Muhammad Umar, BA (Hons) Global Management (Enterprise & Innovation) graduate and founder of Biorama Capital (an equity holder at Capegate Investment Limited), is constructing a 150-megawatt waste-to-energy plant in Kano State, Nigeria.
As part of the project, he and his partners have also secured a 25-year concession from the Nigerian government to collect and process all waste produced in Kano State.
Muhammad attributes his entrepreneurial success to his studies at Regent’s, where he said he learned the mantra ‘for-profit’ is wrong and it should be a by-product of humanity from his Senior Lecturer, Anette Lundebye.
Muhammad commented: ‘This feat couldn't be achieved without the important role Regent’s played by motivating us in class. I appreciate Regent’s for imbibing the social aspects of entrepreneurship in me. I have come to realise that profit alone cannot bring self-fulfilment unless it is mixed with selfless contributions to humanity.’
He decided to study Global Management (Enterprise & Innovation) at Regent’s with the desire to inspire other young people to ‘pick up the baton and close the gap for Africa.’
Inspired by business moguls and philanthropists like Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger, he learnt the importance of integrity, honesty and social responsibility – messages that were reinforced during his time at Regent’s. He also learned to be comfortable around mentors, as it helped break down the culture of holding people on a pedestal. As a result, he feels happier questioning things, regardless of a person’s standing in society.
Reflecting on his university experience, Muhammad shares that he enjoyed the interactive learning, depth of subjects and positive encouragement from his lecturers.
‘Enterprise in Action – I’ve never had a module that has pushed me so hard,’ he comments.
He also learned the value of teamwork from collaborating with students from different nationalities and backgrounds, saying: ‘Fifty years down the line, I will look back and miss the energy of those groups.’
Muhammad has built a strong network with Regent’s students and lecturers, and he looks forward to collaborating with Regent’s community in his future business endeavours.
Muhammad advises future students looking to move into business to: ‘Do your research! Be steadfast in whatever you are going to do. Always consider social and environmental factors. Profit will always come. Always do business with a purpose. You need to have passion. I will forever be grateful to Regent’s.’
He continues: ‘For me, this is just the beginning of the journey. I know, over time, as I hone my skills, I will still identify with the Regent’s community and call on my teachers for guidance. I will be a good ambassador for Regent’s.’
Business & Management Senior Lecturer, Anette Lundebye has said: ‘It makes me happy to see that Muhammad’s learning at Regent’s University London is being put to use in the real world and also delivering on the SDGs. This is an incredibly successful graduate outcome!’