The role of social entrepreneurship in youth development: case of a music school in the City of Tshwane

Abstract

The impact of social entrepreneurship (SE) on community development has been the subject of many studies. This study however, focusses on the role of social entrepreneurship in youth development in the previously disadvantaged community of Eersterust. In addition, the study explores the delivery of data that might assist stakeholders to understand the importance of social entrepreneurship in youth development in a previously disadvantaged community (PDC). The aim of the study is to understand how Tshwane School of Music as a social enterprise affects youth development in Eersterust. The study therefore seeks to deliver information about the importance of social entrepreneurship in youth development in a previously disadvantaged community. The researcher used the qualitative research approach underpinned by the interpretivist philosophy. The case study was used as research strategy during this inquiry. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with three respondents who are representative of three tiers of TSOM’s organisational structure, i.e., TSOM’s executive (CEO), management and administrative staff. In addition, content analysis was conducted using the organisation’s website data found on www.tshwaneschoolofmusic.co.za. Thematic data analysis was performed to distil the data collected during the interviews and content analysis phases. The study found that TSOM was making a positive contribution to various aspects of youth development in Tshwane by delivering quality music education programmes, normalising access to township youth and providing a scalable township social business model. The researcher also found that for skills transfer to be impactful and meaningful amongst youth, a futuristic orientation needs to be adopted. Upskilling and re-skilling of staff improves morale and brings a fresh and modern approach to existing youth work practices. Access to valuable partnerships is a key aspect of youth development. A social contract between the community and the social enterprise is the key to the successful delivery of services between SE and community The research techniques used were not adequate to measure certain types of social impact of the social entrepreneur's and therefore additional social impact measuring techniques would need to be developed and employed in future studies. The research adds to the body of knowledge in terms of the role of an organisation like Tshwane School of Music (TSOM) in a township setting such as Eersterust. It highlights the essential elements that constitute a successful youth development programme in South Africa.

It also provides a scalable blueprint of a social enterprise (SE) that works in a South African township setting.