Founder Voices (Episode 7): Special Edition for Black Tech Day with Dexter Simms (founder, Black Tech Day)
In this compelling conversation, Dexter shares practical lessons from building community-rooted ventures, demystifies what it means to lead with authenticity, and explores how tech, fashion, and culture can drive real social impact—not just trends. From mentoring young people to launching Black Tech Day, his perspective challenges conventional thinking and highlights the value of representation, creativity, and purpose in shaping the future.
This episode was recorded on Tuesday, 8 July 2025.
Founder Voices (Episode 6): Patrick Dunne OBE — Leading with Purpose and Global Impact
In this compelling conversation, he shares practical lessons from years in boardrooms, demystifies governance and leadership, and explores how boards can be a force for impact—not just oversight. From startup advisory to scaling social good, Patrick’s perspective challenges conventional thinking and highlights the value of clarity, curiosity, and courage in decision-making.
This episode was recorded on Wednesday, 2 July 2025.
Founder Voices (Episode 5): Cristina Ruiz, sustainability strategist and humanitarian consultant
In this thought-provoking and globally focused conversation, Cristina Ruiz shares her journey across the worlds of international development, social innovation, and systems change. Drawing on her deep experience in Europe, Africa, and Latin America, Cristina unpacks the realities of driving impact across borders—and why centring equity, collaboration, and local voice is essential.
We explore what it means to challenge traditional power structures, design for inclusion, and reimagine global value chains through a feminist and decolonial lens. Cristina reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped her work, the lessons she's still learning, and the role of connection in creating lasting change.
This episode was recorded on Saturday, 28 June 2025
Founder Voices (Episode 4): Micah Elechi, Founder and CEO of Macklemore Solutions and AfrikLink
In Episode 4, Clement Akran sits down with Micah Elechi—the Nigerian‑born, Canada‑based founder & CEO of Macklemore Solutions and AfrikLink. A Forbes‑recognised, award‑winning entrepreneur, Micah is on a mission to bridge the gap between Africa’s skilled talent and global opportunities through innovative digital platforms and strategic empowerment initiatives
In this inspiring and globally minded conversation, Micah Elechi shares his journey from Nigeria to Canada, and how his dual perspective fuels his mission to empower Africa’s talent and entrepreneurs. We unpack the challenges of navigating international business, building scalable tech solutions for impact, and why diaspora founders play a critical role in shaping Africa’s digital future.
From launching two ventures to gaining international recognition, Micah reflects on lessons learned, the importance of staying rooted in purpose, and how he’s using platforms like AfrikLink to connect potential across borders.
The podcast was recorded on Saturday, 15 June 2025.
Founder Voices (Episode 3): Leading at 21 with Miracle Nwankwo of Veefin Nigeria
In Episode 3, Clement Akran sits down with Miracle Nwankwo, the 21-year-old CEO of Veefin Nigeria, the local arm of a global fintech company working to digitise lending and unlock access to finance across Africa.
In this energising and future-facing conversation, Miracle opens up about the pressures and possibilities of leadership at a young age, what it takes to build credibility in the fintech space, and why youth-led innovation is essential to Africa’s economic growth.
From early career pivots to building trust with banks and investors, we explore how Miracle is redefining what’s possible for Gen Z founders on the continent.
The podcast was recorded on Saturday, 1 June 2025.
Founder Voices (Episode 2): Global Vision, Local Action with the Founders of Pakufi
In this episode of Founder Voices, Clement Akran speaks with the founders of Pakufi, an ethical tech agency dedicated to creating solutions that are both globally impactful and locally rooted.
Their conversation explores how purpose-driven innovation, strong community ties, and ethical leadership are shaping the future of technology.
Listen in for real-world insights, lessons from the start-up journey, and practical advice for founders building with heart and vision.