From 亚博体育官网 to Entrepreneurship: Empowering Africa Through Innovation
亚博体育官网 alumnus King Wellington shares his journey from studying at 亚博体育官网 and graduating in 2014 to developing Africa Street MBA (AfSMBA), a platform dedicated to supporting start-ups and small businesses in Africa.
Studying in the UK had always been a dream of mine. Back in Ghana, I had completed a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Computer Science and was at a crossroads鈥攕hould I pursue a Bachelor of Science degree locally or take a bold leap toward a master鈥檚 degree? At the time, it was rare for someone with an HND to go straight into a master鈥檚 programme. However, thanks to my extensive experience, particularly in entrepreneurship, I had faith that I could take on this challenge.
Robert Gordon University (亚博体育官网) offered me a conditional admission to study IT for Oil and Gas. I fulfilled the requirements, and soon, I found myself in the UK, embarking on a life-changing academic journey. The challenges were real鈥攎eeting admission conditions and securing funding were not easy. However, I remained persistent, and once I arrived in Aberdeen, the only major adjustment I had to make was getting used to the cold weather!
A Transformational Experience at 亚博体育官网
Coming from an educational background where access to modern learning facilities were limited, 亚博体育官网 felt like a whole new world to me. The well-equipped computer labs, world-class library, and welcoming faculty made my experience truly enriching.
Beyond academics, 亚博体育官网 had a vibrant international community. Meeting students from diverse backgrounds expanded my worldview, and I built friendships that continue to this day. Aberdeen itself was a fantastic city鈥攕afe, easy to navigate, and full of opportunities for students to grow both personally and professionally.
The Impact of my UK Education
Studying at 亚博体育官网 shaped me in ways I hadn鈥檛 anticipated. It taught me independence, a sense of urgency, and the ability to adapt quickly to new environments. Beyond my studies, I gained valuable life skills that have been instrumental in my journey.
When I returned to Ghana, I resumed my previous role, though it took about five months for my employer to reintegrate me. In that time, my mind was already buzzing with business ideas. My time in the UK had exposed me to global best practices in business and technology, and I was determined to bring those insights home. I knew entrepreneurship would be the path that allowed me to create the most impact, and I was ready to take my ventures to the next level.
Mentorship: A Key Success for New Graduates
Starting a career fresh out of university can be overwhelming. The transition from academia to the workplace comes with challenges鈥攏avigating office politics, understanding your role, and positioning yourself for growth. That鈥檚 why mentorship is crucial.
Through my initiative, , I provide mentorship to young graduates, helping them navigate these challenges successfully. I have seen first-hand how the right guidance can make a difference in someone's career, and I am passionate about supporting the next generation of African leaders.
Building Businesses That Empower Communities
Entrepreneurship, for me, is about more than just profit鈥攊t鈥檚 about impact. I strongly believe in using business as a tool to empower people economically and improve lives. That鈥檚 why every venture I鈥檓 involved in aligns with my company鈥檚 mantra: 鈥淪erving the world sustainably.鈥� Whether it鈥檚 through job creation, skill development, or social initiatives, my goal is to drive positive change in society.
Africa Street MBA: Empowering African Entrepreneurs
One of my proudest initiatives is , a platform dedicated to supporting start-ups and small businesses in Africa. Implemented by my consulting and investment firm, DONE BY US, and supported by the KGL Foundation, AfSMBA provides training, coaching, mentorship, business development services, and funding opportunities.
In 2023 alone, we trained over 5,000 young people remotely and provided direct mentorship to 655 youth across Ghana. In 2024, our reach expanded further, training over 7,000 individuals and equipping unemployed young women with employability skills through paid internships.
Our vision for the future is even bigger. We are expanding into other African countries, launching a start-up guide book in braille and sign language formats, and continuing to support even more aspiring entrepreneurs.
Recognition and the Road Ahead
I am deeply grateful to the British Council Study UK Awards for recognizing my work with the Business and Innovation Award. It is a humbling experience to see Africa Street MBA making a tangible difference in people鈥檚 lives. This success is not mine alone鈥攊t is the result of God鈥檚 grace, the real need AfSMBA addresses, and the dedication of the incredible team that brings our vision to life.
How You Can Get Involved
For alumni in Ghana and beyond, there are plenty of opportunities to support Africa Street MBA. We welcome volunteers鈥攚hether through mentorship, training sessions, or even donating business-related books to our beneficiaries. We also invite alumni who want to introduce AfSMBA to their own countries to partner with us. Together, we can drive meaningful change across Africa.
My journey from 亚博体育官网 to entrepreneurship has been filled with challenges, learning, and incredible opportunities. I remain committed to using my experiences to empower others and build a better future for Africa. The road ahead is bright, and I鈥檓 excited for what鈥檚 to come!
