Beyond wildlife and vast resources, I believe that Africa offers much more than what meets the eye. My passion for the continent started at a very early age. Mostly through reading and travelling, I’ve acquired a passion for the potentials that this vibrant continent holds, and I hope this conference will one of the keys to discovering exciting business opportunities, Another motivation is simply to learn more about this fascinating and diverse marketplace. Finally, I draw satisfaction from creative efforts geared towards boosting trade and eradicating poverty.

Assisting in the formation and subsequent launch of a not-for-profit in Uganda opened my eyes to the possibilities and needs of Sub-Sahara Africa. The mix of people and hope I have experienced through this venture have aligned my own long-term career interests to the region. I am constantly searching for ways to bridge business and development, and thus see an investment panel as an opportunity to explore the emerging financial opportunities of Africa alongside the human interests of the region.

My involvement in AfriCAP will help me fulfill one of my long term and always dreamt objectives: Increasing the awareness of the African continent and specifically West Africa. I personally believe that to have “sustainable development”, investment is needed in the pillars of what is so called “development” and those being the different topics discussed in the event.

The traditional postcard of Africa has always been one of fabulous mystery, adventure, natural beauty and opportunity.  The people of Africa, however, never made it into the postcard, unless it  was to point out their exotic innocence.  After generations of colonial exploitation and greed, it is now apparent that it is the people of Africa who will take it into the next century, not its tourist attractions.  Through education and opportunity, these men and women will be able to face the challenges of their countries and become the business and intellectual leaders in the global market.  As an American with an African father, I want to be part of this movement.

Africa is in my blood. It is a continent that is exciting and bursting with opportunities. It is unfortunately also a continent in great need. I want to be part of a solution that fights poverty, fosters mutual respect and creates a new generation of Africans. An educated generation that are colour-blind and non-tribal. A generation that are capable of changing the course of history by looking forward, not back, and embracing the changes the West and East already have to create an Africa that is wealthy and socially responsible.