Navigating Paths to Success

Bridget Ofosu-Andam, BA '23 (Social Justice and Peace Studies), is a passionate advocate for equity, social justice, and community empowerment. As CEO and Educational Consultant of Be Authentic Consultations and CEO and Executive Director of Developing Communities Everywhere Organization, she has impacted countless lives locally and globally.

Recently named Canadian CEO of the Year in the "Best Holistic Business Support CEO" category by CEO Monthly, Bridget chatted with us about her King's experience, her involvement as Chair of Western University's Black at Western Alumni (BAWA) chapter, her journey in founding impactful organizations, and her advice for students and alumni looking to forge their own paths in leadership and entrepreneurship.

Can you tell us about your journey to King's?

I started at King's in 2017 as a mature student, having previously completed a diploma from Centennial College. Initially, I planned to pursue a degree in Social Work at Ryerson University (now Toronto Metropolitan University), but I decided to transfer to the Social Justice and Peace Studies (SJPS) program at King's.

I was new to London, and everything felt foreign to me. Thankfully, I made friends in the SJPS program who made me feel comfortable, and we became a great team. I leaned into the African community at King's and Western, where I could share and discuss the ups and downs of my time in school. I was fortunate to join King's University College Students' Council (KUCSC) and witness the creation of the BIPOC Support Group under the leadership of former KUCSC President Roshaydia Morgan, EDID professionals, and accompanying staff.

Navigating institutions as a Black individual has its challenges, but the community and supportive environments make the experience worthwhile. The Academic Dean's staff, alumni staff, campus ministry, and faculty were incredibly supportive during my journey at King's. Though I was a mature student and initially struggled to find the right crowd, I'm grateful for the friends I made along the way.

How did you establish Developing Communities Everywhere (DCE), and what is the vision of the organization?

During my international placement practicum at Centennial College in 2016, I had the idea of starting a non-profit organization with a few friends. While some later pursued other ventures, I remained committed to the concept and officially registered DCE in 2020.

DCE supports local and global communities by providing aid, resources, educational materials, and impactful programming. We believe every individual should have access to the resources necessary to achieve their goals and are committed to empowering communities everywhere.

Seeing DCE come to fruition was incredibly rewarding, though the journey was not without challenges. In the early stages, we faced difficulties, including high turnover rates, which made launching programs a significant challenge. Despite these obstacles, DCE has grown steadily and is now on a solid path forward.

What advice would you give to students or alumni interested in starting their own business?

I founded Be Authentic Consultations Inc., a consultancy firm that provides holistic support to organizations and individuals. Our dedicated team offers expert guidance in social services advising, program design for non-profit organizations and social enterprises, and meaningful speaking engagements. At Be Authentic, we are committed to authenticity, going beyond traditional consulting by integrating life coaching opportunities to empower individuals in their personal and professional journeys.

Leveraging cutting-edge technology and proprietary data, we help organizations drive growth while fostering genuine and valued relationships. Our mission is to navigate the path to success with authenticity at every step.

To students and alumni, my advice is simple: believe in yourself and your dreams. Don't feel pressured to follow trends just to fit in—follow your convictions and stay true to who you are. You'll be amazed at the places God will lead you and the opportunities that unfold when you walk authentically in your purpose.

As the Chair of the Black at Western Alumni (BAWA) chapter, can you tell us more about the chapter and how alumni can get involved?

The Black at Western Alumni (BAWA) chapter at Western University is a transformative force dedicated to fostering a vibrant, supportive, and empowering community for Black students and alumni. Through community engagement, anti-black racism advocacy, mentorship, and networking opportunities, BAWA strives to strengthen the Black student experience, deepen connections with London's Black community, and celebrate Black excellence.

Alumni who are interested in becoming part of a network whose mission is to dismantle the culture of anti-Black racism at Western University while empowering, uplifting, and connecting with other Black alumni from Western can sign up to receive updates and event invitations through the Western University Chapter Interest Form and the BAWA Contact List.