Unleashing potential: the Koos Bekker Entrepreneurship competition fosters next-gen innovators
Koos Bekker
Christelle Colman, CEO of Ami Underwriting Managers, had the privilege of participating as a judge in the 2023 Koos Bekker Entrepreneurship competition.
This annual event, held by Eendrag Men’s residence at Stellenbosch University, is renowned for promoting entrepreneurship among its residents by offering substantial capital to promising young enterprises.
The competition this year presented a grand first prize of R100,000, with second and third places receiving R50,000 and R25,000 respectively. " Being a part of this initiative, fostering entrepreneurial spirit within the dynamic and innovative community of Eendrag, was an extraordinary experience," remarked Colman. The top accolade of the competition was deservedly secured by Julian Milner, Zack Nell and Arnold Hattingh, founders of Stellenbooks, a unique business model providing a practical solution to a widespread student problem through an app for buying and selling second-hand textbooks.
The event was held in the recently inaugurated Eendrag Lecture Theatre, a venue brought to life through the benevolence of esteemed Eendrag alumnus, Dirk Hertzog. This facility, designed to house influential gatherings such as this, is additionally poised to be a central hub for the anticipated Toyota SU Woordfees this coming October. The entrepreneurship contest attracted a remarkable audience, including the likes of Michiel Le Roux, founder of Capitec, and Chris Otto, the founding director of PSG Group, Capitec Bank, and Zeder Investments, amongst other illustrious figures. All were there in unison, demonstrating their support and investment in nurturing the upcoming generation of innovators.
Proceedings concluded with a memorable dinner at the stunning Babylonstoren. The evening provided an opportunity for winners, participants, and judges to mingle in a relaxed environment. Charl Coetzee, Eendrag alumnus, board member of Babylonstoren, and fellow judge, hosted the dinner. "Pressure is a privilege," Coetzee commented, encapsulating the essence of entrepreneurship. "Embracing pressure and challenges is the foundation of every successful venture, and witnessing the contestants turn this pressure into innovation was truly inspiring." The judging panel was rounded off by the third member, Alwyn Rossouw, Eendrag alumnus and founder/CEO of the Cape Town-based management consulting and financial services group, Marathon Group.
Ami Underwriting Managers' participation in the competition underscores its commitment to fostering economic growth and nurturing South Africa's future leaders. "We are deeply invested in platforms that highlight talent and promote entrepreneurship, as these initiatives play a critical role in building our economy," said Colman. Colman and Ami Underwriting Managers look forward to the future success of the innovative ventures unveiled during the competition. They remain committed to supporting and inspiring South Africa's entrepreneurial ecosystem.
