Georgetown Africa Business Conference Ignites Inspiration and Empowerment for African Economic Future
Get real time updates directly on you device, subscribe now.
It was a beautiful day in Washington, D.C., and the sun was shining bright as African business leaders, students, and professionals from around the world arrived at the Center for Intercultural Education and Development for the start of the much-anticipated two-day Georgetown Africa Business Conference.
On the first day of the conference, Friday, April 28th, participants were welcomed by the GTABC team and treated to a riveting keynote speech by Bobby Pittman. Pittman, a seasoned entrepreneur, shared his journey and the lessons he had learned along the way, inspiring the audience to follow their passions and pursue their dreams.
After the keynote speech, the conference took a creative turn with an African Creatives Panel. The panelists, who were drawn from various fields such as music and dance, social media, fashion, film, and art, engaged in a lively discussion that highlighted the richness of African creative industries and their potential to create jobs and drive economic growth.
The day continued with a cocktail hour and an art exhibition, where participants had the opportunity to network and interact with the exhibitors. The evening concluded with a spectacular Fashion and Cultural Show, featuring some of Africa’s most innovative and celebrated designers.
The second day of the conference, Saturday, April 29th, started with a breakfast and the GTBAC team introduction, where Moses Ruharo and Ziyanda Mtshontshi welcomed the attendees and set the stage for what was to come. The welcome note was given by Dean Malaviya, who emphasized the importance of the conference and the role that Africa plays in the global economy.
The Business and Trade Policy Plenary, which followed the welcome note, featured Dr. Antoinette Monsio Sayeh and Dr. Frannie Leautier. They explored the challenges and opportunities facing African businesses and discussed policies that could help them succeed in the global market.
The highlight of the day was the Case Competition, where six teams, including Team Afriheels from UNC Kenan Business School and Team IDEV Dames from Georgetown, presented their solutions to a business case study. The judges, including Dr. Anthony Annan and Charles Asubonten, had a tough time deciding on the winner, but in the end, Team Hilltop Partners emerged victorious.
After the Case Competition, participants were treated to a Technology Breakout Session, where they learned about Fintech, Agritech, and Healthtech. The session featured industry experts such as Leora Klapper, Samuel Chukwunonso Eze, and Ousmane Diagne.
The Energy Plenary, which followed the breakout session, explored clean energy and energy transition in Africa. The panelists, including Ainojie Alex Irune and Andrew Herscowitz, highlighted the need for sustainable energy solutions in Africa and the role of governments and businesses in achieving this.
The Entrepreneurship Breakout Session focused on startups, innovation, and venture capital/private equity/impact investments. The session featured prominent entrepreneurs such as Chika Nwobi and Ehi Binitie, who shared their experiences and insights with the audience.
The day ended with a keynote speech by Travis Adkins, who shared his journey from working in corporate America to becoming a successful entrepreneur. The conference co-chairs delivered closing remarks, thanking the attendees, sponsors, and exhibitors for making the conference a success.
The Georgetown Africa Business Conference was a huge success, bringing together some of Africa’s brightest minds to discuss the continent’s economic future. The participants left feeling inspired and empowered to make a positive impact in Africa and beyond.
