Shows
FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH#30 MVP Masterclass: How to Launch Your Startup Idea The SMART WayWhat's the secret to turning a brilliant startup idea into a market-ready product without wasting your precious time and cash? In this week’s episode of "From Garage To Growth," “MVP Masterclass: How to Launch Your Startup Idea The SMART Way,” I sat down with Angelo Zanetti, CEO of Elemental, to get the lowdown on the art and science of the Minimum Viable Product (MVP). We discuss:🔹 What an MVP truly is, and how it differs from a prototype and a full-fledged product (the "Full Monty," if you will!).🔹 The MoSCoW framework: A...2025-05-0841 min
FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH#29 Your Guide to AWS in Africa: Scaling Startups with Silicon OverdriveWhat if your startup’s next breakthrough is just a cloud credit away?In this week’s episode of From Garage to Growth, I sit down with Chuka Ezenwalie and Katlego Mabila from Silicon Overdrive, Africa’s trailblazing AWS Premier Partner. Their mission? To turn cloud computing from a cost center into a launchpad for innovation. From navigating Africa’s funding deserts to unlocking $100,000 AWS credits, they share how startups can thrive in the world’s most dynamic and challenging tech ecosystem.We unpack:🔹 The AWS Activate Program: How startups can tap into 1,000 –100,000 in credits (no equity sacrificed!).🔹...2025-04-1245 min
FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH#28 Decoding Your Ikigai: Nova Mentis' Digital Key to Self-DiscoveryWhat if unlocking your purpose was just a question away?In this week’s episode of From Garage to Growth, I sit down with Llewellyn Craddock and Sam, the founder of Nova Mentis, whose journey from isolation to inspiration led him to create a platform helping people decode their Ikigai—their reason for being. From navigating an existential crisis during the pandemic to building an AI-powered self-discovery tool, Llewellyn’s story is a testament to how technology and philosophy can intersect to create meaningful impact.We discuss:🔹 How enforced isolation sparked the idea for Nova...2025-03-1845 min
FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH#27 The Car Wash Hustle From Street Smarts to Diplomatic LeadershipWhat does it take to turn street smarts into global influence?In this week’s episode of From Garage to Growth, I sit down with Ambassador Oliver Fortune Chikodzore, whose journey from washing cars to advising nations is nothing short of extraordinary.From selling vegetables on the streets of Mutare to leading multinational ventures across Africa and beyond, Oliver’s story is a masterclass in resilience, resourcefulness, and the power of a bold vision.We discuss:🔹 How a childhood promise fueled his drive to change his family’s legacy🔹 The moment he turned R12.50 and a bicycle into a thriving car...2025-03-1236 min
FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH#26 From Soweto to Founder – What It Takes to Build Without a BlueprintWhat does it take to break barriers and build an industry from scratch?In this week’s podcast episode, “From Soweto to Founder – What It Takes to Build Without a Blueprint,” I had the privilege of sitting down with Raymond Ledwaba to unpack his journey.From growing up in Soweto to becoming a pioneering force in African gaming and tech, Raymond’s story is a powerful testament to resilience, innovation, and the ability to build without a blueprint.We discuss:🔹 How he transitioned from accounting to tech and gaming2025-02-271h 41
FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH#25 Can AI Save the Steel Industry? How DEEP.META is Forging a Greener FutureThe steel industry faces a sustainability challenge, contributing nearly 10% of global CO2 emissions. Can AI drive a greener future? In this episode, we talk to Dr. Osas Omoigiade, founder & CEO of DEEP.META, about how AI and reinforcement learning are transforming steel production. Discover how DEEP.META’s ‘furnace copilot’ saves energy, cuts emissions, and boosts efficiency—potentially reducing 500 megatons of CO2 annually. But with industry resistance and data challenges, can AI truly revolutionize steel? 🚀Subscribe for more insights on innovation and sustainability!Find FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH:Website: https://fromgaragetogrowth.deSpotify...2025-02-1939 min
FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH#25 Can AI Save the Steel Industry? How DEEP.META is Forging a Greener FutureThe steel industry is at a crossroads. While it remains a fundamental part of modern infrastructure, it also contributes nearly 10% of global CO2 emissions, making it a major player in the climate crisis. With increasing pressure from consumers and regulators to go green, can artificial intelligence (AI) revolutionise steel production and make it more sustainable?In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Osas Omoigiade, founder and CEO of DEEP.META, to explore how AI is transforming one of the world’s oldest industries. From his journey in academia to launching a cutting-edge startup, Dr. Osas shares how his team is...2025-02-1241 min
FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH#24 From Student Savings to Sweet Success – The BBCAKES JourneyDiscover how Aasiyah, the founder of BBCAKES, turned a humble student savings of just R20 into a dessert sensation redefining South Africa's cake culture! 🎂✨ From trendy retro designs to custom lunchbox cakes, BBCAKES has captured hearts and taste buds across Cape Town. Aasiyah shares her inspiring journey of overcoming challenges, building a vibrant brand, and growing a loyal online community of over 10,000 followers. 🌟📲Get ready for a sweet story of passion, perseverance, and creativity that’s as delicious as it is inspiring. 🍪💡Find FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH:Website: https://fromgaragetogrowth.deSpotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/from-garage-to-growthApple Podcast: https://youtu.be/J5...2025-01-1620 min
FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH#23 Talent Quest: Africa's Path to Economic Growth Lies in the HR RevolutionDid you know? By 2040, nearly half of the global workforce will come from Africa! But here’s the challenge: only 3 million jobs are created each year, while 11 million people enter the workforce. 📈This is where Shortlist, founded by Paul Breloff, steps in. Combining technology, insight, and a deep understanding of African markets, Shortlist is revolutionising how talent is sourced and developed. With an ambitious vision, Shortlist aims to unlock $100 billion in lifetime earnings for Africans by 2035. Here’s how: 👇🔑 Key Takeaways🔹 Two-Pronged Approach:• Shortlist Cert: Specialises in senior leadership hiring, adapting global executive search practices to Africa’s unique context. 🌍• Shortlist Futures: A work...2024-11-1247 min
FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH#22 Woman of Many Hats: Founderland and Empowering Women of ColourDeborah Choi: A Woman of Many Hats! From Nigeria, USA to Europe, Deborah Choi has built a career on resilience, adaptability, and purpose-driven entrepreneurship. 🌍 As a serial entrepreneur, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Founderland—Europe’s largest community for underrepresented founders—Deborah has dedicated her life to empowering women of colour in the startup ecosystem. 💪 In this episode of From Garage to Growth, we dive into Deborah’s incrediblejourney: From law school to launching businesses🌱Building Founderland into a 600+ strongcommunity of founders across 26 countries 🚀Using tech to close the gap for...2024-10-2440 min
FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH#21 How Open Startup is Empowering African EntrepreneursIn this episode of From Garage to Growth, we sit down with Dr. Houda Ghozzi, founder and CEO of Open Startup (OST), an NGO transforming Africa’s entrepreneurial landscape. Dr. Ghozzi shares her journey from academia to social impact, and how OST is empowering young African entrepreneurs by bridgingthe gap between universities and industries. Discover how OST's programs are fostering innovation and building Africa's next generation of leaders. 🌍✨Find FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH:Website: https://fromgaragetogrowth.deSpotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/from-garage-to-growthApple Podcast: https://youtu.be/J5sZa8O3L5MInstagram: https://www.ins...2024-10-1733 min
FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH#20 Building Trust in Democracy – How Kuorum is Transforming Online VotingIn the 2016 U.S. presidential election, nearly 92 million eligible voters chose not to cast their ballots. Similarly, the 2014 midterm elections saw around 143 million eligible Americans abstaining from voting, marking the lowest participation in 72 years. These statistics underscore a significant challenge in democratic engagement. A healthy democratic process requires active participation from its citizens, making it crucial for everyone to exercise their right to vote. In the latest episode of "From Garage To Growth," discover how Kuorum and its CEO and Founder Matias Nso Roca are revolutionising democracy with secure online voting.Find FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH:Website: https://fromgaragetogrowth...2024-08-0841 min
FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH#19 From Selling Holly to Supply Chain TechJoin us as we delve into the inspiring story of Xavier Dikor Mbouma, CEO of DATAFRET. From selling holly at six years old to founding a groundbreaking supply chain SaaS company, Xavier's journey is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the power of pivoting. Learn about his multicultural upbringing, the lessons from his early ventures, and the pivotal moments that shaped DATAFRET's success. Tune in for valuable insights on entrepreneurship, diversity, and the importance of mentorship. Find FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH:Website: https://fromgaragetogrowth.deSpotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/from-garage-to-growthApple Podcast: https://youtu.be/J5sZa8O3...2024-07-2535 min
FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH#18 Reme-D Inc: Bridging The Gap In Molecular Diagnostics In Underserved RegionsIn the latest episode of "From Garage to Growth", Dr. Salma Tammam, Founder and CEO of Reme-D Inc. Dr Salma shares her path from academia to entrepreneurship, driven by a mission to revolutionise molecular diagnostics in underserved regions. This episode highlights the critical role of innovative diagnostics in improving healthcare accessibility and affordability, particularly in the Middle East and AfricaFind FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH:Website: https://fromgaragetogrowth.deSpotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/from-garage-to-growthApple Podcast: https://youtu.be/J5sZa8O3L5MInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gara.ge2growth/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com...2024-07-1935 min
FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH#17 How Earlybird’s Vision Lab is Empowering Immigrant FoundersIn the latest episode of "From Garage to Growth," Benjamin Wilkening, a seasoned executive boasting over 25 years of experience in venture capital, private equity, strategy consulting, and startup acceleration, delves into the transformative power of entrepreneurship. Benjamin shares his insights on his work with Earlybird, specifically focusing on Vision Lab, a dynamic hub within Earlybird that champions immigrant founders and tackles the unique challenges they face. The episode explores the inception of Vision Lab, the criteria for participation, the structure of its comprehensive program, and the inspiring stories of immigrant entrepreneurs who have thrived despite adversity.2024-07-1330 min
FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH#16 Refugee Integration through Entrepreneurship: The Neustart.plus Model🎙️ Join as we dive into the impactful work of Neustart.plus, fostering refugee entrepreneurship inGermany. Djordje Cetojevic from Neustart.plus offers a deep dive into their pioneering model, supporting refugee entrepreneurs from idea to implementation.🚀 Neustart.plus Mission: Helping refugees become successful entrepreneurs through tailored support androbust resources. 🤝 Personal Perspective: Djordje's own immigrant background fuels his passion to assist others in their entrepreneurial journeys. 🔍 Comprehensive Support: From workshops in multiple languages to individual coaching, Neustart.plus guides entrepreneurs from idea to business establishment.🌍 Diverse Challenges: Overcoming language barriers and legal complexities is crucial for re...2024-07-0831 min
FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH#15 Tebalou: Dismantling Racism Through Diverse Toys, Books, and EducationIn this episode of "From Garage to Growth," we explore the inspiring story of Tebogo Niminde-Dundadengar, co-founder of Tebalou. Tebogo's journey from Botswana toGermany fuels her mission to provide diverse and inclusive toys and books for children. Facing childhood exclusion, she now aims to integrate these tools into educational settings, emphasizing the importance of representation. Tebogo also tackles racism through her writings and consulting, aiming to foster open conversations and genuine inclusivity. Overcoming startup challenges, her vision is to make Tebalou a key resource for kindergartens and schools in Germany. Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to build a...2024-05-2337 min
FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH#14 Exploring Diversity in Entrepreneurship: The Immigrant ExperienceJoin us in this insightful episode of 'From Garage to Growth' as we delve into the transformative journey of Zakaria Jaiathe. Explore the challenges of immigration and the pitfalls of diversity washing in today's corporate world. Gain valuable insights into entrepreneurship, cross-continental trade, and the quest for genuine diversity.2024-05-1745 min
FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH#13 From Idea to Ecosystem – Building Inclusive Startup CommunitiesJoin Constantin Schmutzler, founder of Berlin Startup School, as he shares insights into nurturing entrepreneurs and fostering inclusive communities. Explore his journey from inception to the House of Startups, learn about tailored programs for aspiring founders, and gain valuable advice on resilience and exploration in entrepreneurship. Subscribe now for a deep dive into the vibrant world of startups!2024-05-1252 min
FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH#12 Navigating the Tides of South Africa's Startup SceneJoin veteran entrepreneur and investor Will Green on a journey through South Africa's vibrant startup landscape. Drawing from over two decades of experience, Will shares invaluable insights into the challenges and opportunities that define entrepreneurship in the region. Discover how Will addresses barriers to entry through platforms like The Board of Wisdom and Capital Engine, democratizes opportunities with emerging technologies, and champions resilience amidst challenges. Explore the significance of bootstrapping, exits, and scaling in fostering growth, and learn about initiatives empowering the informal sector and harnessing youth potential for economic development. Through Will's narrative, gain a deeper understanding of...2024-05-031h 03
FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH#11 CHANCELLOR CHRONICLES SPECIAL: STORIES FROM GERMAN CHANCELLOR FELLOWSWelcome to a special edition of Chancellor Chronicles! Today, we're breaking from our usual routine to bring you a fascinating glimpse into the journeys of fellow German Chancellor Fellows. Join us as we explore the diverse projects and experiences of Bria Savoy, Aditi Saxena, Christopher Washnock, Nandini Agarwal, Ashutosh Nagda, and Priscila Rios. From social-emotional learning to sustainable food systems, from business ethics to law and technology, our cohort is paving the way for positive change. Get ready for an insightful conversation that spans continents, disciplines, and even winter survival strategies! Welcome to From Garage to Growth: Stories from...2024-04-2130 min
FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH#10 The Black Opportunity: Venture Capital and Afropean Entrepreneurship🚀 Join us on a journey of entrepreneurship, identity, and innovation with Tino Chibebe, author of 'The Black Opportunity'. In this captivating episode, Tino shares his remarkable journey from Zimbabwe to Belgium, offering profound reflections on navigating racial identity, overcoming structural barriers, and harnessing technology to empower underrepresented communities. 🌍💡 Don't miss out on Tino's invaluable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and his vision for a future where discrimination is replaced with boundless opportunity.2024-04-1250 min
FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH#9 London to Berlin's Runways: Inclusivity with Beckha and 22ndCenturyWomxnStep into the transformativeworld of fashion with Rebekah Bogle, founder of Beckha and 22ndCenturyWomxn.Discover how Rebekah's innovative approach blends sustainability and culturalcelebration. From overcoming self-doubt to championing diversity, join us as weexplore Rebekah's inspiring journey and her mission to rewrite the fashionnarrative for a more inclusive future2024-03-2051 min
FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH#8 Breaking Barriers: Start-Up Lounge's Mission to Empower African EntrepreneursJoin us in this episode of "FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH" as we sit down with Samuel Opoku, Founding Partner & CEO of Start-Up Lounge Africa (SLA), to explore the transformative impact of entrepreneurship in Africa. From nurturing dreams to addressing start-up challenges, Samuel shares SLA's mission to empower businesses across the continent. Discover how SLA is pioneering progress in climate, agriculture, fintech, and mobility sectors, while strategically navigating diverse markets. Uncover the projects driving change, like KutanaPay and Esperanto, and gain insight into the future of African startups. Don't miss this enlightening conversation on building bridges and fostering connections to...2024-03-121h 11
FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH#7 East African Elegance: The Story Behind Soil Brasserie and BellArt GalleryIsabella Seibt's Entrepreneurial Journey Explored"Your ideas are important. Don't give up. Network as much as you can and build a brand. Your uniqueness is your strength." - Isabella SeibtIsabella Seibt, founder of Soil Brasserie and BellArt Gallery, shares her inspiring journey as an entrepreneur rooted in East African culture. Overcoming initial obstacles, Isabella has disrupted the European art scene, infusing her ventures with a celebration of diversity and a commitment to community building. As Isabella navigates the challenges of being a woman of colour in the entrepreneurial sphere, her resilience and determination serve...2024-02-2233 min
FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH#6 Unleashing Innovation: A Deep Dive into Berlin's Startup Pulse"Starting a startup often requires a shift in mindset, sometimes not just 180 degrees, but a complete shaking of your foundation. It's about getting a new orientation, and that's where an incubator plays a crucial role – providing support as you unshackle yourself from the familiar." - Julian Doms”In the latest episode of "From Garage to Growth," Julian Doms, a lead startup coach at Startup Incubator Berlin, provided insights into the dynamic world of Berlin's startup scene. Julian shares his journey, delves into the mission of Startup Incubator Berlin, and unravels the historical tapestry that has shaped Berlin into a thri...2024-02-1654 min
FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH#5 Bolley Clothing: Weaving a Global Narrative of African Fashion and CultureEmbark on a journey with Bolley Clothing as we unravel the vibrant narrative of African fashion and culture through the eyes of Musa Ceesay. On this episode of "From Garage to Growth," we explore how Bolley Clothing transcends conventional fashion boundaries, seamlessly weaving threads of culture, community, and diversity into its very fabric.Nestled in the heart of Berlin, Bolley Clothing is not just a brand; it's a living testament to the transformative power of fashion. Handwoven textiles from Gambia, Senegal, and Ghana converge to create a vibrant tapestry that encapsulates cultural richnessand serves as a powerful...2024-02-1044 min
FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH#4 From High School to Founders – Reinventing Education with EDMEInspiring young entrepreneurs Liam Sherwood and Tayler Schäplitz shared their journey as high school graduates diving headfirst into the world of entrepreneurship. The duo revealed their mission to revolutionize education through a unique platform that blends inspiration with learning EDME.Their platform aims to inspire not only students but individuals of all ages to embrace lifelong learning. By leveraging the power of digitalization, they envision creating an ideal learning environment that goes beyond the traditional constraints of the classroom.2024-02-0136 min
FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH#3 Cooking up a South African Feast – Elevating African Cuisine GloballyChanging the Perception of African CuisineIn the heart of Berlin, a culinary maestro is breaking barriers and reshaping perceptions of African cuisine. Chef Sibusiso Mntambo, founder of iSIMO - Culinary Situations, takes us on a flavourful journey from the vibrant streets of Durban, Cape Town, to the bustling kitchens of Berlin. In a recent episode of "From Garage to Growth", Chef Mntambo shares his remarkable story of inspiration, entrepreneurship, and the quest to redefine South African gastronomy on the international stage. 2024-01-2447 min
FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH#2 From Enyi to Decolonizd – Redefining African Identity Through BusinessWhat does it take to fuse entrepreneurship, African heritage, and decolonized values into a thriving brand?In this week’s episode of From Garage to Growth, “From Enyi to Decolonizd – Redefining African Identity Through Business,” I had the privilege of sitting down with Francis Molokwu to unpack his journey.From building Enyi, a brand that celebrates African spirituality through scent, to launching Decolonizd, a platform that challenges capitalism and white supremacy, Francis’s story is a powerful testament to cultural empowerment, innovation, and purpose-driven entrepreneurship.We discuss:🔹 How Enyi show...2024-01-1849 min
FROM GARAGE TO GROWTH#1 Rising Above Uniforms: from Security Guard to Industry TitanWhat does it take to overcome challenges and unleash Africa’s entrepreneurial spirit?In the debut episode of From Garage to Growth, “From Security Guard to Angel Investor – Defying the Odds in Entrepreneurship,” I had the privilege of sitting down with Sola Osinoiki to unpack his journey.From working as a security guard to becoming an HR tech leader and angel investor, Sola’s story is a powerful testament to resilience, reinvention, and the role of mentorship in Africa’s entrepreneurial renaissance.We discuss:🔹 How he transitioned from corporate to mentorship and investment🔹 The impo...2024-01-051h 03