Amid rising unemployment and economic challenges in South Africa, churches and community organisations are taking on new roles by offering financial literacy and entrepreneurship seminars to empower local communities.
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As financial pressure continues to squeeze South African households, churches and community organisations are increasingly stepping into the space traditionally occupied by business incubators and financial wellness programmes.
With unemployment remaining above 32% and many consumers struggling with debt and rising living costs, faith-based organisations are beginning to host seminars focused on entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and nonprofit sustainability as communities look for alternative ways to generate income and access funding.
One example is an upcoming entrepreneurship seminar hosted by Glory House Ministries on June 12-14, where international speaker Dornett McIntosh is expected to discuss funding opportunities for entrepreneurs and ministries, financial leadership principles, and how nonprofit structures can be used to access international resources.
The shift reflects a broader trend in which churches are expanding their role beyond spiritual guidance to include practical economic support. Financial experts have repeatedly warned that South Africans remain financially vulnerable. Research by the South African Savings Institute has shown that many households have little emergency savings, while consumers increasingly rely on credit to cover everyday expenses.
At the same time, small businesses and nonprofit organisations continue to face funding challenges in a weak economy. According to Statistics South Africa, economic growth has remained sluggish, placing a strain on entrepreneurs trying to build sustainable businesses.
McIntosh says financial empowerment should form part of broader community development efforts.
“This will not merely be a conference, it will be a divine encounter destined to shift lives, awaken vision, and empower people to walk boldly in their calling,” she says.
Conference host Dee Khumalo says discussions around financial stewardship and entrepreneurship have become increasingly important as communities search for practical solutions to economic hardship.
“We believe many will experience healing, restoration, clarity, and supernatural breakthrough, including in the area of financial stewardship and entrepreneurial vision,” Khumalo says.
Analysts say financial literacy initiatives, whether driven by schools, businesses, nonprofits, or religious institutions, are becoming increasingly important as South Africans face mounting pressure to manage debt, build savings, and create additional sources of income in a constrained economy.
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