Jean Joseph

Visual Artist

I was educated at....

....the University of North London (Metropolitan) and University of the Arts.

My first job was....

....as a junior clerk with a Professor of Anatomy in the Department of Health and Social Security (DHSS).

What I do now is....

....I am a visual artist and deliver workshops in my capacity as an art facilitator. I write art critiques and curate art exhibitions. I have been involved with the arc Gallery in North London for the past six years as an art project co-ordinator, writer, curator and as an artist.

What I learned along the way is...

....If you do not succeed along one path due to obstacles, take an alternative route towards your goals. The processes are, however, as important as the outcomes.

My greatest influence has been...

....if referring to life;

With the arts;

The best advice I ever received was....

I’ve never actually been given any specific advice that comes to mind – just general, such as a college lecturer telling me to ‘watch out for the ‘information superhighway; it’s going to be big’. If I were seriously into computers, I might have capitalised on that in a lucrative way! I have not received any advice within my own field but I have had a great deal of encouragement from family and friends that is worth its weight in gold.

Lishala Situmbeko

Banker & Economist

I was educated at....

....at Boston University (Massachusetts, USA), University of Nairobi (Nairobi, Kenya) and the University of Zambia (Lusaka, Zambia).

My first job was....

....as a metal fabricator at a leading engineering firm, Gameco Engineering at the time.

What I do now is....

.... I provide forex, money markets and derivative solutions to banking customers.

What I learned along the way is...

....think global, act local and know what you want.

My greatest influence has been....

.... my late mother who was the first female State Counsel (equivalent to the Queen’s Counsel in the UK) in Zambia who taught me to strive for humility, diligence, and honesty.

The best advice I ever received was....

...."Go to college" which is what I was told when I almost went off the rails immediately after High School.

My top tips for succeeding in my career area are.....

....focus, focus, focus.

Patrick Vernon

Chief Executive, The Afiya Trust

I was educated at....

....Wolverhampton for primary, secondary and further education level and then studied at Manchester and Warwick University law at undergraduate and postgraduate levels respectively.

My first job was....

....a legal assistant for a firm of solicitors called Maynard and Company, which was one of the very few black-led law firms in the Midlands.

What I do now is....

.... Chief Executive of The Afiya Trust, a national second tier organisation with an England-wide remit to reduce inequalities in health and social care provision for racialised communities.

Over the years, we have focused on mental health, cancer, stroke and other health issues, on service user and career concerns, and on promoting the public health and wellbeing of England’s diverse communities. We host several networks that bring together users of health and social care services, carers, professionals, academics and community members who are concerned about health and social care provision and want to see positive changes. Through our networks we have access to over 1000 individuals and organisations, and their opinions and insights inform our work and policy.

I am also a Labour Councillor in the London Borough of Hackney.

I am also the founder and Director of Every Generation Media which has developed and published a number of websites, films and publications on African Diaspora contribution to British and world history ( www.everygeneration.co.uk ; www.100greatblackbritons.com ; www.whenweruled.com; http://charmedlifecampaign.wordpress.com/).

I am a leading expert on African and Caribbean family history and work as a consultant to the BBC, British Council, The National Archives and the Royal Geographic Society.

What I learned along the way is...

....to develop your leadership skills whilst supporting others at the same time.

My greatest influence has been....

.... understanding and analysing the historical lessons of struggle and achievement to develop strategies for resilience and forward planning in a challenging social and political context.

The best advice I ever received was....

....'No man is an island'. No matter how successful you are, you still need to have a good network of friends, supporters and family members as the journey of achievement is a bumpy one with lots of traps and pitfalls along the way.

My top tips for succeeding in my career area are.....

You need to be two steps ahead of your game and know when to dodge the bullets of negativity and challenge that you face in your career and profession.

Savahna Nightingale

TV Broadcaster & Columnist

I was educated at....

....Bramley Primary School in leafy Hampshire, England and Harriet Costello grammar school followed by Queen Mary's College, the University of Plymouth for a post-grad in Journalism and then the Cambridge School of Finance.

My first job was....

....working on the hot-counter in the canteen of a large multinational insurance company in Basingstoke at age 15. My job was to probe the food with a thermometer every 30 minutes to ensure it was hot enough. I framed my first ever pay-cheque of £13.63 on my bedroom wall after a month of prodding baked potatoes! My first professional job post university was as the in-house reporter for Lloyd's Economist – a monthly business journal.

What I do now is....

.... I’m a TV broadcaster, producer and columnist and also Director of Sashkeys Media (www.sashkeysmedia.com).

What I learned along the way is...

....aim for the top, and if you punch in just below, you wouldn't have done too badly. Meanwhile, if you want it done properly, do it yourself; nobody will do your job as well as you will.

My greatest influence has been....

.... my mother. As clichéd as it may sound, my strength, inspiration, optimism, self-awareness, sense of spirituality and no-nonsense attitude comes from her, which has undoubtedly stood me in good stead along the way - chip off the old block as they say. My mother came to the UK alone from her birthplace, Ghana, at the age of 18 to train as a midwife. Over the last 40 years she successfully built a business, raised her family and has gone on to set up GAYAK, a charity to support children’s education back in Accra, Ghana. Something I hope to also do one day.

The best advice I ever received was....

....exercise the mind and not just the body. We can all go to the gym, but a healthy mind, body and soul will carry you a lot further.

Farouk Haruna

Financial Consultant

I was educated at....

....University of London and the Financial Training Company

My first job was....

.... wan Inventory accountant for European Marine Contractors.

What I do now is....

.... work as a Financial Consultant, helping individuals make the most of their money by giving market advice on investments, retirement planning, mortgages and insurance. The recent introduction of RDR and Pension Compulsion has seen my business move more towards the corporate client.

What I learned along the way is...

it is not “timing the market” but “time in the market” that makes all the difference.

My greatest influence has been....

.... my mother who constantly drove home the importance of morals and values.

The best advice I ever received was....

from my parents. The only person who will pay you what you’re really worth is yourself, so be your own boss.

Eugene Skeef

Composer & Poet

I was educated at....

.... a primary school in South Africa called St. Philomena's. It was a school far from my home and which was chosen by my mother as one she believed would provide her children with what she considered a good foundation to do well in the world of the white people. While I cherished the everlasting friendships I built, and the long and exciting journey to school, which was full of adventure, including picking the largest variety of succulent fruit you can imagine (which we had to retrieve from fenced properties usurped from our people by the white racist settler community), I also have sad memories of the nuns in charge beating us for no understandable reason. My secondary schooling was at Umbilo High School, where my political consciousness reached a peak of awareness. I credit my history teacher, Mr. Curtis, for preparing me for the political work I was later to do with Steve Biko and the Black Consciousness Movement. My tertiary education at the University of the Western Cape and Natal University was fragmented by my political activism against apartheid. However, the education I received through my mother's magnanimity towards others, especially those more disadvantaged than herself, has to count as being the most important and sustainable in my life.

My first job was....

.... working for a company called Soil & Rocks Mechanics Laboratory in Durban, South Africa as a lab technician. I enjoyed the job because of the friendships I created - and our lunch hours playing football against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean.

What I do now is....

.... create music. I make and play music in every imaginable social situation. I live to make music and music is my living. I even cook and play the pots rhythmically. I compose and run music workshops for children and I write poetry and broadcast music programmes on the BBC. My work also entails travelling the world using my music as a healing tool, as therapy, and to resolve conflict in areas where young people, in particular, are damaged by war and religious and racial intolerance.

What I learned along the way is...

that I am never bigger than anything or anyone around me; that I’m a small particle in the complex picture of life. My humility was taught to me first and foremost by my mother. She taught me never to prejudge and to be accepting of everyone I come into contact with. She encouraged me to enjoy a peaceful way of living in harmony with others; this is my biggest lesson and I continue to enact that in the way I live

My greatest influence has been....

.... my mother because she was the embodiment of love and from an early age instilled in me the need to be loving towards others. My immediate family is a living testimony to that. I come from an extremely happy family and any negative experiences that encroach upon me and my family are dispelled by the power of love. When I feel the need to reprimand my children and before I express anger, I am quick to remember my mother who never scolded us in my whole life. I’ve now developed techniques of using other and more fun ways of resolving issues in my family and the results are much more fulfilling for all of us.

The best advice I ever received was....

to give people the benefit of the doubt. More specifically, if I run into a situation where something upsets me; before I react, I always try to first take a breath, stop and consider.

Jacqueline Musiitwa

Lawyer & Managing Partner

I was educated at....

.... Davidson College (BA in Political Science and International Studies), the Australian National University (Post Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice), the University of Melbourne (Juris Doctor).

My first job was....

.... at a global law firm called Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman, LLP.

What I do now is....

.... run a boutique law firm called Hoja Law Group that specializes in advising clients with an interest in Africa. Among other things, we advise on contracts between African business contracting with American businesses as well as investors investing in Africa. However, I am spending a year in Rwanda, advising the Minister of Justice on legal matters related to trade and investment.

What I learned along the way is...

....many things in life. A few of my greatest lessons have been:

My greatest influence has been....

.... Female leaders generally, starting with my mother who has been my cheerleader from day one and who has emphasized the importance of leading a life based on solid morals and commitment to improving the lives of others. I am inspired by Ellen Sirleaf Johnson (President of Liberia), Aloysie Cyanzaire (Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, Rwanda), Hillary Clinton (Secretary of State, USA) and many more because they provide a great precedent for the achievements women can make.

The best advice I ever received was....

.... Stay true to yourself.

Kwamena Bentsi-Enchill

Programme Manager

I was educated at....

.... Achimota School and the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Ghana and Henley Business School in the UK.

My first job was....

.... as an engineer with Shell, in Ghana.

What I do now is....

.... work in Qatar as a Programme Manager with Qatar Petroleum. The company is going through major developments both on the engineering and the business sides, so it's good to be in the thick of things right now. I will say, however, that starting the working week at 6.30 on a Sunday morning takes some getting used to!

What I learned along the way is...

....that hard work, basic common sense and sound principles open a lot of doors; but unfortunately not all. Good luck also plays a role.

My greatest influence has been....

.... my voracious reading habit, as a result of which I have acquired a great deal of information, over a wide range of interests and disciplines.

The best advice I ever received was....

.... "You have only one chance to make a good first impression".

Helen Van De Kaa

PR & Marketing Director

I was educated at....

.... Croydon College and studied for a BTEC National Diploma in Media, followed by a BA degree in Music and Media Management at London Metropolitan.

My first job was....

.... miles away from what I wanted - being a waitress at my local restaurant down the road from where I lived! My first most influential job was my intern job working for American Express in the PR department for their Centurion Card and Magazine.

What I do now is....

.... I am the joint owner, with my husband, of ViVi Cosmetics UK, which is an online cosmetics site for the Afro Cosmopolitan women of today.

What I learned along the way is....

.... that if you believe in something enough, you can reach all limits and barriers and nothing is too great for God to do. Most importantly, that you need to believe in yourself and what you can do, and never leave it to others.

My greatest influence has been....

.... 3 main factors. One being God - with him all things are possible; second, my mother, who has always encouraged me to work hard to see the benefits unfold; and, finally, my husband, who is my backbone in everything I do. Amongst everything else, he has always believed in me and encouraged me to know that there is nothing I can't do and that, if I want it, I should take it with both hands.

The best advice I ever received was....

.... to always learn from your mistakes and adapt to your surroundings. You may fall at the first hurdle but the real difference is whether you can get up again and overcome those barriers and excel. I like to remember the fact that 'I am a Conqueror'.

Lekan Fatodu

Publisher & Media Consultant

I was educated at....

.... University of Lagos, Nigeria, where I obtained my B.Sc degree in Mass Communication and at the University of Westminster, London, where I got my Master's degree in Diplomatic Studies.

My first job was....

.... at Leeman Communications Ltd, Nigeria.

What I do now is....

.... I am a publisher and media consultant.

What I learned along the way is....

.... never to live my life under the validation of any human, but to continue to strive for the best.

My greatest influence has been....

.... the books I read and my infrequent encounters with some highly inspiring individuals.

The best advice I ever received was....

.... the true mark of a man lies in his ability to prove his mettle in good and bad times.

I was educated at ……

… Wesley Girls, Mfantsiman Girls in Ghana, Essex University and the Inns of Court School of Law (Middle Temple)

… Legal Adviser to International Computers Ltd. My first holiday job when I was at university was as a secretary to the Director of Marketing at MK Electric Ltd.

… work as a Director for Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman, the American law firm in outsourcing and business development. I also consult for Stephenson Harwood, a large UK City law firm and sit on the board of a recruitment company known as Rare that specialises in providing top candidates from an ethnic minority background to investment banks, large corporates, City law firms and public sector bodies. I also sit on the board of a charity called Sense for children born deaf and blind.

… that a recipe of hard work, a good sense of humour, treating people the way you want to be treated and not being overly sensitive are excellent ingredients for success, with a dash of good luck for good measure.

… my parents.

… always have a mentor at every stage of your career, network and don't forget to give something back - especially when your career takes off.

If you would like to nominate someone for a '5 Minute Interview' please contact us at editor@reconnectafrica.com

Onyekachi Wambu,
Programme Manager, SCORE4africa

I was educated at ……

… primary school in Nigeria, followed by Stationers' Company School in Hornsey, North London. After this, I graduated from Essex University with a degree in Government and Politics, followed by a postgraduate degree in International Relations from Selwyn College.

My first job was……

… as a Journalist for The Voice covering news issues.

What I do now is……

… fundraising for AFFORD (the African Foundation for Development) and this includes projects such as SCORE4africa (www.score4africa.org) which celebrates the power of football to transform lives.

What I learned along the way is……

… a number of things. That persistence and hard work pay, and the importance of being able to constantly innovate and come up with fresh ideas and approaches.

My greatest influence has been……

… a number of people who have helped me. My wife has been a great supporter and my mum has been a great influence in guiding me to appreciate the importance of family, forgiveness and doing the right thing.

The best advice I ever received is……

… from a man called Ben Bosquet whose opinion I sought after receiving a job offer I was undecided about taking. He showed me the importance of doing what enables you to influence what you really care about and understanding that the biggest stage is not always the most impactful stage. That, sometimes, being on a small stage can help you to deliver more.

Ade Daramy

Writer, Broadcaster and Press Officer

I was educated at ……

… Sierra Leone Grammar School and Christ the King College, Bo, Sierra Leone, followed by the then-North London Polytechnic (UK).

My first job was……

… in a William Hill betting shop as a 'board man'.

What I do now is……

… Press Officer and Communications for a UK government Executive Agency

What I learned along the way is……

… you learn something new everyday; some useful, some not (or so you might think, until they help you win a general knowledge quiz!).

My greatest influence has been……

… words of wisdom and encouragement from my parents.

The best advice I ever received is……

… "No two people are alike, so be yourself always; don't try and be anyone else, not even Pele!"

Anver Versi
Editor, African Business Magazine

I was educated at ……
… H.H. The Aga Khan School, Mombasa; the University of Warwick and King's College, Cambridge.

… working on a construction site in Mombasa harbour during my school holidays.

… Editor of African Business and African Banker magazines, as well as freelance writing and broadcasting.

… do whatever you do as well as you can – that is all anyone can ask of you.

… the following: Nkrumah, Ali ibn Ali Talib, Pele and Guy de Maupassant.

… 'Arrogance goes before a fall'.

Rhoda Wilson
Television Presenter

… the University of Westminster for my first Degree and at Middlesex University for my Masters in Financial Management.

… in an Oxfam Shop in Cranleigh, Surrey.

… run my own production company and present a TV show called the Rhoda Wilson Show currently on SKY CHANNEL - 184 - BEN TV every Friday at 10pm.

… if your passion is in line with your belief to succeed, the help you need will always arrive mysteriously.

… my faith in God.

… "emotion is created by motion". If you want something in life, be it love, wealth, happiness, you are the only one that can take the step to making it happen!

Eddy Datubo
Executive Director, Crystek Consulting

… Cranfield School of Management (One of Europe's leading business schools) where I obtained a Masters in Business Administration. I also hold a Bachelor's Degree in English & Education and a Post-Graduate Certificate in Computer Studies, alongside other professional qualifications.

… stacking shelves at one of the stores of a major UK retailer. I knew it was a stepping stone to bigger and better things... It did serve up some valuable experiences that have been useful through life’s journey. Mostly, it taught me to treat every job with dignity, dedication and value.

… I am an independent consultant and the Executive Director of Crystek Consulting Ltd – an independent management consultancy and professional services company that specialises in Business Transformation, Project/Programme Management and Information Technology (IT).(www.crystekconsulting.com).

Our vision is to be a trusted ally in delivering successful projects and leading transformational change for organisations and business across the world. We do this by providing expertise and support that is anchored on achieving excellence and sustaining value.

My most recent assignment involved leading a major transformation programme for one of the UK's oldest private banking institutions.

… you are a product of the values that you live by – for me, those values are Trust, Integrity, Learning, Excellence, Passion, Transparency and of course, Love and Family. Pick the right set of values and you actually get a whole lot more out of life....

… God my creator, who teaches me that my fate, my destiny and my success are not dependent on or determined by any individual or organisation. HE has influenced my life in more ways than I can explain. I am also grateful to my family especially my mother, for the role they all played in making me the man I am today.

… Believe in yourself! You are awesome and powerful beyond measure! My advice to you – never underestimate yourself!

Alice GbeliaFounder & Editor, Catch A Vibe

… France. I have a post graduate degree in Information Management.

… working as an Intranet Officer for Motul, a company selling engine oil for motorcycles and cars! Not really glamorous but it gave me a taste for web technologies.

… many things. My day job is Scheduler for GStar, a channel broadcasting in Africa. I am also the founder and editor of http://www.catchavibe.co.uk, a website dedicated to arts and culture from Africa, the Caribbean and the Diaspora. We list events happening in London (films, concerts, plays, live music sessions, parties…) we have a bars and restaurants guide, as well as book, CD and DVD reviews. We also interview the people who are making their mark on the London arts and entertainment scene.

… sometimes all you need to do is ask! Ask and you will be given.

… my mother. She taught by example. I don't remember her giving me a speech about the importance of education and hard work. But I remember her getting up early and coming home late so that we wouldn't lack anything. I remember her making time to sit with me and help me with my homework. And I don't remember her ever complaining about being tired. So that's what I try and do: not complain when things get hard and just get on with it. As a generation, I think we've had it much easier than our parents.

… it's OK to fail. Sometimes it's the only way you can learn. You'll do better next time.

Mame Gyang
Special Projects Manager

… the University of Science & Technology, Kumasi, Ghana, where I studied Estate Management.

… as an Estate Manager.

… Special Projects Manager, Health and Adult Social Care for Enfield Council in London, where I am responsible for project management to support the delivery of the Division's priority and other critical projects.

… life is short; enjoy it.

… my mother.

… always make sure that whatever you do, you do to the best of your ability and are proud to put your name to it.

Abu Bundu-Kamara
UK Diversity Manager

… South Bank University (London); I have a Bachelor’s degree in Technology Management and a Postgraduate Diploma in Business and Finance.

… believe it or not, working for Theo Paphitis, who is now the well known face on BBC’s Dragon Den. I worked in the HR Department for his retail chain Ryman’s the Stationers.

… I am the UK Diversity Manager for Pearson Plc. Pearson is an international media company with world leading businesses in education, business information and consumer publishing. Pearson operates a number of companies, all with their own unique brand. These companies include Penguin, the UK’s most recognized consumer publishing house, The Financial Times newspaper, Pearson Education and Edexcel, the examinations board.

I am also the chairperson and coordinator of the UK Network for Diversity Practitioners. I am also a partner in pharmaceutical business in Sierra Leone with my dad who is a retired pharmacist.

… to always be yourself.

… my parents. My parents have been the most inspirational people in my life; my mother was a very strong black woman who taught me the importance of hard work and my father gave me the discipline and strong values that I live by.

… to follow your feelings; if it feels right move forward and, if it doesn’t feel right, don’t do it.

I was educated at...

....Highbury Fields Secondary School and Sixth from, Kingsway College and City University.

My first job was...

....Diversity Research intern for the Freedom Forum and The Chronicle. I was researching the under-representation of black journalists.

What I do now is...

....the role of Programme Manager at Africa Beyond, an organisation which promotes African arts and culture in the UK. It started as the legacy project of Africa 05 but has grown and developed into an organisation in its own right. We have a festival starting from 31st May to 13 July and we’re currently raising funds for future projects and welcome support.

What I learned along the way is...

....a smile and good manners goes a long way, that it’s a very small world and that it is okay to say ‘no’ to things that are not right for you. Also to surround yourself with positive people and to value friendships and family.

My greatest influence has been...

....My family. I have a very determined streak in me. I think I’ve inherited the perseverance and hard work gene.

The best advice I ever received is...

....Go to university! I went through a phase where I was going to be a pioneering journalist who worked their way up to the top and felt I didn’t need a degree to achieve that. I did get a degree and it helped me get a foot in a door and taught me skills that I still use today. I’ve since got my various professional qualifications and a Masters. I still feel there are a few more things to achieve academically. I have always loved learning and am always taking some course for enjoyment or professional development..

I was educated at…

….. Presbyterian/Basel Mission Schools in the Gold Coast (Ghana), before I completed my Cambridge School Certificate & London Matriculation in Achimota School. I graduated from London University’s Westminster Hospital School of Medicine. Later, I attended Liverpool University for Diploma in Tropical Medicine, and then Cambridge University, Christ’s College, where I was Schofield Fellow.

My first job was…..

… as a doctor was ‘House Physician’ in a London Hospital.

Born in Ghana, Professor Konotey-Ahulu attended Achimota School and the University College of the Gold Coast, before reading Medicine in London, qualifying MB BS. After a period back in the newly independent Ghana as a Medical Officer, he returned to the UK for his postgraduate studies in Tropical Medicine, and proceeded Doctorate in Medicine (MD London University), with subsequent postings at the University of Ghana Medical School, and the Ministry of Health at Korle Bu Hospital, where he directed the largest Sickle Cell Clinic in the world.

A global authority on Sickle Cell disease, the value of Professor Konotey-Ahulu’s work which included some discoveries in Clinical Medicine, has been widely recognized by medical practitioners and specialists around the world, leading to his inclusion in a survey of ‘The 100 Greatest Africans of All Time’. He has produced upwards of 200 publications, a number of which have become the definitive studies in their field.

Professor Konotey-Ahulu is the first person known to have traced hereditary disease in his forebears, generation by generation, with all names, right back to 1670 AD http://www.konotery-ahulu.com/images/generation.jpg He is the recipient of numerous awards including the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Foundation Award for outstanding research in Sickle Cell Anaemia, the Guinness Award for Scientific Achievement in the Commonwealth, and the Gold Medal of Ghana’s Academy of Arts & Sciences for outstanding contribution to knowledge in the Medical Sciences by a Ghanaian.

What I learned along the way is…

… that The Fear of GOD is The Beginning of Wisdom.

My greatest influence has been…..

… Papaa and Mamma, Rev & Mrs D A Konotey-Ahulu.

The best advice I ever received is…..

….Longfellow’s poem that Papaa taught me aged 9: “The heights by great men reached and kept Were not attained by sudden flight; But they, while their companions slept, Kept toiling upward in the night”.

Mr. J. Kofi Bucknor is an investment banker with extensive international banking experience.  His firm, J. Kofi Bucknor & Associates, provides corporate finance advisory services to corporate clients, high net worth individuals and Governments in Africa and the Middle East.

He began his professional career at Chemical Bank in New York in 1979 after obtaining an MBA (Finance) degree from Columbia University in New York in 1979, following a BSc (Administration) degree from the University of Ghana, Legon in 1977.

Career Highlights

1981 – Vice President, Chemical Bank,   

           Ivory Coast

1986 – Deputy Treasurer, African    

           Development Bank, Abidjan

1990 – Treasurer, African Development

           Bank, Abidjan

1994 – Executive Director, Corporate  

           Finance (Africa), Lehman

           Brothers, London

1997 - Managing Director, CAL

           Merchant Bank, Ghana

2000 – Established J. Kofi Bucknor &  Associates

Mr. Bucknor is currently Chairman of the Council of the Ghana Stock Exchange and member of the Boards of T.A. Holdings Limited in Zimbabwe, Newmont Ghana Gold Limited, Chirano Gold Mines Limited, Ecobank Transnational Incorporated, Togo and Micro Provident Botswana Limited.  He is also Managing Principal of the Kingdom Zephyr Africa Management Company, which manages a $122 million investment fund for Africa.

I was educated at……

-  University of Ghana;

-  Columbia University.

My first job was……

-  As an Officer in the Corporate Finance Department of a Merchant Bank in Ghana.

What I do now is……

- Manage my own  Corporate Finance Advisory Firm, specializing in Africa;

- Part-manage a private equity Firm specializing in Africa.

What I learned along the way is……

- Don’t make decisions until all of your options are clear;

- Don’t sweat the small stuff. 

- Focus on the big picture;Work for your long term goals.

My greatest influence has been……

- My parents;

-  My family;

- HRH Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud

The best advice I ever received is……

- This above all, to thine own self be true”

- Go placidly amid the noise and confusion and remember what peace there may be in silence”.

Mr. Joel Kibazo is from Uganda and is Director of Communications and Public Affairs, and spokesperson of the Commonwealth Secretariat, the association of 53 countries around the world.

He joined the Secretariat in December 2000 after more than a decade as a journalist at The Financial Times. Joel has worked and reported from many countries around the world. He has written and presented several radio documentaries for the BBC World Service, Radio Four and also made programmes for television.

Joel was also a regular contributor to magazines in London, Africa, Japan and the United States. He has lectured on media issues in several countries.

Education:

Universities of Sunderland, Reading, Bradford

BA Social Sciences,

MA International Economics and Development

MBA  

Career Highlights:

Director of Communications and Public Affairs and Spokesperson of the Commonwealth Secretariat.

2000 to present.

Financial Times:

1988 -2000

Journalist: Financial Markets, African Business and Finance

The Voice Newspaper

1987-1988

Political Correspondent

I was educated at……

-  The Universities of Sunderland, Reading and Bradford.  I hold a BA Hons. Social Sciences degree, a MA degree in International Economics and Development and a MBA.  

My first job was……

-  Reporter for the New Life weekly newspaper in 1986.

What I do now is……

-  Director of Communications and Public Affairs and spokesperson of the Commonwealth Secretariat, a position I have held since 2000.

- In this role, I manage the media and Public Affairs Division of the Commonwealth Secretariat.  This includes Press, PR, online, Library Services and Publishing.

What I learned along the way is……

- Always take a little time before making a major decision….things will always be better in the morning.

My greatest influence has been……

- My parents, they gave me everything and still give me support up to today.

The best advice I ever received is……

-  Be true to yourself in whatever you do. That way you can always handle anything.

Celine Edimesumbe Loader

Born: Cameroon, West Africa.

1990: Gained M.Sc. Development Economics from the University of Reading.

1990-1998: Worked for the software giant Microsoft holding various roles, including Operations Analyst, Strategic Planning Analyst, Internal Communications Manager, Microsoft UK, Regional Product Marketing Manager, Microsoft Africa & Middle East.

1998: A seasoned business executive, Celine took a break from the corporate world to be a full-time stay-at-home mother to her young children.

2003: Set up her own business, Aspire Media Limited, which then launched the international glossy magazine ASPIRE in 2004. Published alternate-monthly, ASPIRE is distributed mainly in the UK, but also available in selected countries in Europe, Africa, USA and the Caribbean.

“The vision for ASPIRE is to redress that balance, by highlighting positive stories and identifying strong personalities and role models, to enhance the perception of our people and to inspire emerging generations.”

I was educated at……

University of London, Wye College,

B.Sc. (Hons) Agricultural Management

University of Reading, M.Sc. Development Economics

My first job was……

Operations Analyst for Microsoft UK

What I do now is……

CEO of Aspire Media Ltd, since 2003.  Founder & Editorial Director of Aspire Magazine, a glossy international lifestyle, fashion and socio-political magazine for women of African and Caribbean descent. www.aspiremagazine.net

What I learned along the way is……

My greatest influence has been……

Free-thinking, intelligent and courageous women throughout history – they inspire me to try to walk in their footprints.

The best advice I ever received is……

It is in overcoming life’s obstacles and challenges that you find out who you really are.

I was educated at……

My first degree was a B.Sc in Computer Science at the University of Lagos, Nigeria. My second degree was an M.Sc in Business Systems Analysis at City University, London.  I am currently doing a part time PhD in “Innovation in the Global Financial Industry: The Case for Venture Capital in Africa” at Brunel University Business School, London

My first job was……

Selling sweets in front of my house in Calabar, Nigeria aged 7, and later at IBM Nigeria, as an undergraduate intern.

What I do now is……

I am currently Managing Director of the African Venture Capital Association and a Director of a number of African companies.

What I learned along the way is……

To be happy, be healthy, be wealthy, live beautifully, love passionately and work relentlessly by God’s grace and to her glory.

My greatest influence has been……

A thirst for knowledge, a love of Africa and drive to see its prosperity.

The best advice I ever received is……

Love thy neighbour as thyself…

I was educated at……

...The University of Life.

Private schools as a child from a band of strict Catholic nuns; then the local mixed secondary comprehensive in Beckingham; followed by a brief spell on an English degree course at Birmingham University before leaving to set up and run The BetterDay Company.

My first job was……

..one of the most boring things I’ve ever done.

I was a US-dollar Currency Disposal Clerk at Midland Bank International Division in the city. And I still hate banks! If I’d known then how big a role a mortgage would play in my life, I might have stayed. A peppercorn mortgage rate was about the only real attraction the job had going for it in my estimation. Some of my colleagues at the time would agree to disagree, however, and are now managers of their departments earning small fortunes. I was never the stick around and sit it out type, preferring adventure and a challenge to humdrum monotony. But we’re all different, aren’t we?

What I do now is……

…I get the job done.

Call me a project manager, if you want, but I’ve also been called a writer, editor, businessman and health promotion specialist. I’m the guy you call in when you want to plan, coordinate and control a project from start to finish, and all on time to specification and budget. In my own mind, I don’t have a title, unless it’s something like ‘Renaissance’ man.

What I learned along the way is……

…very simple.  “Do your best.”

My greatest influence has been……

…without a doubt, the old man.  Without dad, I wouldn’t have the foundations and the values I hold dear in life. Dad taught me to be independent and self-sufficient.

In the public eye, there are also the examples set by people like Kwame Nkrumah, Bob Marley, Toni Morrison, James Baldwin, Richard Branson, and Oprah Winfrey, all of whom I admire.  It might no longer be politically correct, but I also have a soft spot for the sacrifices of Winnie Mandela.

The best advice I ever received is……

…a collection of memorable gems from my late mother.

Mum taught us the beauty and importance of words, and left me a suitcase full of her diaries to publish. “Walk as if you know where you’re going” is a particular favourite, as is, “gentlemen wear shoes.” She should know, dad was a cobbler, and mum loved her shoes handmade. “People always need good loving, housing, food and shoes,” he would say. Not far wrong in my judgement.

I was educated at……

The South Bank and City Universities in London.

.. as a Studio Manager and Presenter with Radio Nigeria – Calabar – Nigeria in 1977.  I was just 17 years old at the time.  The environment prompted my interest in media and journalism.

… I am the Chief Executive of the Business in Africa Group Pty Ltd.  Business in Africa Group provides business information expertise to African and non-African businesses, governments and individuals seeking to profit from doing business on the continent.   In the past 13 years the group has made significant progress in building a multimedia organisation with offices and associates in 5 African countries.  Our assets include: Business in Africa magazine, Energy in Africa newsletter, Business in Africa publishing, Business in Africa Conferences and Business in Africa Consulting.

… The task of rebuilding Africa must involve all Africans and others who care about the continent. That there is a greater opportunity now to rebuild Africa than there has been in the last 50 years.  We must seize the moment. Our business was launched in London in 1993.  This was a time when many Africa countries were emerging from a period of protracted economic difficulties.  I believe that our persistence and strong belief in African prospects has yielded a good harvest.

… the impact of leaving family in Nigeria in the 1980’s to study, work and live in the UK.  It was a most gruesome and exciting experience.  The educational and cultural experience has contributed immensely in building the person I am today.

… the body of a man is very small compared to the spirit that inhabits it.  To succeed, you must appreciate and learn to release your spiritual energies

I was educated at……

...Holy Child College in Lagos, Nigeria and the Guild Hall School of Music and Drama in London and the London School of Dramatic Arts.

My first job was……

... A musical in the West End called ‘Hair’.  I played different parts including Abraham Lincoln [Aby Baby] and one of the Supremes. 

What I do now is……

… Work hard.  What I do now is try to put something back.  I am still performing after 30 years and produce and perform in shows.  I am also about to become MD of a public company called Faces Cosmetics, a special organic range of beauty products for all skin types.  And, of course, I run Support for Africa.

What I learned along the way is……

… A good name lives longer than money.  Once you’ve built a good rep, you survive better than going for quick money.

My greatest influence has been……

…. My mother and my husband.  My mother because everything I know, the way I feel, the spirit that I am, she taught me.  She taught us humility.  When she died, what a legacy she left.  Over 2000 people turned up for her funeral – everyone called her Mummy.  She gave me the greatest gift any mother could give her child – Jesus.   My husband – he’s my calming influence.  I’m like a busy bee and he just calms me down.  He’s always so giving and never says a bad word about anyone. ‘People just do what they have to’ is what I’ve learned from him.  He’s absolutely adored by my family!

The best advice I ever received is……

… Be nice to those you meet on the way up because you will always meet the same people on the way down.  My husband said this and I’m sure my mother would agree!  No one ever is below or above you.  My mother used to say to me ‘if you can’t sleep, don’t struggle to sleep, just ask God what he’s trying to say to you’.

I was educated at……

Primary school in Lagos, Nigeria; secondary and university (King’s College University of London) and Masters in the UK.

My first job was……

... Regional Organiser, London and the North Home Counties, for LEPRA, the charity for the relief of leprosy. It was an extremely challenging fund raising, marketing and events management role. I used to make presentations in assemblies at schools, to inform the pupils that leprosy still existed, and every penny counted. And I had to organise street collections too – I’m still an expert at shaking a collection tin! 

What I do now is……

… Run an inventions company called Imiis Limited. We’ve launched one invention so far, the award-winning NewHair® - a new type of wig/hair extensions, designed specifically for Black women. Something no self-respecting Black woman should leave home without. Check out www.newhairwigs.net. My role is inventing, new business development and marketing. I recently secured an arrangement with a distributor for Southern Africa (Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, South Africa and Zambia), they launched on 21 July, and so far so good. I am desperately trying to find a suitable business partner for West Africa – licensee or distributor.

What I learned along the way is……

…‘Make whatever you want happen; after all, the only regrets you should have in life are things that you’ve not done, not things you’ve done.’ ‘You can’t make an omelette without breaking eggs.’ ‘Life is what happens whilst you are too busy planning or dreaming.’ ‘Don’t ask, don’t get.’ And here are two I made up myself: ‘Rules made by man were made to be broken by woman’, and ‘If it is important to you, leave your pride at the door.’

My greatest influence has been……

…. My parents for their guidance, determination and capacity for hard work. My ex-boss, Al King for teaching me the importance of strategy.

The best advice I ever received is……

… ‘Sometimes you win, sometimes you learn.’ If you approach life like that, then the concept of failure will be alien to you. And without the fear of failure, the sky’s the limit!

Tessa Sanderson C.B.E - Olympic Gold Medallist

I was educated at……

H.E. Judge Thomas Mensahp - International Maritime and Environmental Law Advisor

I was educated ……

…… Achimota School, Ghana, then at the University College of Gold Coast (later University of Ghana) where I gained a BA in Philosophy.  I then took a Law degree, at the University of London, graduating with the LLB. Degree.  Following a postgraduate course at the Yale University Law School, I was awarded a Masters in Law in 1962 and a Doctor of Juridical Sciences degree in 1964.

My first job was……

…… Administrative Officer in the Civil Service of the Gold Coast (Ghana) from 1956 to 1958, followed by a short stint with United Africa Company (a subsidiary of Unilever).

What I do now is……

…… Since retiring as a Judge from the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, I provide advisory and consultancy services to governments, international organisations and law firms on issues related to international law, international maritime law and the law of the sea and international environmental law.

What I learned along the way is……

…… that hard work and personal discipline are essential for success in whatever field one happens to be operating.  I have also come to appreciate more and more the importance of tolerance in all things, in particular, the willingness and ability to accept and appreciate the views and beliefs of others even when one is unable to agree with them.

My greatest influence has been…….

…… from two personalities whom I encountered at different stages in my education.  The first was Mr. Ephraim Amu, the celebrated Ghanaian musicologist.  He was Music master while I was at Achimota School and a Professor at the University of Ghana during my tenure as a Lecturer.  Although Mr Amu (generally referred to as Owura Amu) did not actually teach me, he made a lasting impression on me with his wisdom, with the simplicity that marked his appearance and behaviour, the intellectual and spiritual humility which he exuded without the slightest hint of conscious effort.  He was a man with deeply held pride in his African heritage but he also had the generosity to recognise that other people could have an equally strong attachment to theirs.  The second person who influenced me greatly was my Professor at Yale Law School, Professor Myles MacDougal.  He instilled in me, even at that rather late stage in my personal and intellectual development, the importance of intellectual honesty and the obligation to follow the argument to wherever the evidence and logic may lead you, even if this means having to change your most cherished positions.

The best advice I ever received is……

…… that, in order to receive the respect and consideration of the people with whom one deals, one must show respect and concern for every one of them, no matter how big or small they may be.  In the words of my mother, “if you want the people who work for you to treat you like a god, you have to learn to treat them all like human beings.”

Chief Emeka Anyaoku - Former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth

I was educated ……

……at Merchants of Light School, Oba and University College of Ibadan.

My first job was……

……Executive Trainee, Commonwealth Development Corporation, London.

What I do now is……

…… International President, World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF); Chairman, Presidential Advisory Council on Foreign Affairs, Nigeria; Chairman, Orient Petroleum Resources Ltd, Nigeria; Trustee of the British Museum in London.

What I learned along the way is……

……Good human relations are the key to success.

My greatest influence has been…….

…… My School Principal, Mr. Enoch Oli, at Oba, who taught me the importance of hard work and good inter-personal relations.

The best advice I ever received is……

……Do not postpone to tomorrow what you can do today.

Ola Fagbohun – Entrepreneur and Travel Writer

... ...University of Nigeria, University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Nigeria and South Bank University in London.

... ... a business partnership with a good friend; during our university holidays, we went from office to office selling bulk supplies of vegetable oil and soft drinks (our warehouse was his van), that his mum had bought from Cotonou [Republic of Benin]. We did this for two years.

... ... edit Diverse Traveller, an online travel magazine for women. I have also just finished a four month contract helping a leading insurer to build their consumer/ market research team, and delivering strategic insights to the rest of the business.

….. `If you don’t ask, you don’t get’ and ‘talk with anyone and everyone.’ I am always amazed at the number of people I meet who fear they will have their business idea/concept stolen if they talk about it. Perhaps it’s the researcher in me, but I have found through discussing the things I do (and even plan to do) I have gained some very profitable advice, and made some very good friends.

…… ….. I don’t have just one; I am mainly influenced by the stories of people who have overcome adversity to achieve their dreams.

... ‘There is no such thing as I can’t.’ Over the years, I have learned that the only person who can restrict me is me. So instead of saying I can’t, I now say, ‘not now’.

I was educated at……

... ….many places along the way; from my home to my school and ended up studying Law at the University of East London.

My first job was…

... …... helping my Mum in her restaurant from the age of 15; I had to help serve, look after customers and take food orders.

What I do now is….

….... work in promoting and working with fascinating women from all over the world who invent and innovate. This includes providing independent advice, training, promotions products and new initiatives and also providing a platform for strong networking.

What I learned along the way is…

….that you’ve got to keep going when you have a vision and believe in what you are doing. You can’t afford to give up when you believe in something. To succeed, you’ve got to continue to believe in your vision even when others don’t because there is a strong possibility that, given dedication, tenacity and faith, it is only a matter of time before that vision becomes a reality.

My greatest influence has been…….

…my mother, because of her commitment to her family, and being able to withstand all the challenges she faced in life without compromising her love and dedication to the family.

The best advice I ever received is…..

... ‘Never say never’ because you just never know.

Chukwu-Emeka Chikezie
Executive Director, AFFORD

I was educated ……

… at early primary school in the UK (Cheltenham!!) followed by later primary and secondary schools in Freetown. My first two years of university were at FBC, Freetown with the remainder at Gloucestershire College of Arts and Technology, Northeast London Polytechnic (now University of East London), the London College of Printing and Distributive Trades and City University.

My first job was…

…flippin' burgers for MacDonald's and working behind the bar at a seedy Cheltenham nightclub. My first professional job was as a Programmer.

What I do now is….

…. spend my time exploring ways that we Africans in the Diaspora can maximize our contributions to Africa's development, especially to create jobs and widespread wealth, which will hopefully lead to dignity and hope.

What I learned along the way is…

… those Rumsfeld-ian "unknown unknowns" can really blind-side you! Investing the time and effort to secure shared buy-in and ownership to solutions or approaches to solutions really pays dividends in the long run. I don’t have all the questions, let alone the answers, but someone out there might, so listening, dialogue, and participation are key.

My greatest influence has been…….

…Paolo Freire's book Pedagogy of the Oppressed which taught me the real meaning of empowerment – that as a learner, I have a right to ask my own questions and seek answers, and from there I can proceed to change the world. Before then, I'd been conditioned to believe that education meant regurgitating in exams word-for-word what the teachers had "taught" and that to ask challenging questions was tantamount to undermining authority, itself an act of insurrection worthy of harsh punishment.

The best advice I ever received is…..

…life is very short, do it now. And be true to yourself.

I was educated ……

.. Achimota School and the University of Ghana, where I got a BSc Hons in Maths and Computing.

My first job was…

…. as a floor trader on the London Stock Exchange.

What I do now is….

….... run the Emerging Markets business in Europe for UBS Investment Bank.

What I learned along the way is…

…. if anybody has a problem with who you are, let them stress about it; you should not spend any time thinking about it.

My greatest influence has been…….

….. Kwame Nkrumah.

The best advice I ever received is…..

... do what you want to do, be what you want to be - and the only limitation is in your mind.

I was educated ……

.. in the UK and then studied in Nigeria. From 14, I continued my education in the UK, going on to College and University. I have an Honours degree in Biochemistry (Greenwich University), a Masters degree in Information Systems Design (University of Westminster), a professional coaching qualification (Coach University, USA) and a Diploma in Biblical Studies (London).

My first job was…

…. a Research Technician in the medial/healthcare industry before I landed my first IT role, which eventually opened the door to me working in a number of European cities.

What I do now is….

….... I am the Director of Success Partners LTD – an award-winning training and development organisation that creates pioneering services and products for individuals, groups and organisations. Over the past few years, I have travelled, internationally, developing people especially leaders and managers in global organisations. I also do a lot of work with women’s groups and organisations.

I am the author of two books; my most recent titled, Overcoming Emotional Baggage: A Woman’s Guide to Living the Abundant Life, a ‘must have’ for women intent on reaching the top as I share from my wealth of professional experience gained over the years. I also write a lot for international magazines and my own online magazine.

In between all this, I coach highflying professionals and business owners to become successful and I also do a lot of motivational/inspirational speaking. All I do is in aid of realising my passion, which is to see people fulfil their God-given potential and purpose.

What I learned along the way is…

…. I have learnt a few crucial lessons:

My greatest influence has been…….

….. My relationship with God. Through Him, I have been able to overcome insurmountable obstacles. Without Him, I am nothing. In fact this thought keeps me humbled as I consider it a real privilege to be able to impact so many lives globally. What an honour!

In addition to this, I am blessed to have a wonderful family and friends who cheer me each step of the way. I have my Mum and my late Dad to thank for instilling godly and moral values in me – right from a young age (though I did not appreciate it at the time).

There are several people out there, past and present, who have done or are doing great things that I thank God for. Their lives are a testimony that, indeed, “all things are possible”. They inspire me more than they will ever know.

The best advice I ever received is…..

... “I can do all things ……”

I was educated ……

…both in Ghana and in the United Kingdom. I went to Achimota Secondary School up until my O-levels but by then my mother moved to Kenya so I was sent to the UK to study at Cranleigh School and later at University College, London and Cass (City University) Business School. As an Undergraduate I took two courses at once in Chemical and Biochemical Engineering emerging with a First.  I went on to do research towards a doctorate in Biochemical Engineering.  I attended night-school to study economics during this period. Informally I continue to be educated.  In a world where change is now happening faster than the ability of most of us, or our institutions, to learn, one has to be very complacent and slightly deluded to think that they can stop learning.

My first job was…

…..a holiday job stocktaking in a warehouse closely followed by an internship at the Shell Haven Refinery.

What I do now is….

…... I am an entrepreneur/business educator.  I run Pentacle, the world’s most innovative school, teaching applied business-knowledge and providing inspiration and education to leaders and managers in our fast-changing, complex and demanding world.  We were the first to build an e-learning platform, the first to create a complete “curriculum” designed for today not the 1990’s, the first to use virtual reality for teaching and several other firsts.  We also provide provocation for ‘old world’ managers and leaders who, in refusing to change, stifle the dreams and aspirations of others.

What I learned along the way is…

…. how to unlearn everything - received wisdom is often 'wrong'.  In addition, that human beings are amazing, that your family and real friends are what make you, that it is important to remember that the world isn’t just made up of people, to keep a positive mental attitude and move forward with big dreams one step at a time.

My greatest influence has been…….

…..hard to pin down since I have many significant influences.  My wife Susan who reminds me to be myself and reminds me why I work so hard, my mother, Letitia who reminds me of what can be, and many mentors along the way especially John Frank who not only taught me economics but also taught me to teach, ‘Inky’ Clark (Cranleigh) who broke my belief in relying on my memory and helped me to rely on clear thought instead,  Prof. Garside (University College London) who responded positively when I explained that I had noticed ‘patterns’ in chemical engineering which meant I only had to understand a third of the syllabus  in order to explain it all.  Eli Goldratt (author of The Goal) who forever influenced my approach to academic research and my writing style along with Richard Bach (author of Illusions) leading to my publication of ten books including the favourite best seller All Change! There are many others too numerous to mention.

The best advice I ever received is…..

... I’ve probably not been listening but I tend not to be given advice.  The best ‘advice’ or more so, a mantra, I absorbed from the Bible begins ...a little sleep, a little slumber... which has always energised me when my energy levels are low.  The best I have ever received in business is that “free advice costs you nothing until you put it into practice!”