Standard Chartered (Stanchart) Bank Zambia reaffirmed its commitment to youth and women empowerment by allocating more than $450,000 annually to support and facilitate mentorship programs. Stanchart’s Chief Executive Officer, Sonny Zulu, emphasized that mentoring is a crucial aspect of the global bank’s social responsibility.
Speaking during a recent Mentors Den event hosted at Copperbelt University (CBU), Mr. Zulu underscored the significance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) issues in the bank’s operations. He disclosed that Stanchart has devised an array of mentorship initiatives aimed at engaging with students across universities and diverse backgrounds.
Mr. Zulu also shared valuable insights on entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of unwavering dedication and the pursuit of one’s passions in achieving success. He encouraged Zambian youths to persevere in the face of challenges and to remain steadfast in their life pursuits, emphasizing that this dedication would equip them with the knowledge and skills required to achieve their goals.
Furthermore, Mr. Zulu stressed the need for Zambia to nurture a new generation of individuals who are deeply committed to their chosen paths, as they play a pivotal role in the nation’s economic development.
Stanchart remains dedicated to launching initiatives that empower the youth with essential knowledge, thereby contributing significantly to the country’s economic growth. Mr. Zulu highlighted that entrepreneurship is instrumental in creating future employers rather than employees, and he emphasized the importance of self-confidence for emerging leaders.
The Mentors Den event, which took place at CBU, attracted students from various faculties who engaged in meaningful discussions with Mr. Zulu and the bank’s team.
Pamela Mutale, the American Corner coordinator, expressed gratitude for the event and emphasized that entrepreneurship has become a cornerstone of success, especially in light of limited employment opportunities. She pledged to continue offering opportunities that facilitate interactions among individuals from diverse backgrounds.