A trained accountant and industrial engineer, he is passionate about artificial intelligence (AI) and leverages this technology to help businesses streamline their operations.

Stephen de Goede (photo) is a South African entrepreneur with a background in technology. In 2023, he co-founded Qudu in 2023, a startup dedicated to democratizing access to generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) technologies across Africa. The company aims to provide businesses with significant competitive advantages through innovative and tailored solutions.

Qudu specializes in consulting and deploying GenAI technologies, helping businesses automate operational tasks so their teams can focus on more strategic initiatives. Its offerings include intelligent chatbots and custom AI solutions designed to meet the unique needs of each organization.

The company also provides customized training programs for teams, focusing on the practical application of AI. These programs are designed to equip employees with the skills needed to integrate AI into their daily workflows. With a methodical and incremental approach, Qudu supports its clients in implementing tailored AI solutions that address complex business challenges while maximizing efficiency.

Stephen de Goede graduated from Stellenbosch University, earning a bachelor’s degree in accounting in 2013 and another in industrial engineering in 2015. In 2020, he worked as an auditor at the American accounting firm Berdon LLP. He later joined Root, a software development company, where he served as a solutions engineer until 2023.

Melchior Koba