Published: Oct. 10, 2017

Mhenderson and group of people in cape townany who travel to the city of Cape Town enjoy the robust, modern life of the city center, but Global Grant recipient Shane Henderson (IAFS ‘18) wanted to experience something different. He chose a summer 2017 study abroad program that not only went to Cape Town, but also offered a chance to study in the city center and work with local businesses on the outskirts of town. While abroad, Henderson fell in love with the capital city, but even more, he fell in love with the people who make South Africa such a special place.

Henderson participated in CU Boulder’s Entrepreneurship and Empowerment in South Africa Global Seminar, where he worked alongside two local, small business owners: Bongo, who owns a shoe washing service, and Thenjiswa, a beauty salon, spa, and stationary business owner. During the six-week program, Henderson and his peers assisted Bongo and Thenjiswa in expanding their businesses through more effective marketing and operations management. By working with local businesses and taking a business consulting class, Henderson learned how entrepreneurship is key to giving opportunities to those traditionally excluded from the economic and political mainstream.

Entrepreneurs like Bongo and Thenjiswa are ambitious,” explains Henderson. “They are full of hope and are trying to make a better life for their families and their communities.” Thenjiswa’s new marketing and appointment system helps her customers know what services she offers, and Bongo’s new eco-friendly, shoe-drying system, designed with the help of Henderson, significantly increases his service’s productivity. Both entrepreneurs aim to provide their local communities with affordable, friendly, and convenient services. Henderson returned to Colorado with a new outlook and an entrepreneurial spirit. Most importantly, he returned with a belief that when people have good in their hearts, and want to make a positive change, a community will thrive.