Posted by
B2B Sustainable Business Forum Namibia
on 20 Nov 24
Categories:
Awards
At the forefront of this pioneering initiative is Mrs. Uripi Kahorongo, the founder and convener of B2B Sustainable Business Forum Namibia (B2B)-SBFN, who recently received the prestigious 2024 Golden Planet Award in Germany in recognition of her outstanding contributions to sustainability. Mrs. Kahorongo, a farmer, educator, and season realtor, has been a passionate advocate for sustainable practices in Namibia. Her leadership underscores the importance of purpose-driven initiatives in addressing the pressing challenges our world faces.
The event featured a stellar lineup of speakers, including Ms. Mercia Geises, Climate Fund Manager (Hybrid speaker); Dr. Joyce Phiri, Founder of Ahava Business & Lifestyle Consultants, Board Member of the Richard George Foundation, and expert in AI-Legal Resource Climate; Mr. Kauruumbua Kouje, Corporate Governance Expert; Vitalis Haupindi Lotto Nanghonda, Co-founder and CEO of Namibian tech company Yyeni AI; Ms. Jeanette Washington, CEO of Bearly Articulating, who masterfully moderated the event. Together, they emphasized the urgent need for collaboration, innovation, and actionable strategies to prepare Namibian businesses for a sustainable future. As Mrs. Kahorongo aptly stated, "It is through giant steps, alongside many small ones, that we can move forward."
Why sustainability? The answer is clear. Our planet is at a critical juncture. Climate change, resource depletion, and social inequity present unprecedented challenges. Yet, these challenges also create extraordinary opportunities for transformation. It is essential that businesses, students, professionals, and community members all contribute to shaping a sustainable future. Your ideas, your passions, and your unique skills are vital to building a more sustainable world.
To the business leaders in attendance, Mrs. Kahorongo called for a shift in perspective: "Consider the power of purpose-driven initiatives. Sustainable practices not only foster innovation and enhance brand loyalty but can also lead to increased profitability. By embedding sustainability into your business models, you are contributing to a healthier planet and positioning your company as a leader in a rapidly evolving marketplace."
A notable highlight of the launch was the participation of both international and local sustainability experts who shared a common vision for a sustainable future. Dr. Joyce Phiri, speaking as both an expert and a representative of the Richard George Foundation, emphasized the importance of integrating digital innovation into sustainability efforts to amplify environmental impact. Her remarks inspired emerging students and young leaders, urging them to engage with the SBFN and actively contribute to shaping Namibia's sustainable future. The foundation strongly encourages youth participation in a hybrid fashion, recognizing that tomorrow’s leaders must play a key role in driving long-term progress.
The vision of SBFN is to become Namibia's leading platform for sustainable business practices. It seeks to foster a collaborative environment where innovation, shared learning, and partnerships can thrive. The forum is committed to addressing Namibia's unique environmental and social challenges, empowering businesses to integrate sustainable strategies into their core operations.
As a Section 21 company, (B2B)-SBFN is open for membership to stakeholders from all sectors, including agriculture, education, engineering, healthcare, art and Green Hydrogen and Oil $Gas field. The forum invites business leaders, entrepreneurs, professionals, and students who are committed to creating a positive impact to join the movement towards a sustainable future.
The launch of SBFN represents a new era in which business success is defined not only by profitability but also by environmental stewardship. SBFN calls on all Namibian businesses, policymakers, academic institutions, and individuals to be part of this transformative journey. Together, we can shape a sustainable and prosperous future for Namibia.
"Let’s walk the talk," says Uripi Kahorongo, Namibia's social hero and sustainability champion.
Looking ahead, next year promises to be an exciting chapter for the forum, with more opportunities for collaboration and learning. (B2B)- SBFN aims to facilitate practical exchanges that empower participants to create a greener, more sustainable world.
Help us grow the movement further by contacting : Ashley Matthys
Email: admin@sbfn.com.na
Phone: +264 61 255517