I recently returned from my first trip to Meltwater Entrepreneurial School of Technology (MEST), in Ghana, invited by Meltwater CEO Jorn Lyseggen, who invited me because of my background in venture capital. I was asked to contribute to the trainees’ (known in MEST as Entrepreneurs-in-Training or “EITs”) knowledge based on my venture capital experience as well as my experience in working with people in developing countries. Since I recently joined the company, it was also an opportunity to learn about MEST. I will post on this blog in two parts: the first is my thoughts on development work in Africa, and the second will be my thoughts and experiences at MEST.
Like many people (and no matter how many times I visit), I romanticize the possibilities and the dangers when visiting Africa. Then I arrive and realize that between MTN and the multi-million dollar black market, entrepreneurial spirit and opportunity are already established in Ghana and executed through at least one mobile phone per person. This being my third trip to Africa, I was once again grateful to be presented with the warmth of the people and the vast landscape of possibility.
During my first meal in Accra, DeLanee, a Senior Faculty member, set my understanding of Ghanaians through telling a story of why her car had lost its muffler numerous times (now it just runs without). As is in every country, a lack of car knowledge can potentially be expensive when something goes wrong with your car. However, aside from losing her muffler,…
