In the world of entrepreneurship, success is often forged through a relentless spirit of resilience and a willingness to learn from past challenges. The story of Emmanuel Preko Boamah, the CEO of Gift-Tech Solutions, is a testament to this unwavering determination.
The Early Entrepreneurial Endeavors
Emmanuel’s journey began in 2010 when he embarked on his first business venture, Itechview Internet Cafe. At that time, he was a young entrepreneur with a vision to provide digital services to his community. However, despite his passion and hard work, the business faced difficulties due to the absence of proper management. In a bid to keep it afloat, he combined his National Service at Twene Amanfo SHS with running the business.
In 2012, after completing his National Service, Emmanuel received a lifeline from his brother, who promised to help him relaunch his business in 2013 with financial support. In a well-intentioned gesture, Emmanuel awarded all the shares of the new company to his brother to foster trust and cooperation. Unfortunately, this decision led to the introduction of individuals who lacked the company’s best interests at heart, ultimately resulting in the closure of the venture.
Navigating Through Challenges
Undeterred by these setbacks, Emmanuel embarked on a journey that took him through various roles as a website developer, IT technician, trainer, and facilitator. His determination to succeed in the world of entrepreneurship remained unshaken.
The Turning Point
Emmanuel’s pivotal moment came when he joined the Jobs for Youth: Migration and Employment Promotion Project, which gathered over 3000 participants from across Ghana. This program equipped participants with essential skills in business development, product development, and pitching. Emmanuel emerged as one of the 90 young Ghanaian entrepreneurs funded after the project.
This funding paved the way for Gift-Tech Solutions, an enterprise focused on providing IT support services and training to entrepreneurs and individuals within the Bono and Ahafo Regions of Ghana. The vision of Gift-Tech Solutions extends beyond conventional boundaries, aiming to create a localized E-learning platform that utilizes Ghanaian local languages for instruction in various subjects, from Information Technology to Business development.
However, even with the project’s support, Emmanuel still faced challenges in securing the necessary funding for his growing business. To supplement his efforts, he took on the role of community manager and IT trainer part-time at Grassroot Hub, generating additional funds to support Gift-Tech Solutions.
The UNLEASH Innovation Lab Experience
Emmanuel’s path took a significant turn when he learned about the UNLEASH Innovation Lab, which he applied to participate in, held in Shenzen, China. The lab introduced him to the UNLEASH Design Thinking Methodology, a comprehensive approach focused on sustainability and impact, akin to non-profit (NGO) business models.
Upon returning to Ghana, the unforeseen challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns prompted Emmanuel to apply the UNLEASH Design Thinking processes to redefine his business model and strategy. This innovative approach allowed him to better understand his target audience’s challenges, income levels, and pricing strategies that resonated with potential clients.
Emmanuel’s Achievements and Giving Back
Following the lockdowns, Emmanuel secured numerous contracts and financial grants to propel Gift-Tech Solutions forward. His dedication culminated in being one of the 5000 entrepreneurs supported by the Tony Elumelu Foundation in 2021.
Emmanuel’s commitment to giving back to society became evident as he became a key member of the organizing team for UNLEASH online hacks and a mentor for UNLEASH Plus, supporting startups and impact organizations in creating sustainable solutions.
Currently, Emmanuel serves as the co-founder and programs lead for the Business Innovation Development and Entrepreneurship Training (BIDET) Initiative in the Bono Region of Ghana. This initiative, in collaboration with the National Youth Authority (NYA) Bono Regional Office, brings together local organizations and businesses to support skills training, including digital marketing, graphic design, entrepreneurship, and financial management.
Emmanuel Preko Boamah’s journey from adversity to triumph is a source of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs. His story teaches us that with resilience, a commitment to learning, and a focus on giving back to the community, we can overcome challenges and make a positive impact on the world. Together, we can strive for a brighter future!
