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Meet the Team Founder and Chief Executive Officer Nana Barwuah With a B.A. in Politics from Princeton University, Nana brings a global perspective shaped by experience across finance, policy, and social innovation. Learn More Advisory Board Hagop Alajajian With a B.S.E. in Engineering from Princeton University, Hagop brings a passion for artificial intelligence, automation, and venture technology. Learn More Advisory Board Hareton Song With a B.S.E. in Operations Research and Financial Engineering from Princeton University, Harry brings a passion for fintech, venture capital, and emerging technologies. Learn More Co-Director of Investor Relations Clement Baba With a B.S. in Computer Science and Business Administration from Northeastern University, Clement brings a passion for finance, private equity, and investment analytics. Learn More Co-Director of Investor Relations Yoon Chae B.A. at Amherst College, studying Economics and Mathematics Learn More Co-Director of Development Kieran Mclean With a B.A. in Philosophy and Political Science from Northwestern University, Kieran brings a passion for law, policy, and civic innovation. Learn More Co-Director of Development Akua Serwaa Owusu-Ansah With a B.Sc. in Political Science and Data Analytics from the University of California, San Diego, Akua brings a passion for business development, data-driven strategy, and international policy. Learn More Director of Business Development Jack Rykiel With dual degrees in Economics and Computer Science from the University of Maryland, College Park, Jack brings a passion for machine learning, data-driven economics, and technology innovation. Learn More Director of Corporate Partnerships Max Huddleston With B.A from Lawrence University, where he studies English Literature and Creative Writing. Learn More Director of Technology Serwaa Barwuah Serwaa has led and contributed to several youth-led projects centered on education, entrepreneurship, and community empowerment in Africa and the diaspora. Learn More Director of Communications Shelby Agyeman With a B.A. in Biology from Hamilton College, Shelby brings a passion for community health and social empowerment. Learn More

Sirneh Asangwe Startup Coordinator Sirneh Asangwe is a behavioral science professional pursuing a Master’s in Industrial and Organizational Psychology at The New School, where she also earned her undergraduate degree in Psychology. Her work focuses on how leadership, motivation, and workplace culture influence organizational success. Sirneh serves as an Intake Counselor at The Door – A Center of Alternatives, where she supports youth development, career readiness, and mental wellness programs. She has also taught English as a Second Language at St. Francis College and gained experience in client services and operations at Blink Fitness. Sirneh’s academic and professional path reflects a deep commitment to creating inclusive, high-performing environments where individuals and organizations thrive together.

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Kwadwo Boateng Finance & Outreach Kwadwo Boateng holds a B.S. in Finance and Economics from Washington University in St. Louis's Olin Business School. He is a Gates Scholar and QuestBridge Scholar recognized for his academic excellence and leadership. Kwadwo is an incoming 2026 Investment Banking Summer Analyst at Guggenheim Securities. He has previously served as a Summer Analyst at the Skandalaris Center for Interdisciplinary Innovation and Entrepreneurship, where he worked on venture analysis and early-stage business development. With a strong foundation in financial modeling, strategy, and market research, Kwadwo is passionate about leveraging finance as a tool for innovation and inclusive growth. Linkedin

Akua Serwaa Owusu-Ansah Startup Coordinator Serwaa is a dynamic and results-oriented Junior Business Developement Manager at Hawkhurst & Dua. Serwaa holds a B.Sc in Political Science-Data Analytics from the University of California, San Diego. During her time at the University of California, San Diego, she earned multiple Provost Honors in recognition of her academic excellence. Her research apprenticeship on “Race and the Responsibility to Protect” allowed her to refine her analytical and critical thinking skills, exploring the intersection of race and international law. While at UC San Diego Serwaa also served as a university representative and youth mentor, Serwaa supported students between the ages of 11 to 12 in underserved neighborhoods, helping to refine lesson plans and foster engagement in climate action. Through collaboration with Groundwork San Diego-Chollas Creek and Millennial Tech Middle School, Serwaa developed strong relationship-building and mentorship skills. Her professional experience includes time spent with Enterprise Trustees Ltd., a leading pensions management firm, where she developed expertise in data analysis and operational support within high-performing teams. Serwaa’s commitment to innovation and efficiency makes her a valuable asset. Linkedin

Afrovest connects global capital with Africa’s SME businesses through yearly conferences, empowering entrepreneurs and driving sustainable economic growth across the continent. Soutien Faites un don maintenant Chaque année, des milliers de jeunes esprits brillants à travers l'Afrique manquent d'accès, de ressources et de mentorat nécessaires pour concrétiser leurs idées. Sans soutien, d'innombrables futurs entrepreneurs, résolveurs de problèmes et acteurs du changement restent ignorés. Nous pouvons changer cela. Chez AfroVest, notre mission est de financer et de soutenir l'innovation menée par les jeunes en proposant des programmes d'entrepreneuriat concrets, du mentorat et des financements de démarrage. Rejoignez-nous pour construire un avenir propulsé par la prochaine génération africaine. Faites un don à AfroVest aujourd'hui ! You Can Make A Electronic Donation Below What the Funds Support Empowering Entrepreneurs to Build and Grow Entrepreneurial education is often out of reach for those with bold ideas but limited resources. Afrovest offers practical business training programs that support entrepreneurs at every stage, from refining their mission to exploring growth strategies. With resources such as pitch preparation, mentorship, and strategic coaching, participants gain the tools they need to grow their businesses and create real impact in their communities. Power of Access and Exposure Every entrepreneur deserves a platform. Afrovest provides travel and lodging support for selected participants to attend our conference, removing financial barriers that prevent great businesses from gaining exposure. With funding opportunities and personalized feedback from global business mentors, participants leave with more than visibility — they gain momentum. Your support helps break down the obstacles that hold business owners back from continuing to uplift their communities. Building Visibility and Investor Confidence Many African businesses struggle to gain credibility and recognition in global investment circles. Afrovest addresses this by offering entrepreneurs a trusted platform to showcase their ventures, share their track records, and engage directly with international and local investors. By fostering these connections, the conference builds investor trust and increases the likelihood of meaningful investment in African enterprises.

Jack Rykiel Finance & Outreach Jack Rykiel holds dual degrees in Economics and Computer Science from the University of Maryland, College Park, with a concentration in machine learning. His academic interests combine computational modeling, financial systems, and macroeconomic policy. Jack serves as a Financial Operations Intern at the Federal Reserve Board of Governors, where he contributes to financial reporting, accounting analysis, and systems optimization. His analytical rigor and cross-disciplinary training allow him to bridge economic insight with technological innovation. Linkedin

Frequently asked questions FAQ Who is eligible for the Afrovest Summit? Afrovest is open to African entrepreneurs who meet the following criteria: Must be 18 years of age or older Operate a legally registered business within an African country Demonstrate consistent revenue and an active customer base Be beyond the idea stage, with a functioning product or service in the market Businesses must operate in one of the following sectors: Agriculture, Fintech, Artificial Intelligence, Trade, Logistics and Supply Chain, or Renewable Energy. How does the Afrovest application and selection process work? Applications for our programs open annually in the fall. To apply, click on the Apply menu at the top of the page. After submitting your application, selected candidates will be invited to send in financial document for verification and participate in a virtual interview to further assess their business model, impact, and readiness for the conference. Finalists will then be chosen based on their performance during the interview, the strength of their application, and alignment with Afrovest’s mission to empower high-potential African entrepreneurs. Successful applicants will be notified in mid 2026 and provided with next steps for onboarding into the program and conference. Where will the 2026 Afrovest Summit be held? The 2026 Afrovest Summit is scheduled to take place in Accra, Ghana on November 12, 2026. Can I partner with Afrovest? Absolutely! Afrovest actively seeks partnerships with educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, companies, government agencies, development organizations, investor networks, and financial firms. We value collaborative efforts that enhance our conference and expand opportunities for business owners across the continent. To explore partnership opportunities, please reach out to us through the Partner with us page on our website. We look forward to discussing how we can work together to create meaningful impact. How can I get involved with the Afrovest Summit? There are several meaningful ways to get involved with the Afrovest Summit. You can support the event by making a donation, which helps cover costs such as travel stipends, workshops, and mentorship opportunities for participating entrepreneurs. Consider becoming a mentor at the summit to share your expertise and provide guidance to startups during pitch sessions and networking events. You can also apply to volunteer, assisting with event logistics, coordination, and participant support to ensure a successful experience for all. Additionally, sponsoring a summit program offers a unique opportunity to showcase your commitment to African entrepreneurship and connect directly with emerging business leaders. How do donations support the Afrovest Summit? Your donations are vital to making the Afrovest summit accessible and impactful for African entrepreneurs. They fund workshops, business development resources, and mentorship programs that equip startups with the skills they need to succeed. Additionally, donations cover travel and accommodation support, enabling selected entrepreneurs from across the continent to attend the event in Accra, Ghana. We also provide assistance with visa processes to remove barriers for international participants. By contributing, you help create an inclusive platform where entrepreneurs can connect with investors, build relationships, and accelerate the growth of their businesses.

Serwaa Barwuah Tech Lead Serwaa Barwuah is the Technology Lead at Afrovest, where she oversees the development and implementation of digital tools that enhance the organization’s global outreach and operational efficiency. She focuses on using technology to drive accessibility, innovation, and sustainable growth across the non-profit’s initiatives. Outside of her work with Afrovest, Serwaa has led and contributed to several youth-led projects centered on education, entrepreneurship, and community empowerment in Africa and the diaspora. With a strong background in both technical strategy and social impact, she is passionate about leveraging digital solutions to bridge resource gaps and connect underserved communities with opportunity. Serwaa is the founder of the Golden Boot Foundation, an initiative dedicated to providing African children with access to quality sports equipment and opportunities to pursue their athletic potential. She also leads a local civic initiative to establish a Youth Advisory Board, aiming to amplify youth voices in government decision-making and community development With a strong interest in coding and digital problem-solving, Serwaa strives to merge her technical skills with her commitment to social impact—building solutions that empower young people and promote long-term growth across communities.Serwaa’s commitment to innovation and equity reflects her broader goal of using technology as a force for progress and inclusion across the African continent. Linkedin

Contact Us Thank you for visiting Afrovest website! We value your interest and feedback. If you have any questions or comments feel free to reach out using the contact form below. Our dedicated team is here to help and will respond to your message as quickly as possible. Let's Chat First Name Last Name Email Message Send Thanks for submitting! Linkedin

Max Huddleston Finance & Outreach Max Huddleston, B.A from Lawrence University, where he studies English Literature and Creative Writing. His academic work is complemented by a strong interest in impact investing, global development, and the role of capital in shaping long-term economic opportunity. Max’s experience spans community engagement, entrepreneurship, and investment-related work. He has founded a tutoring initiative supporting students with diverse learning needs, worked with veteran support groups focused on addiction recovery, and contributed to community-building efforts through local outreach initiatives. In addition, he has gained experience in real estate operations and investment analysis through ongoing involvement in a family commercial real estate business. He is particularly interested in how capital can be deployed in emerging and undercapitalized markets to generate both financial returns and meaningful social impact.