By: Lonwabo Mtyeku | Photo Credit: Lonwabo Mtyeku
Johannesburg, South Africa – Under open skies and in the presence of community members, government leaders and partners, the investors behind Times Square Shopping Mall hosted a high-profile outdoor donation event, reaffirming their commitment to inclusive growth, job creation and long-term community development.
The open-air gathering brought together Gauteng MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, NEC Member Barry Swart, and residents from surrounding communities, underscoring a message of accessibility, transparency and shared ownership of the project’s future.
A Landmark Development Rooted in Community
Positioned as Africa’s largest shopping mall, Times Square has completed its main construction phase, with Home Textile City already in trial operation. Speaking at the outdoor event, the investors emphasised that the development was never intended to be just a commercial hub.
“From the beginning, we believed that business growth must be inseparable from the prosperity of this land and the wellbeing of its people,” the investors said. “Being physically present in the community today reflects that belief.”
They highlighted the long-standing contribution of overseas Chinese businesses to South Africa’s socio-economic landscape, describing Times Square as a continuation of that legacy and a living example of China–South Africa cooperation.
Jobs, Youth and Opportunity
Employment creation emerged as a central theme of the outdoor engagement. Once fully operational, Times Square is expected to create thousands of jobs across retail, logistics, management and related sectors, providing much-needed employment opportunities for local residents.
In a significant move to empower young people, the developers announced the establishment of a youth entrepreneurship incubation platform, offering rental support, business training and supply-chain access.
“Employment is the foundation of dignity, and youth are the future,” the investors said. “This mall must become a launchpad for young entrepreneurs and a space where dreams can take shape.”
Beyond a Once-Off Donation
The donation unveiled at the outdoor event was described as the first step in a long-term social investment programme. Future plans include ongoing support for education and healthcare initiatives, infrastructure development for vulnerable groups, and structured partnerships with community organisations.
By adopting proven local models of corporate social responsibility, the developers committed to embedding Times Square into the social fabric of the area rather than operating in isolation.
Business with a Human Face
Closing the event, the investors reiterated a guiding philosophy: economic success must be shared.
“Times Square’s growth is made possible by this land, government support and community trust,” they said. “Our principle remains simple: take from the land, give back to the land.”
As the outdoor event concluded, the atmosphere reflected optimism and collective purpose—signalling that Times Square Shopping Mall aims to stand not only as a commercial landmark, but as a bridge for shared prosperity, community upliftment and sustainable development.
