Education, for me, extends far beyond the confines of a classroom. It's a lifelong pursuit that empowers not just with technical skills, but with the ability to think critically and navigate the complexities of the world. My educational journey, culminating in my pursuit of a Master's in Finance at the Illinois Institute of Technology, has been instrumental in shaping who I am today. One of the most profound impacts of education lies in its ability to broaden our horizons. It shatters the limitations of our personal experiences and exposes us to diverse perspectives. Through my studies, I've delved into historical and philosophical works, explored different cultures, and delved into scientific discoveries. This exposure has fostered intellectual curiosity and challenged me to question assumptions. It's opened my eyes to the interconnectedness of everything, from the financial markets I analyze to the broader social and political landscapes they operate within. Education, however, isn't a solitary endeavor. It thrives on collaboration and the exchange of ideas. My professors have undoubtedly played a role in my development, but the most impactful lessons have often come from my peers. My undergraduate studies at Lake Forest College brought me together with a diverse group of individuals, each with unique backgrounds and viewpoints. We debated economic theories, challenged each other's perspectives on financial markets, and ultimately learned from each other. This collaborative learning environment fostered empathy, critical thinking, and the ability to communicate complex ideas effectively – all invaluable assets in today's world. Education is a journey that we share with others, a journey that is enriched by the diversity of our perspectives and the commonality of our aspirations. It is a journey that has no end, for learning is a lifelong pursuit that continues long after we leave the formal education system. The pursuit of knowledge doesn't end with a degree. Education, in essence, has equipped me with the tools to navigate the ever-evolving world of finance. It has instilled critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and the ability to learn and adapt. More importantly, it has nurtured a thirst for knowledge and a desire to contribute meaningfully to the world around me. Education has also given me a community of peers I revere. As I embark on the next chapter of my academic journey, I approach it with the unwavering belief that education is not just a path to success, but a compass that guides me towards a life of purpose and impact.

My father believed in the power of education in the importance of education and its power to transform lives, which is why he strived to provide all his children with the best education possible. Because of him, I was able to discover my passion for finance and technology. Fueled by my fascination with finance and technology, I graduated with a Bachelor’s in Finance from Lake Forest College in 2019 and will be pursuing a Master’s in Finance from Illinois Institute of Technology in the Fall of 2024. This belief in the power of education has become my life's cornerstone, propelling me toward a career that aims to empower others, particularly those of African descent. My professional journey began as a Financial Analyst Intern at Bundlar Augmented Reality Solutions in Chicago. There, I honed my skills in financial modeling, playing a crucial role in securing a $1.5 million Series A capital raise for the company. This experience ignited a passion for utilizing finance to fuel innovation and growth. Following my internship, I co-founded Ndali, a software development company based in Johannesburg, South Africa. Here, I wore many hats – developer, analyst, and strategist. Leveraging my financial background, I utilized Python and various libraries to analyze financial data, leading to data-driven business decisions and improved customer segmentation. My time at Ndali also exposed me to a stark reality – the financial literacy gap many Black and African communities face. Witnessing firsthand the challenges individuals face in accessing financial tools and education solidified my mission: to leverage technology and finance to empower Black and African individuals to achieve financial freedom. This mission extends beyond personal finance. I aspire to play a role in helping young Africans pursue higher education. Having benefited immensely from educational opportunities, I understand the transformative power of knowledge. I aim to bridge the financial gap that hinders access to quality education, fostering a future where African youth can pursue their academic dreams. I envision creating user-friendly, culturally relevant financial technology tools that cater to the specific needs of Black and African communities. These tools would range from mobile applications that provide educational resources and investment guidance, to platforms that facilitate affordable access to financial services like microloans and micro-investing. My journey as a financial technology creator has just begun. The road ahead will likely be filled with challenges, but I am determined to leverage my skills and knowledge to make a positive impact. My ambition is to see a world where financial technology empowers Black and African communities, unlocking doors to a brighter future. This is the legacy I hope to leave - a world where finance is not a barrier, but a bridge to self-sufficiency and success for everyone, including Black and African communities.