Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Amoye Henry. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Amoye, appreciate you joining us today. What’s been one of the most interesting investments you’ve made – and did you win or lose? (Note, these responses are only intended as entertainment and shouldn’t be construed as investment advice)

One of the most fascinating investments I’ve ever made was in the pre-seed raise of an agritech app revolutionizing the way consumers access fresh produce. I was captivated by the founder’s passion and vision for the app, and I saw immense potential in disrupting the traditional supply chain and connecting consumers directly with produce founders.

When I made the decision to invest, I had conducted extensive research and considered various factors that indicated a promising future for the app. The market demand for locally sourced produce was growing, and the app’s innovative features showcased its ability to meet this demand efficiently.

The initial stages of the investment were filled with excitement and optimism. The founder’s dedication and commitment were truly inspiring. However, as the investment progressed, unexpected challenges arose. The founder began experiencing personal difficulties that affected her ability to manage the business effectively. This situation posed a unique set of challenges for me as an investor.

Despite the setbacks, I remained committed to supporting the founder and her vision. I witnessed her unwavering determination, even in the face of adversity. Although progress was slower than anticipated, I saw potential for growth and believed in the long-term prospects of the app.

Throughout this journey, I learned valuable lessons that have shaped my investment approach. Firstly, I now understand the importance of assessing the founder’s personal well-being and capacity to handle the pressures of running a startup. Mental health is a vital aspect that should be considered alongside the business idea.

Secondly, I recognized the significance of diversification in my investment portfolio. While this particular venture faced challenges, I had other investments that continued to thrive, ultimately balancing out any potential losses.

Lastly, active communication and monitoring are critical. By staying closely connected with the founder and providing support during difficult times, I was able to offer guidance and assistance when needed. This proactive approach allowed me to address challenges early on and work towards finding solutions.

Although this investment didn’t yield immediate financial success, it provided me with invaluable experience and insights. It reinforced my passion for investing in disruptive startups and reaffirmed my belief in the power of innovation. While every investment carries risks, the lessons I learned from this experience have only strengthened my investment strategy and positioned me for even greater success in the future.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m Amoye Henry, an investor, author, and strategist with a passion for scaling growth-based businesses led by unique founders around the world. My journey into the industry began with a combination of academic pursuit and a deep interest in entrepreneurship and innovation. Armed with an MBA, I embarked on a mission to support and empower underrepresented founders, particularly in the tech sector.

One of the ways I contribute to the ecosystem is through Pitch Better Inc., a market research firm that I co-founded. Our aim is to provide valuable support to underrepresented founders by helping them refine their pitches, build strong brand partnerships, and secure key investment deals. By leveraging my expertise in identifying market trends and understanding investor expectations, we assist entrepreneurs in effectively conveying their vision and value proposition.

Additionally, I co-founded AfroChic Inc., a conference that brings together art and technology. Through AfroChic, we provide a platform for global talent, including notable individuals such as Issa Rae, Erykah Badu, Jidenna, Wale, Teedra Moses, and Wizkid. This conference showcases the intersection of creativity and innovation, inspiring participants and fostering meaningful connections.

As an author, I have published two books: “Don’t Panic, Pivot” in 2023 and “Navigating Covid-19” in 2020. These works delve into topics such as entrepreneurship, economic growth, global business strategy, and investment. Through my writing, I strive to offer comfort and guidance to high-performing professionals seeking balance in their lives.

What sets me apart from others in my field is my unique approach to investing and supporting founders. I actively seek out entrepreneurs who are underrepresented or overlooked, recognizing the immense talent and potential they possess. By focusing on diverse voices and perspectives, I aim to contribute to a more inclusive and equitable entrepreneurial landscape.

I take great pride in my track record of securing over $14M in funding for tech entrepreneurs, startups, and innovation-driven organizations, resulting in two successful exits. This accomplishment showcases my ability to identify promising opportunities and facilitate the growth of businesses, ultimately leading to successful outcomes for both founders and investors.

For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want them to know that I am deeply committed to supporting unique founders and driving their success. My work is driven by a passion for innovation, diversity, and economic growth. Whether it’s through my investments, my writing, or my involvement in conferences like AfroChic, my goal is to make a meaningful impact and contribute to the success of entrepreneurs and organizations alike.

Furthermore, I value the importance of balance and well-being, and I seek to inspire others in achieving harmony in their personal and professional lives. I believe that success is not solely defined by financial achievements but also by the fulfillment and contentment we find along the way.

In summary, I am an investor, author, and strategist dedicated to scaling growth-based businesses led by unique founders. Through my investments, market research support, conferences, and writing, I aim to empower underrepresented entrepreneurs and make a positive impact in the world of entrepreneurship.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

Running AfroChic as a full-scale events and experience company, I had built a successful platform that celebrated the fusion of art and technology. Our events brought together talented individuals from around the world, creating a unique space for creativity and innovation. However, during my MBA studies, I gained valuable insights into the challenges faced by underrepresented founders globally.

Recognizing the need to support and empower these entrepreneurs, I made a pivotal decision to shift my focus and leverage my expertise in a different way. This shift was further influenced by the transformative impact of the pandemic, which opened my eyes to the possibilities of remote work and global operations with just a laptop.

With a deep understanding of market dynamics and the unique struggles faced by underrepresented founders, I decided to transition into the role of a global business strategist and investor. This allowed me to extend my impact and contribute to the growth and success of entrepreneurs beyond the boundaries of AfroChic events.

As a global business strategist, I provide invaluable insights and guidance to founders, helping them navigate the complexities of the business landscape. My expertise allows me to identify market trends, develop growth strategies, and establish key partnerships that fuel the success of startups and innovation-driven organizations.

Simultaneously, as an investor, I actively seek out investment opportunities that align with my mission of supporting underrepresented founders. By providing capital and strategic support, I help these entrepreneurs overcome barriers and unlock their full potential.

The pivot not only expanded my reach but also enabled me to make a more significant impact on the ecosystem. Embracing the possibilities of remote work, I gained the flexibility to work from anywhere in the world, connecting with founders and organizations across different continents.

This transformation showcases my adaptability, foresight, and dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of entrepreneurs. By leveraging my MBA education, recognizing the challenges faced by underrepresented founders globally, and capitalizing on the opportunities presented by the pandemic, I successfully pivoted my career and focused on a path where I could create a lasting impact as a global business strategist and investor.

This journey reflects my ability to navigate change, identify new opportunities, and make strategic decisions that align with my mission and values. Through my pivot, I have embraced a role that allows me to leverage my expertise, support underrepresented entrepreneurs, and work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable business landscape.

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

There are several books, videos, and resources that have significantly impacted my management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy. Here are a few noteworthy ones:

“The Lean Startup” by Eric Ries: This book revolutionized my approach to entrepreneurship by emphasizing the importance of rapid experimentation, iterative product development, and customer feedback. It taught me to embrace a mindset of continuous learning and adaptation, crucial in today’s fast-paced business environment.

“Zero to One” by Peter Thiel: Thiel’s book challenges conventional thinking and encourages entrepreneurs to focus on creating unique and innovative solutions. It delves into the importance of building monopolies and leveraging technology to create groundbreaking businesses that transform industries.

“The Innovator’s Dilemma” by Clayton Christensen: This influential book explores the concept of disruptive innovation and how established companies can fail by overlooking emerging technologies and disruptive market forces. It taught me the importance of being adaptable and continuously seeking new opportunities for growth and innovation.

TED Talks: The TED platform offers a wealth of inspiring and thought-provoking talks by entrepreneurs, innovators, and thought leaders. These talks have expanded my perspectives, introduced me to new ideas, and helped me stay up-to-date with the latest trends and insights in various fields.

Harvard Business Review (HBR): HBR provides a range of articles, case studies, and research papers that have been instrumental in shaping my management thinking. From strategic decision-making to leadership practices, HBR offers valuable insights from experts in the field that have informed my approach to managing and leading teams.

Online courses and webinars: Participating in online courses and webinars offered by renowned institutions and industry experts has been immensely valuable. These resources have allowed me to deepen my knowledge in specific areas, gain practical skills, and stay current with the latest management and entrepreneurial practices.

Mentorship and networking: While not traditional resources, mentorship and networking have played a significant role in shaping my thinking and philosophy. Engaging with experienced mentors and building a strong network of professionals in the entrepreneurial and management space has provided invaluable guidance, support, and diverse perspectives.

It’s important to note that different resources resonate with different individuals, so it’s essential to explore and discover what works best for you. Continuously seeking new knowledge, staying curious, and being open to different viewpoints are key to personal and professional growth as an entrepreneur and manager.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.amoyehenry.com
• Instagram: amoyehenry
• Facebook: amoyehenrydriven
• Linkedin: amoyehenrydriven
• Twitter: amoyehenry
• Youtube: amoyehenrydriven