AFDA Johannesburg Vice Dean and Head of the School of Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Tebogo Motaung, recently played a leading role in the 2026 Youth Day Investment Conference, contributing to a dynamic panel discussion focused on investing in young people, entrepreneurship, and the transformative role of technology and artificial intelligence in the future economy.
Motaung, an award-winning educational leader, entrepreneur, and advocate for youth empowerment, represented AFDA at the conference, which brought together leaders from education, business, and innovation sectors to inspire and equip young people with the skills needed to thrive in an evolving economic landscape.
The conference centered on empowering young people through entrepreneurial thinking, future-focused skills development, and practical opportunities within the creative economy. During the panel discussion, Motaung shared valuable insights into the diverse career pathways available across film, media, entertainment, design, technology, and related industries.
The discussion also explored how emerging creatives and entrepreneurs can transform their talents into sustainable businesses, build long-term ventures, and identify the critical skills required to succeed in the future economy. Particular emphasis was placed on the importance of quality education, industry networks, mentorship, and scalable growth opportunities that enable young people to unlock their full potential.
Reflecting on the experience, Motaung highlighted the significance of creating spaces where education and industry can collaborate to support youth development. The conference provided opportunities for engagement with representatives from higher education institutions including the University of the Witwatersrand, the University of South Africa, and the University of Pretoria, alongside business and entrepreneurship partners who shared practical tools, sustainability strategies, and investment advice with aspiring entrepreneurs.
One of the highlights of the event was the business pitch segment, where emerging entrepreneurs showcased innovative ventures addressing real-world challenges. Motaung commended the entrepreneurial spirit and resilience demonstrated by the young innovators, particularly those developing solutions within the Agri-Tech sector.
The event also provided an opportunity to reconnect with industry colleagues and collaborators who continue to contribute meaningfully to youth development, entrepreneurship education, and innovation.
Motaung expressed her appreciation to the organisers, the Global Economic Fraternal (GEF) and Kingdom Embassy Centre, for creating a platform that encourages collaboration, investment, and meaningful dialogue around youth empowerment. She praised the conference for its focus on equipping young people with the knowledge, skills, and networks required to succeed in an increasingly competitive and technology-driven world.
As an educator and entrepreneur, Motaung remains committed to advancing youth employability, entrepreneurship, and innovation. Her participation in the Youth Day Investment Conference aligns with AFDA’s ongoing mission to develop future-ready graduates and creative entrepreneurs capable of shaping South Africa’s creative and business economies. Her leadership in higher education and innovation has previously been recognised through national and international accolades, including being named CEO Monthly’s Leadership Innovation Award winner in 2024.