ORT Jet marks 20 years of empowering entrepreneurs

ORT Jet’s celebration on 4 December of 20 years of empowering entrepreneurs was a momentous milestone in our economic and entrepreneurial landscape. 

Held at the Houghton Golf Club, the event was a reunion of dreamers, mentors, community architects, and partners to honour two decades of vision, grit, and impact. 

What began in 2005 as a heartfelt initiative to support just 16 businesses has blossomed into a powerful movement, an ecosystem that has since championed more than 3 200 businesses, touching the lives of more than 30 000 beneficiaries. With 278 businesses thriving in its network, ORT Jet is a testament to the power of mentorship and collective action. 

The idea for ORT Jet began in 2003, sparked by a noble vision: to embody the highest form of charity by helping people stand on their own two feet. What started with passionate meetings among friends and industry experts quickly grew into an essential organisation, proving that business expertise combined with communal responsibility is the ultimate catalyst for change. 

The evening, guided by Master of Ceremonies David Zidel, paid tribute to the extraordinary visionaries who laid the foundation. 

ORT Jet Head Helene Itzkin reflected on the organisation’s mission: to inspire leadership and cultivate a community where potential isn’t just recognised but realised. Two decades ago, a small group of visionary leaders lit a spark in the belief that empowering one business owner uplifts a family, strengthens a community, and contributes to a stronger South Africa, she said. From that spark, thousands of stories have emerged of courage, reinvention, resilience, and remarkable results. 

Moving addresses from Chief Rabbi Dr Warren Goldstein; Israel Embassy Chargé d’affaires Ariel Seidman; Roland Sassoon; and keynote speaker David Shapiro of Sasfin Securities underscored the critical role of entrepreneurship for prosperity. 

Shapiro reflected on the major global disruptions over 20 years, from the 1998 Asian financial crisis and 9/11, to the COVID-19 pandemic; artificial intelligence (AI) innovations; and the ongoing reshaping of markets, highlighting that success is never a straight line, but an obstacle course of crises and change. 

Technology, Shapiro said, from smartphones to AI, continues to redefine industries and consumer behaviour, creating unprecedented opportunities and complex challenges. Yet amidst all this, the timeless fundamentals of business remain: building customers; cultivating individuality; and fostering trust. His 10 guiding principles, ranging from prioritising client relationships and responding promptly, to maintaining reputation and dressing with respect, reminded the audience that mentorship is about equipping entrepreneurs with the tools to navigate uncertainty while maintaining human connection and ethical business practices. 

Crises and technology will keep coming, Shapiro said, but by adapting, mentoring, and staying committed to core principles, entrepreneurs can thrive and shape resilient businesses. 

Karen Schneid, the founder of Ooh La La Artisan Confectionery, was awarded Business of the Year for turning a lifelong passion into an internationally acclaimed artisanal brand; 

Paul Silverman was named Mentor of the Year for his unwavering commitment to guiding entrepreneurs toward sustainable, high-impact growth; 

Gary Epstein was awarded Consultant of the Year for his strategic insight and profound impact across multiple small businesses; and 

Nadine Hocter, the founder of Sheer Bliss, was given the Rising Star Award for her innovation in corporate wellness and dedication to mentoring the next generation. 

ORT Jet Chairperson Steve Zagey acknowledged the dedication of mentors, facilitators, and entrepreneurs, saying they were the true backbone of the organisation’s success. The evening concluded with a symbolic cake-cutting ceremony with the founders, celebrating two decades of achievement and community. 

ORT SA Chief Executive Ariellah Rosenberg closed the night with gratitude and inspiration, confidently looking ahead to the next 20 years of growth, innovation, and empowerment.