The Social Impact Show - Zinzi MMgolodela
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How Woolworths is Building a Better South Africa, One SMME at a Time
In a world where small and medium enterprises (SMMEs) are the backbone of economic growth, Woolworths is proving that corporate support can transform more than just bottom lines—it can change lives. Over the past year, Woolworths has increased its procurement spend on SMMEs by an impressive 42%, contributing R4 billion to small businesses across South Africa. This isn’t just an investment in business; it’s an investment in communities, job creation, and a more inclusive economy.
On the latest episode of The Social Impact Show, Samm Marshall sits down with Zinzi Mgolodela, Woolworths’ Director of Corporate Social Justice, to uncover the secrets behind this success. Through initiatives like the Inclusive Justice Initiative (IJI), Woolworths is not only funding small businesses but also mentoring them, providing critical resources, and helping them scale sustainably.
From Juan’re Clothing, a South Coast-based supplier that has grown to employ nearly 300 people, to Comet Security, which has expanded operations and workforce with Woolworths’ support, the stories of impact are as diverse as they are inspiring.
But it doesn’t stop at financial investment. Woolworths’ commitment to Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) loans has helped businesses like Comet upgrade their fleet, improve efficiency, and plan for long-term growth. These loans are more than just a lifeline—they’re a launchpad for sustainable success.
Tune in as Zinzi shares Woolworths’ approach to empowering black and black women-owned businesses, creating jobs for South African youth, and fostering social innovation through meaningful partnerships. Learn how every tailor-made intervention, every mentoring session, and every product sold in stores is a step toward a better, more inclusive South Africa.
Listen now and get inspired to see how corporate social responsibility can be a force for good!
In a world where small and medium enterprises (SMMEs) are the backbone of economic growth, Woolworths is proving that corporate support can transform more than just bottom lines—it can change lives. Over the past year, Woolworths has increased its procurement spend on SMMEs by an impressive 42%, contributing R4 billion to small businesses across South Africa. This isn’t just an investment in business; it’s an investment in communities, job creation, and a more inclusive economy.
On the latest episode of The Social Impact Show, Samm Marshall sits down with Zinzi Mgolodela, Woolworths’ Director of Corporate Social Justice, to uncover the secrets behind this success. Through initiatives like the Inclusive Justice Initiative (IJI), Woolworths is not only funding small businesses but also mentoring them, providing critical resources, and helping them scale sustainably.
From Juan’re Clothing, a South Coast-based supplier that has grown to employ nearly 300 people, to Comet Security, which has expanded operations and workforce with Woolworths’ support, the stories of impact are as diverse as they are inspiring.
But it doesn’t stop at financial investment. Woolworths’ commitment to Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) loans has helped businesses like Comet upgrade their fleet, improve efficiency, and plan for long-term growth. These loans are more than just a lifeline—they’re a launchpad for sustainable success.
Tune in as Zinzi shares Woolworths’ approach to empowering black and black women-owned businesses, creating jobs for South African youth, and fostering social innovation through meaningful partnerships. Learn how every tailor-made intervention, every mentoring session, and every product sold in stores is a step toward a better, more inclusive South Africa.
Listen now and get inspired to see how corporate social responsibility can be a force for good!
