Fifty Kenyans have been selected to go through the final judging phase of the 2015 CfC Stanbic Bank Rising Star Awards. The event organised in partnership with the University of Stellenbosch Business School and co-sponsored by Airtel Kenya, will see a rising star from each of the 10 business sectors crowned on May 8 this year in Nairobi.
Laura Barker, MD of BlackBark Productions, the official organisers of the event, observed that in light of the dire skills shortage in the country, it is incredibly encouraging to receive entries from numerous young talented individuals across various sectors. “It is particularly pleasing to note the diversity in terms of skills sets and roles, which we see in this year’s entrants. This confirms the existence of talent across a broad spectrum.” Laura noted adding: “Despite the scarcity of skills in certain sectors, Kenya is also home to an abundance of individuals with untapped potential.”
Now in its second year in Kenya and fourth in South Africa, the awards were designed for the purpose of recognising young talented people with demonstrated achievement and success, and with an inspirational contribution to the future of Kenya and connecting them directly with their employers to provide them with an open platform to present their skills.
Amelia Muller, Global Head of Resourcing says that their collaboration with industry icons such as The Rising Stars has always been the objective of sustainable engagement and an expression of CfC Stanbic Bank’s long-term commitment to the youth of the African continent.
“This inspirational platform allows for our young stars to shine and be recognised, reflecting the legacy of skills development and leadership progress that represents the core of CfC Stanbic Bank’s ambitions in Africa,” Amelia added.
The five finalists selected from each of the 10 different business sectors will be crowned to join the Rising Star Network, an exclusive forum for providing ongoing support and learning where all Rising Star finalists, judges and mentors belong. The crème of the finalists will be one individual selected from each sector. The 50 finalists have been selected in 10 different business sectors that are seen as key drivers of the Kenyan economy.
