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The Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) Uganda made history by hosting the inaugural Global Student Entrepreneur Awards (GSEA) national competition on January 4, 2025, at the Fairway Hotel in Kampala.
This landmark event aimed to celebrate and empower young innovators who are balancing their academic pursuits with running their own businesses.
The competition, which brought together aspiring student entrepreneurs from across Kampala, serves as a platform for participants to gain mentorship, showcase their innovative ventures, and compete for opportunities on a global stage.
The GSEA is a premier international competition dedicated to nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit among students worldwide. With a mission to empower the next generation of influential change-makers, the competition focuses on celebrating innovation, trust, respect, and a commitment to creating a better future.
Participants in the competition were judged on their entrepreneurial journey, business acumen, and innovative solutions to pressing problems. The event not only recognised excellence but also provided valuable mentorship from EO members, helping participants refine their ideas and strategies.
“This is a stepping stone for young Ugandan entrepreneurs to showcase their potential and make a meaningful impact on the global stage,” said Arshad Bholim, President of EO Uganda.
After an inspiring showcase of ideas and ingenuity, three outstanding student entrepreneurs emerged as the top winners of the national competition:
Ochom Joel Felix – Winner
A medical student at Makerere University, Joel is the founder of PhytoGold (U) Limited, a pharmaceutical company focused on reducing Uganda’s dependency on imported Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs). His innovative product,
Maisha, is a patented herbal medicine designed to treat and prevent malaria, including drug-resistant strains.Joel will represent Uganda at the GSEA Global Quarterfinals in Pakistan this February, with his trip sponsored by EO Uganda and Voyager Global Solutions Limited.
Nantaba Rebecca – 1st Runner-Up
Rebecca, a palliative care student at Makerere University, is the founder of Alpha Mai Africa, a social enterprise tackling period poverty and environmental conservation. Her company recycles plastic waste to produce reusable sanitary pads, providing a sustainable solution to a pressing social issue. She was awarded USD 500 for her impactful innovation.
Kiggundu Ernest – 2nd Runner-Up
A Medical Imaging student at the Ernest Cook Ultrasound Research and Educational Institute, Ernest is the founder of Stawisha Golf Ltd, a company dedicated to promoting golf among Uganda’s youth. In recognition of his creative efforts, he received a fully sponsored trip to Semliki Safari Lodge, courtesy of Wildplaces Africa.
The competition saw 11 participants qualify, with eight finalists presenting their projects. In preparation for the event, contestants benefited from intensive mentorship and coaching by EO members, gaining insights to enhance their business ventures.
Beyond the awards, the GSEA offers participants invaluable opportunities for networking, mentorship, and growth. Winners of national competitions progress to the Global Quarterfinals and potentially the Global Finals, where they will compete with peers from around the world.
As Uganda’s entrepreneurial landscape continues to grow, the EO Uganda Chapter remains committed to fostering innovation and supporting young entrepreneurs. The GSEA provides a platform for these future leaders to develop their ideas, build connections, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
“This competition is a testament to the talent and determination of Uganda’s young entrepreneurs,” said Arshad Bholim. “We are proud to champion their efforts and provide them with the tools to succeed globally.”