Today, we have a versatile and a dynamic entrepreneur Christine Reidhead with us who is a Business Professor, Founder and CEO of AfrikRising, She is the author of a new book called, How to Ace a Job Interview: A Simple Guide to Landing Any Interview. Christine Reidhead has worked at a Tribal College for over eight years. She is also a podcaster, with her latest podcast, The Tribal College Movement, that was published by the Tribal College Journal.
Tell us about yourself?
I love to work. I have a massive drive for success that is the motor behind what I do.
I love exploring other cultures and traditions. Our family goes to Mexico a lot and we love it. It’s a great way to experience things outside of our comfort zones and really appreciate what we have.
I am very passionate about helping the underserved, those who are not in a position to help themselves. I truly feel we should help humanity as a whole because I think it is the right thing to do. I have been passionate about serving others ever since I was a kid.
What makes your organization different than your competitors?
AfrikRising goes into orphanages and schools in Africa and tries to help meet their basic needs. These children are without parents and/or abandoned at an orphanage in the most impoverished countries in the world. They are in a sense, put in the worst of the worst situations, usually with no hope to escape. AfrikRising comes in and tries to provide hope for a better life and a better future for these children.
Where do you see AfrikRising in next three years?
I see us established in both Nigeria and Ghana. We are building partnerships with orphanages to help battle poverty. A lot of African students graduate college but still can’t find work. The only type of work that is available in the trades work. So, we are in the process of building a trades school in Nigeria. This will allow students to learn a trade, get a job, which in turn could provide for their family. Most families do not have access to clean water or sufficient food.
What was the best book or series that you’ve ever read?
Probably my favorite book is, The Alchemist. It’s just exceptional and I love the meaning behind it.
What are the best and worst purchases you’ve ever made?
The best purchase I have made is most likely investing in the non-profit organization, AfrikRising. It’s taken a lot to get it up and running. But I feel the impact is worth the cost.
The worst purchase would be just stuff. As a society, we always buy things we don’t need.
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What takes up too much of your time
I feel that I have a home life, work, and non-profit activities somewhat balanced and that my sons are priority.
What three pieces of advice would you give to college students/new startup business owners who want to become entrepreneurs?
One: Follow your dreams and don’t let anyone stop you. Most people would advise from only their perspective. Each person has given different traits. So, don’t live out someone else’s dreams, go out and live your dream.
Two: Get your education. Go out and learn, learn and learn some more. Knowledge is power. Absorb what’s out there and learn as much as you can.
Three: Work hard. Outwork everyone. So many people are out there already competing against you. Put in the work necessary to put yourself ahead. Nothing is going to come easy. But hard work is essential in becoming successful.
Who has impressed you most with what they’ve accomplished?
Tom Davis is at the top. He is someone who has given up a lot for the good of others. In a world where Tom Davis could’ve made millions with his skill set, he decided to devote his time to an impoverished people. He used his talents and skills to improve their lives and their future. He put his mark on history by being unselfish and thinking of others first. What a tremendous individual.
Tell us about something you are proud of – about your greatest challenge.
I am proud that I have two outstanding children. They are at the heart of what I do.
Professionally, I am proud that I stumbled on a tribal college and have had the opportunity to work there. I am happy we were able to get AfrikRising up and to run. I believe we can certainly make a difference in the lives of others. It’s gratifying to help those in need and seeing smiles on people’s faces. That’s what life is all about!
The greatest challenge in a nonprofit is raising funds. I think that will always be the greatest challenge for nonprofits.
How should people connect with you?