Generating Better Livelihoods featured at DSD Policy Colloquium

Written by Dionne Solomons on 17 Nov 2025

GBL

FinMark Trust was invited to participate in the Department of Social Development’s (DSD) Policy Colloquium from 28-29 October 2025, under the theme: “From Grants to Growth: Integrating Social Protection and Income Generating Opportunities”.

Led by Minister Tolashe, this event provided an important platform to showcase the Generating Better Livelihoods for Grant Recipients (GBL) programme and its contribution to strengthening inclusive development by linking child support grant recipients to sustainable livelihoods.

On Day 1, FinMark Trust CEO Brendan Pearce joined a panel discussion to share real stories and experiences from the GBL programme. The conversation explored how social grant recipients are gaining practical skills, confidence, and the support they need – through coaching and community networks – to build more sustainable livelihoods.

Day 2 presented a powerful reminder of the impact behind the work. Three of the GBL programme participants – from Sebokeng, Randfontein and Madadeni – shared their personal stories, describing how they started, the progress they have made, and the areas where the programme has supported them. Their ventures ranged from the Assistant Chef programme to agriculture and planting, and poultry farming (egg layers) – each shared how this initiative is unlocking potential and fostering resilience.

The audience responded with genuine enthusiasm, inspired by how the programme is helping individuals move from dependency towards self-reliance. The role of the coaches came through strongly as a key element of each success story, emphasising the value of personalised guidance and encouragement along their journeys.

The Generating Better Livelihoods project continues to show what’s possible when social protection meets opportunity – when people are given the tools and support to build confidence to change their own story.