The DDQIC aims to forge a strong network with entrepreneurial organizations across the globe. The Forbes Under 30 Summit Africa offered four days of valuable insights, networking opportunities, and cultural experiences. It featured distinguished speakers from various sectors, including government, venture capital, and business, all aimed at inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs. Additionally, attendees had the chance to engage with local performers, entrepreneurs, and business leaders, immersing themselves in the vibrant culture of Botswana.
The Summit was attended by Dunin-Deshpande Queen’s Innovation Centre (DDQIC) representative Bogadi Letsile, a passionate advocate for entrepreneurship in Africa and Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship Ambassador. Bogadi is the founder of Nanobig Solutions, which develops and produces solar-powered water treatment systems by converting biomass from agricultural waste into photo-activated nanomembranes, increasing purification quality, lowering the cost of water treatment and reducing carbon emissions by at least 20 percent.
The Summit took place in Gaborone, the capital of Botswana, from May 5th to 8th, gathering young innovators, thought leaders, and entrepreneurs from across the continent. The DDQIC attended the event to bolster the visibility and impact of our programming in Africa with the broader community. The Summit emphasized the importance of encouraging young African women in entrepreneurship. “The most likely person to become an entrepreneur is a young African woman,” stated Letsile, “as the world needs entrepreneurs to win, the world needs Africa to win.”
Bogadi’s key takeaway was the emphasis on female empowerment and entrepreneurship. Letsile was moved to tears when Judy Dlamini referenced Dr. Gaositwe Chiepe in her talk on women excelling in male-dominated industries. Dr. Gaositwe Chiepe was a successful Botswanan politician and diplomat, serving as her country’s high commissioner to the United Kingdom and Nigeria and ambassador to West Germany, France, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and the European Economic Community. Chiepe’s influence highlights the importance of women striving to achieve the impossible.
The invitation to the Summit came as a part of the DDQIC’s partnership with Forbes, offering a complementary ticket and discounted tickets for our network. This year, Bogadi represented DDQIC with a complimentary ticket. Last year, Five DDQIC representatives attended the event – Megan Sieroka, International Programs Manager; Rejoice van der Walt, Program Coach; Emma Naturinda, Program Coach; Enoch Muwanguzi, Program Coach; and Peter Phatsma, Program Ambassador.
The DDQIC is interested in forging partnerships in Botswana and across Africa more broadly to support the development of innovative and entrepreneurial ecosystems. Additionally, DDQIC aims to connect with potential mentors to support the entrepreneurs participating in our programs. Africa, with its growing youthful population and diverse set of challenges, presents a unique opportunity for innovation. By collaborating with institutions like Botho University ELab, the University of Botswana Innovation Centre, and the Ministry of Entrepreneurship, the DDQIC aims to expand our impact by leveraging local knowledge to extend impact, foster the creation of sustainable solutions, promote diversity, and build capacity.
The Dunin-Deshpande Queen's Innovation Centre (DDQIC) is dedicated to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among students and the wider community. Through various programs and initiatives, DDQIC supports the development of entrepreneurial skills and provides resources for aspiring entrepreneurs to succeed.
For more information, visit the DDQIC Website.