By Victoria Effiong
Africa’s entrepreneurial landscape is brimming with untapped potential, but unlocking it requires visionaries who can bridge the gap between ambition and opportunity. Few understand this better than Akinwande Akinsulire, a digital architect, ecosystem builder, and relentless advocate for African innovation
In this exclusive interview, we delve into his inspiring story, the lessons learned from mentoring thousands of entrepreneurs, and his bold vision for an Africa where innovation thrives from the ground up.
1. Your work is all about igniting progress. What was that first spark for you?
That first spark was incredibly personal, rooted in my childhood in Akure and later in Lagos. I grew up surrounded by the immense potential of our people, including industrious entrepreneurs, vibrant fashion designers, and resilient restaurant owners. My own family ran businesses, from a restaurant to a school, and I witnessed an incredible drive and innate desire to build and create. However, I also saw systemic barriers. Our family’s booming restaurant, a staple in the early 1990s, disappeared before 2000, not due to lack of effort or talent, but due to a lack of access to resources, mentorship, and opportunities. This disparity ignited a deep desire in me to help bridge that gap and empower Africans to unlock their inherent capabilities and truly build their futures.
2. What made you decide to dedicate your career to empowering others, especially in Africa?
Dedicating my career to empowering others, especially in Africa, was not really a decision for me; it has always felt more like a calling. From the moment I registered my first business over 17 years ago, my focus has consistently been on helping others grow. This has taken many forms, from training programs and technology services to enterprise development and even impact and fundraising support for non-profits and changemakers. This path has connected me with incredible organizations at the forefront of enterprise development, like Ciuci Consulting, Nerilus, FATE Foundation, and CcHUB Africa, and allowed me to collaborate with partners such as Mastercard Foundation, Meta, Google, Microsoft, UNIDO, UNDP, and GAIN. I realized early on that for Africa to truly thrive, sustainable impact would not come solely from external aid, although it can certainly help kick things off. Our emergence, our real breakthrough, is hinged on fostering self-reliance and homegrown innovation. That is why empowering others, especially in the entrepreneurial space, felt like the most potent lever for change. Entrepreneurs do not just create jobs; they solve local problems and build wealth right within their communities. For me, focusing on Africa was absolutely non-negotiable. This is my home, my continent, and I believe profoundly in its future. I am an unrepentant believer in the potential of Nigeria and Africa at large, and I am convinced that the change we seek will be led by Africans themselves. My role is simply about helping to ignite that passion, strengthen the will, and provide the tools needed to make a lasting impact in our society.
3. Beyond the Numbers: You’ve impacted over 40,000 people. Can you share one story, maybe of a young entrepreneur or a woman you’ve helped, that truly stays with you?
It is true, the numbers are significant, but it is the individual stories that truly stay with me and fuel the work. When I think of the over 40,000 lives touched, two distinct examples immediately come to mind. One is Bolu, a young Nigerian entrepreneur with a visionary idea in the circular economy space, long before it became a popular concept here. Alongside his co-founder, he created Scrapays, a platform that genuinely empowers individuals and organizations to get paid for their waste. They provide smart devices and the Scrapays app for agents who collect recyclable materials like metal, plastics, and paper. Seeing their journey has been incredibly rewarding. Their mobile-first platform now supports over 46,000 users and about 11,000 registered agents whose livelihoods depend on it, and they have successfully recycled about 1.5 million kg of waste. It is a powerful example of how a brilliant idea, coupled with relentless execution, can create both economic opportunity and significant environmental impact.
Then there is the story of a remarkable fashion entrepreneur in Sierra Leone. She has this incredible passion for empowering other women. In 2022, through a World Bank funded capacity enhancement initiative, she and seven other enterprise development enthusiasts were part of a mentorship program with us. During our one-on-one office hours, we helped her develop the concept and even the name for her own creative hub and its programs. Since then, she has not just launched it; she has already delivered multiple cohorts of capacity building for women in Sierra Leone. Most recently, she even brought four of her mentees to Nigeria on a learning expedition. That is the kind of ripple effect that truly excites me. These stories, along with so many others of startups, founders, and intrapreneurs we have supported, are why I do what I do. I am just incredibly grateful for the privilege to play a part in their journeys.
4. Can you share some of the “aha!” moments you have had with entrepreneurs?
Working with entrepreneurs, especially during one on one office hours, is where the magic truly happens for me. I advise and mentor a good number of founders every year, and it is in those deeper dives that we often hit those incredible “aha!” moments together. One common scenario is when we are meticulously working through their business model canvas. There are times when a founder might be struggling to articulate their core offering, and then, suddenly, as we dissect each component, the light bulb just goes off. We unlock what becomes their undeniable value proposition and unique selling point, the very essence of why their business will succeed. It is incredibly rewarding to witness that clarity emerge.
Another frequent “aha!” comes from refining their go to market strategy. We might be reviewing existing channels, and through a simple question or a different perspective, we unearth completely new, critical channels or unexpected channel partners they had not considered. These discoveries can be game changers, opening up entirely new pathways to customers and growth. And of course, there are those moments when we are brainstorming names for products or even entire companies. It is fascinating to watch a founder’s vision crystallize into a name that perfectly encapsulates their brand. Founders often tell me that these one on one sessions are the most sought after opportunities, precisely because they allow us to “double click” on specific components of their business beyond group settings. One founder always puts it best, saying he “can not predict the next amazing discovery from a call with me,” and he is always eager for our next chat. For me, those moments of shared discovery, when an entrepreneur truly grasps a new path forward, are what make this work so fulfilling.
5. You work across many African countries. What’s one unique strength or spirit you’ve noticed in African entrepreneurs that truly sets them apart?
You are right, working across so many African countries truly offers a unique vantage point, and if I had to pick one thing that unequivocally sets African entrepreneurs apart, it is their resilience coupled with an unparalleled resourcefulness. African entrepreneurs often navigate environments with significant hurdles, from infrastructure gaps and policy inconsistencies to limited access to capital. Yet, what is truly remarkable is that they do not just survive these challenges; they innovate around them with incredible creativity and unwavering determination. They are absolute masters of “making do with what is available,” constantly building solutions that are inherently localized and robust. This inherent problem solving muscle, forged out of necessity, is a profound strength that, in my view, truly sets them apart on the global stage. It is also important to note that this spirit is not unique to founders. You see this same resilience and resourcefulness in African intrapreneurs as well, individuals who are creating immense value within existing organizations, applying that same problem solving drive to whatever business or work they are doing. It is a pervasive and powerful characteristic of the African professional landscape.
6. When you’re looking at a new startup or a social intervention idea, what’s the first thing that tells you, “Yes, this has real potential”?
That is a fantastic question, and it gets to the heart of what truly makes an impact. When I am looking at a new startup or a social intervention idea, the very first thing that tells me, “Yes, this has real potential,” is the founder’s deep, authentic understanding of the problem they are trying to solve, combined with their unwavering passion for it. It is simply not enough to have a good idea. I need to see that they have either lived experience with the problem or have spent significant, dedicated time researching and truly empathizing with the people affected by it. This is not about a superficial understanding. It is about a connection so profound that the problem almost feels like their own. This kind of authentic connection to the issue is critical because it almost always translates into solutions that are truly relevant, user centric, and sustainable. It means they are not just building something that looks good on paper, but something that genuinely addresses a real pain point in a way that resonates with the people who need it most. That deep empathy and personal drive are, for me, the clearest indicators of true potential.
7. In today’s fast-paced digital world, how do you stay ahead?
Staying ahead in today’s incredibly fast paced digital world really comes down to constant learning and maintaining a genuinely open mind. My schedule does not always allow for extensive reading, so I have adapted my approach to learning. I take full advantage of streaming platforms, audiobooks, and podcasts, and I actively seek out quality presentations in areas I am interested in. You will often find me watching a podcast or presentation when I am in transit, in the washroom, or even just eating. I also follow individuals whose insights and work I deeply admire, continuously learning from their perspectives. I have premium subscriptions across notable streaming platforms to ensure access to the best content, and I do not hesitate to pay for courses when I need to ramp up knowledge in a specific area. But perhaps most importantly, I make sure to engage directly with the young innovators and tech enthusiasts on the ground across the continent. They are often the earliest adopters and have an incredible pulse on emerging trends. Their insights are invaluable, and those direct conversations are often where I get the clearest signals about what is next. It is a combination of structured learning and staying deeply connected to the grassroots energy that keeps me informed and forward looking.
8. What’s one digital tool or trend you’re really excited about for driving social progress?
When it comes to digital tools driving social progress, I am incredibly excited about Artificial Intelligence, particularly the potential to apply various AI models to solve deeply rooted problems. Imagine the ripple effect across different sectors: enhanced productivity, precision diagnostics in healthcare, insightful forecasting for agriculture, and so much more. But what truly captivates me is the prospect of AI tools that can understand and process the unique richness of African languages and dialects. This is not just a technical achievement; it is a profound leap toward true inclusivity. Picture the impact: better access to vital information, tailored educational content, and crucial financial services for communities that have historically been underserved simply because digital platforms did not speak their language. This has the power to democratize knowledge and empower local economies on an unprecedented scale. It means a farmer in a remote village could access real time market prices or agricultural advice in their mother tongue, or a small business owner could secure micro financing through an AI powered interface that truly understands their local context. That is the kind of fundamental shift that excites me, leveraging cutting edge technology to unlock human potential and drive genuine social progress across the continent.
9. Beyond the Boardroom, When you’re not busy transforming Africa’s startup scene, what do you do to recharge?
That is a great question, because disconnecting is just as important as being connected! When I am not immersed in transforming Africa’s startup scene, I am a big believer in disconnecting to truly reconnect. My absolute priority is spending time with my family, especially my children. Their unfiltered perspectives and genuine joy are incredibly grounding and remind me of what truly matters. I also find immense peace and clarity in discussing my faith. And for a change of pace and good conversation, hanging out with friends, often exploring new restaurants, is definitely a go to for me. It is that blend of family, reflection, and social connection that truly helps me recharge and stay energized for the work ahead.
10. Any hidden talents or hobbies we should know about?
You might be surprised to know that beyond the world of startups, I have a real knack for fixing things. From a jammed washer to various electronic devices around the house, I find it incredibly rewarding to troubleshoot and get something working again. There is a certain satisfaction in bringing something broken back to life. And, believe it or not, I actually used to act in dramas! I was involved in drama groups all through elementary school, secondary school, and even led them during my first degree at university. These days, my audience is a bit smaller. I mostly perform for my kids, which is a very different rhythm from the startup world. I think that is precisely why I enjoy it so much; it is a completely different creative outlet.
11. If You Could Tell Your Younger Self One Thing: Knowing what you know now, what piece of advice would you give to a younger Akin just starting out in this field?
If I could go back and tell a younger Akin just starting out in this field one thing, it would actually be three interconnected pieces of advice. First, I would say: “Find your ‘Why’ and focus on it. The ‘what’ and ‘how’ will naturally evolve.” Understanding your core purpose provides an unshakeable foundation, especially when the path ahead is not always clear. Second: “Be bold with your ideas, because life rewards the audacious.” Do not shy away from grand visions or unconventional approaches. Take calculated risks, and see every setback as an invaluable lesson. And finally, and perhaps most crucially: “Build genuine relationships.” As a close friend of mine often says, “relationship is the currency of life.” The trust you cultivate with everyone, from fellow founders and partners to policymakers, will genuinely be your strongest asset. Always maintain your empathy, because Africa’s journey is a marathon, and it is one best run with heart and true partnership.
12. Looking ahead, what’s one big dream you have for Africa’s social and economic landscape in the next decade?
Looking ahead, my biggest dream for Africa in the next decade is to witness the emergence of a truly interconnected and self sustaining innovation ecosystem. I envision a continent where African solutions are solving African problems at scale, and where our incredible youth are not just consumers of technology, but are leading creators and exporters of it to the world. Specifically, I dream of a future where every young person, regardless of their background or location, has equitable access to the resources, education, and networks needed to transform their entrepreneurial dreams into thriving ventures. These ventures will not only uplift their communities but will also contribute significantly to a prosperous, inclusive, and globally competitive Africa. It is about unleashing the full, inherent potential of our people to build the future we all believe in.
Brief Profile:
Akinwande Akinsulire is an innovative business leader with over 17 years of entrepreneurial experience and the last 12 years designing and executing large-scale entrepreneurship, digital transformation, and capital mobilization programs across Africa. He has deployed over $25 million in funding through partnerships with organizations such as Meta, Google, UNIDO, the World Bank, Mastercard Foundation, and the Gates Foundation.
As Head of Startup Support at CcHUB Africa, a leading pan-African creative and innovation ecosystem enabler, Akin oversees a multi-country team delivering high-impact support programs for startups, accelerators, and innovation hubs. Beyond CcHUB, Akinwande actively serves on the boards of and as an advisor to numerous ventures and not-for-profit organizations in Africa, further cementing his dedication to advancing the reach of innovation and entrepreneurship.
He holds a B.Tech in Applied Geophysics from the Federal University of Technology, Akure, and an MBA from Aston University, UK. He has also attended specialized programs provided by the Wharton Business School and Harvard Business School, among others. Akin also holds multiple awards for his dynamic work in innovation and enterprise support.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akinakinsulire/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/akinakinsulire/
