Social Entrepreneurship Vs Entrepreneurship

If South Africa’s economy is to continue to see healthy growth, we need more people actively involved as employers, and not just employees. Creating employment is one, of THE most important challenges for South Africa, and if we are going to tackle it effectively, a change in perspective is required on several fronts.

Having had read the above statement from The Times Newspaper. I came to the realization that job creation is vital for a growing economy like ours. The topic for week three was Social entrepreneurship and development gave us a broad overview of the business world. It was fascinating to come across the term social entrepreneur as it is not very common. The ladies and gentlemen we meet during the week were all actively involved in social entrepreneurship and it was all exceptionally motivating. On our orientation camp we were encouraged to “catch people doing it right” these folks were a clear example they were all selfless in their innovations and what makes them happy, is making others happy… now that makes me happy because I want to be like them…

I wanted to know what the difference between entrepreneurship and social entrepreneurship was, and why one and not the other? Through research I discovered that the core difference between the two lies in the purpose of the venture. A social entrepreneur aims to create social change through direct impact ,without the aim of generating profit. The business entrepreneur focuses on generating profit, they may create change in the society but that is not the primary purpose.

Further during week three, through discussions a question was asked on whether social entrepreneurship is the answer to alleviating unemployment in our Country. The obvious fighting factors were mentioned lack of education amongst poor communities, poverty, lack of resources, poor health conditions etc. these were mentioned as the reasons for lack of employment in our country. It drew major attention to me and the rest of the group that if we (the youth) encourage social entrepreneurship amongst ourselves and our peers we can alleviate some of those fighting factors. If we somehow had a literature class, or a skills development program we could strengthen people in underprivileged communities to develop, and in their development they can assist in developing others.

We need people to be aware of this venture and its purpose… and so I drew my conclusion. There is nothing wrong with entrepreneurship. Social entrepreneurship is just the more suitable option for us as leaders, because it is for the people and as leaders we are made to serve the people. Social entrepreneurship is not the answer to solving unemployment issues in South Africa but it is a step to achieving a greater economical state and getting people more involved in social transformation.