Balloon Ventures

In this, the latest from a series of posts focussing on our inspirational Alumni and where they are now, we chatted to Busayo Yusuff, who volunteered with Balloon ICS in Kenya.

BV: Tell us a little bit about what you were doing before you applied for iCS.

BY: Prior to applying for ICS, I was working within the legal sector and travelling around India and Sri Lanka. Further I was a committee member of the London based think tank, Nigerians In The Square Mile’s Young Professionals Network.

BV: What was your main motivation in applying for Balloon ICS?

BY: I applied for Balloon ICS as it provides a unique opportunity to work alongside local entrepreneurs on socially conscious and exciting business ideas, whilst utilise my skills and experience to make a significant and lasting impact. Unlike travelling where your vantage point is often skewed by western perspective, Balloon ICS’s main attraction is that it fosters a full integration and immersion experience.  

BV: Can you remember the entrepreneurs you worked with on placement? Tell us about one who really inspired you.

BY: It’s hard to pick one. Three stand out: Mary, hair salon owner, soap maker and full-time amazing lady! Peter, restaurant owner; and Steven, farmer and part-time builder.

BV: What skills do you think you developed most while on your placement?

BY: Prior to the placement, I wanted to make a difference; inspire and empower others, whilst also increase my social and personal development. Through the placement I learned and development several skills.

First, I became more adaptive. Experiencing the challenges entrepreneurs face, I was forced to be flexible and adaptive in order to identify various opportunities. Second, undertaking the Balloon Enterprise Curriculum, and working with local business owners, I further developed my business knowledge. Third, I developed my leadership skills. During the placement you work in small teams, often I was required to take initiative and lead projects. Although daunting this was a great experience that further developed my teamwork skill and demonstrated a strong desire to take on greater responsibility.

BV: What have you been doing since you returned from placement?

BY: Since the placement, I have participated in community based initiatives, such as Byte Night, Action for Children, and started work as trainee solicitor.