Season 14 Episode 10

Gene Likhanya and Trudy Mkansi on the future of SME growth in South Africa

04 March 2026 · 31:06 min

In this episode of Business Talk, two South African entrepreneurs share their real-world journeys of building and scaling businesses with the support of the SAB Foundation. Gene Likhanya, an agri-entrepreneur in macadamia production, and Trudy Mkansi, founder of a sustainable outdoor furniture… manufacturing business, reflect on the highs and lows of entrepreneurship — from climate risks and cash flow pressures to navigating COVID-19 and building competitive, purpose-driven operations.

The conversation explores the power of pairing funding with mentorship, training, and long-term ecosystem support. Both entrepreneurs highlight the importance of resilience, discipline, authenticity, and access to information in overcoming South Africa’s structural challenges. It’s an honest look at what it really takes to survive and grow as an SME — and how impact investing, when done right, can unlock opportunity, dignity, and lasting economic change. Show more