The Greater Tygerberg Partnership (GTP) concluded its “Level Up” Series with an inspiring pitch competition on 21 October at the Momentum Auditorium, showcasing the innovative spirit and sustainability focus of local Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) in the greater Bellville area.
The pitch event, which formed part of the 2025 Bellville Business Expo (BBEXPO) pre-activities, celebrated the culmination of an eight-week intensive business development programme that supported 32 local entrepreneurs through workshops, mentorship, and coaching sessions.
Pekkish takes top honours
The competition’s winner, Pekkish, a Bellville-based software solutions company, impressed judges with their innovative approach to empowering small and informal businesses. Operating live since 2020, Pekkish provides digital tools including a Point of Sale (POS) system, WhatsApp AI-integrated assistant, and an online marketplace platform to help small businesses overcome structural and administrative challenges.
“Our goal is to formalise informal businesses, enhancing their scalability and reach while contributing to economic growth and sustainability,” said Sodieq Barendse from Pekkish, whose victory builds on their previous success at the Bellville Business Expo.
Legacy business honoured
Second place was awarded to Davis Clothing Collection, led by Carmy Davis, whose sustainable manufacturing business produces baby wear, men’s clothing, and ladies’ underwear. The company stands out not only for its eco-conscious practices but also for its commitment to community empowerment, providing employment to 35 staff members, predominantly women from disadvantaged communities including Elsies, Delft, and Ravensmead.
Davis’s business represents a powerful story of resilience and legacy, as he revived and expanded the family clothing business originally started by his late mother, transforming personal tragedy into inspirational entrepreneurial success.
Sustainability champions recognised
Third place went to Ncinci Ndiqala, a forward-thinking recycling and sanitising company making significant environmental impact across the Western Cape. The company specialises in used oil can recycling, collecting and processing materials from forecourts and garages to transform them into valuable resources.
Ncinci Ndiqala’s impressive track record includes recovering 14 553 pages of plastic from oil cans and collecting 1 135 bags of used oil cans between January and July this year. Their work actively contributes to the circular economy by preventing hazardous materials from polluting landfills, while maintaining accreditation from the City of Cape Town and partnerships with organisations like the Rose Foundation.
Supporting sustainable growth
The Level Up Series reflects the GTP’s commitment to fostering sustainable business practices and innovation in the northern suburbs. The programme, supported by key partners including Tyger Valley Centre, Standard Bank, Vodacom, Petco, and Polyco, provided participants with mentorship, strategic business advisory services, and development tools to help their enterprises scale sustainably.
James Vos, Mayco member for economic growth for the City of Cape Town, praised the initiative’s role in promoting entrepreneurship and economic development in the region.
The pitch competition formed part of the larger Bellville Business Expo, which took place on 28-29 October at Tygervalley Centre Arena, attracting over 500 businesses and stakeholders. The expo featured additional sustainability initiatives including the “Sustainable Journey” with e-waste recycling, composting challenges, and expert panel discussions on zero waste and circular economy principles.
Winners and participants gained access to the Bellville Connect platform, providing ongoing resources including AI assistance, a verified business directory, and peer-driven community networks to support continued growth.
The success of the Level Up Series demonstrates the power of public-private partnerships in driving sustainable business growth, creating job opportunities, and positioning Bellville as a leading economic hub in Cape Town’s northern suburbs.
Through initiatives like these, local entrepreneurs are equipped with the tools and support needed to thrive while contributing to inclusive, long-term economic development.
As these innovative businesses continue to grow, they serve as inspiring examples of how local innovation can foster meaningful change while building a more sustainable and prosperous future for the greater Bellville community.
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