Mentorship Driving Entrepreneur Success

Entrepreneurs power South Africa’s growth, yet many struggle to reach the markets that need their solutions. Funding helps, but it is not enough. Real success depends on access, mentorship, and networks that open doors.

The DHL Route to Market 2025 competition tackles these barriers with a support model that goes far beyond prize money. It offers structured training, direct engagement with industry leaders, and honest feedback from decision-makers. The goal is simple. Give entrepreneurs the tools, insight, and relationships they need to turn strong ideas into market-ready businesses.

What this year’s logistics innovators took from the programme shows the impact of guidance and access.

Strong foundations through mentorship

Freddy Mahhumane – KasiD

KasiD is reshaping township logistics with a digital platform that links restaurants, retailers, and drivers to local customers. It solves problems inherent to township environments and gives young drivers and small businesses a route into larger supply chains.

Mahhumane says the training shifted his thinking. “The session at GIBS was a real eye-opener. Defining core values has been a major part of KasiD’s growth. The judges were open and practical, and helped me understand how to position the business.”

For him, the value is clear. “Route to Market gives you access to knowledge and networks that small businesses rarely get. That is worth more than any cash prize.”

Marko Marais – Hibosolve

Hibosolve matches clients and transporters in real time. It automates quotes, margins, and delivery tracking, reducing delays and improving supply chain transparency.

“The first training session changed my way of thinking,” Marais says. “It helped me understand my business from the inside out. Meeting the judges showed me how leaders think, and their feedback was relaxed and generous.”

He adds that the exposure was key. “Direct access to industry leaders is invaluable. Most entrepreneurs never get that chance.”

Sokrates Oosthuizen – Gridiron Logistics

Gridiron Logistics runs a modern fleet that moves temperature-sensitive goods across Southern Africa. Its focus on accuracy, compliance, and sustainability reflects a new standard for cold-chain transport.

“The DHL experience has been incredibly valuable,” Oosthuizen says. “You speak to people with deep knowledge and decades of experience. You cannot put a price on that.”

His advice to future entrants is simple. “Don’t enter for the prize money. You enter for the knowledge and the relationships. That can change how you see your business and your future.”

Beyond prizes: building long-term success

Route to Market shows that entrepreneurs grow faster with guidance, practical insight, and access to people who understand the industry. By connecting founders with mentors and decision-makers, the programme helps them refine their value proposition, strengthen their strategy, and identify real market opportunities.

For South Africa’s next generation of business leaders, one message stands out. Mentorship and access unlock opportunities that money alone never will.