Bentley University African Business Conference

The Bentley University African Business Conference is a student-run African conference, namely under the African Student Association. Held annually, the conference hosts leaders and experts on Africa to discuss the state of and opportunities across the continent. This year, we are exploring the ability to have an impact while ensuring a return on investments with our theme, “Investing in Africa: Igniting Initiative.”

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Countdown To Conference

April 6, 2024

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Conference Theme

Investing in Africa: Igniting Initiative

The conference is strategically designed to reshape perceptions of doing business in Africa,
moving beyond the conventional discussions of challenges faced by the continent. Instead, we focus on generating actionable solutions to address these issues, fostering an environment that encourages progressive thinking. Our emphasis is on fostering innovation beyond tomorrow, and we aim to bring together young, bright minds alongside industry experts to deconstruct key issues and produce resolutions across various African sectors. The format of the conference revolves around a keynote speaker, workshops and panels with skilled moderators, who will explore our theme of "Investing in Africa."

Panels

Innovating Finance: Strategies for Sustainable Growth in Africa

This panel brings together influential leaders and disruptors in the finance and investment sectors to discuss innovative strategies for driving sustainable growth and development across Africa. From pioneering ventures to strategic investments, panelists will share insights on navigating the complexities of Africa's financial landscape, harnessing technology and philanthropy to drive positive change, and fostering inclusive economic opportunities for communities across the continent.

Whispers of Change: Amplifying Africa's Story

This panel will explore the changing landscape of African media, arts and sports and their role in building community, acting as pillars of culture and shaping the continents perception. Speakers will discuss the rise of new technologies, investments in these sectors, the growing influence of social media, and the importance of storytelling, advocacy, empowerments in shaping public discourse.

Africa's Resources: A Blessing or a Curse?

This panel will examine the role of Africa's natural resources in the continent's development. Speakers will discuss the challenges of managing resource wealth effectively, the impact of resource extraction on local communities, and the opportunities for Africa to benefit from its resources in a sustainable way.

Keynote Address

Jean-Paul Adam is the Director for Policy, Monitoring and Advocacy in the Office of the Special Advisor on Africa to the United Nations Secretary General. He joined the UN in January 2020 and served as the Director for Technology, Climate Change and Natural Resources Management in the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa up until June 2023.

He previously served in several Cabinet positions in the Government of Seychelles including Minister of Finance, Trade and the Blue Economy (2015-2016) where he negotiated a debt for climate change adaptation swap in 2015 which placed 30% of Seychelles oceanic space under protection, and launched the process for Seychelles to become the first issuer of a Blue Bond. He also served as Seychelles’ Minister of Foreign Affairs (2010-1015) and Minister of Health (2016-2019).