Astron Energy Development Fund

Supporting Success: AEDF ORT South Africa Graduation On December 4, 2024, we were proud to support the graduation of ORT SA’s talented beneficiaries at the Astron Energy Development Fund (AEDF) ORT SA Graduation event. Level 1, 2, and 3 graduates demonstrated exceptional dedication and skill throughout the year, and select graduates spoke to us about their journey through the program, inspiring us all. We were honoured to have Joshua Wolmarans Head of Tourism & Enterprise Development for the Western Cape, deliver a powerful keynote address, motivating these future leaders. As partners, the AEDF is committed to youth empowerment and entrepreneurship. This milestone would not have been possible without the incredible work of the ORT SA team in Cape Town, the program heads, and everyone who contributed to the success of the program. We look forward to seeing the lasting impact these graduates will have on their communities and beyond. #AEDF #ORTSA #Graduation #YouthEmpowerment #Entrepreneurship #CommunityImpact

The 2024 journey started on a windy day in Strandfontein Mitchell’s Plain, recruiting for the programme in the Western Cape. The year flew by, with each participant, stakeholder, judge to pitch parties, boot camp leader, and business coach, working hard to get to success and ensure real impact in the businesses on this programme. We thank you all. Our partnership with ORT South Africa is working towards the Astron Energy Development Fund purpose: Securing Our Future, Together.

Congratulations to all the entrepreneurs. The future is looking bright. #Silulofoundation #AEDF #Entrepreneurs

On 7 November 2024, the Astron Energy Development Fund (AEDF) team, along with Alison Geduld from Astron Energy's ESD division, led a bootcamp at the Silulo Foundation, focusing on the company’s value chain, transformation objectives, compliance requirements, and the support available to local entrepreneurs. Silulo Foundation, launched in August 2024, is a business and career centre in Dunoon aimed at empowering 240 entrepreneurs and 600 unemployed youth over three years through digital skills training and entrepreneurial support. The bootcamp, attended by 30 local entrepreneurs across construction, logistics, catering, and early childhood development sectors, provided valuable insights. Debbie Parker highlighted AEDF’s community impact, while Anneline Goliath encouraged entrepreneurs to focus on business development and leverage Silulo’s resources for future funding opportunities. Alison Geduld discussed transformation objectives, compliance, and health and safety, while Donna Fata (MBA, USB) (Integral Coach, UCT GSB) emphasized the importance of professionalising business operations. Key takeaways for participants included the need to professionalize their ventures, understand compliance, and embrace available business development opportunities. Owona Madlingozi says the event was a great success, reinforcing the positive impact Silulo Foundation is making in Dunoon.

Astron Energy Development Fund is deeply committed to its partnership with the Silulo Foundation. They are eager to be actively involved on the ground, witnessing firsthand the tangible impact of the support they are providing. #silulofoundation #AEDF #EmpowerDunoon

It's been a month since we launched the Silulo Foundation Dunoon Business and Career Centre. We have 48 entrepreneurs and 122 students for the computer digital course.

Dunoon, this is for you! The launch of the Silulo Foundation Business and Career Centre, fuelled by the Astron Energy Development Fund, is more than just a milestone — it’s a catalyst of hope. We're thrilled to be part of a journey that’s all about empowering local youth with the digital skills and entrepreneurial tools they need to thrive. Turning dreams into reality! #AEDF #CommunityEmpowerment #DigitalTransformation #DeliveringHope #AstronEnergy #SiluloFoundation

Well done to the Silulo Foundation and Astron Energy Development Fund team for the successful launch of the first ever Silulo Foundation Business & Career Centre in Dunoon. ???? Looking forward to the impact the centre will have on the community. ?? Being associated with such an impactful organisation fills me with so much pride. Luvuyo Rani, you are a true visionary. It's onwards & upwards from here!??? #impactinvestments #townshipdevelopment #edutech #smme #enterprenuership

The realization of a dream but just the beginning of a wonderful adventure towards scaling the future of a community. Silulo Foundation Astron Energy Development Fund #Dunoon Luvuyo Rani

We are thrilled to share the launch of the new Silulo Foundation Business & Career Centre in Dunoon, Cape Town, supported by the Astron Energy Development Fund. This centre is more than just a space—it's a beacon of hope, offering digital skills training and entrepreneurial support to empower 240 entrepreneurs and 600 unemployed youth over the next three years. Together, we're building a brighter future for Dunoon and beyond. #CommunityEmpowerment #DigitalTransformation #AstronEnergy #SiluloFoundation #AEDF