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Vanda de Oliveira
Founder & Managing Partner at Bantu Makers - Facilitator & Organizer at Startup Weekend
Professional Background
Vanda Saturnino de Oliveira is a dynamic leader in the startup ecosystem of Angola and a passionate advocate for entrepreneurship across Africa. With extensive experience in operational and strategic roles, Vanda has built a notable career that bridges the gap between her academic background in international relations and international business and her commitment to fostering innovation in her community. As a co-founder and executive director at Deya, she is at the forefront of empowering local startups and nurturing talent in Angola. Vanda's experience includes crucial roles at Bantu Makers, Kiandahub, and General Assembly, which illustrate her deep commitment to the development of the entrepreneurial landscape in Africa.
Vanda's professional journey reflects her passion for building and facilitating startup culture, enabling young entrepreneurs to thrive. Her role as head of operations and strategic partnerships at Kiandahub reveals her strong leadership capabilities and her knack for connecting innovators with resources and opportunities. Additionally, her engagement in various organizations and initiatives, such as being an ambassador for Angola at Seedstars, showcases her dedication to enhancing the visibility and growth of Angolan startups on a global platform.
Education and Achievements
Vanda Saturnino de Oliveira's educational background lays a solid foundation for her distinguished career. She pursued a Bachelor's degree in International Relations from the prestigious Universidade Técnica De Lisboa, which provided her with a deep understanding of global dynamics and the political landscape affecting business in Africa and beyond. Following her undergraduate studies, Vanda earned a Master's in International Business from Universidade Do Minho, equipping her with essential skills in strategic management and international market engagement.
Vanda's commitment to continuous learning and professional development is highlighted by her participation in Startup School, where she further honed her entrepreneurial skills. Here, she gained insights into best practices for managing startups and fostering innovation, making her an invaluable asset for the organizations she leads.
Achievements
Throughout her career, Vanda has achieved numerous milestones that exemplify her leadership and dedication to entrepreneurship. As a co-founder of Deya, she has been instrumental in driving initiatives that support the growth of startups within Angola, fostering an environment of creativity and innovation. Her contributions extend to mentoring emerging entrepreneurs, such as her previous role at the Founder Institute Luanda, where she guided aspiring founders in their business journeys.
Additionally, Vanda's prior experience as a facilitator and organizer for events like Startup Weekend and Rails Girls illustrates her commitment to community building and knowledge sharing within the startup ecosystem. These platforms not only promote technological education but also inspire diversity within the tech space in Lisbon and Porto, regions where she has played a vital role.
Her ability to connect people and resources has been a cornerstone of her success. As a campus operations manager at General Assembly, she brought together talent and education, ensuring aspiring tech professionals had access to the best training and resources available. Vanda's organizational skills and leadership abilities have made her a sought-after mentor and leader in various capacities, enhancing the entrepreneurial culture in both Angola and Portugal.
With her unwavering passion for entrepreneurship and innovation, as well as her strong educational background and diverse professional experiences, Vanda Saturnino de Oliveira continues to inspire and impact the startup community in Angola and across Africa. Her commitment to fostering growth within the entrepreneurial landscape is a testament to her vision for a prosperous future for startups in her region.
