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Cornell University

Emerging Markets Program

Student Multidisciplinary Applied Research Teams (SMART) Program

2022 – The Humble Store

Humble is a start-up company own by Ms. Kamilah Karaan, an entrepreneur who resides in Stellenbosch, South Africa (near Cape Town).  Through an exclusive business agreement with Olyberg (https://olyfberg.com ), one of South Africa’s leading olive farms, Kamilah procures fresh harvested olives to develop innovative cometic (soaps, facial creams, …) and ready-to-consume olives products (oils, spiced olives, …).  Humble is an online marketing company that offers cosmetic and olives for consumption.  Both products have been well received in the South African market, but Kamilah is in search of a strategic direction and marketing plans to chart the future growth of  her online company.  Should she focus on cosmetic products, olive products for consumption or a combination of both?   Are there attractive online markets beyond South Africa for Humble products?  Are there opportunities to offer online business development expertise to other companies in South Africa?   What specific marketing strategies are needed to further boost online sales?   Should she consider possible joint ventures or mergers with other companies?humble store cosmetics

Required Team Skills

    • Background in Applied Economics and Management, Marketing, corporate strategy, e-commerce & Business platform development, Product development, and communication.
    • Strong Research, Data Analytical, Writing, And Communication Skills
    • Strong time management abilities
    • Team player – cultural humility and sensitivity, Resilience, Flexibility

Fieldwork Dates

January 7 – 12, 2023

Field location: New Orleans, Louisiana

Faculty & Project Lead

  • Ralph Christy | Professor, Applied Economics and Policy, Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management
  • Iwan Azis | Professor, Applied Economics and Policy, Dyson School of Applied  Economics & Management