Stellenbosch Business School’s Small Business Academy (SBA), established in 2012, annually empowers small business owners through a transformative nine-month program designed to foster business growth and societal impact. Dr Armand Bam Head of the Social Impact and Small Business Academy Programme believes “that the programme allows entrepreneurs to further the growth of their businesses through Masterclasses and Networking opportunities. He emphasized that even after the program business owners should continue to be hungry in seeking growth on improving their businesses”.
The SBA program offers a comprehensive curriculum covering Business Essentials, Finance, Marketing, and Business Proposals, culminating in a Business Plan Presentation. Participants benefit from continuous development opportunities, such as workshops, masterclasses, mentorship, and networking events.
Rucien Petersen the Founder of Spottmedia (Pty) Ltd (A digital marketing company that provides digital solutions for Individuals, Businesses, and Marketing Workshops) joined the program to identify where he can make changes and improvements in his business. Starting the company in 2017 Spottmedia has worked with many brands from different sectors namely within the Technology, Finance, Hospitality, Travel and Tourism, NGO, and Business Services. Even though the company has experienced growth over the last 6 years Rucien still felt the need to improve and develop. According to Rucien “ 2024 was an intense year not only did the Business School stretch us as Entrepreneurs to think differently they also pushed us to be the best we can be in our industry and also to plow back into our communities”.
At the graduation ceremony held on November 19, 2024, Rucien received Top Achiever awards in Finance, Marketing, and Business Planning modules, along with the overall Top Achiever award for the Small Business Academy Programme, cementing his outstanding performance throughout the program. Rucien would like to Thank the Stellenbosch Business School, Lecturers, Family, Business Acquaintances, and his classmates for their support during the year. This accomplishment would not have been possible without everyone’s input and assistance.
