TotalEnergies’ Startupper of the Year Challenge
The right kind of energy can ignite a spark that propels ideas forward. Empowering the changemakers of tomorrow is what the fourth edition of the TotalEnergies Startupper of the Year Challenge is about. It serves as a reminder that when young minds are equipped with the tools they need to succeed, they can tackle the pressing issues facing our planet today. With the intention of focusing on creating an environment where innovative ideas can flourish, supported by essential resources and mentorship, the TotalEnergies Startupper of the Year Challenge was launched.
More than just an awards programme, this is a call to action for young minds. By supporting innovative entrepreneurs and promoting sustainable practices, TotalEnergies aims to energise the future of entrepreneurship.
On a cool morning in October, entrepreneurs gathered in the capital for training before presenting their pitches to a panel of esteemed judges. The support offered to participants goes beyond financial assistance; it includes mentorship, visibility and a community of like-minded individuals who can help nurture these ideas into reality.
“Participating in the challenge was a defining moment in my career. It’s one thing to start a business, but it’s another to present that business to TotalEnergies and be selected as one of the top 15 entrepreneurs.” This is according to Bryan Nakambonde from Green Learning, who has created an e-learning website where people can equip themselves to participate in the renewable energy sector through courses on business or engineering relating to renewable energy. Nakambonde added that the TotalEnergies Startupper of the Year Challenge is vital for entrepreneurs: “Startups need capital to bring a new product to the market. You need capital to research and experiment enough to ensure your product can create value in the market; that it can solve a problem that exists in the market.”
Projects are evaluated based on four key criteria: the sustainability of the product or service, the innovative character of the project, its feasibility, and the emphasis on gender equality to promote inclusivity and diversity.
The TotalEnergies Startupper of the Year Challenge emphasises the importance of innovation and sustainability, encouraging participants to think outside the box. Entrepreneurs are invited to submit projects that align with three core categories, each reflecting a commitment to addressing contemporary challenges while promoting environmental stewardship.
Verna Xoagus expressed how much it meant to her to be a part of this challenge: “It has given me hope and validation for the many questions I had when I started this business.” Her business, Laverne Sanitary, produces reusable sanitary pads, which are cost-effective since they can be washed and reused, and they are also environmentally friendly. As an entrepreneur, Xoagus aims to make a difference and uplift women, especially given the high statistics of women living in poverty. She also takes great joy in being able to employ others, enabling them to support their families through their work.
The TotalEnergies Startupper of the Year Challenge also highlighted the importance of collaboration. By engaging with local stakeholders and fostering partnerships, TotalEnergies aims to strengthen the ecosystem that supports young entrepreneurs. In doing so, the company reaffirms its belief that the success of any idea is intertwined with the collective energy of those who champion it.
Jesaya Hano-Oshike, also one of the top 15 entrepreneurs, noted that participating in the TotalEnergies Startupper of the Year Challenge has been a rewarding experience: “It offered a chance to showcase MulaStream and its potential to bridge the gap between investors and startups in Africa.” MulaStream is an investment platform that connects risk-averse investors with African pre-seed startups. “The TotalEnergies Startupper of the Year Challenge platform provides valuable exposure and the opportunity to connect with others who are passionate about innovation and entrepreneurship. The initiative is important for entrepreneurs because it encourages new ideas and supports the growth of businesses that can make a difference in their communities,” according to Hano-Oshike.
More than just an awards programme, this is a call to action for young minds.
The selection process for this edition is equally inspiring, featuring a distinguished panel of jurors, including Naftal Kakwambi, managing director of TotalEnergies Marketing Namibia, Laurent Roche, country chair at TotalEnergies Namibia and Iitembu Shituula, Oil & Gas manager for Corporate and Investment Banking at Standard Bank, among others. These jurors bring a wealth of experience and expertise, ensuring that the most deserving candidates are recognised. According to Iitembu Shituula, the TotalEnergies Startupper of the Year Challenge is a “fantastic initiative” that provides crucial support to young entrepreneurs, fostering innovation and sustainable solutions. “It has been inspiring to witness the passion and creativity of these future leaders, who are driving positive change in their communities and beyond,” he added.
Laurent Roche was equally impressed, saying, “In TotalEnergies, we are convinced that there is no sustainable collective development without perspectives for the youth. I was thrilled to meet with the top 15 startuppers and actively listen to their pitches – full of motivation and engagement. Big congrats to all the participants!”
This year, in celebration of a century of commitment to innovation and socioeconomic development, a special edition of the challenge was launched across 32 African countries. As part of this milestone, 100 candidates will receive recognition and support, marking 100 years of TotalEnergies’ impactful contributions.
TotalEnergies is dedicated to fostering innovation and supporting socioeconomic development through initiatives like the TotalEnergies Startupper of the Year Challenge. This platform empowers emerging entrepreneurs to turn their innovative ideas into viable projects, thereby strengthening the social fabric. By promoting entrepreneurship, TotalEnergies aims to make a lasting impact on the entrepreneurial landscape and contribute positively to the community.
Kirsty Watermeyer
