Akwaaba Ghana Innovation & HAPISS Association. Led by Happy Koffi Djebou, these organisations aim at empowering young Ghanaian entrepreneurs by offering financial, educational, and training support. Akwaaba Innovation Ghana promotes social welfare through innovative business practices, focusing on making positive impacts within communities. HAPISS Association assists small Ghanaian businesses with soft loans to help them expand.
Happy also founded AFADAO is AFRICA’s leading equity crowdfunding platform powered by web 3.0. We enable everyone to find unique startup investment opportunities and provide exciting growth companies with access to an important source of capital.
DESCRIPTION OF YOUR BUSINESS/SERVICE?
Nana Gyamerah Djebou, also known as Happy, is a philanthropist and the Youth Chief of Adansi North, Ghana. With over 30 years of residence in Denmark, he serves as the PR-Secretary for The Association of Ghanaians and Ghanaian Chiefs in Denmark.
In addition, he is a seasoned Danish/Ghanaian entrepreneur, boasting more than 15 years of experience in managing businesses within and beyond Denmark. His roots extend to Ghana and Togo, and he possesses a deep understanding of the business cultures in both Denmark, Nigeria and Ghana. Happy is a graduate of Metropolitan University College, Denmark, holding a degree in Emergency and Disaster Management. His extensive expertise encompasses providing advisory services to companies venturing into Ghana, Nigeria and the emerging markets of West Africa. This includes strategies for market entry, marketing, and partnership formation.
Based in Copenhagen, Denmark, Happy offers consulting services for those interested in exploring the Ghanaian/Nigerian/African markets. Africa presents abundant opportunities from every angle. The continent's emerging markets and the flow of capital and investments make it an exciting destination for engagement.
Recognizing the importance of comprehending the diverse mindsets and cultural backgrounds between Africa and Europe, Happy serves as the bridge to ensure the smooth integration of services, investments, and the establishment of new ventures.
MOTIVATION FOR BEING AN ENTREPRENEUR?
Happy's entrepreneurial drive was evident from his childhood in Ghana. Despite facing challenges as an immigrant in Denmark, including language barriers and integration issues, his passion for entrepreneurship never waned. This passion, rooted in his early experiences and desire to contribute positively to Ghana's prosperity, drove him to establish his ventures.
THE JOURNEY SO FAR - CHALLENGES FACED & HOW YOU HAVEOVERCOME.
Language and Integration: Upon moving to Denmark, Happy struggled with the Danish language, which was crucial for integration and making friends.
Entrepreneurial Challenges: Starting a business in Denmark posed numerous challenges, including obtaining a truck licence for his moving company and managing the business amidst financial strains. By involving friends and family and leveraging his community, Happy managed to overcome these hurdles.
Military Service: Serving in the Danish army, Happy was the only black person in his unit. This experience, although tough, instilled discipline and resilience in him.
BENEFITS YOU HAVE EXPERIENCED/POSITIVE IMPACTS?
Happy's businesses have not only achieved financial success but also made significant social impacts. He has employed many, including Danes and Ghanaians, in both countries. His innovative fundraising methods, such as using dancing to support the needy in Africa, have been recognized and awarded.
His speaking engagements in the Danish Parliament highlight his achievements and contributions to both Denmark and Ghana.
REFERENCES:
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/international-migrant-denmark-founder-akwaaba-ghana-hapiss-djebou
