01 Sep 2024

In a bold commitment to foster women’s entrepreneurship, De Beers Group and Stanbic Bank have launched an initiative aimed at empowering 100 women entrepreneurs across Botswana.

The launch took place in Gaborone recently at the Elevate, Accelerate, and Impact Entrepreneurship Sessions, a platform for empowerment. 

The “Elevate, Accelerate, and Impact Entrepreneurship Sessions” serve as a dynamic platform for women to share their journeys, exchange insights, and gain access to critical resources that can transform their businesses.

The session titled “High Heels and High Yields: Finance and Raising Capital for Your Business,” featured a compelling presentation by Ms Taolo Modisi, founder of Alpha Reign (Pty) Ltd. 

Her journey is a testament to resilience and determination, beginning with her extensive career in capital markets and investment banking before she co-founded and led Alpha Reign.

Ms Modisi shared how she navigated challenges brought on by COVID-19 pandemic, which heavily impacted her business. 

She candidly discussed the difficulties faced during that period and emphasized the importance of viewing these challenges as opportunities for growth and learning.

Speaking to a room filled with aspiring female entrepreneurs, she highlighted the importance of self-compassion during tough times and the value of forming supportive networks.

She encouraged women to establish clubs or groups where they can lean on each other for advice and support, citing the significance of mentorship, regardless of gender, as a crucial element in navigating one’s career path.

Ms Modisi’s vision is ambitious - she aims to impact over 1,000 SMEs, reach 50 million lives, and create between 5 to 10 million jobs within the next 10 to 15 years through Alpha Reign. 

She advised entrepreneurs seeking funding to be diligent in their research, to cultivate strong networks, and to thoroughly understand the needs and expectations of potential investors.

The session was attended by over 100 women entrepreneurs whose active participation demonstrated the growing entrepreneurial spirit within Botswana. 

The event underscored the ongoing commitment of De Beers Group and Stanbic Bank to drive economic growth through the empowerment of women entrepreneurs, ensuring they have the tools, resources, and support needed to succeed.

As the initiative continues, the Elevate, Accelerate, and Impact Entrepreneurship Sessions will remain a beacon of empowerment, providing women with knowledge, confidence, and connections necessary to elevate their ventures, accelerate their growth, and make lasting impact on their communities and beyond. Ends