Catherine Barratt

🚀 Reflecting on the #AfricaProsperitySummit, during a powerful conversation on #GenderLensInvesting we spoke hard truths.. Amazing conversation on a panel, alongside Adesuwa Okunbo Rhodes (Aruwa Capital Management), Biola Alabi, and our brilliant moderator Dolapo Morgan (Ventures Platform Fund), we had a no holds barred discussion on backing women. 💡 Mentoring without capital is like icing without cake. Give both.  💡 Women control 80% of consumer spending; we have power.  💡The funding gap is getting even worse 💡The "2% problem" is becoming the 1% problem. 💡 Female-led startups secured 1.5% VC in Africa 💡 In Europe, just 1.8% 💡 The problem is across LPs, GPs to founders. 💡 Everyone should back women, not just women. 💡 We should pay attention to intersectionality 💡 Consider ethnicity, race, economic background We ALL should back #women. 🎯 What should we do? 👉 Give women money AND support—and watch #magic happen 👉 Be flexible. Challenge outdated “pattern matching.” heuristics - stick to first principles 👉 Track and report your data—because if you don’t, you simply don’t mean it. At Openseed VC, we are committed to equity. Our goal is 50% female-founded or co-founded representation in our top of funnel—and we’re already trending at 41%. Yes, 4 out of 10 applications we receive have at least one female founder💪 Investing in women entrepreneurs isn’t charity. It is value creation. It’s smart and conscious investing. It’s how we build alpha, create diversified portfolios, and drive superior returns. 🌍✨ 📢 We need more action than words now 😊 💬 thanks to the Ventures Platform Fund team and to Dr. Dotun Olowoporoku and Kola A. for the invite and spotlight of this critical discussion within the industry. #WomenInVC #GenderEquity #FemaleFounders #SmartInvesting #AfricaProsperity #VentureCapital #FutureOfFunding 🌟

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Business Opportunities to Avoid as a Returning Diaspora: - As a member of the African diaspora returning home... it’s crucial to identify which business opportunities to steer clear of. Drawing from personal experiences in both the UK and the USA, I’ve witnessed returning professionals making significant investments... only to face setbacks... due to pursuing 'hot' trends without thorough understanding. Here are three common traps: 1. Trend-Chasing: Just because something seems lucrative doesn’t mean it's sustainable. Make informed decisions based on local market needs... 2. High-Capital Ventures: Heavy investments in industries like construction can lead to unexpected challenges, especially if you lack local insights. 3. Neglecting Cash Flow Dynamics: Regular monitoring of your business health is vital. For instance, a grocery store may start strong but will falter without proper stock management. Navigating the business landscape back home requires diligence. Always do your homework!

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✅ EPISODE 2 is out!! 🎙️ ▶️ THE AFRICAN STRUCTURAL REVOLUTION. Listen to this #veryInspiring #Podcast with Anne Rosette, CEO Seychelles Investment Board. Listen on your favourite platforms ➡️ Listen on YouTube - https://lnkd.in/eQuk22SR ➡️ Listen on Spotify -https://lnkd.in/eWp498eN ➡️ Listen on Apple Podcast - https://lnkd.in/eGeCT4uu ➡️ Listen on Amazon music - https://lnkd.in/eh4UgWuQ. How does this Podcast inspire? ✅ As an aspiring entrepreneur, get inspired to get into investing through creating Entrepreneurial Consortiums. ✅ Anne discusses one of the most ambitious Photovoltaic (PV) System projects; amidst the Key Sectors in Seychelles where there is an abundance of investment opportunities. This becomes the right moment for any investor, Anne clearly explains the significant opportunities as well as how to take advantage of these opportunities. Listen, get inspired, Take advantage! ✅ Seychelles is one of the most Politically stable countries not only in Africa but globally, Anne explains the ease of doing business in Seychelles amidst government incentives for Sustainable Development Projects, she critically showcases the SDG Investor Map. ✅ An inspiring and innovative move to transform the Tourism sector, Anne highlights the Aquaculture Sector – an exciting move to introduce sports tourism to one of the most beautiful places in the world! ✅ Anne shares an African proverb/saying that inspires her to greatness, this will change your thinking for sure! 📧 Get in Touch with Anne ([email protected]) to discuss how you can invest into a beautiful African market, you can also reach Anne through me 📧 [email protected] #collaborate #GlobalAfrica #Partnerships #PPP #investinseychelles #cambridge #Entrepreneur #change LISTEN TO A QUICK 2 MINUTE VERSION BELOW ▶️ ⬇️

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✅ EPISODE 2 is out!! 🎙️ ▶️ THE AFRICAN STRUCTURAL REVOLUTION. Listen to this #veryInspiring #Podcast with Anne Rosette, CEO Seychelles Investment Board. Listen on your favourite platforms ➡️ Listen on YouTube - https://lnkd.in/eQuk22SR ➡️ Listen on Spotify -https://lnkd.in/eWp498eN ➡️ Listen on Apple Podcast - https://lnkd.in/eGeCT4uu ➡️ Listen on Amazon music - https://lnkd.in/eh4UgWuQ. How does this Podcast inspire? ✅ As an aspiring entrepreneur, get inspired to get into investing through creating Entrepreneurial Consortiums. ✅ Anne discusses one of the most ambitious Photovoltaic (PV) System projects; amidst the Key Sectors in Seychelles where there is an abundance of investment opportunities. This becomes the right moment for any investor, Anne clearly explains the significant opportunities as well as how to take advantage of these opportunities. Listen, get inspired, Take advantage! ✅ Seychelles is one of the most Politically stable countries not only in Africa but globally, Anne explains the ease of doing business in Seychelles amidst government incentives for Sustainable Development Projects, she critically showcases the SDG Investor Map. ✅ An inspiring and innovative move to transform the Tourism sector, Anne highlights the Aquaculture Sector – an exciting move to introduce sports tourism to one of the most beautiful places in the world! ✅ Anne shares an African proverb/saying that inspires her to greatness, this will change your thinking for sure! 📧 Get in Touch with Anne ([email protected]) to discuss how you can invest into a beautiful African market, you can also reach Anne through me 📧 [email protected] #collaborate #GlobalAfrica #Partnerships #PPP #investinseychelles #cambridge #Entrepreneur #change LISTEN TO A QUICK 2 MINUTE VERSION BELOW ▶️ ⬇️

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To My African LEADERS… At the African Union Side Event at UNGA, yesterday my key messages focused on Africa’s development potential and strategic actions for the future. 1. Harness Local Expertise - Africa must tap into its vast pool of talent and professionals capable of addressing challenges in education, health, infrastructure, and governance. Empowering local experts will drive sustainable solutions tailored to African realities. 2. Leverage Africa's Wealth - To convert its potential into economic gains, Africa needs robust mechanisms for monetizing its natural resources, supported by policies that ensure equitable distribution and responsible use. 3. Promote Intra-African Trade and Investment- The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) presents an unparalleled opportunity for African countries to boost trade, strengthen economic ties, and reduce reliance on foreign imports, fostering self-reliance and resilience. 4. Promote Sustainable Innovation - Africa must prioritize innovation, investing in technologies that will address energy, climate change, agriculture, and infrastructure challenges. By advancing these key areas, Africa can position itself as a global leader, not only in addressing its own development challenges but also in contributing innovative solutions to the world. This will enable Africa to lead in sustainability and position itself as a critical player in the global future. - Futurist MAM

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My Personal take on Ghana's 2024 elections #Ghana, often celebrated as a beacon of #democracy in Africa, is preparing for elections to test its 32 years of uninterrupted democratic #governance. Here's what is at stake in this crucial moment: Preservation of Democratic Stability Ghana's political #stability since the 1992 constitution has been a model for many #African nations. The outcome will reinforce or challenge its reputation as a stable democracy. #Peaceful elections are vital to maintain the trust of citizens and the #international community. Election Credibility Transparent, free, and fair #elections are essential to validate the electoral system. Concerns about voter integrity, transparency in vote counting, and adherence to democratic norms could influence the nation's democratic trajectory. Youth Participation With a significant youth population, their role and turnout could shape the results. Young voters are demanding jobs, education reforms, and action against corruption, making their votes highly influential. Regional and International Implications: Ghana's successful election would reaffirm its leadership role in promoting democracy in West Africa, especially amidst setbacks in neighboring countries like Mali and Niger. International observers and partners will closely monitor the process to gauge Ghana's adherence to democratic standards. Future Leadership The elections will determine Ghana’s political direction—whether it continues with the current leadership or embraces #change. Issues like #corruption, #infrastructure development, and healthcare reform are high on #voters' agendas. The stakes are high, and the #world will be watching #Ghana as it embarks on this democratic #milestone. By: PRINCE OSSEI OWUSU

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A journey has begun and we have the require passion and resources for it. While I may never become the president of my country, it is imperative that myself and some associates use our influence to shape those who would lead African countries in future. I promise you, Presidents would come out of our cohorts. These future leaders must be bold and selfless, with a deep understanding that prioritizing the needs of the people will inspire the ideas and strategies needed to transform our current dire circumstances. Reflecting on the past six months, it has become increasingly clear that Africa is in a dire situation. The continent's heavy reliance on foreign development partners to drive its economic programs has resulted in a cycle of dependency. This pattern of borrowing and begging for funds only to see them flow back out through capital flight, import bills, and mounting debt, leaves Africa in a precarious financial state. Despite this grim reality, there is hope on the horizon. Our vision is to identify and nurture young politicians who can break this cycle. We aim to provide these emerging leaders with the tools they need for success: a transformative mindset change, comprehensive political mentorship, robust networking opportunities, and substantial financial support through our extensive global network. By investing in these young politicians, we aim to cultivate a new generation of leaders who are equipped to steer their countries toward sustainable development and self-reliance. Complaining about the situation will not bring about change. Instead, we choose to act. Through our concerted efforts, we will offer the African continent our best, contributing our skills, resources, and unwavering commitment to making a difference. By empowering these young leaders, we will help forge a path toward a brighter future for Africa, where economic independence and prosperity become the norm rather than the exception. #newafrica #newleadership #peoplefirst #localcapitalmobilization

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The recent exit of these companies, and others, from African markets repeats a familiar pattern; foreign companies doing business in Africa often struggle to navigate local conditions and idiosyncrasies – from corporate oversight to foreign policy and domestic infrastructure. Aside from creating domestic job losses, such departures can affect investor confidence. This leads to more tentative local and foreign investment, which in turn can perpetuate a cycle of economic stagnation and foreign dependency. With the continent projected to be home to a quarter of the world’s population by 2050, multinationals must rethink current business approaches and operations in Africa to help the region’s economic growth match its potential. #africa #business #corporate #startups #enterprise #sustainability #entrepreneurship #entrepreneurs #society

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Check out this recent article and our global expansion mission.

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Days ago, I attended a very important engagement. The AI Expo for National Competitiveness to gain deeper insights into what the potential of this market will be, how our country and continent can benefit. #Africa An event that had strategic leaders from Academia, Private Sector, Government including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, Chief of Defense Staff, UK who spoke on the future of allied defenses, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, and others on this important subject of #AI. It was good to see Sand Technology by Fred Swaniker exhibit at the event. #Africa. Thanks to Special Competitive Studies Project - SCSP for this important event to foster collaboration, innovation on new and emerging technologies that will shape our world. Such events create platforms to learn, to share and to create the needed partnerships to better our world. #LetsGetToWork. #AI #BuildingBetter

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I built my character, then built a global network. I've had the privilege of being mentored by some of world's most connected, particularly in the Middle East. Along the way, I’ve gained some valuable insights—and I know a few key individuals who have the capacity to help transform Africa's future for the better. Time to build Africa, I can't do it alone, Welcome to the Farouk Khailann School of African Greatness! (A 3 -months online program) As someone who has walked the path of leadership and entrepreneurship across Africa and the globe, I have come to realize that true greatness is not in individual success but in the ability to uplift others and create a lasting impact. It is with this belief that I founded this school—a platform designed not just to impart knowledge but to nurture and mentor the next generation of African business leaders. My vision is simple: I want those who pass through this institution to surpass my achievements and rise as transformative leaders, propelling Africa to new heights. Africa is brimming with potential, and the global business community is taking notice. Yet, this potential can only be fully realized when we cultivate leaders who not only understand the intricacies of business but are also rooted in strong values, resilience, and the ability to innovate in the face of challenges. Here at the Farouk Khailann School of African Greatness, we are committed to equipping you with the tools, guidance, and mentorship necessary to harness these opportunities and become the trailblazers who will drive Africa’s socio-economic transformation. Those who enroll and excel in this program will gain unparalleled access to my personal network, a global circle of high-net-worth individuals, industry leaders, and investors. This is more than just a promise of mentorship—this is your gateway to a world of opportunities. As you progress and demonstrate excellence, you will also play an integral role in the investments I bring into Africa, actively contributing to projects that drive real economic growth across the continent. This is more than a school. It is a movement—one that seeks to inspire and empower a generation of leaders who will not only excel in their businesses but will also be catalysts for positive change in their communities, their countries, and the continent at large. Our programs are designed to help you unlock your full potential, sharpen your leadership skills, and give you the global outlook needed to thrive in today’s interconnected world. My goal is for you to graduate not just as capable business leaders, but as visionaries who will redefine Africa’s future. I want you to be greater than I ever was, to take the lessons from my journey, build on them, and chart a course for your own greatness. Welcome to the journey. Your time to make history starts here. Register here https://lnkd.in/dS3N9mTs Sincerely, Farouk Khailann Founder, Farouk Khailann School of African Greatness

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OUR LATEST EPISODE IS LIVE… …WHERE DO I BELONG? Welcome to Season 9 of the Building Brand You Podcast, Reading by Design. In this episode I chat with our final guest of the series, Evelyn Forde MBE - former President of the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL) - about creating an inclusive and supportive environment in education and ensuring regardless of their background or starting point, our young people feel respected, valued, and have a sense of belonging. Look out for BBY Show S9 Ep11: Where do I belong? with Evelyn and me - Kym Hamer… …on Apple – https://apple.co/3Vj5xnG …on Spotify – https://spoti.fi/3OyF1Dg ...and all your favourite podcast platforms. We hope you enjoy the conversation. Kym Hamer - Building Brand You Accelerating results by unlocking your greatest asset – YOU #personalbranding #leadership #reading #books #recommendations #Herstory #EvelynFordeMBE #author #education #BuildingBrandYou #podcast

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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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To All Distinguish Royal Monarchs of Africa , To All Royal Houses, To the Royal Chiefs Association of Ghana, To The Royal House of Chiefs Ghana, To All the Distinguished Royal Houses of Ghana & throughout Africa and Leaders in Commerce & Exchange for your perspective realms of domain. Perfect Peace be unto All Royal Monarchs of Africa in possession of such Royal Notice & Commerce Exchange Leaders of tomorrow. It is with the Most Noble of Honors After 400+ Years of Exile the ANTIQUITIES IMPERIAL KINGDOM of YHDH-YCQN, Royal Negrish Majestic Monarch of Negroland proudly Avail for the Permanent Peace Keeping Mission of the Diaspora Descendants return back to Africa by the way of the Central Government Administration Initiatives, Innovation and Incentives being availed by the African Students, Staff and Mentors Exchange Program being devised specifically by way of Sister City Relations with African American Cities of the USA and Kingdoms aligned to the United Monarchs of Africa Federation. To All Royal Houses of Africa seeking to unite with the United Monarchs of Africa Federation it is of utter importance and of the Ancient Royal Noble relevance that All Royal Houses carefully consider the Times & Seasons we find ourselves laden in during such perilous times having been duly warned by the Monarchs of the Ancient Days to be ever so watchful and mindful of it appears is before All Royal Houses during this preliminary time of unwavering discourse,chaos and confusion. As such let us All carefully consider the Royal Monarchs Commerce & Exchange Program as an alternative means of Exchanging Goods, Products and Services amongst Kingdoms, Chiefdoms throughout Africa yoked by the Perfect Peace Treaty Alliance Agreement to establish 50 Cities of Perfect Peace for the Diaspora Descendants of Negroland to return to the Africa Continent with multiple locations to choose from. Your Royal House consideration in this Royal House Venture for the betterment of the Royal Houses of Africa preparation in the Diaspora Descendants return back to Africa Permanent Peace Keeping mission is imperative in this preparatory stage. Establishing Commerce, Goods, Contracts today for tomorrow's future amongst Kingdoms throughout Africa. For more information please contact HRH Dr. Amar Raha Segan-General at (312) 469-0546 via WHATSAPP for more information or via email, please be advised that the Director-General will contact All Monarchs expressing interest in partaking in such a opportunity will be Contacted directly in a Private-Confidential Capacity too further relations with the United Monarchs of Africa Federation. Dawning of A New Day.pngUnited Monarchs.png Royal Negrish Majestic Monarchs of Negroland Royal House of Chiefs-Council of High Priests Antiquities Imperial Kingdom of YHDH Ancient Holy Royal Order of MLKTZDK Tribe of YHDH-Nation of YHWH Sent with Proton Mail secure email.

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At the Africa CEO Forum last week, Africa’s wealthiest man, Aliko Dangote highlighted a stark reality many of us face as African entrepreneurs: the excessive red tape when crossing African borders. He mentioned needing as many as 35 visas to travel across our continent. 😲 But it's not just about the hurdles we face when travelling. Doing business within Africa still presents significant challenges, despite the promise of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). At numerous conferences, we hear grand visions of AfCFTA enabling seamless trade across Africa. Yet, for many of us on the ground, it's still largely a talk shop. The fundamental truth is that movement and trade in Africa remain problematic. As an African founder of tangible retail goods, these challenges are all too real. From customs delays to logistical nightmares, the barriers are numerous and often disheartening. While the idea of a unified African market is inspiring, the execution lags. We need actionable steps, not just discussions, to dismantle these barriers. It's time we move beyond rhetoric and pushes for real, tangible changes that will allow African entrepreneurs to thrive and create an environment where trade is seamless and businesses can grow without unnecessary obstacles. #AfricanEntrepreneurship #TradeInAfrica #AfCFTA #BusinessChallenges #Entrepreneurship #AfricanEconomy

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When we think about "heritage', we often limit that scope to familial lineage or ethic origins. Being of mixed race, and having been raised by my unmarried mother and maternal family allowed me to think quite deeply about heritage and this processing has led me to some personal conclusions and convictions. There is 1 race - the human race. The human experience is enriched by the diversity of ethnic groups and the variety of cultures. Because the human race, birthed by the divine and supreme will of God - the Sovereign Creator of heaven and earth (Genesis 1:26), every human being on the face of this planet is valuable and precious, endowed with purpose and capability to execute that purpose - having been made in the image and likeness of God. Every human being is a whole person that has a space or 'void' that God intentionally built into them so that they would innately be aware of their need for Him and therefore seek Him, the True & Living Triune God-head. The construct of Divine Identity is far more anchoring than earthly heritage especially for the masses of human beings who come from families where lineage continuity has been hampered for various reasons. For example, in our home province (Eastern Cape - forner Transkei), many children were born in the context of illegitimate relationships between European settlers and unmarried Xhosa and Khoisan women - so the conundrum there is legitimate humans/destinies arriving on a legitimate planet, under illegitimate circumstances. The good news for that guess work is that, regardless of ethic mix and circumstances, we ALL exist by the divine will of the Sovereign Creator. I believe that this resolve should anchor people pre cradle to post grave (through Christ). Life is not linear and that means that each human being shows up on earth (with a purpose to seek, obey, and reflect God), but each path is distinctively different and dynamic (with highs, lows, twists, and turns). You will notice that in my story I capture my familial aspects, but I include significant events and moments that were facilitated by special people who facilitated them. I mention: Port Shepstone High School educators Busisiwe. M Madikizela-Theu (a friend since high school) and Dr. Talifhani KHUBANA PhD, MBA, CFO(SA), CPA(SA), GTP(SA) Khubana and their role in my higher education journey Durban Christian Centre, and how its gospel-centred work impacted my early spiritual formation How the written works of Dr Conrad Mbewe, Dr Voddie Bauchum, and Dr Myles Munroe shaped my mindset and mission today My encouragement to you this Heritage Day, fill in the gaps of uncertainty by taking stock of God's providence during your life's journey. Focus a little more on who stepped in and a little less on who left or who was missing - those elements were and still are out of your control. You matter. You have value. Your heritage is deeper, wider, higher, and more transcendent than you have considered. Happy #HeritageDay 🥳

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My recent post has sparked a wave of resonance across so many circles, revealing just how deeply invested we all are in Africa’s economic future. The feedback I received can be grouped into three categories, and I want to address each of them. 1. To the President, 2 former Presidents, government advisors, and ministers who reached out to express your shared frustration—thank you. Your willingness to engage with me, your humility in admitting the flawed FDI approach Africa continues to make without attempting to justify them, and your encouragement for me to continue being a voice of disruption has given me immense hope. I hold deep respect for your openness, and I firmly believe that together, we can reshape the way we attract investment to our continent. Thank you for giving me the strength to keep pushing forward. 2. To the business leaders—CEOs, board chairmen, founders, and entrepreneurs—your responses were an eye-opener. It’s startling how many of you have felt silenced by the fear of repercussions from speaking out. I understand your caution; a single instructive call to a regulatory agency can wreak havoc on everything you’ve built. But to those of you who have now found your voice and an ally in me—thank you for your trust. We can no longer afford to sit quietly on the sidelines. Let’s not just speak up; let’s engage with those in power, present our ideas, and leverage our networks to bring about the changes Africa desperately needs. 3. And then, to the youth—my favorite group—you, the disruptors, the unyielding force, I feel your frustration. To those of you who want to leave the continent, I won’t discourage you. Go. Learn. Equip yourselves with knowledge and resources. But come back. Africa needs you. For those who are determined to stay—your resilience is awe-inspiring. You are the heartbeat of this movement, and your belief in the potential of our continent is everything. Know this: there are many of us in positions of influence who are ready and willing to walk this journey with you. Africa’s economic potential is unparalleled, and I urge you—don’t let anyone convince you otherwise. You see the mistakes of our leaders clearly. Be the generation that corrects them. Interrogate policies. Be bold. Get involved. Speak up. Your collective voice will shake the foundations of this continent and inspire the change we all crave. Africa will rise when we, as a people, are humble enough to admit our faults and bold enough to correct them—without delay. #thenewAfrica #newthinking #hope

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