1. How has your career path changed up until now?
My career has taken many turns, but the common thread has always been hospitality, entrepreneurship, and global development. I started by co-founding MCW Global, a nonprofit focused on education, health, and economic security. That work led me into tourism development, and I later became the Executive Director of the Africa Travel Association, where I spent nearly a decade promoting tourism and public-private partnerships across Africa. From there, I moved into entrepreneurship, founding Proxima Hospitality Group, which manages restaurants in NYC, and leading Innovative Development Services (IDS), focusing on real estate and hospitality marketing. I also serve as a Goodwill Ambassador for AUDA-NEPAD and sit on several advisory boards at NYU. My path has evolved, but I’ve always stayed connected to tourism, business, and mentorship.
2. Did you have a mentor who helped you get to where you are now?
Yes, I have had many mentors over the years, and I continue to seek mentorship. I believe in having a diverse network of mentors across different ages, geographies, and industries, including finance, education, and tourism. Two early mentors were the late Sarah Mann and the late Bunny Grossinger, both from the Tisch Center. When I pursued graduate studies at Gallatin, I asked Sarah Mann, though she was a tourism professor, to mentor me in entrepreneurship and nonprofit development. She was very important in helping me build MCW Global. Students should know that they can develop lifelong relationships with professors and mentors. These connections can be instrumental in shaping their careers.
3. What advice would you give to those pursuing their first business venture?
Building a business requires a wide network of advisors, some who are industry experts and others who understand general business principles. One of the most critical steps is finding a legal mentor to ensure your business is structured correctly. Investing in legal and financial frameworks early on can prevent significant challenges later. Additionally, success in business is all about people. Be prepared for hard work as there will be times when you must take on any task, no matter how small, to keep things running. Delegating is important, but details matter. The big picture is crucial, but overlooking small details can be costly. Recognizing your weaknesses and surrounding yourself with people who compliment your skill set is essential. The biggest opportunities and challenges in business often revolve around people, not everything will be logical, and emotional intelligence plays a role. However, don’t let emotions cloud business decisions. Always keep an eye on your financial model and metrics to maintain balance.
4. How do you overcome risk when it comes to making business decisions?
Risk is unavoidable. However, individuals have different risk tolerances, and there are strategies to mitigate downsides, such as insurance. Ultimately, as a business owner, you are responsible for making tough decisions, to take the leap or not. If you decide to take a risk, make sure your team, advisors, and mentors are aware and prepared to jump with you. Surprises in business are rarely good and transparency with stakeholders is key. When risks pay off, those who supported you can share in the success.
5. Why did you decide to become a mentor/investor for the Hospitality Innovation Hub Incubator?
I became a mentor and investor for the Hospitality Innovation Hub Incubator because I believe in supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs. Mentorship played a huge role in my own journey, and I want to give back by helping startups navigate the hospitality industry. The incubator is a great space to innovate, share my experience, and help new businesses grow.
6. What book are you reading now?
I read many children’s books with my kids. Teaching them to read and appreciate stories is something I deeply enjoy. In many ways, entrepreneurship and success are about storytelling and story-making.
7. What is your favorite vacation destination?
I’ve traveled extensively, but some of my favorite destinations include skiing in Val d’Isère, France, and spending time in Tanzania and Zambia, which hold special memories from my work in Africa. I also enjoy trips to Upstate New York, where there’s always something happening, and of course, New York City itself, which, despite its chaos, offers so much to explore and appreciate.
8. What is your favorite movie?
The Back to the Future trilogy. I love traveling and the idea of going back in time.
9. Any last words you would like to share?
"Everything happens for a reason."
