The Gauteng Investment Conference made headlines in April last year after securing R312.5 billion in investment pledges across 60 projects, with the promise of creating more than 90,000 jobs. While those numbers matter, they do not automatically translate into change on the ground.
For many young South Africans trying to build businesses, the reality still feels far removed from boardroom announcements and polished policy statements.
This is where the real conversation begins. In December, we linked up with current affairs enthusiast Jaxx to take investment talk out of conference halls and into the streets of Gauteng. The goal was simple but powerful: ask young people directly what is holding them back from starting and sustaining small businesses in South Africa.
From township hubs to busy city corners, the campaign created space for honest voices to speak about lived challenges that statistics alone cannot capture.
What emerged was a clear picture of pressure and frustration. Young entrepreneurs spoke about the struggle to access funding, complicated processes that slow momentum, gaps in digital infrastructure, and limited support for township based economies.
Many highlighted that opportunities often exist on paper, but feel unreachable in practice. These are not abstract issues. They shape daily decisions and determine whether ideas grow or quietly disappear.
This youth led campaign is a reminder that the future of the economy depends on listening to those who feel its impact first. By putting the mic in the hands of young people, this campaign ensures that real experiences help shape priorities ahead of GIC 2026.
What does a better Gauteng look like for you?
