STP Celebrates Sixth Graduation

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STP Celebrates Sixth Graduation
STP Celebrates Sixth Graduation

Africa-Press – Botswana. De Beers Group, in collaboration with Stanford Graduate School of Business, hosted a networking session in Gaborone to celebrate the graduation of the sixth cohort from the Stanford Seed Transformation Programme (STP) in Southern Africa.

This gathering recognised the accomplishments of innovative business leaders who have completed a challenging 10-month programme dedicated to fostering transformative leadership in business.

During the ceremony at the National Museum, De Beers CEO Mr Al Cook reflected on the company’s journey since establishing its partnership with Stanford in 2018.

The initiative aims to empower African business leaders with the skills to scale their enterprises, innovate, and contribute to economic growth that benefits future generations.

Mr Cook highlighted the tangible impacts of the programme, revealing that in South Africa, 39 companies had been supported, leading to an additional P1.7 billion in revenue, approximately P300 million raised in capital, and the creation of nearly 2 000 jobs.

In Namibia, assistance has been provided to six firms, resulting in approximately 200 new jobs, P245 million in revenue, and P61 million in raised capital.

In Botswana, 46 businesses have benefited, generating an extra P285 million in revenue, raising P327 million in capital, and creating over 670 jobs.

“Beyond these direct results, our Business Master Classes in Botswana and South Africa have equipped entrepreneurs with essential skills to tackle local challenges and drive sustainable growth,” Mr Cook remarked.

He also noted that their partnerships with organisations like the British High Commission were aimed at creating connections between investors and African entrepreneurs.

He added that monthly entrepreneurship sessions organised with Stanbic Bank Botswana and the Stanford Seed Southern Africa Network have further empowered over 650 young entrepreneurs in Botswana.

Mr Cook praised the Stanford programme for providing the foundational tools necessary for building generational legacies that contributed to long-term economic stability and prosperity.

Graduate Ms Matshidiso Kimwaga, the Director of Strategy & Partnership at MAM Group, expressed gratitude for the programme’s impact, emphasising that it fostered connections that extended beyond mere networking.

She described the relationships built during the programme as a source of collective resolve to enact positive change across Africa.

Ms Kimwaga highlighted the practical tools, strategic insights, and new frameworks acquired through the programme, which have redefined their approach to growth and leadership.

“We have come to realise that our business success extends beyond individual gain – it encompasses our employees, communities, and future generations. Our companies are not just profit centres, they are vehicles for change, empowerment, and opportunity,” she stated.

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