Neftaly Charity
November 2017 Report
Neftaly – Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) Partnership
Report by:
[Name], Chief Development Officer, Neftaly
Introduction
As of November 2017, Neftaly is pleased to share this foundational report outlining the preliminary steps taken to establish a strategic partnership with the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA). This relationship, still in its exploratory phase, represents a potential milestone in Neftaly’s mission to scale impact and deepen developmental outcomes for youth and marginalized communities across South Africa.
The purpose of this report is to reflect on initial dialogues, shared strategic priorities, and the potential structure of a long-term collaboration aimed at accelerating social and economic development.
Background and Strategic Motivation
Neftaly (South African Youth Project) has steadily grown over the past decade, serving communities through youth development, education, employment training, and entrepreneurship initiatives. To broaden our reach and multiply our impact, Neftaly has been actively seeking mission-aligned partners that can co-invest in sustainable, community-driven transformation.
The Development Bank of Southern Africa, with its focus on inclusive infrastructure, regional integration, and sustainable development, emerged as a highly complementary partner to support Neftaly’s scaling efforts.
Initial Engagement and Strategic Alignment (Q3–Q4 2017)
During the third and fourth quarters of 2017, Neftaly and DBSA entered into early-stage conversations to explore opportunities for collaboration. Key developments during this period included:
- Preliminary Dialogue and Relationship Building
- Introductory meetings were held between Neftaly executives and DBSA’s development planning and social investment teams.
- Mutual presentations were shared, identifying overlapping mandates and community-focused goals.
- Exploration of Joint Focus Areas
- Priority themes identified include:
- Youth and workforce readiness
- Entrepreneurial development
- Social infrastructure (training centers, digital labs, etc.)
- Community innovation hubs
- Priority themes identified include:
- Scoping Potential Pilot Projects
- A preliminary concept note was submitted by Neftaly proposing a pilot in Gauteng targeting unemployed youth through a blended model of training, mentorship, and enterprise support.
- DBSA expressed initial interest in co-developing a framework for social investment with measurable outcomes.
- Organizational Readiness
- Internally, Neftaly initiated a review of its operational systems to prepare for future due diligence, governance alignment, and compliance with large institutional partnerships.
Early Observations
- Shared Vision: Both institutions are committed to sustainable, inclusive development with a people-centered approach.
- Complementary Strengths: Neftaly brings community access and program expertise; DBSA brings institutional scale, policy influence, and long-term financing capability.
- Readiness to Collaborate: Both teams have shown willingness to invest time in relationship-building and strategic planning.
Next Steps (Q1 2018)
- Formalize the partnership discussion through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) outlining joint priorities and commitment.
- Conduct a joint feasibility assessment on pilot program rollout.
- Establish a partnership coordination team to oversee planning and execution.
- Begin co-development of a funding and impact measurement framework.
Conclusion
The Neftaly–DBSA partnership is in its early days but carries great potential. As of November 2017, we have established a strong foundation for collaboration based on mutual values and complementary capabilities. With careful planning, transparency, and joint commitment, we believe this partnership can become a catalyst for long-term change — creating jobs, strengthening communities, and transforming the lives of South Africa’s youth.
Acknowledgements
Neftaly extends sincere gratitude to the Development Bank of Southern Africa for their openness, insights, and shared commitment to development. We look forward to building a powerful and enduring collaboration in the years ahead.
[Name]
Chief Development Officer
Neftaly Charity
November 2017