The Branson Centre is propelling small businesses into the big time...

The golden opportunity:
An experienced journalist, Sybil had a clear vision. She wanted to publish a magazine where young
people were taken seriously and could contribute in a meaningful way – because it was difficult for
them to find these opportunities.

“We expect young people to have lots of experience when they enter the job market, not
taking into account that it is a learning process,”

The business in a nutshell:
Hola MaHigh-School is a 48-page magazine for, and by, young people in high schools in South
Africa, which is funded by advertising. It tackles a wide range of issues, such as sexual health,
relationships, bullying, crime and violence, education and career opportunities.

Sybil coaches and mentors young people who contribute to the magazine, helping them gain
valuable experience and improve their chances of employment.

The first issue came out in May 2011 when 50,000 copies were distributed to high schools across the Gauteng province.

	My passion is to put a mark on the media industry based on two important things: quality execution and employment of young people. So, I decided to start my own magazine, focused on these two aspects.
	- Sybil

How it’s helping the community:
“Our dream was to give young people a chance of a first job in a ‘forgiving’ environment, realising
that they will make mistakes,” says Sybil. “We intend to have new young people working with
us every year, creating as many opportunities as possible.”

Hola MaHigh-School also tackles tough issues, such as teenage pregnancy and youth
homelessness, and shares the real-life stories of people affected by them.

The Golden Opportunity:

Sybil wants to see her business become a brand for the next generation. “Young people will grow up with this brand and identify it with integrity,” she says.

She plans to distribute the magazine to nine provinces, eventually producing separate editions for each province, which will have their own editorial and sales staff.

And she has ideas for several more magazines: Hola MaFashion, a fashion title; Hola MaCampus,
for tertiary education institutions; and Hola MaFirst for 18-25 year olds, which will focus on
any “firsts” in their lives. Sybil wants to expand the brand to other media too, launching a radio station and Hola MaDigital, an online, interactive community, accessible on handheld devices such as mobile phones.

Got what it takes to become a Branson Centre Entrepreneur?

Then what are you waiting for? We would love to hear from you please outline your business plan to us using the link below.
Application form for the Entrepreneur Development Program