Project Dignity gets international exposure at Global Entrepreneurship Summit

International networking platforms, tips on best business practices and insights from leading entrepreneurial and corporate minds were all on offer at the 7th Global Entrepreneurship Summit in Silicon Valley, California attended by KwaZulu-Natal’s only representative, Sue Barnes.

Founder of Subz Pants and Pads and its non-profit extension, Project Dignity, Barnes was one of 700 delegates selected from some 8 000 candidates worldwide to attend this highly instructive summit which took place at Stanford University from 22 to 24 June.

Barnes established Project Dignity after learning about the plight of many South African teenagers who are forced to miss weeks of school annually because of a lack of sanitary products. In an attempt to kerb these absenteeism rates and improve school performance, Barnes designed the reusable, eco-friendly sanitary pads and panties which are donated to learners from disadvantaged communities across the country, with tangible impacts being seen in school results.

After being informed about her placement at the summit, Barnes realised the cost in airfare would be better spent on Project Dignity, however, on learning about her predicament, the US Consulate in Durban organised sponsorship for her flights.

“I was so fortunate to have the support of the US Consulate, without which, I would never have been able to take up this incredible opportunity which was a life-changing experience,” said Barnes on her return. “It was amazing to meet so many people who are working to make the world a better place for others, to improve things around them.”

The programme included an incredible list of speakers including US President, Barack Obama; Facebook CEO, Mark Zuckerberg; Brian Chesky, CEO of Airbnb and Karen Quintos, senior vice-president and chief marketing officer at Dell. Talks focused on various business-related elements including problem solving, tips to boost your business and issues to watch out for.

Barnes said she had gained so much from the summit which had been a wholly inspiring experience.

“Being quite technically-challenged, I was amazed by how technically-savvy everybody is,” she said.

“There are apps for everything and people are just so capable with the technical medium. This is definitely something I will incorporate into my business practice going forward.”

She said networking with international delegates was very enlightening and provided an incredible platform for business opportunities. In addition, the response to her product was extremely promising with developed nations praising the environmental benefits while developing nations, like South Africa, are looking for ways to bring the product into their schools.

For more information or to get involved, visit www.subzpads.co.za