Bolaji Sofoluwe

The Public-Private Partnership Executive Programme will be running from the 27th to 31st May 2024. Increasingly African governments are reaching out to the private sector to finance their infrastructure and social services to spur development. The knowledge capacity to engage in the complex PPP cycle from project feasibility, financing, contracting, implementation, and M&E is still a huge challenge among practitioners. Participants who would benefit from this course include; lawyers, auditors, accountants, operations managers, partnership and business development managers, engineers, surveyors, architects, or decision-makers seeking to understand the basic frameworks of PPPs. #foundations of PPPs.

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"Unlock the secrets to financial resilience and prosperity! Join Biodun Oke (MBA MCIM ACIB FICA) and I this Saturday 4th May, 2024 for an enlightening discussion on Financial Fitness, where we delve into essential insights for securing a stable financial future. In today's ever-changing economic landscape, it's crucial to equip ourselves with the knowledge and strategies needed to thrive. During this insightful conversation, we'll explore practical tips and proven methods for achieving financial fitness. From budgeting and saving strategies to investment opportunities and wealth-building techniques, you'll gain valuable insights to empower your financial journey. Whether you're just starting out or looking to enhance your financial well-being, this discussion is for you. Don't miss this opportunity to take control of your financial future. Join us and discover the path to financial resilience and prosperity! To participate follow @philagboola on Instgram. #FinancialFitness #MoneyMatters #FinancialWellness #MoneyInsights #FinacialFuture #BiodunOke #PhilipAgboola

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My final post on the brilliant African Business Chamber (AfBC) conference hosted on 30th May 2024, hosted in partnership with Birmingham City University City Business School’s College of Business. The AfBC provides a voice for African businesses, investors, entrepreneurs, and professionals to grow and thrive in the UK, fostering multilateral relationships, trade, and investment between the UK and the African continent. One of the speakers I found very engaging was Olusegun Akande. Olusegun that highlighted that African entrepreneurs like himself were are adding billions to the UK economy by employing British citizens, African Diasporans, Europeans and other ethnicities, contributing taxes to society. He noted that the UK could be more supportive of African entrepreneurs and should stop self-sabotaging, by claiming the desire to grow intercontinental trade relationship with Africa and yet engage in inconsistent and disruptive processes causing great losses to business especially with checks at the borders even with goods from Europe. He gave numerous examples of shipments of imported goods being careless damaged with no respect or sense of responsibility to importers and its only because all costs are borne by the importers including demurrage, financial loss from delayed clearance of goods etc. He cited numerous instances where discretion was used as a weapon of impunity, with no redress. African businesses often faced extended bureaucracy, such as the requirement to provide extraordinary identity documents like marriage certificates for basic processes, which were not required for white citizens. These additional costs were forced onto African businesses, which then had to pass them on to their customers and communities. Funding was also very limited and often subject to objective discrimination. Most business owners had to raise funds from family, friends, and alternative lenders, who are almost always more expensive than the high Street banks. Rounded up his presentation by stating the reality of running a business in the UK was tough and challenging, but with dogged determination, he and like minded business owners were pushing through the barriers of progress, to thrive and add value to the UK economy. He kept it real, was inspiring and enthusiastic about the future of African business contributions to the UK economy. #AfricanEntrepreneurs #UKEconomy #TaxContribution #FairAccessToFunding #SupportForEntrepreneurs #BusinessResilience #EconomicImpact #UKBusiness

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In this article, Phyllis Wakiaga eloquently expresses her views on industrial policy and it's role in sustainable development and the need for industry-government cooperation in crafting futuristic industrial policies.

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Embark on a transformative journey with Dr. Chukwuka Monye as your guide who is known for his expertise in strategy, innovation and entrepreneurship. Join our eCourse on Unlocking the Power of Customer Experience in Africa. From vibrant cultures to dynamic markets, understanding CX is essential for success. Together, we'll explore how embracing diversity and cultural insights can enrich experiences and forge strong connections. Watch out!! #CXAfrica #CustomerExperience #DiversityInBusiness"

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In case you missed it, Scribe Services Registrars Ltd was featured on Business Daily Africa as a premium provider of ESG & Sustainability Consulting Services!!! Contact us at esg@scriberegistrars.com or bmajid@scriberegistrars.com to stay ahead on matters of sustainability! #esg #sustainability #carbonfootprints #greeneconomy

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Embark on a transformative journey with Chukwuka Monye as your guide who is known for his expertise in various fields such as entrepreneurship, innovation and strategy. Join our eCourse on Unlocking the Power of Customer Experience in Africa. From vibrant cultures to dynamic markets, understanding CX is essential for success. Together, we'll explore how embracing diversity and cultural insights can enrich experiences and forge strong connections. Watch out!! #CXAfrica #CustomerExperience #DiversityInBusiness"

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Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank Group, articulates his profound commitment to his role, saying, "It is not a job, it is a mission. I have been given the trust, resources, and platform to develop the continent of my birth, and I will breathe that mission until the very last minute of my assignment." In an interview with African Business Magazine, Dr. Adesina expresses his desire for one of his lasting legacies to be the establishment of Africa's own ratings agency. This agency would be based on the continent, unlike existing ones located in the US and UK. He clarifies, "It is not to compete with any ratings agencies… but to be able to get proper assessment of risks, to compare methodologies, and to provide a fair assessment. Some people think it is going to be political... It is just to ensure that Africa’s risks are properly understood and better priced." Read the full article here: https://bit.ly/3KWtPhP

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I particularly enjoyed this session. The panelists did justice to the topic. A lay person is likely to have a clear understanding of Arbitration by watching this video. Thank you Mike Owusu gyang, Nania Owusu-Ankomah, FCIArb and Nuhela Seidu!👏🏾 #arbitration #arbitrationafrica #disputeresolution

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As a product of independent schooling (in Kenya) and state schooling (in the U.K.) And professionally, as a former head of careers in a state school and now head of careers in an independent school (one committed to bursaries and partnerships) I have a breadth of experience and exposure that I am proud of. #Socialmobility always has an always will be incredibly important to me. It’s part of the reason why I: - Have published 119 episodes of the DIVE INTO YOUR CAREER podcast (and counting) - Create tools like the 25 unmissable tips to skyrocket your job application success CHECKLIST - free to download and connects you to my mailing list - Create careers inspiration and information content on TikTok (under yourcareerandfuture) 4 years ago when I met my friend Tobi Ogundipe (who does great equity focused career development and recruitment related work) - he referred to the sort of work he and I do as “democratising” careers access and this is something I am committed to. This is reflective of my commitment to social mobility. My Your Career And Future - from Limitless Coaching business does also have paid workshops and services (to be frank, charging for my services is essential for my own social mobility and success!) and as well as individuals investing in themselves… I am always open to hearing from businesses who would like to sponsor some of the exciting workshops I deliver so we can further amplify a good thing. To have a growing foundation of hours and hours and hours (hmmm… will calculate this) of quality free careers content available - this is one of my contributions to #socialmobility. Relevant links in the comment section below for said careers content. ⬇️ #socialmobilityday

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Why Study and Work Program will save Africa's issues of skills gap! I am thrilled to present the incredible work being done at Utidia Apprenticeship Institute (UAI), where we are dedicated to democratizing apprenticeship education in Africa and other emerging markets. Our mission is to address the critical problem of skills gap and youth unemployment by providing high-quality training and hands-on experience through our Study and Work Program. At Utidia, we understand that classroom training alone is not enough to bridge the skills gap. That's why we have developed a unique approach that combines classroom learning with on-the-job training, placing a strong emphasis on practical experience. We are proud to partner with organizations globally to provide virtual Apprenticeship Workplace experiences for our students, ensuring they gain the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their chosen fields. I am excited to announce that next month, we will be opening applications for the third cohort into our Apprenticeship program. This presents a fantastic opportunity for young people in Africa to gain invaluable skills and kickstart their careers. We firmly believe that by equipping individuals with the right skills and practical experience, we can empower them to overcome the challenges of unemployment and contribute to the economic growth of their communities. However, we cannot achieve our mission alone. That's why we are soliciting for supports from organizations like the Mastercard Foundation, who have shown great interest in funding quality education in Africa. Such support will be instrumental in subsidizing this program and making it accessible to young Africans, particularly those from underserved communities. Together, we can make a significant impact and create a brighter future for our continent. Our ultimate goal is to raise 1 million apprentices by 2030. With your support, we can turn this vision into a reality. I encourage all individuals and organizations passionate about education and empowering Africa's youth to join us on this incredible journey. Together, let's bridge the skills gap, tackle youth unemployment, and build a prosperous future for Africa. Write to us at institute@utidia.com #FaithNwaobia #Utidia #UAI #SkillsGap #YouthEmployment #EducationInAfrica #StudyAndWorkProgram #Apprenticeship #EmpoweringYouth #BuildingTheFuture

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We are thrilled to announce that our next recipient of a sponsorship at Henley Business School - Africa in partnership with Conscious LeadHERs none other than Zviko Kanyoka for the Finance Decoded program! As women, we often find discussing finances a bit uncomfortable—a sentiment deeply rooted in societal norms that shape our perceptions of money and its role in our lives. This is an issue we aim to address head-on, as understanding and managing finances is crucial for our growth, both personally and professionally. When it comes to building a business, sticking to traditional methods simply isn’t enough. The world is evolving rapidly, and we must adapt our strategies to meet the demands of modern business environments. Developing a robust understanding of Finance is vital to a sustainable future. Stay tuned for more updates and let’s continue to innovate and lead in this ever-changing landscape! More about Henley Business School: For evergreen skills to future-proof your career, look no further than our suite of short and impactful programmes to keep your finger on the pulse. Some of the short programmes include: 🎓 Decoding Finance 🎓 AI and Data-Driven Leadership 🎓 Strategic Sales Leadership 🎓 High-Impact communication 🎓 Innovation and Creativity 🎓 Self Mastery Plus, completing just one of the Henley short programmes will give you access to a global network of more than 97,000 fellow Henley alumni. Henley is a leading global business school with campuses in Europe, Africa, and Asia. It is the highest-ranked business school in Africa for executive education (FT 2023) and is the only international business school in Africa with quadruple accreditation from the leading UK, European, US, and African accreditation bodies: AMBA, EQUIS, AACSB, and AABS. Discover more here: https://lnkd.in/dTqMPpfn #StrategicSales #Sustainability #Leadership #WomenInBusiness #SustainableFinance #HenleyBusinessSchool

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Last week, I had the privilege of serving as panelist alongside Seye Olurotimi, Emmanuel Isika and Clement Atapo at the Graduate Employability and Enterprise Summit, graciously sponsored by Bet9ja Foundation. This dynamic event is crafted to equip recent graduates with the vital knowledge, skills, resources, and networking opportunities essential for thriving in today's fiercely competitive job market. Among the event's enriching sessions, I found myself on a panel titled "Dream Big, Grow Fast: Turning Your Startup Idea into a Sustainable Venture." As someone who values sharing firsthand experiences, I typically rely on personal journey insights rather than extensive research. Thus, I approached the panel with an open mind, eager to provide authentic perspectives because the audience was made of majorly fresh graduates serious about succeeding in life – they most definitely aren’t coming for an academic session. Unexpectedly, the first question threw me off guard: "What are the top three considerations for anyone venturing into business in 2024?" With countless valid responses with subjective rankings, I anchored my answer on timeless entrepreneurial principles: Identifying and solving real problems: Successful businesses start by understanding what problems people face and then offering solutions that genuinely address those needs. The business should be built around a solution to a pressing problem Making sure your solution is profitable: But providing a solution alone does not make it a business. It's crucial to set prices such that that the solution is provided profitably. This is what differentiates an enterprise from a non-profit or hobby. Ability to Consistently deliver your solution at scale: For any business to be successful, it has to be sustainable at scale. This can only be achieved when we are able to create processes that systematize value delivery. These are timeless check boxes that must be ticked if you want to consider running a successful and sustainable business Engaging with the participants beyond the panel was equally rewarding. I fielded additional questions and was then pleasantly surprised to be invited as a judge for a mini ideas/pitch competition immediately afterward. Reviewing the innovative ideas presented by the finalists filled me with hope for the next generation. Unlike my generation, where entrepreneurship wasn't as prevalent, these young minds showcased remarkable ideas across various sectors—from fashion and health to agriculture, logistics, and interior décor. Though each idea was unique and promising, one stood out to me: Feedbag Agrihub. With refinement and strategic execution, I believe this venture holds the potential to revolutionize the agribusiness landscape in Nigeria. My participation in the summit was truly fulfilling, reaffirming my belief in the power of innovation and entrepreneurial spirit among today's youth #BusinessDevelopment #Entrepreneurship #ProfessionalGrowth

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Have you ever wondered what it takes to back some of the best companies in Africa? Look no further than Kola A., a Venture Capitalist and entrepreneur with a wealth of experience in the African investment landscape. In a recent episode of my podcast, The Grinders Table, Kola shared his journey from corporate finance to angel investing and his perspectives on the evolving startup ecosystem in Africa. Here are three key takeaways from our conversation: 1. The Evolution of the African Investment Landscape Kola's journey from building a startup to becoming a pivotal investor in the African ecosystem is a testament to the growth and dynamism of the market. He reflects on the early days when VC was quite expensive, to the current state where local capital is increasingly fueling the ecosystem's growth. 2. The Human Side of Venture Capital One of the most profound insights from Kola was his approach to investing with Ventures Platform Fund - "it's not just about the potential returns, but also about the people behind the companies". Kola's philosophy is clear: building great companies doesn't require you to be a jerk, and there's immense value in fostering a positive culture and treating people with respect. 3. Balancing Act: Family, Work, and Personal Passions Kola's candid sharing of how he manages his demanding schedule while being present for his family and indulging in his love for the arts was inspiring. He debunks the myth of work-life balance and instead advocates for deliberate planning and prioritization. Kola's experiences, insights, and wisdom are invaluable for anyone looking to navigate the complex world of startups and venture capital in Africa. Listen to the full conversation here - https://lnkd.in/efZTHcnQ

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Despite its name, the AfCFTA actually goes well beyond the creation of a free trade area – it is about forming a continental market. Yet the wording ‘free trade’ understandably provokes adverse reactions in certain quarters,

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By adopting sustainable and savvy technologies, Africa can fully exploit its substantial renewable energy resources. Herein, find an overview of the Renewable Energy trends within the continent's growth markets, in conjunction with the available invaluable trade and investment opportunities, therein. Arrays of renowned international stakeholders that have hitherto tapped into a slew of these viable opportunities within the sector, in the continent - are also highlighted. Find out more: https://lnkd.in/eBt2hb-i #RenewableEnergy #GreenEnergy #AfricanGrowthMarkets #ImpactInvestment #InternationalTrade #FDI

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