On 9th October 2024, Jacob’s Ladder Africa significantly impacted the students at the Dedan Kimathi University Of Technology (DeKUT) Startup Summit through various speaking opportunities, as part of JLA’s ongoing commitment to youth empowerment and sustainable innovation in the green economy.
Kevin Okwako, an Innovation Programs Manager at JLA, delivered an inspiring keynote speech on ‘Harnessing Market Insights for Disruptive Innovation.’ He emphasized the critical role of deep market understanding in driving breakthrough solutions that not only shape industries but also uplift communities.
Key points from the keynote included:
- The importance of identifying green market opportunities
- Leveraging data and insights to create sustainable solutions
- Aligning innovative ideas with climate action goals
Panel Discussion: Creating Resilient and Sustainable Startups
Louis Wajeiya, Innovation Programs Manager at JLA, participated in an insightful panel discussion titled “Creating Resilient and Sustainable Startups: Strategies for Long-Term Success.” The panel, expertly moderated by greenlabs incubatee, Mercy Sheila Otuko featured industry leaders including Brighton K., Maximillian Mugambi, and Faith Waraki.
The discussion yielded valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs in the green sector:
- Be an investable founder first, then a startup: Panelists stressed the importance of personal growth and leadership development in the context of sustainable business practices.
- Solve high-value problems: Participants emphasized the need to address significant environmental and social challenges, aligning with global sustainability goals.
- Build customer-centric solutions: The importance of creating green products and services that meet real market needs while promoting eco-friendly practices was highlighted.
Empowering the Youth in the Green Economy
The event helped to inspire and guide young entrepreneurs towards sustainable business models. JLA’s participation underscored our dedication to nurturing the next generation of green innovators.
Our representatives shared insights on:
- Identifying opportunities in renewable energy, waste management, and sustainable agriculture
- Developing skills necessary for the green job market
- Accessing resources and support for eco-friendly startups
Moving Forward: Climate Action and Innovation
As we continue on our mission to activate 30 million jobs in the green economy by 2033, events like the DeKUT Startup Summit play a crucial role in engaging young minds and fostering a spirit of sustainable entrepreneurship. Our participation in such forums help reinforce our position as a leader in promoting climate-conscious business solutions and youth empowerment across the continent.
We look forward to continuing our work in nurturing green innovation and creating sustainable job opportunities for Africa’s youth, driving us closer to our 2033 goal with each inspired entrepreneur and innovative idea.
