If you thought running Africa’s largest cultural festival was all fun and games, think again! Co-founder of Afrochella, Abdul-Karim Abdullah, gives us insight into his entrepreneurial journey and how his festival lends the opportunity for people from the diaspora to be involved in changing the narrative of the continent.
Moziak Magazine: Describe entrepreneurship in
5 words
Abdul-Karim Abdullah: Grit, Intelligence, Structure, Foresight, Leadership.
MM: What inspired you to become an entrepreneur?
AKA: My family is built on the back of both women and men entrepreneurs. It seems like it is a part of my inheritance. I have seen them work so hard to build something from nothing, and I feel the need to follow in that same tradition.
MM: What’s the biggest misconception people have about the work you do?
AKA: That it is just a party/festival. Our event is an opportunity to have Diasporas passively involved in changing the narrative of the continent.
MM: Hardest lesson you’ve learnt on your journey thus far?
AKA: The challenge doesn’t end. Each one prepares you for the next.
MM: Best memory as an entrepreneur?
AKA: After the first Afrochella was over, we were walking the field to ensure everyone had left. I remember looking over at my partner, Kenny, smiling and falling to my knees with joy of accomplishment.
MM: How are you innovating in your business?
AKA: We are making data-based decisions and ensure we use a plethora of technological applications to ensure seamless communication with our staff and audience. We are also working on tech partnerships to implement on the field.
MM: A song that perfectly describes a day in your life?
AKA: Politics As Usual – Jay Z.
MM: What are you reading?
AKA: I am currently reading Walden and Civil Disobedience by Henry David Thoreau.
MM: The best business advice you have ever received?
AKA: Don’t worry about the problems, worry about the solutions.
MM: What advice can you give to people who are new to business/entrepreneurship?
AKA: Be curious. Always be willing to learn new things. Just because you may have found success doesn’t mean you have all the answers.
