Building Sustainable Business Models Across Africa: The Student Story of Mich Jane Awuor

My name is Mich Jane Awuor, a Kenyan student building the expertise to be a trusted finance professional working at the intersection of impact investing and sustainable housing in Africa. I am currently pursuing a Master’s in International Business and Sustainability at Sciences Po, in Paris, building on my background in Financial Engineering from Strathmore University in Kenya. With a deep passion for problem-solving, I am committed to finding innovative solutions that drive economic growth and social impact across the continent.

Professionally, I have gained experience in financial advisory, strategic consulting, and sustainable investment. I previously worked as a management consultant at Open Capital Advisors, where I provided strategic recommendations and financial advisory services to businesses and investors operating in emerging markets. Additionally, I have contributed to impact-driven projects at UN-Habitat and consulted on affordable housing finance initiatives at CAHF. 

Beyond my professional work, I am the founder of Kenya Safi, an initiative dedicated to promoting environmental sustainability and waste management solutions in Kenya. Through Kenya Safi, I have worked on grassroots projects that advocate for responsible waste disposal and sensitising rural communities on climate change. I also co-founded Boma Link, a real estate solution aimed at improving housing accessibility in Kenya by connecting prospective renters to cost-sharing opportunities and providing data-driven insights for real estate development. At Sciences Po, I continue to expand my expertise in sustainable business models while actively engaging in leadership roles, such as serving as Co-President of the School of Management and Impact Society.

I am also discovering that I am a fierce feminist, passionate about the potential of Africa. I also enjoy cooking and eating a glorious meal, whilst having a light or deep conversation with human beings. Finally, outside of winter, I promise you I love running- but for now I am learning to play tennis.

I joined the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Sciences Po because it offered more than just financial support—it provided the opportunity to be part of an excellent community of scholars who are driven, ambitious, and committed to Africa’s transformation. The program aligns with my passion for sustainable development and impact-driven leadership, and I was particularly drawn to its mission of empowering young African leaders to drive change on the continent. Being part of a network that is dedicated to excellence and the advancement of Africa is both an honour and a responsibility that I deeply value.

After six months in the program, I can confidently say it has been a fulfilling yet rigorous learning experience. The intellectual and cultural diversity of my peers has been incredibly enriching, constantly challenging my perspectives and broadening my understanding of global issues. Beyond academics, the program fosters a strong sense of community and purpose, reinforcing the belief that as young African leaders, we have the capacity to shape a more sustainable and equitable future.

Could I possibly have a favourite course? The program is so well-curated that every course feels like a crucial piece of the puzzle in shaping me as a thought leader in sustainability. From exploring sufficiency models to analysing capitalism in the era of climate change, each class has challenged me to think critically about the intersection of business, sustainability, and long-term value creation. Even learning French, as simple as it may sound, has been one of the most empowering experiences of my life, broadening my ability to engage in global discourse.

My interest in sustainability and green finance comes from a deep-seated belief that businesses must be at the forefront of solving global challenges. This program provides a great opportunity to reimagine corporate strategy—integrating ESG frameworks not just as a compliance measure, but as a driver of long-term competitiveness. On the flip side, I am equally fascinated by building impact-driven business models that remain profitable and self-sustaining, proving that financial success and social good are not mutually exclusive. It’s a continuous paradox—maximising shareholder value while solving sustainability challenges—but one that I am excited to navigate.

After completing my high school education at the Alliance Girls’ High School in Kenya, I was awarded the Equity Wings to Fly (EWTF) scholarship for excelling in my final exams, ranking 43rd nationally out of 600,000 candidates. This scholarship supported my education and provided a transformative opportunity to gain early work experience through Equity Bank’s internship program.

This experience helped me refine my career aspirations by exposing me to different work environments and allowing me to identify where I would thrive. It instilled a strong sense of responsibility, as I was trusted with tasks that had real consequences. Moreover, it gave me the chance to connect with mentors and interact with like-minded peers who shared similar ambitions. The financial independence I gained also allowed me to navigate social spaces with greater confidence, making it a pivotal chapter in my personal and professional growth, setting me up for more success.

I aspire to establish an impact investing fund in Africa, with affordable housing as one of its core asset classes. My vision is to create sustainable, climate-resilient housing solutions for bottom-of-the-pyramid consumers, addressing the critical need for affordability while ensuring long-term environmental and economic viability. This initiative would not only empower communities by creating employment opportunities but also drive financial returns through innovative and profitable business models. Beyond direct investments, I aim to influence corporate strategy in the real estate sector, ensuring that sustainable urban planning and housing development in Africa align with the needs of current and future generations.

Additionally, I am deeply committed to mentorship, particularly for young African women, to equip them with the skills and confidence to become global leaders in business and sustainability. I also aim to drive grassroots climate action by sensitising rural communities on climate change, encouraging household-level interventions that could spark broader innovative solutions. In the long run, I hope to return to academia as a lecturer at Strathmore University, to contribute to shaping the next generation of African leaders, just as my professors and mentors have done for me.

Be bold, brave, and consistent. Do not tire in your pursuit of excellence—whether it is in improving your communities, becoming a stronger leader, or maximising profits and shareholder value in the workplace. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program seeks individuals who are not only ambitious but also deeply committed to driving meaningful change. Your passion must be matched with action. Stay curious and open-minded, embracing every opportunity to learn, challenge your perspectives, and refine your purpose. Put in the work, because diligence always pays.

Success comes from living a life that honours your interests and doing so with excellence. When you pursue what truly resonates with you and commit to mastering it, doors will open. Lead with integrity and impact—true leadership is about creating value in ways that uplift not just yourself, but also those around you. Strive to be a catalyst for progress, whether by sharing knowledge, fostering collaboration, or pioneering innovative solutions. The impact you make is not just about your own journey; it is about the ripple effect you create.

And ensure you are always prepared!