An interview with Mr. William Du Pré of Lotus Bakeries, core member of OVO

Published: 03/10/2024

“Both guidance in choosing initiatives and reporting makes OVO a reliable partner.” 

Entrepreneurs for Entrepreneurs (OVO) is an organization with a noble mission: to promote and support sustainable entrepreneurship in Africa. To achieve this, OVO relies on the support of many large and small companies. Lotus Bakeries, the company that introduced the world to the Biscoff cookie—famous for its unique taste and crispy texture—has been a core member of OVO from the very beginning.

Lotus Bakeries hardly needs any introduction. This family-owned business, headquartered in Lembeke, East Flanders, is a world leader in confectionery, producing cookies, pastries, and waffles, with multiple production sites across Europe, South Africa, and the United States. Additionally, Lotus Bakeries supports a wide range of charitable organizations and is even a co-founder of OVO, backing various projects for many years.

 

According to William Du Pré, Corporate Director at Lotus Bakeries, this partnership is progressing optimally. “Both the guidance in selecting initiatives and the thorough reporting make OVO a reliable partner. We particularly appreciate the detailed reports we receive, as they provide clear insights into how funds are being used. Through an annual evaluation, we can also track our achievements. We have therefore committed to continuing this partnership.”

Focus on education

A successful company inevitably receives requests to support charitable causes almost daily, and Lotus Bakeries is no exception. William Du Pré explains: “Although we would love to respond to every request, we consciously choose to support a select number of projects. This approach minimizes budget fragmentation and amplifies our impact. For instance, through Louvain Cooperation, an NGO partner of OVO, we support a school project in the Congolese region of Walungu. The objective is twofold: to provide vocational training for young Congolese and to enhance the technical and entrepreneurial skills of their teachers. In total, four schools will receive intensive guidance, 150 teachers will benefit from additional training, 350 students will be supported, 50 vulnerable individuals will follow a personalized pathway, and 60 young people will receive assistance in developing their professional activities.”

 

Lotus Bakeries doesn’t stop there. Through its own initiative, the Foundation for Education, the company is also financially supporting an elementary school near its factory in South Africa with a multi-year commitment. The goal remains the same: to provide young people with a brighter future through quality education.

Your company can also make a difference

Contributing to OVO's mission can be done in many ways: by becoming a core member, making a donation, supporting a specific project, or volunteering with the organization.

 

Would you like to be part of the extensive network of companies that support OVO and make a real difference? Or would you like to learn how OVO's work can benefit your company and employees?

 

Feel free to contact Karen Peersman at karen.peersman@ovo.be or 0479/912 914.

Education is the best service you can offer a child
Inspiring testimonials
Education is the best service you can offer a child
19/11/2024
RDC Boost Camp
Inspiring testimonials
RDC Boost Camp
19/11/2024
Give African Entrepreneurs the Attention They Deserve
OVO calls, events & travels
Give African Entrepreneurs the Attention They Deserve
13/11/2024

Didn't find what you were looking for?

A question about a project or our operations? You wish to work with us? Become a volunteer? Take a look at our frequently asked questions or ask us your question without any obligation.