Empowering Small Business Owners at Stellenbosch Business School
Stellenbosch Business School’s Small Business Academy (SBA) has been a beacon of hope for small business owners since its establishment in 2012. The annual nine-month program is designed to empower entrepreneurs, foster business growth, and create a positive societal impact. Dr. Armand Bam, Head of the Social Impact and Small Business Academy Programme, believes in the transformative power of the program, stating that it allows entrepreneurs to enhance their businesses through Masterclasses and Networking opportunities. He emphasizes the importance of continued growth and improvement even after completing the program.
The SBA program offers a comprehensive curriculum covering Business Essentials, Finance, Marketing, and Business Proposals, culminating in a Business Plan Presentation. Participants have access to a range of development opportunities, including workshops, masterclasses, mentorship, and networking events.
One of the success stories to emerge from the SBA program is Rucien Petersen, the Founder of Spottmedia (Pty) Ltd, a digital marketing company providing solutions for individuals, businesses, and conducting Marketing Workshops. Despite experiencing growth since its inception in 2017, Rucien joined the program to identify areas for improvement in his business. Working with brands across various sectors, Rucien recognized the need for continuous development and growth. Reflecting on his experience, Rucien mentioned how the Business School challenged him to think differently and strive for excellence in his industry and community.
The culmination of Rucien’s hard work and dedication was evident at the graduation ceremony on November 19, 2024. He received Top Achiever awards in Finance, Marketing, and Business Planning modules, as well as the overall Top Achiever award for the Small Business Academy Programme. Rucien expressed his gratitude to the Stellenbosch Business School, lecturers, family, business acquaintances, and classmates for their unwavering support throughout the program. He acknowledged that his success was a collective effort and would not have been possible without their input.
