated space to gain essential digital skills in a supportive environment. Recently, Siyakha marked a milestone with the graduation of its first participant from the Computer Training Programme, which covers foundational skills such as computer literacy, document preparation and internet use.
In addition to computer training, the Hub offers business support services, office administration training and workplace readiness programmes. The approach is designed to ensure participants are both skilled and prepared to enter the workforce or start their own ventures.
Community members have responded positively, noting the value of having accessible, locally based programmes that directly address unemployment and the skills gap. Looking ahead, Siyakha plans to expand its reach through partnerships with local businesses, government institutions and development organisations. The long-term goal is to build a sustainable ecosystem where skills development leads to employment, entrepreneurship and broader economic inclusion.
With strong leadership and a clear mission, Siyakha Enterprise and Learning Hub is showing that real change can begin at community level, one skill and one opportunity at a time.
