Youth gain maritime business insights

Maritime professionals, entrepreneurs and industry leaders gathered for the inaugural Youth in Maritime Business Seminar, held recently at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) Westville Campus. The Youth in Maritime Business Seminar was held in partnership with EThekwini Maritime Cluster, Izwi LoMzansi FM, the UKZN College of Law and Management Studies, and eThekwini Municipality. Young participants […]

Durbanites observe World Hydrography Day Celebrations

The people of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), particularly Durban residents, had an opportunity to witness the South African Navy in action as the world observed World Hydrography Day. Celebrated annually on 21 June, World Hydrography Day aims to raise awareness of hydrography and its critical role in maritime safety, environmental protection and sustainable economic development. Under the […]

From Inanda to the world: Nautical Science Graduate breaks the stigma

“This qualification helped me gain theoretical, practical knowledge, and skills that I will need when I go on board to work safely and efficiently on the ship,” says Nautical Science graduate, Sbonga Sibiya. Sibiya, (21), from the township of Inanda, West of Durban, is proof that dreams can thrive regardless of one’s circumstances. Sibiya recently […]

EMC Welcomes New Board Members

Following the departure of Mr Emmanuel Ntshangase as the Chairperson of eThekwini Maritime Cluster (EMC) and Mr Sandile Khoza stepping in as the new chair, new board members were appointed at the 16th Annual General Meeting (AGM) that was held at the Royal Hotel, in Durban on Friday. Mr. Sean Ross and Captain Nkululeko Makhaye […]

Stay Curious, Says Sea to Soil Creator to Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Amanda Mdladla, the creator of Sea to Soil and 3rd place winner in the Marine Resources category of the Ocean Youth Innovation Challenge says she was initially moved by the growing impact of climate change, particularly the role that synthetic fertilizers play in degrading the environment. Sea to Soil is based on the business plan […]

Mbuthuma “The Problem Solver” Aims to Turn Plastic into Life-saving Marine Equipment

Driven by a life-threatening asthma episode experienced by his cousin, as well as the challenge of their schoolbooks getting wet during rainy trips to school, Mthokozisi Mbuthuma was inspired to create a waterproof school bag with an attached raincoat. Designed to support rural children who walk long distances to school, his innovation has earned him […]

Innovation Challenge Runner-up Creates Invention to Uplift Communities

Inspired by two major challenges in South Africa, the growing problem of plastic pollution and a difficulty in accessing affordable housing, Siyanda Sibiya is confident that his invention will tackle the issues the country is currently facing. From Vryheid, Emondlo, backed by his academic background that has equipped him with skills in production, quality management, […]

Innovation Challenge Top Winner Ready to Conquer the World with His Invention

“Yes, I strongly believe Wavecoin is a sustainable solution for the future.” Those are some of the words spoken by Mthobisi Mbatha who claimed 1st position in the Marine Plastic Innovation category of the Marine Youth Innovation Challenge recently held by the EThekwini Maritime Cluster (EMC). Mbatha who walked away with funding valued at R50 […]