The eThekwini Maritime Cluster (EMC), in partnership with Womaritime Experts, successfully hosted the KZN Oceanpreneurs 2026 Bootcamp at the Riverside Hotel in Durban, where the six winners of the Marine Youth Innovation Challenge participated in a productive training programme.

The two-day bootcamp formed part of the next phase of the Marine Youth Innovation Challenge that was first held by EMC earlier this year. The training session also marked the incubation stage for participating entrepreneurs.

Day one consisted of the Founder’s 30 seconds pitch challenge, design thinking, problem solving, and a CANVA hackathon amongst other exercises. The second and final day of the bootcamp placed a strong emphasis on the art of storytelling equipping the innovators with the ability to effectively communicate their ideas.

The Deputy Chairperson of the Board at the EThekwini Maritime Cluster, Mr. Sandile Khoza, said this is a lifetime opportunity for the innovation challenge candidates.

“Many people wanted to be here to make a change. Use this opportunity, don’t just be glad that you are here. The important thing is what you are going to do with the knowledge you have gained here. You must be open to learning and be comfortable to unlearn and re-learn.”

“Follow the right people – EMC is right here to support you. For every problem that exists, someone must solve it. Every billionaire or millionaire that you see, saw an opportunity. I hope all of you become successful in what you do. Our country can only move forward when young professionals thrive and when Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) are supported,” said Khoza.

The bootcamp played a key role in advancing innovation and sustaining momentum within the blue economy.