Catch up with Binta Coulibaly
Earlier this week, we had the privilege to catch up with one of our ALUmni and get to capture her ALUmni Profile. Binta shared with us who she is, a little about her journey at ALU, her mission and finally, some ALUmni wisdom.
Who is Binta?
I am a young Ivorian Lady who loves to write, travel, explore different cultures. Actually, if I could have any superpower, I’d want to speak any language fluently because it would ease my exploratory and travel experiences. I am very passionate about all kinds of businesses and entrepreneurship. I knew I didn’t want to be a doctor or follow any other stereotypical career goals from a young age but be a business lady. Even though I knew what I wanted to do, I wasn’t sure of the specific career path I’d follow until I read Aliko Dangote’s book, which inspired me to become the biggest businesswoman in Africa and the world (big dreams, huh? Haha). ALIKO DANGOTE’s Book is a compelling narrative regarding an exceptional African entrepreneur; It traces the complex transmutation of an ambitious trader into a corporate giant. Besides that, my parents are great business people. All I know about negotiation, trade and investment, I learnt from them, they are my biggest inspiration, and I want to use all the tips and skills they’ve taught me to make them proud.
Binta’s time at ALU
My time at ALU started in 2016 when I got admission to ALC. However, I couldn’t get in because of funds. In 2017, I then got a transfer offer to ALU Rwanda with a partial scholarship. When I got to ALU, my English skills were shallow; it’s hard to believe I’m the one telling this story now! I could barely make constructive sentences or even read. It was challenging for me to simultaneously learn English and understand ALU’s curriculum, which was one of a kind. But I’m grateful for the beautiful peers I had and the ALU Language Support Team that helped me. All of this helped me learn and appreciate the value of teamwork as I could barely do anything without my team’s help due to my poor English skills.
Because of my business passion, I also wanted to join ALU specifically for its International Business and Trade program. From day one, it’s been a path I haven’t regretted. I have gained a lot of skills and experiences throughout my journey. While still in my first year, I started a food venture on campus called “Bi-Foods” — successfully running a business venture of cooking over 70 boxes of food a day while still balancing classes and a work-study showed me I can do anything I set my mind on. In 2019, I got the 2019 Award for the Best Entrepreneur on Campus from Campedia, and this was one of my biggest highlights and motivation to continue on my way. Through this, I also got the inspiration to start my own business brand, “Bi-”. Currently, I am working on a project called Bi-Delivery which is a delivery company in Abidjan; stay tuned for the fantastic things we have in store for you ;)
Binta’s Mission
My life mission is to impact unemployment by using my interest in transportation and social entrepreneurship to empower women to become integrated and productive members of the society in Ivory Coast and Africa on a massive scale. Currently, I am taking strides towards this mission through the businesses I am doing in Abidjan.
ALUmni Wisdom
My advice for the current and prospective students and upcoming graduates is to stay focused on their vision and mission, aim to work hard, and smartly every day toward this. Also, put in mind that we need more action and less talking around African challenges. Knowing your mission and staying true to it will help you achieve your goals and live a more meaningful and fulfilling life!
If you are an ALUmni and you would like to share your ALUmni Profile, send us a quick email and we will get back to you.
