Testimonials

from the Business Advisory Candidacy Programme 2023

The Business Advisory Candidacy programme is a first of its kind and  sponsored by the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT) with a collaborative effort between professional bodies the South African Institute of Professional Accountants (SAIPA) and The Institute of Business Advisors Southern Africa (IBASA), alongside the Services SETA. Seventy nine(79) candidates completed the programme and  42 of these candidates  were from  SAIPA , whilst  37 candidates were from IBASA.  This programme  aims to capacitate a cohort of young and dynamic entry level Business Advisor Technicians ready to impact their communities positively. The Business Advisory Candidacy Programme will lead to a long-term increase in entrepreneurship through Business Advisory services, while also establishing, through SAIPA, a meaningful career pathway in the industry through SAIPA’s membership benefits.

Testimonials from the Business Advisory Candidacy Programme

  1. What was the problem or challenge you were facing before joining the Business Advisory Candidacy Programme?
    I was not able to articulate well my thoughts and dreams in a business manner to finalise a proper deal for myself. I can communicate to clients  but not as effectively as I would have liked for business to expand rapidly.
  2. How did our product/service help you overcome that problem or challenge?

    Honestly, through the Candidacy programme, SAIPA  has changed my way of thinking and how I do business. I am now very clear and efficient in my business proficiency and I can now say I am able to conduct myself in a professional manner in every situation I come across. This has also given me an opportunity to become a SAIPA  & IBASA member and utilise the membership resources to improve my skills and become relevant.

  3. What specific features or aspects of our product/service did you find most beneficial?

    The ability to utilise CPDs and gain points to improve my skills and knowledge gives me the confidence that I can now say I am a accredited Business Advisor through SAIPA and IBASA. Belonging to the two professional bodies has given me the privilege to be able to use the Business Advisor certification behind my name.

  4. Can you share a particular experience or interaction with our SAIPA  team that stood out for you?

    I enjoyed all sessions throughout the programme and I liked the fact the all SAIPA facilitators were knowledgeable about the subject matter that they taught on. I particularly appreciated that the SAIPA team assisted us when we experienced challenges. As a result, they made our lives easier and even when some parts of the programme were heating up, they simplified the process. I would say that without the SAIPA team as such, and,  in particular a wonderful lady by the name of Lesego Mokwena, we would not have made it through. In fact, we had all the support needed for us to progress and become competent throughout the journey. I would like to humbly thank the Sponsor, North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT),  who made this programme possible for us to participate in successfully.

Testimonials from the Business Advisory Candidacy Programme

  1. What was the problem or challenge you were facing before joining the Business Advisory Candidacy Programme?

    Before joining the Business Advisory Candidacy Programme I was an aspiring entrepreneur that wanted to help the youth startup their own businesses, particularly in the townships,  and bring awareness to how the township economy can better our economy as a nation. I am now better equipped by being an accredited Business Advisor.

  2. How did our product/service help you overcome that problem or challenge?

    Before the programme I did not have the adequate knowledge on how to position myself in the market, neither did I understand which organisations to approach or to properly monetize on the information that I have, now I am able to see gaps in the industry that I’m in and how I can possibly monetize them.

  3. What specific features or aspects of our product/service did you find most beneficial?

    The CPD webinars are really helpful and informative and we get useful information from industry professionals that we can utilize, they’re not just lessons.

  4. Can you share a particular experience or interaction with our SAIPA  team that stood out for you?

    What stood out for me throughout the program was how the Centre of Business Advisory was invested in helping us grow, not only within the programme but as individuals. How SAIPA through the Centre delivered assistance to us as Trainees made a significant difference for me, when you see someone’s dedication to their work it also pushes you to do your best.