Post-COVID Career Training for African Students

Alfredo, a resilient graduate of the Ashinaga Africa Initiative (AAI) from Angola, is a living testament to the transformative power of education. Growing up in the aftermath of Angola's conflicts, Alfredo was raised by his aunt and faced numerous economic and educational challenges. However, his unwavering passion for economics and community development propelled him forward, despite the odds. 

Joining the AAI leadership program was a turning point. "Ashinaga opened doors I never knew existed," Alfredo recalls. "The AAI leadership program provided education and instilled a sense of responsibility and leadership."

Alfredo's academic journey led him to complete his undergraduate degree in International Business in Sao Paulo, Brazil. This experience broadened his horizons and honed his analytical skills. His professional journey includes internships at renowned firms such as KPMG, Itau, and Morgan Stanley, where he gained invaluable insights into corporate finance.

The COVID-19 pandemic proved to be a turbulent period for Alfredo; he shared: "Personally, navigating through this challenging time away from home left me uncertain about its conclusion. However, the support of my fellow Christian friends proved invaluable in helping me weather this storm. Amidst the chaos, I remained connected with compatriots who shared my vision. Together, we took a bold step forward and established FGSC Consulting in January 2021, a company that supports Angolan businesses."

Alfredo noticed that most entrepreneurs in Angola needed more skills to sustain and grow their businesses. "We aim to empower them with the knowledge and tools required for sustainable success. Beyond financial consulting, it educates entrepreneurs on effective management to spur economic growth and job creation. "Emphasizes Alfredo. 

Despite encountering various obstacles, including inadequate internet connectivity, technological limitations, restricted financial resources, bureaucratic challenges in company legalization, and the imminent threat of failure amidst changing consumer preferences, Alfredo remained resilient. Alfredo explained, "We successfully surmounted these challenges by utilizing digital marketing tactics, establishing local and international partnerships, and maximizing our available resources.

Alfredo currently works at Citi Bank in Rio de Janeiro, focusing on customer experience and engagement in corporate banking. His role involves offering financial solutions and building client relationships. Looking ahead, Alfredo aspires to become a corporate finance professor in Angola, bridging communities and sharing practical finance insights to drive African development. 

Reflecting on Ashinaga's impact, Alfredo says, "Ashinaga was more than educational support; it illuminated my path toward leadership and a duty to uplift others." His journey is a testament to resilience, empowerment, and the transformative power of education.

Links:

• Official site, Ashinaga Foundation

Emmanuel, a visionary Ashinaga Africa Initiative (AAI) Scholar from Burkina Faso, shares a compelling narrative of resilience and determination. He is a student of International Relations and Peace at Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University in Japan; his interest in politics, peace, and democracy stems from the impact of political changes on his family, which led to educational challenges and economic hardships. Due to those political changes, Emmanuel's childhood was marked by financial struggles and personal sacrifices that compelled him to live with another family. These early hardships inspired his ambition to create positive change in his community. 

In 2019-2020, Emmanuel founded the organization "Children's Smile" in Ivory Coast, aiming to support children in street situations, orphans, and those from disadvantaged families. Motivated by a rainy-day encounter with a young boy without proper clothing, Emmanuel explains, "We formed Children's Smile with like-minded friends to make a difference." Through his transformative Kokorozashi project, Emmanuel actively champions marginalized youth, aiming to break the cycle of poverty and social exclusion. He emphasizes that his Kokorozashi (lifelong dream) is not just a handout but a hand-up, driven by the belief that "every individual deserves a chance to fulfill their potential and contribute meaningfully to society."

Despite financial constraints, Emmanuel and his team persevered, providing vulnerable children with clothing, food, and emotional support. He notes, "We pooled our resources and sought additional donor assistance to carry out our mission. ‘’

The Covid-19 pandemic has profoundly shaped the organization's trajectory. The pandemic's onset prompted a shift to digital operations due to safety measures, compelling Emmanuel and his team to adapt their working dynamics. Regarding the difficulties faced in conducting field activities, Emmanuel notes, "It was very challenging, since we needed to assist the street kids, whose living conditions worsened during the pandemic." The pandemic also introduced a financial strain, as Emmanuel explains: "Our main funding came from donations from the local community, which were also affected by the pandemic." In response, the team pursued innovative strategies, as Emmanuel describes: "We integrated a professional training program for the members to create value by ourselves and support raising money for the project, As the founder, I started a small business selling perfumes during the same time to gain extra money to reinvest in the organization."

This experience reflects the organization's resilience, showcasing its ability to navigate challenges and find innovative solutions amidst the complexities introduced by the Covid-19 pandemic. Looking back, Emmanuel reflects, "I will say that time taught us resilience, but also the importance of the work we do and how many people’s lives depend on it."

Participating in AAI, especially following the Covid-19 challenge, has played a crucial role in shaping Emmanuel's leadership vision. "The AAI program has been instrumental in defining my goals and honing my leadership skills to recover from the Covid-19 setbacks," he says. Emmanuel emphasizes that AAI is more than just a scholarship; it is a comprehensive leadership and learning experience that provides ongoing support for individuals to evolve into impactful leaders.

Emmanuel's experience in Japan contributed to his personal growth, teaching him patience and self-reliance. He appreciates the kindness and gratitude he encountered in Japan, which has left a profound impression on his outlook. Encouraging aspiring leaders to apply for AAI, Emmanuel asserts, "If you want to grow and make a real impact, AAI is the place for you."

Emmanuel's story exemplifies commitment to lead positive change and determination to surmount the challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, inspiring the next generation of African leaders. The AAI continues to pave the way for young individuals, nurturing their potential and empowering them to create positive change in their communities and beyond.

Links:

• Find our scholars stories
• Ashinaga Foundation website