Johannesburg, South Africa - October 30 - 22 On Sloane, Africa’s largest entrepreneurship campus and the headquarters of GEN Africa, is thrilled to announce the launch of Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) 2024. This global celebration, running from 18-24 November, will feature 40,000 events across 200 countries, with 20,000 partners and 10 million participants. GEW 2024 aims to drive entrepreneurship, innovation, and inclusivity, inspiring both budding and established entrepreneurs worldwide.
The GEW South Africa theme will focus on “Removing Barriers and Welcoming All,” emphasizing the importance of building inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystems. The celebration will bring together entrepreneurs, policymakers, investors, and support organisations to advance global economic growth and innovation, especially in the wake of the challenges posed by the pandemic.
The president of the Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN), Mr. Jonathan Ortmans and Minister Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams from the Department of Small Business Development will officially launch GEW in Cape Town, as well as the GEN Campus 22 On Sloane Cape Town Hub on 19 November, expanding its reach and impact as an entrepreneurial ecosystem enabler in Africa, reinforcing its commitment to nurturing entrepreneurs across Africa.
Key Activities and Opportunities for Participation
As part of the global festivities, 22 On Sloane is hosting several key events. One of the highlights is the Hackathon at its new Cape Town Hub, offering innovators the opportunity to solve pressing global challenges through tech-driven solutions. Applications for the Hackathon will open from 28 October 2024 and close on 8 November 2024.
Additionally, following the successful launch of its Game Development Studio at the Joburg Hub in July 2024, 22 On Sloane will be hosting its first Gaming Fest on 20 November 2024 in Johannesburg. The event will feature game demos, esports tournaments, panel discussions, and networking opportunities.
Registrations to attend the Gaming Fest will also open on 28 October 2024.
Kizito Okechukwu, Executive Head at 22 On Sloane, reflected on the significance of GEW 2024 and the 22 On Sloane Cape Town Hub launch:
"Global Entrepreneurship Week provides a unique platform for entrepreneurs worldwide to showcase their ideas, gain access to resources, and build invaluable connections. At 22 On Sloane, we’re excited to be at the forefront of these efforts, empowering entrepreneurs to overcome barriers and thrive in a global market. Our theme of ‘Removing Barriers and Welcoming All’ is particularly meaningful, as it aligns with our mission to foster inclusive growth and innovation across Africa and beyond. The launch of the Cape Town hub during GEW 2024 is a key step in our journey to support even more entrepreneurs, creating a broader ecosystem for startups in Africa."
How to Get Involved
Everyone is encouraged to register their activities on the GEN website to connect with a worldwide network of changemakers: www.gew.co.
Applications for the GEW Hackathon will be open from 28 October to 8 November 2024.
Visit 22 On Sloane’s website for further information on GEW 2024 events, the Cape Town Hub launch, and how to participate.