Building Innovation Bridges: Africa- US
This month, Columbia Global Center Tunis, Columbia Global Center Amman, the African Development Group, and the Institute of African Studies at Columbia co-sponsored an on-campus event, co-organized and led by Open Startup, Columbia Engineering, Columbia Business School, and The Jerome A. Chazen Institute for Global Business, that aimed to break new ground in fostering collaboration between innovators from Africa and the United States.
The event, which brought together key figures from both continents, served as a platform for transformative conversations and the forging of invaluable connections. Among the highlights was the keynote address by Dana Banks, Senior Advisor to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's Africa Business Center, who provided insights into the latest advancements from the DTA and Africa Summit and reinforced the importance of Africa and the need to advance shared interests and values, stressing the significance of the African voice in shaping a renewed partnership.
Houda Ghozzi, CEO of Open Startup, emphasized the unique advantage of the United States in nurturing entrepreneurs and unlocking creativity, citing it as a significant contribution to fostering prosperity in Africa. Ms. Ghozzi remarked, "That is exactly what inspired the creation of OST."
The event also featured a panel discussion with notable figures such as Jean-Pierre Adech, who provided advice for startups, emphasizing the importance of resourcefulness and innovation, Emmanuel Obasuyi, who shared his learning as an entrepreneur and an African Tech community catalyst, and Zahra Souleiman who shared her perspective as a current SIPA student from Nigeria.
In her concluding thoughts, Cheyenne V. Ellis underscored the importance of revitalizing partnerships and innovating the way both continents work together, emphasizing co-learning, mutual respect, and shared values.
We were also joined by Ivy Schultz, Director of Entrepreneurship at Columbia Engineering, who served as the Master of Ceremonies, and shared her personal journey in shaping the event and encouraging attendees to engage with Tunisian and Senegalese entrepreneurs, the future business leaders of tomorrow.
The event marked a significant milestone in fostering collaboration and mutual understanding between Africa and the United States. With insightful discussions, inspirational speakers, and invaluable networking opportunities, attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to furthering partnerships across continents. As we continue to navigate the complexities of the global economy, events like these serve as catalysts for innovation and progress, driving us towards a more interconnected and prosperous future.
