B2B NEWSLETTER

Welcome to the third edition of BLOCK PAPER - your weekly scoop of all things business, tech, and finance. In this edition, we announce our latest podcast episodes and articles, and give you the low-down on our BAG DROP event that happened last week. We also have an amazing line-up of community events coming up, as well as some well-deserved community shoutouts!

On this week’s BLOCK PAPER:

📝 Block-Posts: Check our latest write up of our interview with CEO of Foundervine, Izzy Obeng who shares her gems on building up successful businesses across continents.

💼 BAG DROP Debut: A recap of our first successful BAG DROP event!

📆 Round the Block: Unmissable events happening soon in and around our community.

📣 Block Shoutouts: Our top picks of people making moves to amaze and inspire us all.

👋 Wrap Up: Saying goodbye until next week and a look at what’s to come!

📝 Block-Posts:

This week, we had an amazing podcast episode with guest Izzy Obeng. She spoke to us about managing her company Foundervine as a boss woman who works from two different countries. We wrote up some of her key gems; here’s a sneak peak:

1. Creating Safe Spaces for Entrepreneurs: Foundervine's mission is to provide aspiring entrepreneurs with a safe environment to experiment, learn from failures, and receive mentorship, emphasising that entrepreneurship is not a linear journey.

2. The Importance of Support Networks: To combat the loneliness and pressures of entrepreneurship, Izzy advises building a strong support network, including coaches, mentors, and like-minded individuals who can provide guidance and accountability.

3. Mindset and Humility in Business: When considering international expansion, having the right mindset and humility are essential. Listening, learning, and adapting to local markets and cultures are key to success.

4. Collaboration within African Diaspora: Collaborative efforts within the African diaspora can help leverage the abundant talent on the continent, creating infrastructures and opportunities for local communities.

Take a closer look at her story and advice: ⬇️

💼 BAG DROP Debut:

Last week, we had the honour of hosting our first BAG DROP event at Stride HQ and it was AMAZING!!! It was truly a one of a kind opportunity for founders and investors to network and vibe! Don’t worry if you couldn’t make it - we are planning on hosting more of these events in the future. If you missed out, check the link below to see our round-up of the night.

📆 Round the Block:

1. The first BLACK STRAT event ‘Knowledge Exchange’ is happening on October 25th at the D&AD Centre! Our very own Bejay Mulenga will be speaking at the event. Limited spaces are available so sign up in the link below:

2. Ruka Hair is looking for a People & Culture Manager dedicated to sourcing, nurturing and empowering our most critical resource - our people. Apply below:

3. Attend a vibrant evening of connection, culture, and community at our After Work Drinks Event, proudly brought to you by Amplify Venture! Get your tickets here:

📣 Block Shoutouts:

This week we would love to give flowers to the legendary Rama Ndiaye, as she has had an amazing month. She just had her one year anniversary for her company, the AfroClub5, and the party was a heartwarming event. And what she has planned next, is something you won’t want to miss. She is teaming up with RCRD SHOP and Kindred Rising to host a live concert and after party to celebrate Black History Month! Get your tickets below:

👋 Wrap Up:

Stay tuned, because next week we have a very exciting episode coming, featuring Georgia Lewis Anderson, expert on all things journalism, tech and AI. She joins us to discuss her multifaceted career, and what the future of tech holds. Catch you next week!