When it comes to building or scaling a business today, advice is everywhere. You’ve heard it all: pivot faster, automate processes, scale efficiently, streamline operations. But here’s one powerful growth strategy that often flies under the radar: build community if you want your business to thrive in the future.

And no — this isn’t just another motivational soundbite. Community is your survival plan.

Why community matters more than ever

According to futurist and economist Bronwyn Williams, the so-called “job apocalypse” is no longer on its way — it’s already unfolding. Bronwyn’s close contacts have experienced job losses first-hand this year, with industries evolving and roles disappearing faster than most businesses can adapt.

In this rapidly shifting world, your most valuable asset isn’t your tech stack or growth metrics. It’s your social capital — the strength of your relationships and networks.

The kind of community that actually moves the needle

We’re not talking about generic networking events packed with lanyards, photo ops, and empty hashtags. We’re talking about authentic connections — where real questions lead to real answers, and one meaningful conversation can change your business, your day, or even your direction.

That’s exactly why Liz Pretorius and I created Founders Café.

How Founders Café came to life

The idea started small — a casual chat over virtual coffee where I asked Liz if she’d speak at an event I was planning. True to form, Liz didn’t just say yes. She co-built the vision with energy and intention, helping to turn a simple concept into a vibrant reality in just 10 weeks.

Founders Café isn’t about pitching or personal branding contests. It’s an inclusive space where founders, CEOs, and SME leaders sit side by side — no pedestals, no green rooms. Just people who are passionate about building businesses that matter.

What made our first event different

We kept it intentionally small — 40 attendees, max. We chose Flower Café as our venue because we wanted to step far away from bland boardrooms. Our speakers came to contribute, not perform.

Instead of awkward mingling, we structured quickfire one-on-ones and facilitated speed networking. And in place of the usual parting gift bag? We flipped the concept on its head: every guest received a brand showcase tote at the start — packed with over R3,000 in founder-led local products.

Why? Because show and tell always beats just tell. Guests tasted, tested, and engaged with products before meeting the brilliant people behind them — sparking deeper, more natural conversations.

The bottom line

In a world where headlines shout about disruption and uncertainty, one thing remains true: people are the ultimate infrastructure of business.

If you’re starting out, growing, or reinventing — don’t isolate yourself. Strengthen your network now, before you find yourself needing to lean on it.

Be intentional. Seek out rooms that inspire real connection. The future of your business may depend on it.

Lisa Aspeling is the founder of Anago Marketing and co-creator of Founders Café. Want to join us next time? Sign up for updates: https://www.taketheleap.co.za/founders-cafe/