Personal Background
I was born in Ghana and moved to Montreal at the age of 10 to join my parents. My upbringing was rooted in the values of community, resilience, and hard work. I grew up in a vibrant and diverse neighborhood in Montreal, where I learned to embrace the blend of cultures around me while holding on to my roots. My cultural background played a significant role in shaping my identity and perspective on life. It taught me the importance of family, respect, and perseverance.
Educational Background
In high school, my love for Chemistry and Math led me to pursue Applied Science in college with the goal of entering Pharmacy.I entered into Biochemistry at McGill University, hoping to analyze specimens and detect bacteria, but found it didn’t align with my career goals. I discovered Biomedical Technology at Dawson College, which offered the hands-on experience I was seeking. This path led to a rewarding 12-year career in Microbiology at the Jewish General Hospital, developing my skills.
What I Love About My Field
What I love most about my field is the blend of science and real-world impact. In microbiology, I help identify microorganisms that improve healthcare outcomes. The constant evolution of the field, along with the precision required, aligns with my passion for analytical thinking. Above all, knowing that my work contributes to improving lives keeps me motivated every day.
Career Progression
I interned at a pharmacy in high school, but after working there summers, I realized it wasn’t the right fit. I continued part-time for 20 years. After becoming a Biomedical Technologist in microbiology for 12 years, I co-founded ZeroPay, a payment platform, and AceBy, a freelancer connection platform. Discovering that cleaning services were in high demand, I left my career to focus on entrepreneurship. I co-founder Cleanster. I serve as co-founder and CEO, transforming the cleaning industry.
Keeping It Real
Building a business is tough, it requires long nights, grit, and resilience. I take it one step at a time.The journey is full of challenges, and success takes time. Staying competitive requires innovation, quality service, and trust-building. Managing a reliable team is hard with high turnover, and cash flow can be unpredictable, especially early on. Despite these challenges, the rewards come from seeing my efforts pay off and making a lasting impact.
Advice I Wish I Received
The advice I wish I had received earlier is to fully embrace the journey, appreciating every step along the way. It’s important to celebrate your wins, no matter how small, because they are milestones that keep you motivated. At the same time, it’s equally crucial to learn from your mistakes and setbacks. Instead of viewing them as failures, see them as valuable lessons that will help you grow and improve.
Advice I'd Like to Give
Surround yourself with uplifting people who motivate you. The journey is long, so connect with those on similar paths. Keep learning and always strive to grow. Don’t forget to give back and support others.
Inspiring Quote
“You can have everything in life you want, if you will just help other people get what they want.”- Zig Ziglar