A strong vision can inspire you, but vision alone does not create results. Progress comes from translating a goal into a clear sequence, completing the next required action, reviewing the evidence, and adjusting without abandoning the destination. That is the purpose of Follow Directions within the SHIFT Approach. It is not about becoming passive or waiting for someone else to tell you what to do. It is the discipline of identifying the process that produces the outcome you want, then following that process with attention, persistence, and accountability. Why good ideas often stall Entrepreneurs rarely suffer from a shortage of ideas. More often, they struggle with scattered execution. A founder may change the offer before testing it, skip customer conversations, ignore a required application step, or start five projects without completing one. Activity increases, but measurable progress does not. Following directions restores sequence. It helps you distinguish between what must happen now, what can wait, and what should not be done at all. The five-part execution discipline Define the result. State what done looks like in a form that can be observed or counted. Identify the required sequence. Break the result into the smallest necessary steps and place them in order. Assign ownership and time. Decide who completes each step and when it will be reviewed. Use evidence, not emotion. Record what happened, what remains incomplete, and what the result teaches you. Adjust the process without abandoning the purpose. Improve the method when the evidence supports a change. A practical example: from lead to paying customer Suppose you want ten new customers. Posting more often may feel productive, but it is not a complete sales process. A stronger sequence is to define the customer, build a qualified prospect list, initiate conversations, diagnose needs, present a relevant offer, follow up, request the decision, and record the outcome. When you document the sequence, you can see where momentum breaks down. If people respond but do not book a conversation, the invitation may be unclear. If conversations happen but proposals do not follow, the problem may be internal execution. If proposals are sent but no one buys, the offer, price, trust, or buyer fit may need attention. Build your execution checklist Choose one outcome that matters during the next seven days. Then create a simple checklist with these five fields: Required action Responsible person Due date Evidence of completion Review or decision point Keep the checklist visible. Complete the next action before adding another. At the review point, ask what the evidence proves and what should change. This turns discipline into a learning system instead of a rigid routine. The SHIFT connection Follow Directions works with every other SHIFT principle. Save Your Money gives you resources to protect. Help Your Family identifies who should benefit from the value you create. Imagine Your Goals defines the future you are building. Follow Directions creates the execution path. Think Accurately helps you evaluate results and make better decisions. Together, the principles move learning beyond inspiration. They help members produce practical tools, complete meaningful actions, and build evidence of progress. Continue inside the Digital SHIFT Forward Center The free Follow Directions short course expands this idea through lessons on perseverance, skills development, sales systems, digital methods, and the customer acquisition cycle. Use it to strengthen one process that can move your work forward now. Course completion records participation. It does not guarantee business, financial, or employment results.

Learn at your own pace, put one useful idea into practice, and choose your next step. Start with the free foundation course below. Returning alumni can reconnect without purchasing an upgrade. Start with Getting to Know the SHIFT Approach Available now: a free, self-paced course with 12 readable lessons and activities across the five SHIFT principles: Save Your Money, Help Your Family, Imagine Your Goals, Follow Directions, and Think Accurately. Build five practical tools: a money map, a value map, a 90-day goal roadmap, an execution checklist, and an evidence-based decision record. Each principle includes an example, reflection, self-check with answers, and action assignment. Keep personal financial details and your working portfolio private. Select Enroll on the course page. If you already have an account, use Member Log In in the site header before returning to enroll. You can read the course without streaming video; no video purchase is required. For account or learning help, email info@shiftenterpriseacademy.com. Choose a starting stage Discover: clarify the problem you want to solve. Begin the foundation, then write one customer problem and speak with three potential customers. Your milestone is a problem statement supported by what people actually say. Build: shape a useful offer. Use your money map, value map and 90-day roadmap to identify costs, a customer, a first offer and one measurable test. Your milestone is a costed action plan. Launch: test with a real customer. Use Follow Directions to create a repeatable delivery checklist and Think Accurately to record the result. Your milestone is a documented test and a decision about what to change. Grow: improve a working operation. Choose one recurring delivery or customer problem, track its starting measure, test an improvement and review the result. Your milestone is one measured operating improvement. Own: strengthen the systems and evidence behind your next decision. Review records, responsibilities and risks before pursuing an asset or expansion. Your milestone is a documented readiness gap and next action; completing learning does not guarantee funding or program admission. Apply the learning to your situation Early-stage founder: foundation → customer problem interviews → first-offer test. Operating entrepreneur: money map → delivery checklist → measured operating improvement. Homeownership-focused learner: Save Your Money → household goal roadmap → questions for an appropriately qualified housing educator. Diaspora participant: foundation → documented cross-border questions → evidence and due-diligence checklist. Institutional learner: foundation → facilitator-assigned activities → agreed completion evidence. Specialist course availability must be confirmed separately. Read, act, and review These short public readings extend the foundation. After each reading, complete the suggested action in your own notes. Action: list three people who experience the same problem, interview them without pitching, and record the evidence that would change your offer. Action: choose one pillar, complete its practical tool in the foundation, and set a review date within seven days. Action: identify your weakest readiness item and name one document, interview or calculation that would improve it. This reading is preparation, not a funding application or promise. Course collection and current availability Getting to Know the SHIFT Approach is published. Launching into E-Commerce, Capacity Building for Maximum Results, Business Readiness and Founder Execution, and Funding and Showcase Readiness are in development or source review. They are not available as newly completed self-paced courses in this collection. Existing cohort enrollments and purchased resources retain their separate access arrangements. Explore by topic Foundation coverage: Entrepreneurship Foundations; Business Planning and Execution; Money Management; Leadership and Personal Development. Customers and Marketing begins with the customer-discovery reading and value-map activity. Specialist collections under review: E-Commerce and Digital Business; Operations and Capacity Building; Technology, AI and Automation; Agribusiness and Supply Chains; Venture Development and Capital Readiness; Homeownership and Asset Education; Diaspora Travel and Cross-Border Business; Institutional and Workforce Learning. These topic areas do not yet represent complete new course libraries. Video learning The curated video collection is being reviewed for teaching value, current examples, participant permission and accessible alternatives. Quick SHIFT, Micro-Lessons, Mini-Lessons, Masterclasses and approved replays will be listed with actual durations when ready. No recurring live-session schedule is promised here. Start with the readable foundation while that review continues. Alumni: keep moving forward Tell SHIFT what you are building, what you want to learn next, or whether you are interested in mentoring, a showcase or sharing your story. Those interests are optional and separate from permission to receive future notifications. Submitting an update does not publish your story or guarantee participation. The form opens SHIFT’s Wix-hosted form. The private alumni group requires membership approval. Do not post customer information, private financial records or other people’s stories without permission. The free foundation and alumni re-entry pathway do not require a new paid membership. For institutional learning, sponsored access or existing purchases, contact info@shiftenterpriseacademy.com to confirm the appropriate arrangement. Finish with a next action Complete your five foundation tools, choose one action you can take in the next seven days, record the result and decide what to do next. Community support is optional. Review your plan as your evidence and circumstances change.

SHIFT Enterprise Academy | Economic Mobility Field Notes You do not need to have everything figured out. You need a real problem, a person experiencing it, and the discipline to offer a useful solution. This is how we move from inspiration to enterprise. Start with people, not the product Your first assignment: write down ten problems people mention repeatedly in your community, at work, and online. Do not begin with your favorite product idea. Begin with people. Interview five prospective customers Over the next seven days, choose one group of people you understand. Interview at least five prospective customers. Ask: What is difficult? What have you already tried? What happens when this problem remains unsolved? What would a good outcome look like? Score the opportunity Next, score your opportunities. Is the problem urgent? Is it common? Can you reach the people affected? Can you help credibly? Would they consider paying for a solution? Write a clear offer Then write a clear offer: I help [a specific person] achieve [a specific outcome] with [a practical tool or service]. Use the SHIFT Approach The SHIFT Approach is our compass: Save Your Money. Help Your Family. Imagine Your Goals. Follow Directions. Think Accurately. Use these principles to turn intention into accountable action. Your next step Select one problem today, contact your first five people, and measure what you learn. Follow SHIFT Enterprise Academy for new field guides and implementation tools. Educational materials do not guarantee income or business outcomes. Ready to turn this field note into a working plan? The paid Blueprint Bundle includes a workbook and editable sales and validation tracker. Review the contents before buying; the revenue figure is a learning goal, not an income guarantee.

SHIFT Enterprise Academy | The Economic Mobility Ladder Economic mobility is not a slogan. It is a series of decisions supported by skills, systems, opportunities, relationships, and ownership. 1. Protect your foundation Know your monthly obligations, stabilize essential expenses, and choose a savings practice that fits your situation. 2. Develop a marketable skill Identify what problems you can solve and how you can demonstrate evidence of the result. 3. Build an offer Test a service, business, or digital tool with real people before committing scarce time and cash. 4. Establish repeatable operations Track prospects, follow-ups, conversion, revenue, expenses, and customer outcomes. If your business relies only on memory and motivation, build better systems. 5. Move toward ownership When financially appropriate, explore ownership in businesses, intellectual property, homes, land, or other assets. Evaluate risks, financing, and ongoing costs. Put the ladder to work SHIFT is building practical resources for aspiring founders, existing operators, and first-generation owners in the United States and East Africa. Your action today: write your present rung, the next rung, and one specific step you will take within 72 hours. Progress is not a performance. It is practice. Join the SHIFT community to follow our digital tools and entrepreneur education. Content is educational and not individualized legal, investment, or financial advice.

ARCHIVE NOTE: This article describes an earlier event or cohort. Its former registration links have been retired. Current opportunities require separate confirmation from SHIFT. In recent years, the conversation around African development has taken on a more global tone. Investors, policymakers, and members of the diaspora are increasingly aligned around a shared premise. The continent’s future will be shaped not only by internal growth, but by its integration into global systems of capital, trade, and production. Agribusiness sits at the center of that conversation. The African Development Bank has described Africa as holding roughly 60 percent of the world’s uncultivated arable land and reported that the continent spent $64.5 billion on food imports in 2017. The strategic contradiction remains clear: substantial agricultural potential coexists with significant dependence on external food supply chains. Into this space steps diaspora capital. The World Bank reported that remittance flows to Sub-Saharan Africa reached $54 billion in 2023. Unlike traditional aid or institutional investment, diaspora capital is personal. It is rooted in familiarity, trust, and a long-term interest in community outcomes. It is also increasingly entrepreneurial, seeking not just to support households, but to build businesses. The logic appears straightforward. Capital from the diaspora meets opportunity on the ground. Agribusiness ventures emerge. Supply chains strengthen. Returns are generated alongside social impact. Yet in practice, this alignment remains more aspirational than operational. Across markets such as Uganda, Kenya, and Nigeria, examples of successful diaspora-backed agribusinesses exist, but they are not yet the norm. For every venture that scales, many others stall. Funds are deployed but not structured. Partnerships are initiated but not sustained. Projects begin with energy and end with ambiguity. The issue is not a lack of capital. It is a lack of execution. The Trust Gap At the heart of the challenge is a gap that is both practical and psychological. Diaspora investors often operate with limited visibility into day-to-day operations on the ground. Local operators, in turn, navigate complex environments shaped by infrastructure constraints, market volatility, and informal systems. Trust becomes the bridge, but trust alone is not a system. Without clear agreements, defined roles, and transparent reporting, even well-intentioned partnerships can deteriorate. Misaligned expectations around timelines, pricing, and reinvestment create friction. What begins as collaboration can quickly become confusion. This pattern is not unique to agribusiness, but the sector amplifies it. Agricultural cycles are seasonal. Cash flows are uneven. External variables such as weather and transport delays introduce additional uncertainty. In such an environment, execution discipline is not optional. It is foundational. The Structure Deficit Beyond trust, there is a more technical gap. Many ventures lack the structural components required to absorb and deploy capital effectively. A diaspora investor may be ready to commit 10,000 or 50,000 dollars into an aggregation or processing operation. The opportunity may be real. The demand may be proven. Yet the venture itself often lacks: A clear cost model that accounts for inputs, labor, transport, and storage A defined supply chain position with identified suppliers and buyers A documented partnership structure outlining responsibilities and revenue sharing A timeline that reflects the realities of production and distribution cycles Without these elements, capital enters an undefined system. The result is not always failure, but it is rarely scale. This is the missing middle of agribusiness development. Not early-stage ideas, and not large-scale institutional projects, but the structured, execution-ready ventures that sit between them. Where the Opportunity Truly Lies For those willing to engage the sector with discipline, the opportunity remains substantial. Aggregation networks that connect smallholder farmers to urban markets can reduce fragmentation and increase pricing power. Processing facilities that add value locally can shift revenue away from raw commodity exports toward higher-margin products. Storage and logistics also matter: FAO has reported that post-harvest losses in Africa can reach about 20 percent for cereals, 30 percent for dairy and fish, and 40 percent for fruit and vegetables, depending on the commodity and context. Each of these opportunities requires capital. Each also requires execution. The most effective ventures are not those with the most ambitious visions, but those with the clearest structures. They understand where they sit within the supply chain. They define how money moves. They build relationships that are formal enough to scale and flexible enough to adapt. In these environments, diaspora capital becomes more than a financial input. It becomes a catalyst, accelerating ventures that are already grounded in operational reality. About SHIFT Enterprise Academy For over 15 years, SHIFT Enterprise Academy has focused on bridging the gap between opportunity and execution. Its work spans the United States and multiple African markets, with a growing network of participants engaged in entrepreneurship, workforce development, and cross-border collaboration. The SHIFT Approach is built on five principles: Save Your Money, Help Your Family, Imagine Your Goals, Follow Directions, and Think Accurately. While simple in language, these principles guide participants through a process of clarifying financial flows, structuring relationships, defining market positions, and executing with discipline. In the context of agribusiness, this approach addresses the very gaps that limit diaspora-backed ventures. It moves participants from informal activity to structured operation, from isolated effort to coordinated systems. The Next Chapter The convergence of diaspora capital and African agribusiness is not a passing trend. It is a structural shift that will shape markets for decades to come. Population growth, urbanization, and global supply chain realignment all point in the same direction. Food systems will become more regional, more integrated, and more strategic. The question is not whether capital will flow. It is whether that capital will be met with ventures capable of executing. For entrepreneurs on the ground and investors abroad, the path forward is increasingly clear. Success will depend less on access to opportunity and more on the ability to structure and manage it effectively. That work is not abstract. It is built one agreement, one system, and one disciplined decision at a time. Take the Next Step If you are building within agribusiness or exploring how to align capital with real opportunities, the next step is to move beyond intention and into structured execution. The registration mentioned in this historical article relates to an earlier cohort. For current or future opportunities, use our on-site inquiry form and select Future cohort / program inquiry. An inquiry does not confirm admission or enrollment. Sources and context African Development Bank, Feed Africa / agricultural transformation materials: https://www.afdb.org/ World Bank, Migration and Development Brief 40: https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2024/06/26/remittances-slowed-in-2023-expected-to-grow-faster-in-2024 Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, post-harvest loss guidance: https://www.fao.org/newsroom/detail/Rockefeller-Foundation-FAO-supporting-Africa-to-halve-food-loss/en

A business showcase is an opportunity to make your work easy to understand. The audience needs to see the problem, the customer, your offer, the evidence, and the next step. Use this checklist to turn a passionate introduction into a clear business case. 1. State the customer problem Name the person or organization you serve. Describe the specific problem they experience and what it costs them in time, money, or missed opportunity. Avoid saying your product is for everyone. A defined customer makes your message easier to assess. 2. Explain the offer and the price Show what the customer receives, what they pay, and how they order. If the offer is still being tested, say so. Separate an existing product from a future product. Include a sample, demonstration, or clear photograph when you have one and permission to share it. 3. Bring a simple money picture Prepare a summary of sales, direct costs, recurring expenses, and available cash for a stated period. Identify whether the figures are actual results or estimates. Explain what each additional sale costs you to deliver. Keep household and enterprise figures separate so the audience can understand the business. 4. Show evidence of execution Use completed work, order records, customer feedback, or a documented pilot to support your claims. Do not share customer contact details or private documents without permission. If you are at the idea stage, explain what you have tested, what you learned, and what you plan to test next. 5. Make a specific request A request for a customer introduction is different from a request for a grant, a delivery partner, or investment. State the type of support you need, the amount or scope where relevant, and the milestone it will help you reach. Explain how you will report progress. 6. Match the opportunity's requirements For a funding application, check the eligibility rules, deadline, required attachments, allowable costs, and reporting obligations. Prepare the requested material in the required format. A showcase presentation can introduce your work, but each funder or partner still has its own review process. 7. Give people a clear next action Close with one action: place an order, request a meeting, review your proposal, or introduce a relevant partner. Provide a working contact method and keep a record of the follow-up you promised. Momentum depends on what happens after the presentation. Put the checklist to work Prepare a short presentation and a one-page summary using these seven points. Ask a colleague to repeat your customer, offer, price, and request back to you. If those points are unclear, revise before adding more slides. The goal is a credible conversation that can move toward a practical next step. Want a structured way to prepare your next milestones? The paid 90-Day Business Execution Planner includes a guided workbook and editable execution tracker. This free checklist remains available without a purchase.

When I first travelled to East Africa in June of 2021, I did not know what to expect. I only knew the time had come for me to connect with the "African" part of my African American identity. I had to know what was on the other side. When I arrived, it instantly felt like home. I lived in Atlanta for college, and even that could not prepare me for this. In Africa, I found an entirely new civilization where people look like me, but they may speak a different language and see the world from a different perspective. Even with these glaring differences, the similarities and common mannerisms confirmed any doubt I may have had about where I came from. Africa is evolving into a beautiful space in my heart, especially East Africa where I have spent the bulk of my time. I have visited at least two weeks in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Uganda. I have gotten the most familiar with Uganda, a country full of life, opportunities, and natural beauty. Uganda is such a pure country. The people are as rare as I've seen in my 41 years of living and exploring. I recommend Uganda for people who want to experience a communal society and desire to learn and unlearn some cultural values about African life. Kenya boasts some of the most beautiful beach front views and exotic experiences just off the Indian Ocean. If not for the work I love so much in Uganda, I would live along the Kenyan Coast. Kenya's capital city, Nairobi is fast like New York, yet African enough to also feel subtle Houston vibes. I have spent roughly two months in Nairobi since 2021. The place is very international with various nationalities converging on the city which makes it a very diverse African choice from business pace to dining options. I recommend Kenya for people who want a bit more of a face paced modern vibe in the city or people who want to kick back at the beach life along the coast. I recently recorded a podcast episode called, "Preparing for your first trip to Africa." In the 30 minute commentary I provide a basic overview of steps needed to be taken to make your voyage a reality. I also give some tips and advice from my personal perspective on traveling international and travel in general, from flights options to negotiating price. I believe you will enjoy the short talk. The layout of the content is below, as is a link to the recording. I hope you will visit me here soon. Just call before you come, so I can be ready for you! In this LIVE event, you will learn some of the basic steps for making your first international trip. Special interest is paid to those taking their first trip to East Africa. From securing your passport and visa to tips on choosing your travel route and selecting accommodations on the ground; this commentary is a first person perspective of making the trip to the other side. Below is a breakdown of the content: *Audio begins at 1:19 1:19 - 3:30 Intro 3:33 - 5:00 Personal First Trip Story 5:00 - 7:15 Making sure you have a passport to leave your home nation 7:16 - 9:18 Securing your visa to enter your destination 9:19 - 17:00 Mindset: Understanding where you are, and adjusting (Language barriers, air quality, food and restaurant experiences, negotiating price) 19:05 - 23:18 Choosing the flight route that's best for you 23:40 - 27:05 Defining safety, finding the best accommodations in each city/country 28:00 - 29:35 Transportation on the ground: To drive or not to drive 29:40 - 31:05 Closing - SHIFT Tours as a concierge service Follow our channel for more insightful videos about traveling to Africa and SHIFT membership benefits. All of our trips are for our members. For current travel or community participation inquiries, choose General inquiry on our on-site form. Include your destination, timing, and goals. Availability, fees, and membership terms are confirmed separately. Follow SHIFT Enterprise Academy across social media: SHIFT Enterprise Academy Visit our website: https://www.shiftenterpriseacademy.com/ Subscribe to our newsletter: https://decisionmakersblvd.beehiiv.com/subscribe About SHIFT Enterprise Academy SHIFT Enterprise Academy is a US based personal development consulting firm with an expanding footprint in East Africa. SHIFT majorly deals as an education technology company with online courses and trainings. Team SHIFT is a private members only group offering education, tourism, and investment opportunities to its members. About the Founder & Show Host Ethan Brisby is an African American entrepreneur resettling in East Africa. He is an effective communicator who leads SHIFT trainings. Brisby is a native of Texas where he spent the last ten years working as a real estate broker, affordable housing advocate, and leading local community development initiatives. Ethan is an author and former host of Word on the Street Radio, of which he hosted from 2003 - 2007 before returning to college where he earned a B.S. in Urban Studies from Morehouse College. Brisby is also an alumnus of Texas A&M University where he earned a Master's degree in Land & Property Development. Ethan is a man of many talents always leading with his example. Connect with Ethan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ethanbrisby/

ARCHIVE NOTE: This article describes an earlier event or cohort. Its former registration links have been retired. Current opportunities require separate confirmation from SHIFT. Summit set to take place November 9-11, 2023 in Entebbe, Uganda In an increasingly interconnected world, where knowledge knows no bounds and opportunities span continents, empowering ambitious minds is not just a lofty aspiration but a necessity. It's this very ethos that lies at the heart of SHIFT Enterprise Academy, a Texas-based social enterprise with a profound mission - to help individuals get from where they are today to where they aspire to be in the future using #TheSHIFTApproach. For two years, SHIFT has passionately worked in East Africa, nurturing entrepreneurship, encouraging personal development, and fostering leadership among diverse communities. Our journey in this region has been marked by a deep understanding of the unique challenges and immense potential that it holds. Now, we're gearing up to take this commitment to the next level. The Trans Africa Investment Summit, scheduled for 9th to 11th November 2023 in Entebbe, Uganda, presents a remarkable opportunity to amplify our vision. At SHIFT, we firmly believe that education, entrepreneurship, personal development, and leadership are the cornerstones of empowerment. We are on a relentless pursuit to make this belief a reality, and this summit is a critical milestone in that journey. Our approach is holistic. Education isn't confined to the four walls of a classroom; it transcends boundaries and is a lifelong pursuit. Through our digital learning management system, we are bringing knowledge to the fingertips of ambitious individuals. This system isn't just an ordinary platform; it's a gateway to transformation, accessible 24/7, to learn and engage with #TheSHIFTApproach. Entrepreneurship isn't just about starting a business; it's about sparking innovation, fostering economic growth, and driving change. SHIFT is committed to instilling the entrepreneurial spirit in individuals, enabling them to navigate the complexities of the business world and transform their ideas into reality. Personal development is an ongoing journey, and we're here to guide individuals every step of the way. It's about enhancing one's skills, nurturing their talents, and refining their character. It's about becoming the best version of oneself. Leadership, in our view, isn't limited to titles and positions; it's a mindset. SHIFT nurtures leadership qualities, teaching individuals how to inspire, influence, and lead by example. Our leadership programs are designed to create visionaries, capable of effecting positive change in their communities. At the Trans Africa Investment Summit, we will have the privilege of sharing our vision with a diverse and esteemed audience. With representation from countries including Uganda, the United States, Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa, and more, the summit is a unique platform for fostering collaboration between Africa and the diaspora. SHIFT Enterprise Academy's Founder and Executive Director, Mr. Ethan J. Brisby, will take the stage to share his insights on "The SHIFT Approach: Bridging the Economic Divide between Africa and the Diaspora at Large." It's a presentation that encapsulates our mission, a mission that resonates with individuals who dream of a brighter future and a prosperous Africa. We are excited to engage with industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and influencers who share our passion for fostering development in Africa and beyond. SHIFT is not just an institution for learning; it's a global partner for the affluent, offering tailored solutions that unlock opportunities, address challenges, and ensure that wealth becomes a conduit for positive change. In 2030, we envision a world where SHIFT is more than just an academy for learning. It's a global leader in personal development, education, entrepreneurship, and leadership. Families and communities are benefiting from our innovative initiatives. We see a world where economic divides are bridged, where individuals are empowered to lead fulfilling, purpose-driven lives. As SHIFT prepares to embark on this exciting journey at the Trans Africa Investment Summit, we invite you to join us in this transformation. Together, we'll unlock ambition and drive change that echoes through generations. Join us in this endeavor to bridge divides and foster prosperity. SHIFT - where education meets entrepreneurship, personal development, and leadership. Stay tuned for updates from the summit, and let's together script a brighter future!

ARCHIVE NOTE: This article describes an earlier event or cohort. Its former registration links have been retired. Current opportunities require separate confirmation from SHIFT. "It was a mind blowing three days" -Summit participant In the heart of Entebbe, Uganda against the backdrop of the serene Innophine Hotel, the Trans Africa Investment Summit 2023 unfolded as a collection of timely ideas, inclusive discussions, and strategic initiatives. Co-sponsored by the Women’s Entrepreneurship Forum Africa and the Republic of Uganda's Operation Wealth Creation, the summit went beyond the typical conference setting, immersing attendees in an intimate, energetic atmosphere with the promise of investment-driven change. Africa, a continent with endless potential, finds itself at a pivotal juncture. The summit, a melting pot of ideas and opportunities, centered on the key ingredient that can propel Africa into a new era of prosperity – wholistic investment. The three-day event breathed life into the diverse avenues for investment, spanning sectors crucial for sustainable development. Day 1: Opening Ceremony – Setting the Stage for Prosperity The summit kicked off with Major General Sam Kavuma, representing the President's Office addressing the audience. He underscored the link between human security and the factors of production: land, labor, capital, and market. The need for skilled labor and the importance of simplifying access to finance became focal points of his address, providing a backdrop for discussions on investment readiness. "You can not develop as a nation if you do not look deeply at these factors," emphasized Major General Kavuma, laying the groundwork for the summit's overarching theme – leveraging social capital for robust investment. A key highlight of his speech was the addition of technology and entrepreneurship to the traditional factors of production. The summit's program went on to deeply engage about potential roadblocks to sustained growth in Uganda and beyond especially in the technological landscape. Approximately 29 million Ugandans face issues with consistent electricity showcasing the urgent need for innovative solutions and, consequently, potential investment opportunities in the energy sector. As speakers like the Deputy Minister from the Uganda Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development took the stage, the summit made known investment avenues linked to sustainable development, technological innovation, and the imperative of road, rail, and port infrastructure. Queen Ammenata of Ghana: Illuminating Africa's Path to Change The Development Agenda of the Royal Fulbe Kingdom of Ashanti Ghana took center stage next with insights from Her Royal Highness Queen Ammenata. Addressing hunger alleviation, women's health, environmental concerns, and women's empowerment, the Queen's discourse painted a vivid picture of the challenges and opportunities awaiting impactful investments in Ghana. The Queen highlighted some of the work she is leading on behalf of the kingdom and left the door open for strategic partnerships aligning with causes within the agenda of the Kingdom. "For Africa to change, the solution is at the grassroots level," declared Queen Ammenata, urging a focus on fundamental, community-driven changes. The Parish Development Model: Uganda's Blueprint for Investment Success Community level is where the Honorable Irene Muwanguzi's presentation on the Parish Development Model (PDM) shed light on Uganda's strategy to become a regional food basket. With pillars focused on financial inclusion, holistic transformation, and gender equality, the PDM is a beacon of opportunity for not only local government facilitated initiatives, but private sector investors looking to participate in Uganda's journey from a low to a high-income nation. Key challenges like limited quality control and poor infrastructure were candidly discussed, creating a transparent framework for potential investors to assess the landscape. Day 2: Mining and Mindsets - Investing in Growth The second day unfolded with discussions on challenges and opportunities in the Democratic Republic of Congo's mining sector by Prince Abenge. This session was a window into the complexities of investing in a region rich in resources but entangled in administrative intricacies. Abenge, a Royal in the Democratic Republic of Congo did not shy away from introducing first hand insights into the challenges and opportunities in the nation's mining sector. His address shined light onto the complexities of navigating DRC's licensing processes, highlighting the need for informed decision-making and strong relationships within the country. The statistics and facts from on the ground in DRC paint a nuanced picture, reflecting the resource-rich potential awaiting strategic investors in Congo. Moreover, Ms. Gloria Turyamureeba's common sensical session on Women Empowerment and Tourism echoed the need for balanced empowerment both for the girl child and the boy child. She spoke in a very matter of fact way about the need for intentional shifts in mindset not only for youth, but for those in charge of guiding youth towards their destiny. Ms. Turyamurreba brought the audience to its feet as she dropped timeless gems of wisdom about what the path forward has to look like. She emphasized mindset shifts from all levels of involvement. Mindset shifting is exactly what the unique "SHIFT Approach" presented by Mr. Ethan Brisby showcased. Brisby, an African American resettling in East Africa and Founder of SHIFT Enterprise Academy passionately introduced the three programs and two projects of SHIFT currently ongoing in East Africa. In doing so, he infused a sense of hope and deep meaning into what a mindset shift can look like in real time. Brisby also introduced SHIFT's angel investor network as a potential pathway for investments to bridge economic divides between Africa and the diaspora. SHIFT's deeply researched and practical training programs, are designed to empower enterprising minds through first a renewed mind then entrepreneurial pursuits of their liking. The need especially for Africa's youthful population to evolve it's socioeconomic activity into the Digital Age helped make SHIFT a well-received initiative discussed at the event. According to the African Development Bank, Africa's youth population is expected to double to over 830 million by 2050. Day 3: Intellectual Property, E-Commerce, and Financial Technology Barrister Cynthia Akueya Nchaw's energetic session on Intellectual Property Rights Protection provided valuable insights into safeguarding innovations. The native Cameroonian kept the audience spellbound with her passionate plea for African entrepreneurs to engage rightfully with protecting their intellectual property while understanding how to engage with the bodies that govern both national and global IP and patent laws. Mr. Clive Sherer from the United Kingdom provided insights into franchising, a growth model relatively unfamiliar to many attendees. Questions arose about oversight and profitability, but the potential of the franchise model in Africa was recognized. Another standout moment of the summit was the spotlight on Afrivan, a dynamic e-commerce solution that mirrors the global giant Amazon. Dr. Jackson Ivan Isiko, a native Ugandan residing in Utah, USA is the founder of Afrivan. His presentation illustrated how the platform is poised to revolutionize online shopping in Africa. As he spoke passionately about providing efficient and pleasant online shopping experiences for artisans, small business owners, and corporations, the audience received a glimpsed into a game changing force in the realm of digital commerce. The Afrivan platform, with its roots in Uganda and aspirations reaching far beyond, represents a paradigm shift in how Africans will engage in online trade. The potential for investment in such platforms not only signifies financial returns but also underscores the importance of fostering digital infrastructure as a cornerstone for Africa's economic evolution. Mrs. Edith Kutesa's presentation on M-Cash, a fintech solution in Uganda provided a smooth transition from ecommerce. Kutesa's message to the audience gracefully exemplified the tangible results of strategic investment in financial technology. Her emphasis on access to financial services for all resonated with the broader vision of inclusive, impactful investment. Uganda's Open Door Policy: A Call for Collaborative Investment Major General Sam Kavuma's statement on Uganda's commitment to opening its doors to partners reinforced the summit's broader call for collaborative investments. Against the backdrop of Uganda's steady GDP growth, increasing access to electricity, and rising opportunities in sectors like renewable energy and technology, the call for partnerships is not just an invitation; it's an imperative. As the Trans Africa Investment Summit 2023 drew to a close, the collective sentiment was one of hope, enthusiasm, and a readiness for action. The collaborative nature of the summit, marked by its intimate setting, traditional cheers, and moments of levity, painted a vivid image of a continent on the cusp of steady growth, inclusion, and self-reliance. Africa's future is not a distant dream; it's a reality being shaped by investments that go beyond monetary value – investments in education, entrepreneurship, leadership, and personal development. The variety of ideas, discussions, and initiatives woven together at the summit is a testament to Africa's potential, waiting to be unlocked through strategic and impactful investments. The summit was not just a call to look; it was a call to invest, to believe, and to act. The journey to Africa's prosperous future has begun, and the Trans Africa Investment Summit 2023 was air under the wings of many initiatives that will help individuals, communities, and nations soar into positive methodical shifts of reality. The event rightfully so was closed out by Chief Guest, John Mugabi Socrates. Socrates is the Founder and President of the Uganda National Chamber of Commerce and Industry - Entebbe. He is also the Entebbe Municipality Development Forum Coordinator. WOMEN ENTREPRENEURSHIP FORUM AFRICA (WEFA), Is the Women’s League of Pilot international: www.pilot-int.com The purpose of WEFA Leadership Forum is to establish a powerful database and network of professional women entrepreneurs and leaders from all sectors across Africa and the Diaspora, to trade among ourselves, share investment opportunities, collaborate on any development opportunities and programs for progressive development and to foster women-led socio economic Transformation of the African continent. SUBSCRIPTION FORM: This registration related to a past event. View SHIFT's current event information for upcoming opportunities.

ARCHIVE NOTE: This article describes an earlier event or cohort. Its former registration links have been retired. Current opportunities require separate confirmation from SHIFT. M'Bale, Uganda- Mellanie Sontheimer is a 25 year old Ugandan native who spent the fourth quarter of 2021 working with SHIFT as a Program Coordinator for its East African pilot program. She also doubled as an Enterprisers attending all five online interactive lessons and pitching her idea "SHIFT Serenity Tours" at the organization's November idea's competition. This is her SHIFT Impact Story: In September this year I signed up for the SHIFT Enterprise Academy pilot program. I was not sure how exactly it would be like, especially since I was not an entrepreneur at the time. I thought to myself, surely I need to get some knowledge on how to become an entrepreneur. For the five weeks I continued to attend and complete my weekly assignments. As a result, I got better. Now, I feel more positive than ever, and "YES" I am willing to dive into business without shying away from making money. Ethan and his co-instructor, Dr. Johnson did so much and soon the fruits will be vivid in my life. Thanks for this program I greatly encourage anybody who reads this to take a chance with the next cohort. The registration mentioned in this historical article relates to an earlier cohort. For current or future opportunities, use our on-site inquiry form and select Future cohort / program inquiry. An inquiry does not confirm admission or enrollment. The cost to participate is in the five interactive online lessons is $110 (Sponsorship/Scholarship is limited, but available). For information on how you can sponsor an Enterpriser in East Africa to attend visit https://www.shiftenterpriseacademy.com/make-a-gift SHIFT Enterprise Academy, Inc is a U.S. based 501c3 non-profit organization.

ARCHIVE NOTE: This article describes an earlier event or cohort. Its former registration links have been retired. Current opportunities require separate confirmation from SHIFT. With East African nations; Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya experiencing consistent growth and development, SHIFT Enterprise Academy is needed more and more each day. Young people in East Africa are responding by aligning themselves with the SHIFT Approach. Last week we were able to register an entire cohort of 15 Enterprisers in only four day! SHIFT Enterprise Academy is a social enterprise that identifies youth and young adults then helps them develop the mindset to solve problems in their community. Our East African program, "Launching into E-Commerce" is design to take the SHIFT mission to the next level by helping young people launch or expand e-commerce businesses. According to e-commerce giant, Shopify, global ecommerce sales are expected to reach $5 trillion in 2022, and $6 trillion by 2024. Moreover, businesses continue to follow consumer demand online, flocking to ecommerce in record numbers. Further, this digital growth is very predictable on the continent due in part to several countries leaping from strictly agrarian economy to the more globally integrated, digital economy. Read the entire Shopify report here: https://www.shopify.com/research/future-of-commerce/future-of-ecommerce The International Trade Administration concludes, the logic of growth on this area is pretty much based on technology jumps that do occur within Africa because of historically missing economic infrastructure, such as banks, telecom landlines, etc. Africa is forecast to surpass half a billion ecommerce users by 2025, which will have shown a steady 17% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of online consumers for the market. Read more from the Rise of E-Commerce in Africa here: https://www.trade.gov/rise-ecommerce-africa In a recent interview with Business Day Nigeria, Juliet Anammah, Jumia Nigeria Chairperson made it clear Jumia understands this is only the infancy of the digital economy on the continent. She told Business Day, "All said and done, we are the largest e-commerce platform on the continent, and you are on the continent where e-commerce is still 2-5% of total retail, which is a huge upside." Read more of Anammah's comments here: https://businessday.ng/news/article/africa-e-commerce-market-hugely-untapped-with-potential-for-growth-says-jumia-chairwoman/ This is why the work we are doing at SHIFT Enterprise Academy with our "Launching into E-Commerce" program is so vital. While we currently target university students living in urban spaces, many of our most promising Enterprisers live in more rural spaces. Some of these spaces still lack infrastructure to truly take advantage of today's opportunities. This reality fuels our efforts in Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, Democratic Republic of Congo, and beyond. We know by planting these seeds today our Enterprisers, their families, and the entire SHIFT ecosystem will reap enormous communal benefits in the future. Learn more about SHIFT Enterprise Academy, our programs, our story, and our team at www.shiftenterpriseacademy.com Our next cohort of "Launching into E-Commerce" begins July 26. After such a promising response this week, we are opening five more spots for our summer cohort. Young adults living in Africa age 18-30 are encouraged to register. While young adults living in the US and elsewhere at 16-24 are also welcome to register. The SHIFT is here. The registration mentioned in this historical article relates to an earlier cohort. For current or future opportunities, use our on-site inquiry form and select Future cohort / program inquiry. An inquiry does not confirm admission or enrollment. ABOUT LAUNCHING INTO E-COMMERCE Created in 2021 as a pilot program to assist entrepreneurs in Eastern Uganda, "Launching into E-Commerce" is a six week online professional education course. The course introduces young leaders to the SHIFT Approach. The SHIFT Approach is rooted in using the framework of the SHIFT pillars to direct your ideas about success. The SHIFT Pillars are: Save your money: Basic understanding of budgeting as well as the economic principles of supply and demand Help your family: Taking a servant leadership approach to solving problems and attaining intergenerational mobility Imagine your goals: Designing your life over a 90 day and five year period based on your own clearly defined idea of success. Follow directions: Adhering to a plan by persevering despite any adversity your may face. Developing the mindset of a champion in the 21st century. Think accurately: Avoiding the distractions that often derail young people or cause them to conform rather than mine their own idea of success

ARCHIVE NOTE: This article describes an earlier event or cohort. Its former registration links have been retired. Current opportunities require separate confirmation from SHIFT. 12/12/2021 Press Release East Africa, December 12, 2021 – SHIFT Enterprise Academy, Inc has taken the investment decision to launch its first virtual Academy in East Africa under the theme “Launching into E-Commerce.” The first cohort will feature 15 Enterprisers expected to start by 15th, January, 2022. This follows a pilot program that was successfully undertaken from October 1st to November 20th, 2021.The personal development program is in line with SHIFT Enterprise Academy’s growth strategy in East Africa - which is to teach 60 Enterprisers the pillars of SHIFT, by hosting four (4) academies, four (4) idea pitch competitions, and offering seed money including advisory services to the community of enterprisers we are building in 2022. “The decision to launch SHIFT Enterprise Academy marks the first milestone in the large-scale expansion of the SHIFT Approach. I was primarily inspired by Ambassador Arikana Chihombori - the former Permanent Representative of the African Union Mission to the USA (2010–2019) and Dr. Harnet – both of who were providing insights to African business and e-commerce.," said Ethan Brisby, Founder and Executive Director at SHIFT Enterprise Academy, Inc. SHIFT Enterprise Academy in East Africa SHIFT Enterprise Academy was conceived in 2010 with its primary impact in the United States of America. In 2021, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, SHIFT Enterprise Academy kick-started its programs in East Africa with a team of five (5). The organisation operates in multiple segments within the region including: Financial Literacy, Digital Literacy, Business Development and E-Commerce. SHIFT Enterprise Academy’s portfolio currently includes two continents – America and Africa. In 2021, the Academy’s pilot program in Uganda averaged 15 Enterprisers - ten (10) of who were Ugandan. The first cohort is expected to begin in January, 2022. The registration mentioned in this historical article relates to an earlier cohort. For current or future opportunities, use our on-site inquiry form and select Future cohort / program inquiry. An inquiry does not confirm admission or enrollment. ____ About SHIFT Enterprise Academy, Inc SHIFT Enterprise Academy was incorporated in 2011 by Morehouse & Texas A&M University alumnus Ethan Brisby primarily as a way to help first generation college students pay for college. Now, SHIFT Enterprise Academy, Inc is a 501c3 not for profit organization. The organization exists to help vulnerable Enterprisers get from where they are now to where they want to be by applying the SHIFT pillars. SHIFT Enterprise Academy Contacts Media Relations: +1 979 272 4145 l shiftenterpriseacademy@gmail.com Note This press release, from which no legal consequences may be drawn, is for information purposes only. The entities in which SHIFT Enterprise Academy, Inc directly or indirectly owns investments are separate legal entities. SHIFT Enterprise Academy, Inc has no liability for their acts or omissions. The terms “organisation” or “SHIFT Enterprise Academy, Inc” refer collectively to the organisation SHIFT Enterprise Academy, Inc. Such terms are used solely for the sake of convenience for purposes of the present communication. Likewise, the words “we”, “us” and “our” may also be used to refer to subsidiaries in general or to those who work for us. This document may contain forward-looking information and statements that are based on social data. They may prove to be inaccurate in the future and are subject to change. SHIFT Enterprise Academy, Inc does not assume any obligation to update publicly any forward-looking information or statement, objectives or trends contained in this document whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Contact us Mail: shiftenterpriseacademy@gmail.com WhatsApp: +1 979 272 4145 Instagram: shiftenterpriseacademy Twitter: @TeamSHIFTInc Facebook: SHIFT Enterprise Academy