Haaris D. Sa’ad

Haaris D. Sa’ad (FIMC, FBDI, NBDSP) is a Nigerian/Ghanaian consultant, communicator, community builder, entrepreneur, and an award-winning Professional Mentor.

He is passionate about fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in underserved communities in the MENA region, the Sahel, and Sub-Saharan Africa by promoting creative solutions to catalyze economic development. His conviction is that ‘Entrepreneurship is the key to the transformation of these regions and not global pity!’

Current:
Haaris is the FCT Chapter lead for GEN Nigeria & Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEWAbuja). As the public face of GEN in the FCT, he oversees a team that delivers on program goals, KPIs, and outputs. Also responsible for nurturing partnerships, implementing existing programs and initiatives, develop new clients interested in accelerating the performance of the FCT Entrepreneurial ecosystem. GEW Abuja (GEN’s flagship campaign), is a massive annual event that celebrates and empowers entrepreneurs – especially those individuals who face structural barriers or may have never considered the idea of launching their startup.

Achievements:
In 2023, Haaris was nominated as one of the top 20 Global Mentors of the Year in the VSBDRP Mentor of Impact Award (out of 225 mentors selected to mentor US-based MSMEs for one year in the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Programme – VSBDRP), which earned him an award and recognition from MicroMentor for his skill-based volunteer contributions as a Business Mentor on the platform. In 2021, Haaris received a similar award from Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurship Programme (TEF-TEEP), also as a mentor for the 2021 cohort. A Rookie Director of the Year Award – 2021 from Startup Grind US, as an outstanding pioneer Chapter Director.

Mentors raise a mentee’s confidence and problem-solving abilities. Along with developing leadership skills, having a mentor to advise and guide you can increase your confidence and help develop problem-solving skills. Regarding confidence, research has tied having a mentor to an overall increase in emotional health. Overall, giving back to the startup ecosystem and supporting emerging entrepreneurs is a way to make a lasting impact. By nurturing innovation, fostering economic growth, sharing knowledge, and promoting social change, you contribute to a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem that benefits society as a whole.

I’m a Social Impact Measurement expert, therefore, I’m always on the lookout for opportunities that create lasting social impact. Startups are often driven by a mission to create a positive social impact. By supporting these ventures, I’m able to align myself with causes and initiatives that aim to address pressing societal problems. Be it clean energy, healthcare, education, sustainable development, or any other area, contributing to the startup ecosystem can help drive meaningful change and improve the lives of many people.

The potential to generate new employment opportunities is another pull factor for me. As a startup grows, it typically requires a larger workforce, which can lead to job creation and reduce unemployment rates. By supporting startups, one can contribute to the growth of job markets and help individuals find meaningful and fulfilling work.

The ability to bring in fresh ideas to disrupt traditional industries, and contribute to increased productivity and competitiveness leads to rapid economic growth. Successful ventures can attract investments, generate revenue, and stimulate local economies. By giving back to this drive, you contribute to the creation of vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystems that stimulate economic development.

Startups are often the hotbeds of innovation. By supporting the startup ecosystem, you help create an environment that encourages and nurtures groundbreaking ideas and solutions. These innovations can lead to advancements in various industries, address societal challenges, and improve the quality of life for many people.

As an experienced individual, you likely possess valuable insights, skills, and expertise. By sharing your knowledge and mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs, you can help them navigate the challenges of starting and growing a business. Mentorship can provide guidance, accelerate learning, and increase the chances of success for emerging entrepreneurs.

Engaging with the startup ecosystem allows you to connect with like-minded individuals, industry experts, investors, and potential partners. By building relationships and collaborating with others, you can expand your network, learn from others’ experiences, and potentially identify new opportunities for yourself or your own business.