Why We Care — Conversations at Brown University on African Entrepreneurship

By +SocialGood Connector Emmanuel Nyame

I am privileged to have been invited to Brown University’s first ever Africa-focused panel on entrepreneurship, held on April 16. This program saw vibrant and impactful discussions with leaders, entrepreneurs, and advisors who are adding economic and social value in Africa. Panelists shared stories of how they had started their ventures, how they are currently adding value to Africa, and where their ideas are taking them next.

The event was well attended by Brown University students, community members, staff, and faculty, who engaged in the conversation in hopes to spark interest in doing business in Africa.

Panelists included: Dr. Tunde Alawode. Co-founder, Dotlearn, Tayo Rockson, CEO of UYD management, TEDx Speaker, Prof. Bakuli, Professor at Westfield State University, Emmanuel Nyame, Co-founder of Educom World and Social Good Ghana, Prof Darko, Founder of African Potential, and Damilola Junaid, President/Founder, Arise Africa Foundation.

The one hour, thirty minutes discussion was moderated by: Vibha Pingle, Ph.D ’96, President and Founder, Ubunta at Work

Panelists spoke about their challenges in business and how they overcame them. We also touched on the need to consider social entrepreneurship as a way of providing solutions to the problems around us. Gender equality was the round up for the day’s work as we spoke a lot about the need to support women as a way to promote diversity and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

Co-sponsored by: OIED: Office of Institutional Equity and Diversity, AARI: African Alliance of Rhode Island,Oasis International, BSA: Brown Student Agencies, The Africa Initiative (Watson Institutes), Brown Office of Global Engagement and Efiwe