• Burkina Faso
• Business

How Burkina Faso immigrant Adissa Barry became a self-made U.S. millionaireNew AfricaAugust 21, 202206 mins

In the bustling landscape of Maryland’s business realm, one name stands out for its remarkable journey from immigrant roots to self-made millionaire status: Adissa Barry. Her story is not just one of success but also resilience, determination, and a passion for entrepreneurship that transcends borders.

Originally hailing from Burkina Faso, Adissa Barry has called the United States home for over three decades. Armed with a bachelor’s degree in accounting, she embarked on her American journey, landing a role as a controller in a construction company—a pivotal experience that laid the groundwork for her future endeavors.

During her tenure in the construction industry, Barry identified a critical gap: the lack of expertise in construction accounting among certified public accountants. Drawing upon her academic background and professional insights, she saw an opportunity to carve her own path in the business world.

With unwavering determination, Adissa Barry took the leap and founded Tei Electrical Solutions, an electrical construction company that quickly became synonymous with excellence and innovation. Despite entering a traditionally male-dominated field, Barry’s willingness to adapt and learn set her apart, earning her accolades and respect within the industry.

Reflecting on her journey, Barry emphasizes the importance of taking calculated risks—a philosophy instilled in her by a teacher in Burkina Faso. “A businessperson is someone who takes a chance,” she notes, underscoring the mindset required to navigate the unpredictable terrain of entrepreneurship.

At Tei Electrical Solutions, Barry’s leadership extends far beyond the boardroom. With a keen focus on project management and financial oversight, she ensures that each endeavor aligns with the company’s mission and values. From healthcare facilities to defense projects, Barry’s expertise spans diverse sectors, showcasing her versatility and adaptability as a leader.

Beyond her professional achievements, Adissa Barry is a testament to the power of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity. As a woman and a minority in the business world, she has shattered barriers and defied expectations, inspiring a new generation of entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams with unwavering tenacity.

Today, Adissa Barry’s legacy continues to grow, fueled by her passion for innovation and commitment to excellence. As she reflects on her journey from Burkina Faso to business success in the United States, Barry remains grateful for the opportunities that have shaped her path and inspired her to reach new heights.

In an ever-changing world, Adissa Barry stands as a beacon of hope and possibility, proving that with hard work, determination, and a willingness to take risks, anything is possible. Her story is not just a testament to her individual success but also a celebration of the immigrant spirit and the endless possibilities that await those who dare to dream.

In a narrative that transcends continents and defies expectations, Dr. Catherine Nakalembe‘s journey from badminton courts in Uganda to the prestigious halls of NASA reflects the power of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of knowledge.

Hailing from the vibrant city of Kampala, Uganda, Dr. Nakalembe’s early aspirations were rooted in the world of sports. With dreams of studying sports science, her path took an unexpected turn when academic hurdles redirected her focus towards environmental science at Makerere University.

Little did she know that this twist of fate would set the stage for a groundbreaking career that would revolutionize agricultural practices and earn her global recognition.

Motivated by a longing to create a significant influence, Dr. Nakalembe embarked on a journey of exploration and discovery, venturing into mapping and fieldwork in Uganda’s Mount Elgon region. It was here that she discovered her passion for environmental sciences—a passion that would shape her future endeavors in ways she could never have imagined.

Her academic pursuits led her to Johns Hopkins University, where she earned a master’s degree in geography and environmental engineering before ultimately completing her Ph.D. at the University of Maryland in geographical sciences.