Amarachi Amaechi
Amarachi Amaechi, Co-founder & Chief Operating Officer, is an innovative Entrepreneur focused on finding solutions. With a strong passion for technology, she is a Co-Founder of Bitpowr.
She tells us that, “Our company is dedicated to developing a blockchain infrastructure for financial institutions, aiming to provide the critical framework needed to onboard the next billion individuals into the world of blockchain. I thrive on challenges, maintain a growth mindset, and prioritize collaboration to drive meaningful progress. Together, we can build a future where technology and financial services intersect to create inclusive opportunities for all.”
What were your initial years of growing up like? Tell us about your life before starting your corporate journey/venture/initiative.
During my formative years, I had the privilege of experiencing a diverse and enriching upbringing that has greatly influenced my present self. Growing up, I was fortunate to have a nurturing family environment that fostered curiosity and a love for learning. Prior to embarking on my entrepreneurial journey, I dedicated myself to education, honing my skills in Accounting and Finance, while also cultivating a deep fascination for technology that would later shape my aspirations. At the core of my ambitions lies a primary goal: to drive a significant and positive transformation in the financial industry by fostering inclusivity in financial services. The experiences and knowledge I gained during my earlier years have equipped me with valuable insights and invaluable lessons, preparing me for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead on my entrepreneurial path. With unwavering enthusiasm, I am eager to channel my passion, skills, and vision into the corporate realm, where I aim to leave a lasting imprint and create a meaningful impact.
Was there any turning point in your life that changed your journey? If so, what was it? Please tell us the backstory behind it.
Absolutely, there was a pivotal turning point in my life that significantly altered my journey. It occurred during my third year at university when I was actively seeking internship opportunities to gain practical experience. Unfortunately, despite two months of applying, I was unable to secure a placement. During this challenging time, I had a fortuitous encounter with a friend who possessed a deep passion for Information Technology. I confided in him about my predicament, and he suggested that I use the time to acquire a new skill while continuing my search for an internship. Inspired by his advice, I embarked on a journey to become a software engineer. I immersed myself in learning and developing my skills. Little did I know that this decision would prove to be transformative. Over time, my expertise grew, and I had the opportunity to join a team to create financial solutions that scaled and catered to millions of users across Africa. This experience not only propelled my career as a software engineer but also ignited a passion for utilizing technology to make a tangible impact in people’s lives. This turning point in my life opened doors to a world of possibilities and set me on a trajectory that merged my passion for technology with my desire to create meaningful solutions. It was a transformative moment that shaped my journey and continues to drive me to this day.
Every industry that is now a large-scale, top-notch business once started as a small idea in the minds of entrepreneurs. What was that idea or motivation that made you start your business /initiative? What motivated you within to say “YES, go for it!”
As a co-founder, I can share the idea and motivation that led me to start our business initiative. Our journey began with the recognition of a pressing problem or untapped opportunity within the blockchain and finance industry in emerging markets. We identified a gap in the market, a need that was not adequately addressed or an innovative approach that could revolutionize the way things were done. This realization sparked our passion to create a solution that would make a meaningful impact and provide value to our customers. What motivated me, as a co-founder, to say “YES, go for it!” was a combination of factors. Firstly, the belief in our idea and its potential to disrupt the financial industry. We had conducted thorough research and validation, which gave us confidence in its viability. Secondly, our shared vision and determination from my co-founder was instrumental. We were aligned in our goals, complemented each other’s skills, and had a strong synergy. This collective motivation fueled our courage to take the leap and transform our idea into a tangible business venture. Lastly, the excitement of entrepreneurship and the prospect of building something from scratch played a significant role. The opportunity to create a positive change, the freedom to shape our own path, and the potential for personal and professional growth were all compelling factors that propelled us forward.
Everyone has their own set of challenges when starting an entrepreneurial journey. Still, the most essential part for others to learn is how you deal with those. Would you like to share with us your challenges and your coping mechanisms?
Certainly! Starting an entrepreneurial journey comes with its fair share of challenges. I’d be happy to share some of the challenges I faced and the coping mechanisms that helped me navigate them. One significant challenge I encountered was the fear of failure and uncertainty. Starting a new venture involves taking risks, and the fear of not succeeding can be daunting. To cope with this, I embraced a growth mindset. I reframed failure as an opportunity for learning and growth, recognizing that setbacks are part of the entrepreneurial journey. By focusing on the lessons learned from each challenge, I was able to adapt and iterate, ultimately improving the chances of success. Another challenge was the need to wear multiple hats and handle various aspects of the business. As an entrepreneur, I had to juggle tasks such as sales, marketing, finance, and team management. To cope, I prioritize and organize my tasks effectively. I learned to delegate where possible and sought support from mentors or professionals in areas where I lacked expertise. Building a strong network and seeking guidance from experienced individuals helped me overcome challenges more efficiently. Moreover, maintaining motivation and resilience throughout the journey was crucial. Entrepreneurship can be demanding and overwhelming at times. To cope, I established a support system of like-minded individuals, mentors, and fellow entrepreneurs. Engaging in communities and networking events provided me with inspiration, encouragement, and valuable advice. Additionally, I prioritize self-care, setting aside time for relaxation, hobbies, and personal growth, which helps me recharge and maintain a positive mindset.
While the global pandemic of COVID-19 is associated primarily with adversities, it has also brought about a true boom in startups, with successful entrepreneurship in many countries. The pandemic has impacted all of us in one way or another. Would you like to share your experience on a personal and professional level?
Certainly! The global pandemic of COVID-19 has brought unprecedented challenges, but it has also presented unique opportunities for entrepreneurs. On a personal level, the pandemic forced me to adapt to a new way of living and working. Working remotely became the new norm, requiring me to establish routines and leverage digital tools for collaboration. It also led me to reassess my priorities and find ways to stay motivated in the face of uncertainty.
Your journey and your vision are very inspiring, but are there any achievements or accomplishments you would like to mention?
Thank you for your kind words. I appreciate the opportunity to share some of the achievements and accomplishments along my journey. Here are a few noteworthy milestones that I’m proud of: Authoring “Getting Started in Tech: A Guide to Building a Tech Career“: One of my significant accomplishments was writing this book to assist individuals in transitioning into the tech industry. It was incredibly fulfilling to know that the book helped over 2000 individuals smoothly navigate their career paths and find success in the tech field. Acceptance into 500 Global Accelerator: Being selected for the esteemed 500 Global Accelerator program was truly life-changing. This program provided our company with vital funding to fuel business growth, access to an expert network, valuable mentorship, and a supportive community of like-minded entrepreneurs. It significantly accelerated our development and opened doors to new opportunities. While these achievements are noteworthy, I believe that success is an ongoing journey, and there are always more milestones to strive for. I remain driven to continue pushing boundaries, pursuing innovation, and reaching new heights in alignment with my vision.
Would you like to share with our young budding women entrepreneurs the change you would like to see in the world if given an opportunity?
I believe that women entrepreneurs should be celebrated, supported, and given equal access to resources, mentorship, and funding. I want to break down the barriers that hinder women’s progress and create an inclusive environment where their talents, ideas, and innovations can flourish. I envision a world where women entrepreneurs are represented at every level of business, from startups to leadership positions in established companies. I want to see more diverse voices and perspectives shaping the entrepreneurial ecosystem, driving innovation, and making a positive impact on society. I also envision a shift in societal norms and attitudes towards entrepreneurship, where women are encouraged to take risks, embrace their ambitions, and pursue their entrepreneurial dreams without fear of judgment or bias. I want young women to be inspired and empowered to believe in their abilities, to challenge the status quo, and to create their own paths to success. Together, let us work towards a world where your dreams have no boundaries and your contributions are valued and celebrated. Here are some specific actions that we can take to create this change: Provide more mentorship and support systems for women entrepreneurs. Break down the gender stereotypes that prevent women from succeeding in business. Invest in women-owned businesses. Promote women’s leadership in the entrepreneurial community. I believe that by working together, we can create a more just and equitable world for women entrepreneurs.
What’s the most important thing you’ve learned in your personal life and professional journey? What is your personal motto in life?
In both my personal life and professional journey, the most valuable lesson I’ve learned is the power of resilience. Life presents us with numerous challenges and setbacks, but it is our response to them that truly shapes our character and determines our success. Resilience enables us to bounce back from failures, adapt to change, and forge ahead toward our goals. As my personal motto, I live by the belief of “Embracing the Journey and finding joy in every moment.” This mantra reminds me to appreciate every experience, whether positive or negative, as they all contribute to my growth and development. Life is an ongoing adventure of learning, evolving, and discovering new possibilities. By embracing the journey, I cultivate an open mind, curiosity, and motivation to explore new opportunities and overcome obstacles that come my way. In my professional endeavors, I have come to understand the paramount importance of continuous learning and growth. The business landscape is in a constant state of flux, necessitating adaptability and the acquisition of new knowledge and skills. I firmly believe in investing in personal and professional development, actively seeking opportunities to learn from others, and maintaining a sense of curiosity regarding emerging trends and innovations. Furthermore, I have discovered the immense value of collaboration and nurturing strong relationships. True success rarely materializes in isolation. By building a supportive network, collaborating with like-minded individuals, and fostering meaningful connections, I have witnessed significant personal and professional growth. Together, we can accomplish more and make a lasting impact on the world. In summary, resilience, embracing the journey, and perpetual learning and growth constitute the most profound lessons I have learned. By embodying these principles, I navigate life’s challenges, pursue my passions, and strive for fulfillment in both my personal and professional endeavors.
Women are a growing force in the workplaces worldwide, standing shoulder to shoulder with their male counterparts. There are cracks in glass ceilings everywhere, with many women breaking through to carve out a space right at the top of the pyramid. What are your thoughts about women’s leadership today?
Women’s leadership is a powerful and transformative force that is essential for building inclusive and diverse organizations and promoting gender equality. Women leaders bring unique perspectives, qualities, and approaches to leadership that are increasingly recognized as crucial elements of effective leadership. They excel in areas such as collaboration, empathy, and relationship-building, which contribute to creating a more balanced and equitable work environment that benefits everyone. Women’s leadership also brings about positive societal change. When women hold leadership positions, they become role models and mentors for the next generation of aspiring women leaders. They inspire and empower other women to pursue their ambitions, challenge societal norms, and break through barriers. This ripple effect not only promotes gender equality but also drives innovation, fosters creativity, and enhances overall organizational performance. However, despite the progress made, there are still hurdles and biases that women face in their leadership journeys. It is crucial to continue advocating for equal opportunities, eliminating gender-based discrimination, and creating supportive environments that enable women to thrive as leaders. To fully realize the potential of women’s leadership, it requires collective efforts from individuals, organizations, and society as a whole. We need to challenge traditional mindsets, address unconscious biases, and create inclusive policies and practices that promote diversity and gender equality at all levels of leadership. In conclusion, women’s leadership today is a force to be reckoned with. As more women break through barriers and assume leadership positions, we witness the positive impact they have on organizations, communities, and society as a whole. By embracing and nurturing women’s leadership, we can create a more equitable, inclusive, and prosperous future for everyone.
With your grit and determination, you are making a considerable impact, breaking through, and serving as role models for many budding entrepreneurs. What would you want to say to our young women leaders/audience reading this?
To all the young women leaders reading this, I want to say that you are powerful and capable. The world needs your unique perspectives, talents, and leadership. As you embark on your entrepreneurial journey, remember that challenges and setbacks are part of the process. Embrace them as opportunities for growth and learning. Stay resilient, believe in yourself, and never let anyone diminish your worth or potential. Reach out to fellow women leaders, build connections, and collaborate. Together, we can amplify our impact and create a more inclusive and equitable future. Never underestimate the power of your voice and the value of your ideas. Speak up, share your insights, and be confident in expressing your perspectives. Your unique experiences and viewpoints bring a richness and diversity that drive innovation and make a lasting impact. Continue to invest in your personal and professional growth. Seek out opportunities to learn, develop new skills, and expand your knowledge. Stay curious, embrace lifelong learning, and adapt to the ever-changing landscape of entrepreneurship. Remember that failure is not the end, but rather a stepping stone towards success. Lastly, be true to yourself and your vision. Stay connected to your passion and purpose. Trust your instincts and follow your dreams, even if they seem unconventional or challenging. Remember that you have the power to shape your own destiny and make a difference in the world. Believe in yourself, support one another, and let your light shine. The world is waiting for your leadership.