Watch: Young Minds Conversations with Entrepreneurs | Dean Smorenburg

Posted on March 6th, 2025 by SBS-ED

Founder and CEO of Maltento (Pty) Ltd, Dean Smorenburg, shared his entrepreneurial journey during our #YoungMinds Conversations with Entrepreneurs—highlighting the power of curiosity, adaptability, and persistence.

Now, see it in action! Watch his full talk and explore practical insights on taking the leap and thinking outside the box.

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Passions to Possibilities: Pivoting for Entrepreneurial Success

Posted on March 6th, 2025 by SBS-ED

The transition from high school to the next stage of life is full of uncertainty—but also an opportunity. It’s a time to ask big questions: What kind of impact do you want to make? How can you turn your interests into something meaningful? For those with an entrepreneurial mindset, the journey isn’t just about choosing a career; it’s about creating something new.

One entrepreneur who has done exactly that is Dean Smorenburg. As part of our Young Minds Conversations with Entrepreneurs initiative, Dean shared his story of breaking away from corporate consulting to building an innovative organisation in sustainable agriculture. Now the Founder and CEO of Maltento, he has built a company that transforms insects into high-value, functional nutrition solutions, revolutionising the way we think about sustainable protein.

Here are key insights from Dean’s journey for anyone thinking about their next big move:

1. Take a Bold Leap with Transferable Skills

Dean started out in corporate consulting but soon realised his passion for sustainable agriculture. He used transferable skills to change his entire career, taking everything he learned from his first roles to successfully pivot into a new industry.

Tip: Keep an open mind about where your skills and interests can take you—all roles teach skills that are transferable to new roles, industries, and sectors.

2. Innovation Starts with Curiosity

Dean’s journey into insect-based agriculture began as an experiment with earthworms in his apartment. His curiosity led him to discover the potential of black soldier flies as a sustainable protein source.

Tip: Keep experimenting and learning—sometimes the best ideas emerge from personal projects and hobbies.

3. Every Challenge is an Opportunity

Insect farming required overcoming negative perceptions and proving its commercial viability. By focusing on controlled processes and high-quality feedstock, Maltento successfully positioned itself as a premium supplier in the market.

Tip: Approach challenges as opportunities to differentiate and innovate.

4. A Strong Network Can Open Doors

Dean leveraged industry connections to secure partnerships with breweries, using their spent grain as sustainable feed for insects. This strategic collaboration provided a steady input source while reducing food waste.

Tip: Build relationships and look for mutually beneficial partnerships to accelerate your business growth.

5. Persistence Pays Off

Insect farming is not an easy sell, but through persistence, research, and continuous improvement, Maltento carved out a niche market, supplying pet food, aquaculture, and sustainable agriculture industries.

Tip: Stick with your vision, even when the road gets tough—persistence is key to breaking through market resistance.

6. Think Beyond the Obvious

Instead of competing directly with traditional protein sources like fishmeal, Maltento positioned its products as natural enhancers for pet and animal nutrition, commanding a higher value.

Tip: Identify ways to add unique value to your offering—differentiation is crucial in a competitive market.

7. Sustainability Can Be a Business Model

Dean’s approach focuses on creating a closed-loop system—upcycling food waste into high-value protein, reducing environmental impact, and enhancing food security.

Tip: Sustainability isn’t just good for the planet—it’s a smart business strategy that attracts conscious consumers and investors.

8. Adaptability is Crucial

As the industry evolved, so did Maltento’s focus—shifting from bulk protein production to specialised functional ingredients.

Tip: Stay flexible and be willing to pivot your business model when new opportunities arise.

9. Financial Planning is Key

Building an innovative business requires careful financial planning. Maltento secured seed funding to test and refine its concept before scaling operations.

Tip: Secure financial backing before scaling—whether through grants, partnerships, or investors.

10. Believe in Your Vision

What started as an experiment with insect farming is now a pioneering business with a global market. Dean’s success is a testament to the power of belief, resilience, and innovative thinking.

Tip: Stay committed to your mission, even if it takes time to gain traction.

Final Thoughts

Life after high school is a blank canvas, and how you choose to fill it is entirely up to you. Whether you dive into further studies, enter the workforce, or carve your own path, the most important thing is to stay open to new experiences and embrace the unknown. Opportunities don’t just appear—you create them through curiosity, determination, and a willingness to take risks. As Dean’s journey proves, turning ideas into success isn’t just about having a vision—it’s about taking action, adapting to challenges, and staying committed to the path you choose.

Stepping into the future can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. The Young Minds Programme at Stellenbosch Business School Executive Development offers a dynamic, Stellenbosch University-certified experience designed to equip school leavers with essential business, leadership, and entrepreneurial skills. This programme goes beyond the classroom, providing access to life coaching, job shadowing guidance, and expert-led workshops to help you gain clarity and confidence in your next steps.

Set yourself up for success—explore the Young Minds Programme and start shaping your future today!

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Watch: Young Minds Conversations with Entrepreneurs | Ivan Arnold

Posted on February 21st, 2025 by SBS-ED

Ivan Arnold, founder of Inn-Addition and Co-founder of TrailPod, shared his entrepreneurial journey during our Young Minds Conversations with Entrepreneurs, highlighting the power of attitude, agility, and mindset.

Now, see it in action! Watch his full talk and explore practical insights on overcoming challenges and fueling growth:

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Mind Over Matter: Entrepreneurial Confidence and Growth

Posted on February 19th, 2025 by SBS-ED

Life after high school can feel like standing at the edge of a vast mountain range—you’re not quite sure which path to take, but every step shapes the journey. Whether you’re considering studying, working, or starting your own business, one of the most important things you can do is “mind your mind.”

Founder of Inn-Addition and Co-founder of TrailPod, Ivan Arnold, has a story filled with unconventional wisdom, proving that success isn’t always about following a straight line. His journey—from school, the military, corporate life, and competitive downhill racing, to running multiple businesses—highlights powerful lessons about resilience, confidence, and the power of perspective.

Here are his key insights that can help you navigate your future:

1. Your Mind Shapes Your Reality

Ivan’s philosophy is simple: your mind rules your life. If you constantly focus on negativity or see yourself as a victim of circumstances, you will struggle. On the other hand, if you believe life happens for you, not to you, every challenge becomes an opportunity for growth.

Tip: Start practising self-awareness. Pay attention to the thoughts that dominate your mind and ask yourself, Is this true, or is it just an assumption? Train your mind to focus on solutions rather than problems.

2. High Expectations Without Effort Lead to Low Results

One of Ivan’s biggest lessons in business was that having a great product or idea isn’t enough—you must put in the work. He learned that assuming something will succeed on its own often leads to disappointment.

Tip: Hard work is the real game-changer. Whether you’re studying, starting a business, or exploring a new passion, consistent effort is what creates success.

3. Adaptation and Letting Go Are Crucial

Life and business don’t always go as planned. Ivan started a successful business but eventually realised he had become bored with it. Instead of forcing himself to stay in an industry that no longer inspired him, he pivoted to something new: TrailPod, an innovative camping trailer business.

Tip: Be open to change. What excites you today may not be your passion forever, and that’s okay. Stay flexible and follow what energises you.

4. Problems Are Just Opportunities in Disguise

Ivan embraces challenges with a mindset shift—he doesn’t see them as problems but as opportunities for creative solutions. He believes that if you keep your mind busy with negativity, you block the clarity needed to find solutions.

Tip: The next time you face a challenge, take a step back and ask: What can I learn from this? How can I turn this into an advantage?

5. Stand Out—Be the “Purple Cow”

Inspired by Seth Godin’s marketing concept, Ivan emphasises the importance of differentiation in business and life. Just like a purple cow stands out among thousands of brown cows, your unique approach is what makes you memorable.

Tip: Whether you’re building a business, applying for jobs, or crafting a personal brand, think about what makes you different. Embrace your uniqueness.

6. Confidence Comes from Action, Not Overthinking

Many people struggle with self-doubt, but Ivan challenges the idea that you need confidence before taking action. Instead, he believes that confidence is built by doing.

Tip: Don’t wait until you “feel ready”—jump in and figure things out as you go. Experience is the best teacher.

7. Reflection is a Powerful Tool

Ivan stresses the importance of stepping back and reflecting on past experiences. Instead of dwelling on failures, he sees them as valuable lessons that help hi9. m make better decisions in the future.

Tip: Regularly reflect on your experiences—what worked, what didn’t, and what you can do differently next time.

8. Know Who You Surround Yourself With

The people around you have a big impact on your mindset and growth. Ivan emphasises that sometimes the best support comes from the people you surround yourself with.

Tip: Surround yourself with people who uplift you, encourage you, and challenge you to grow.

9. There’s No Final Destination—Only the Journey

One of Ivan’s most powerful lessons is that life isn’t about reaching a single end goal—it’s about continuous growth. He compares life to climbing a mountain, where setbacks are just part of the adventure.

Tip: Enjoy the process, embrace detours, and remember that every experience, even the tough ones, are stepping stones to something greater.

10. Success is Built on Persistence

From near financial losses to learning business lessons the hard way, Ivan’s journey highlights that persistence is the key to making it through difficult times. Instead of giving up, he adjusted, learned, and kept moving forward.

Tip: When you hit a roadblock, remind yourself that setbacks are temporary. Stay persistent and keep adapting until you find a way forward.

Final Thoughts

Ivan Arnold’s journey proves that success isn’t about following a predictable path—it’s about thinking differently, trusting yourself, and continuously learning.

Wherever you are in your journey—whether you’re considering university, starting a business, or figuring things out—remember: your mindset is your most powerful tool.
Stay curious. Stay bold. And most importantly, stay uniquely you.

If you need structured support and guidance to shape your future, explore the Young Minds Programme at Stellenbosch Business School Executive Development.

This Stellenbosch University-certified programme, launching in March 2025, equips school leavers with essential business, leadership, and entrepreneurial skills, along with access to life coaching, job shadowing guidance, and expert-led workshops.

Start your journey today!

Find out more and apply for the Young Minds Programme now.

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Watch: Young Minds Conversations with Entrepreneurs | Nigel & Christynn Jacobs

Posted on February 13th, 2025 by SBS-ED

Nigel Jacobs, Founder of Jacobs Jam Company, alongside his partner and wife, Christynn Jacobs, shared their entrepreneurial journey during our Young Minds Conversations with Entrepreneurs—highlighting the power of persistence, agility, endurance, and embracing redirection in the face of challenges.

Now, see it in action! Watch his full talk and explore practical insights on overcoming obstacles:

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From Rejection to Recognition: Entrepreneurial Resilience and Determination

Posted on February 12th, 2025 by SBS-ED

Life after high school can be filled with uncertainty. Whether you’re considering further studies, starting your own business, or taking time off to explore your options, the road ahead may not always be smooth. But resilience and determination can turn setbacks into success.

To inspire and guide you, we’re sharing key insights from the journey of established entrepreneur Nigel Jacobs, who joined our Young Minds Conversations with Entrepreneurs initiative, alongside his partner and wife Christynn Jacobs.

As the Founders of Jacobs Jam, a thriving business that supplies jam to major retailers across South Africa, they shared their experiences and lessons in overcoming challenges as entrepreneurs with our aspiring changemakers.

Here are valuable takeaways from their journey for anyone exploring their next steps:

1. Rejection Is Not the End—It’s a New Beginning

Nigel’s journey began with a rejection from his dream university, Stellenbosch, where he wanted to study law. Though this felt like a major setback, it forced him to explore alternative paths. He eventually pursued marketing, which opened doors to opportunities he never imagined.

Tip: If one door closes, look for another. There are multiple paths to success, and sometimes a setback can lead to an even better opportunity.

2. The Power of Determination

After years in the corporate world, Nigel and Christynn made the bold decision to start their own business. Despite challenges such as financial constraints and market rejections, they remained determined and persistent.

Tip: Stay focused on your goals, even when things get tough. Determination and hard work often lead to breakthroughs when you least expect them.

3. Turn Challenges into Opportunities

They chose to start a jam business given their industry experience and access to raw materials. Despite initial struggles with financing and market acceptance, they identified unique opportunities to disrupt the industry with innovative packaging and marketing.

Tip: Leverage what you already know and have access to. Your skills, network, and resources can be the foundation for your success.

4. Prepare for the Unexpected

Starting a business is rarely a straight road. They faced unforeseen delays, including the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted their plans. However, they adapted and found alternative ways to keep their business afloat.

Tip: Always have a backup / contingency plan and be ready to pivot when things don’t go as expected.

5. Building a Strong Support System

Nigel emphasised the importance of having a solid support system throughout the entrepreneurial journey. For him, Christynn was his biggest supporter and partner, helping him push through difficult times.

Tip: Surround yourself with people who believe in you and your vision. Whether it’s family, friends, or mentors, having a support system can make all the difference.

6. Starting Small and Growing Smart

Rather than waiting for big retailers to accept their product, Nigel started by selling their jam to smaller, independent retailers, and even correctional facilities. This allowed them to build credibility and refine their business operations.

Tip: Start with what you have and work your way up. Small wins can eventually lead to bigger opportunities.

7. Persistence Pays Off

After years of rejection, Shoprite took notice of their jam through word of mouth. This persistence led to them being stocked in 30 stores and winning the prestigious Shoprite Supplier of the Year award in 2023.

Tip: Keep knocking on doors. Consistency and persistence are key to achieving long-term success. And don’t underestimate the power of word of mouth!

8. Financial Planning is Crucial

One of the biggest lessons Nigel shared is the importance of financial planning. They underestimated how long it would take to get funding and had to stretch their savings for much longer than anticipated.

Tip: Always plan for more than you think you’ll need. Financial challenges are part of the journey and having a buffer can save you from major setbacks.

9. Celebrate Small Wins

From being rejected by major retailers to eventually winning business and industry awards, Nigel and Christynn found motivation in every small success along the way.

Tip: Take time to appreciate your achievements, no matter how small. They fuel the motivation to keep moving forward.

10. Stay True to Your Vision

Despite challenges, they remained committed to their goal of building a legacy. Today, their jam is sold across major retail chains, with plans to expand into new product categories.

Tip: Define your vision early on and stay committed to it. Success often comes to those who remain steadfast in their pursuits.

Final Thoughts

Nigel and Christynn’s story are a testament to the power of perseverance and strategic planning. Whether you’re planning to further your studies, enter the workforce, or start your own venture, remember that every journey has its ups and downs. The key is to stay adaptable, persistent, and open to new opportunities.

If you’re looking for structured support and guidance to navigate your future, consider joining the Young Minds Programme at Stellenbosch Business School Executive Development.

This Stellenbosch University-certified programme, starting in March 2025, helps school leavers gain business, leadership, and entrepreneurial skills, while providing access to life coaching, job shadowing guidance, and expert-led workshops.

Take the first step towards your future today! Learn more and apply for the Young Minds Programme today!

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Watch: Young Minds Conversations with Entrepreneurs | Mathew van den Honert

Posted on February 7th, 2025 by SBS-ED

Mathew van den Honert’s journey, shared during our Young Minds Conversations with Entrepreneurs, is packed with lessons on mindset, strategy, and skill-building.

Now, see it in action! Watch his full talk and explore practical insights to navigate your future:

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Navigating Your Future: Entrepreneurial Thinking in Action

Posted on February 6th, 2025 by SBS-ED

So, you’ve just finished high school, and the world is wide open. Maybe you’re considering university, thinking about starting a business, or even taking a gap year to figure things out. Whatever your path, the choices you make now will shape your future.

To inspire and guide you, we’re sharing key insights from the journey of established entrepreneur Mathew van den Honert, who joined our Young Minds Conversations with Entrepreneurs initiative to share his experiences and lessons in entrepreneurship.

Mathew transitioned from science to business and built a successful consulting firm in the food industry. As the Owner of Cereus SA Food Solutions, he leads a company that provides tailored food safety, quality management, and compliance solutions to businesses across South Africa.

Here are valuable takeaways from Mathew’s journey for anyone exploring their next steps:

1. Your Background Doesn’t Define Your Future

Mathew’s journey started in science, but his passion and skills led him to entrepreneurship. The lesson? Your studies or first job don’t have to dictate your entire career. Keep an open mind and be willing to explore new opportunities.

Tip: Think about what you’re good at and where your interests lie—your career path can evolve in unexpected ways.

2. Entrepreneurship Is More Than Just Passion

While passion is essential, it’s not enough to sustain a business. There are many moving parts, from budgeting to compliance, that aspiring entrepreneurs need to master.

Tip: If you’re thinking of starting a business, surround yourself with knowledgeable people who can guide you through the financial, legal, and operational aspects.

3. Plan Before You Leap

Jumping into entrepreneurship without a financial plan can lead to tough times. Mathew learned the hard way that passion doesn’t pay the bills—careful budgeting and planning are key.

Tip: Before diving into a business, calculate your expected expenses and savings. Make sure you have a safety net in place.

4. Education and Work Experience Matter

Mathew’s academic background and work experience gave him a solid foundation before he launched his own business. Higher education or hands-on experience can provide essential skills and credibility.

Tip: Consider gaining experience in your field of interest before going all-in on your own venture. Part-time jobs or internships can be invaluable.

5. Networking Is Everything

From mentors to business contacts, relationships can open doors and provide the support needed to grow. Mathew’s connections played a big role in his entrepreneurial success.

Tip: Build your network by attending events, connecting with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn, and seeking mentorship.

6. Start Small, Think Big

Starting small and growing organically can often be more sustainable than taking on debt or big financial risks. Mathew started with a small contact list and gradually built his business without unnecessary loans.

Tip: Test your ideas on a small scale first—side hustles are a great way to explore your business idea while maintaining financial stability.

7. Cash Flow Is King

Understanding how money flows in and out of a business is critical. Many startups struggle because they don’t consider how to manage their income and expenses effectively.

Tip: Whether you start your own business or not, learning basic financial skills such as budgeting and cash flow management will always benefit you.

8. Embrace Learning Beyond Your Passion

Mathew emphasises the importance of being well-rounded – knowing how to market your business, manage accounts, and handle operations even if they aren’t your strong suits.

Tip: Pick up essential business skills like accounting, marketing, and project management. They can give you a competitive edge.

9. Consider a Side Hustle First

Starting a business doesn’t always mean going all-in immediately. Many successful entrepreneurs start with side hustles while maintaining a steady job to support their basic needs.

Tip: Think of your passion projects as potential side businesses first—test the waters before diving in fully.

10. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

Mathew relied on mentors, family, and industry experts to help him along the way. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness—it’s a smart move.

Tip: Seek advice from experienced people who can help guide your decisions and avoid common pitfalls.

Final Thoughts

Your journey after high school is yours to shape. Whether you choose further studies, a job, or an entrepreneurial adventure, the key is to stay curious, learn continuously, and take strategic steps towards your goals. As Mathew’s story shows, success comes from persistence, planning, and a willingness to adapt.

If you’re looking for structured support and guidance to navigate your future, consider joining the Young Minds Programme at Stellenbosch Business School Executive Development. This Stellenbosch University-certified programme, starting in March 2025, helps school leavers gain business, leadership, and entrepreneurial skills, while providing access to life coaching, job shadowing guidance, and expert-led workshops.

Take the first step towards your future today! Learn more and apply for the Young Minds Programme today!

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Unlock Your Potential: Why Entrepreneurial Thinking is Essential in Today’s World

Posted on January 30th, 2025 by SBS-ED

In today’s fast-paced and ever-changing global economy, entrepreneurial thinking is no longer optional—it’s essential. The ability to innovate, solve complex problems, and adapt to new challenges is a skillset that transcends industries, making individuals highly sought after in the job market. As highlighted by the World Economic Forum, quality education that fosters entrepreneurial skills is a key driver of economic growth and personal success.

The Young Minds Programme, offered by Stellenbosch Business School Executive Development (SBS-ED), is specifically designed to meet this need. Starting on 11 March 2025, this 9-month programme helps young adults cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset while equipping them with practical skills and experiences to thrive in today’s employment landscape.

How the Young Minds Programme develops entrepreneurial thinking:

At SBS-ED, the Young Minds Programme takes an innovative approach to education, focusing on three core pillars: awareness, skill-building, and real-world exposure.

In this short video, Dr Melvi Todd, an experienced entrepreneur and one of the programme’s facilitators, describes how the programme helps participants embrace entrepreneurship as a viable career path. Through practical learning, delegates gain essential skills, explore diverse entrepreneurial journeys, and hear inspiring success stories directly from accomplished entrepreneurs.

This unique programme goes beyond classroom learning by offering immersive, real-world experiences. Sessions are held on the Stellenbosch University campus, providing participants with access to a vibrant, stimulating environment. Additionally, activities such as job shadowing and networking with entrepreneurs offer participants hands-on exposure to the realities of entrepreneurship. These unique opportunities help bridge the gap between theory and practice, fostering confidence and actionable insights.

Who is the Young Minds Programme for, and why enrol?

The Young Minds Programme is tailored for matriculants, recent graduates, and young adults who are uncertain about their next steps. It empowers participants to:

Applications for the 2025 Young Minds Programme close on 18 February and spaces are limited. If you’re ready to unlock your potential, develop future-focused skills, and chart a meaningful career path, this transformative journey is for you.

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Professor Chris van der Hoven appointed as Senior Director of Stellenbosch Business School

Posted on January 23rd, 2025 by SBS-ED

Stellenbosch Business School is proud to announce the appointment of Professor Chris van der Hoven as its new Senior Director, effective 1 January 2025. This appointment marks a pivotal moment as the institution continues its pursuit of academic excellence and industry-relevant research and learning. His expertise spans both industry and academia and has meant that he has worked with leadership teams in more than 40 countries.

Prof van der Hoven has a PhD from Cambridge University and brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of strategic leadership. Having started his career in industry in South Africa and the UK, he went on to work at Cranfield School of Management and then Cambridge University. During this time, he was visiting faculty at ten different business schools including the Stockholm School of Economics, Kentucky Business School in the US, Nanjing University in China, Paul Cezanne University in France and Mannheim Business School in Germany. Locally he was a visiting academic at UCT GSB (Project Portfolio Management and Innovation Management) and at GIBS (Strategy).

More recently he was asked to serve as the Academic Director at Wits Business School before assuming his role as the CEO at Stellenbosch Business School Executive Development (SBS-ED) in 2018. Under his leadership, SBS-ED thrived despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, transforming into an agile and resilient organisation with a diverse and robust client base.

His contributions to academic scholarship include supervising numerous PhD, MBA, and Innovation Master’s students, as well as co-authoring multiple case studies, book chapters, and journal articles. His continued work with industry has centred around country CEO onboarding, board dynamics and strategy.

Visionary Leadership for a Transformative Mindset
As Stellenbosch Business School celebrates six decades of advancing leadership in Africa and beyond, Prof van der Hoven is poised to lead the institution into an exciting new chapter.

His appointment underscores the shared vision of the SBS Advisory Board and Stellenbosch University leadership to strengthen oversight and support for both the degree and executive short course portfolios.

Using his “One School” approach he aims to enhance the institution’s connection to industry and its relationships with leading business voices. His stated convening logic is to advance the employability of individuals for their organisations through the combined portfolio of degree and executive development programmes. For students, this means that they learn to actively seek out and embrace seemingly insurmountable challenges and thus learn to thrive in evolving contexts. Whether for promotion, to pivot in their careers, or to find fulfilment in their contribution to the society they serve. For companies, it involves preparing staff to transition into new roles, to adapt to change, and to have a meaningful impact on business growth. He adds that, “… relevant research remains a critical underpinning aspect of the School’s ability to provide these opportunities. The ability of our graduates to conduct this exploration, the relevance of the content of the research and our resulting impact are what makes Stellenbosch Business School stand apart.”

He says, “We are clear: we are equipping leaders with the skills and the mindset to identify and frame worthy challenges, to pivot, and to drive growth within their organisations. This includes inspiring personal growth for the people in their ‘sphere of care’. We are not about education-as-usual. We are about delivering life-changing learning experiences that promote employability, agility, and clarity in a disruptive world. In doing this, we very much recognise the need for alignment between personal marketability and the needs of employers.”

Finally, Prof van der Hoven points out that, “as a business school we have the added responsibility to actively engage with and for business. The short route to irrelevance is if we sit on the side lines of the ideological and conceptual struggles of our continent and country. It is a daunting task to weigh in in a world of fake news and social hyper-sensitivity. We must have the courage to advocate for business by bringing together diverse voices, providing the evidence where it exists and banishing complacency. Stellenbosch Business School must remain a net positive contributor (not a net consumer), so our staff and graduates are treasured in the markets they serve.”

Building on the Legacy of Excellence
Prof van der Hoven succeeds Prof Charles Adjasi, who served as Acting Director over the past year. Prof Adjasi’s exceptional leadership ensured stability during this transitional period, which upheld its collaborative culture and commitment to excellence during his tenure.

Rector and Vice-Chancellor of Stellenbosch University, Prof Wim de Villiers says, “Stellenbosch University is delighted to welcome Prof van der Hoven as the new Senior Director of Stellenbosch Business School. His impressive track record in academic leadership and his understanding of global business position him perfectly to lead the School into a new era of innovation and impact. As we continue to advance our vision of shaping future leaders and driving transformative change across Africa and beyond, I am confident that under Prof van der Hoven’s guidance, Stellenbosch Business School will further strengthen its reputation as a world-class institution. We wish him every success in this important role.”

Prof van der Hoven is married and lives in Paarl. He likes his e-bike and is an overlanding enthusiast having visited Zambia, Botswana, and Namibia over the past three years. He has two grown-up daughters, both of whom are proud Stellenbosch University graduates.

About Stellenbosch Business School
Stellenbosch Business School is a globally recognised institution, consistently ranked among Africa’s top business schools. The School holds the prestigious Triple Crown accreditation (EQUIS, AACSB, and AMBA), a distinction held by less than 1% of business schools worldwide. Known for its commitment to academic excellence, leadership development, and industry relevance, the School has cultivated leaders who make a tangible impact in Africa and around the world. Stellenbosch Business School offers a full suite of degree and executive development programmes, delivered in convenient formats.

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