Beta Mode

In this Beta Mode podcast episode, we explore the transformative power of African literature with Simi Aluko, founder of Illino Media. Simi recounts her journey from a passionate storyteller to a champion of African fiction, emphasizing literature's role in societal change. She discusses balancing creative writing with her technical role as a civil engineering PhD student, highlighting the importance of innovation resonating with its audience. The episode delves into Illino Media's commitment to preserving the authentic voices of African writers while expanding their reach. Simi concludes by reflecting on her work's socio-economic impact in Africa, underscoring the need to empower writers both artistically and financially.

In this episode of the Beta Mode podcast, Tomiwa Igun, co-founder and Chief Operating Officer of SunFi, details his journey from confronting power issues in Nigeria as a teenager to co-founding a sustainable energy and fintech startup. He introduces SunFi, a fintech platform he co-founded, specifically designed to accelerate the adoption of solar energy solutions across Africa. SunFi's mission is to offer techno-economic solutions, utilizing solar panels to provide African communities with clean, affordable, and sustainable energy technologies. Tomiwa highlights the necessity of embracing calculated risks and building solid relationships as fundamental to success in any business venture. Tune in for an episode rich in insights and inspiration.

In this episode of Beta Mode, we feature Ogechi Agu, a nurse practitioner and the founder of Amaka, a brand specializing in Afrocentric handbags. Ogechi's journey from nursing to fashion entrepreneurship highlights her multifaceted talents and her passion for African-inspired fashion. Amaka, reflecting Ogechi's Nigerian heritage, uses eco-friendly materials to create affordable luxury handbags. She discusses her aspirations to expand Amaka beyond handbags, including men's accessories and luggage, and her strategies for brand growth. Ogechi's narrative exemplifies how pursuing a passion outside of one’s professional field can lead to exciting and successful entrepreneurial ventures.

In this episode, Cheukai Makari, CEO of Aminat Ventures, recounts her journey from Sierra Leone to UC Berkeley, and how it shaped her mission to empower African women entrepreneurs. Her experiences in Sierra Leone and academic pursuits in International Business and Global Development at Berkeley fueled her passion for sustainable development. Aminat Ventures, her brainchild, focuses on providing resources, mentorship, and tools to African women, fostering community-driven and environmentally sustainable business practices. Cheukai's vision is to expand Aminat Ventures across Africa, demonstrating the profound impact of women-led, community-focused initiatives on societal well-being.

Intro to season 2

I had the very great pleasure of interviewing Yewande, the founder of Startup Plug on this episode. She is a startup advisor and runs a company that helps founders find the tools to efficiently build companies and simultaneously learn how to run a business.

On this episode, I have the pleasure of interviewing Nichole Yembra CEO of The Chrysalis Capital an Africa focused venture firm. We discuss everything from the continent’s most successful mobile money M-pesa, to why North Africa is the next terrain to conquer.

I discuss with 2 founders about the Lagos economy, and how people are coping amidst a pandemic. They also tell us about things they have done to keep their businesses alive and what they hope to accomplish in the future.

Beta mode is a podcast focused on stories of entrepreneurship from different parts of Africa and Africans in the diaspora. We learn what it takes to build products and services by discussing strategy and the creative processes involved.