Beran Dondeh Gillen Says Acumen Fellowship Strengthened His Commitment to Ethical Business

Beran Dondeh Gillen says a leadership fellowship has helped affirm his commitment to integrity in business, as Gambian entrepreneurs take part in a programme focused on climate, enterprise and values-led leadership. Speaking at an event at the African Princess Hotel, Gillen, co-founder of The Hub Ltd, described the Green Rise Africa Fellowship as “truly transformational.” He said the experience gave him an opportunity to learn about moral leadership and carry those principles back to his team. “It’s an uphill battle to be a moral leader,” he said, while reflecting on the challenges of putting those values into practice. The six-month fellowship is led by Acumen in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation. Its hybrid format combines virtual workshops with in-person sessions across West Africa. Organisers say the curriculum covers self-reflection, resilience and values-driven leadership, alongside exercises intended to help fellows make decisions in difficult business situations. Acumen Fellows manager Omono Etomi said the organisation invests in entrepreneurs working to build inclusive societies. Senior associate Oluchi Okoroafor said the programme encourages participants to look beyond their businesses, consider their values and make deliberate choices. Sessions include topics such as Authentic Voice and Adaptive Leadership. Other entrepreneurs at the gathering also spoke about what they took from the programme. Mariam Sarge, founder of Electric Energy Solution, said she had learned to delegate, pitch proposals and bring her team into her business story, rather than handling every task herself. Acumen founder manager Oyinda Adegboye said the organisation’s network of more than 2,000 fellows is a lasting benefit of participation. Graduates receive lifelong membership and opportunities to collaborate, while a related Angels Green Rise Africa programme offers grants of $25,000 or $50,000. Adegboye said funding matters, but described the community of entrepreneurs supporting one another as a particularly valuable form of capital.