Lamin K. Darboe

Describe your role and what it is that you do overall and on a day-to-day basis.

I am Founder & CEO of Bantaba - a digital platform that connects African tech companies with talents and investors in the African community living abroad. I am responsible for executing the company’s strategic objectives, ensuring that the company is progressing towards its short and long term targets, that it has the talent it requires to strive, and I manage relationships with investors and other stakeholders.   

What interested you about the field/company/role you are currently in?

The opportunity to support Africa’s tech founders was too good to pass. The continent’s economies are rapidly digitising underpinned by a tech savvy youthful population, growing middle class and an increasing regional integration. It’s therefore no surprise that many entrepreneurs on the continent are leveraging technology to harness the massive opportunities this megatrends create. Our role at Bantaba is to ensure that these founders are able to access resources required to scale their businesses. 

Why did you choose to study your subject area at SSE?

SSE has a strong reputation for top quality faculty which is also affirmed by various business school rankings. The school’s curriculum is designed to be very practical with many case studies and guest lectures. Being located in Stockholm, a startup hub, is also very attractive. Lastly, SSE got good reviews from my undergraduate course mates who did an exchange semester at the School.  

How did your time/education at SSE help guide you to the career journey you have embarked on?

My time at SSE was very decisive for my career path. I have been able to follow courses and attend events that helped me further my passion in entrepreneurship. The School’s incubator - the SSE Business Lab - provided a launchpad for our venture and the relationships I built at the School led us to some of our investors and mentors. 

Following the time at SSE, do you have any words of wisdom or advice you would like to share with our current students?

I will advise them to make the most out of the various opportunities offered by the School - both curricular and extraordinary. Use your time at SSE to build relationships with your fellow students, faculty, and alumni. If you are passionate about entrepreneurship like me, then you’ll find a home at the School’s business incubator. 

What are three words that sum up your time at SSE?

Engaging, rewarding and impactful.