Enel Green Power offers far more than financial support: its ongoing guidance, training and mentorship programme is powering South African enterprises

Heritage, passion and a receptive market Marice Mercuur, the founder of Marice Rooibos Skincare, began her business career with a very personal mission: to soothe her daughter's eczema using the natural healing properties of rooibos. This plant, which has played an important role for her family, who are rooibos tea farmers, became the foundation of her natural, preservative-free skincare line. Her products gained favour with a market that was mindful of quality and natural ingredients. Mercuur’s products also appealed to the local tourism sector. Enel Green Power, which is a leader in renewable energy and part of the global Enel Group, prides itself on demonstrating a strong commitment to creating shared value in the communities where it operates. This commitment goes beyond its core business, and focuses on socio-economic development initiatives that uplift and empower local enterprises and communities. A lifeline when the going got tough The Covid-19 lockdowns in 2020 brought Marice Rooibos Skincare to the brink of closure, as the business was heavily reliant on the ailing hospitality industry. Sales plummeted, and it was at this critical point that Enel's support proved invaluable. "Enel Green Power threw me a lifeline. The initial funding provided allowed me to acquire essential equipment and raw materials, which immediately opened up stagnant areas of my business. I was also able to upgrade my production studio and develop an online presence – this created new avenues for growth." – Marice Mercuur, Founder of Marice Rooibos Skincare Enel’s commitment wasn't just about offering money, though. The company’s Enterprise Development Programme also provided precious mentorship and business development support, guiding Mercuur through the challenges of growing her enterprise. This all-inclusive approach helped her enhance her product range and meet the strict standards required by larger retailers. Business growth and community empowerment Enel’s support enabled Mercuur to successfully stock her products at the Wellness Warehouse, a prominent natural products retailer. The improved quality and presentation of her product line impressed the retailer, leading to a trial period at two key locations. "Our dedication to the communities in which we operate emanates from our Creating Shared Value model. We believe in empowering local entrepreneurs like Mercuur, not just with funding, but with the tools, knowledge and support they need to achieve sustainable growth and positively impact others." – Mantwa Mathebula, Head of Sustainability at Enel Green Power South Africa The growth of Mercuur’s business has also created valuable employment opportunities within her community. She has been able to hire several employees, all of whom have received comprehensive training, which contributes to the timely delivery of high-quality products. Enel’s additional efforts to provide practical support include the provision of extra funding for the purchase of a delivery vehicle, thereby helping Mercuur to address a critical logistical need. Mercuur is already looking to the future with new ambitions for her brand which include exploring export opportunities. The story of Marice Rooibos Skincare is a sterling example of the transformative power of meaningful, value-driven community engagement. Enel Green Power’s commitment goes way beyond financial investment, and includes mentorship, training and ongoing guidance. And this commitment isn’t only enabling the growth of enterprises, it’s also contributing to the long-term economic resilience and empowerment of South African communities.

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Enel Green Power offers far more than financial support: its ongoing guidance, training and mentorship programme is powering South African enterprises

Enel Green Power offers far more than financial support: its ongoing guidance, training and mentorship programme is powering South African enterprises