Young Chibunna Ogbonna, an undergraduate who has already initiated a platform that contributes to the development of Nigeria with his innovations. He speaks to Elorasblog in this interview.

Please introduce yourself and tell us more about your background?

My name is Chibunna Ogbonna, I am 22 years old and was born in Umuahia, Abia State. I am the second Child of my parents. I completed my Primary education at Margaret Schools Umuahia and proceeded to Air Force Military School, Jos where I obtained my O’level certificate. I am currently an undergraduate of Chemical Engineering at Federal University of Technology, Owerri.

You’re an Entrepreneur, what does your business entails?

RenewCycle Energy is providing reliable, affordable and Clean energy using solar energy solutions and waste recycling exchange.

Basically, we are a Renewable energy and Waste management company.

We are currently into collection and aggregation of Recyclable waste materials. Our Renewable energy solutions are in the pipeline.

Photo of RenewCycle Energy Team.

What is the name of your business, were you trained for this business?

The name of my Business is “RenewCykle ” coined from Renewable energy and Recycling.

I will say I trained myself through research, volunteering, internships and just following my core interests.

In terms of Business Acumen, I am still learning mostly from books, mentors and Role models.

What inspired you to delve into the recycle business?

I was inspired to participate in driving Environmental sustainability and mitigating climate change through waste management and renewable energy solutions. I saw an opportunity to provide solutions to alarming rate of solid waste pollution and epileptic power supply.

How were you able to raise fund to start up your business?

I was able to raise funds to test my business hypothesis from my personal savings and the contribution of friends and family. Then proceeded to business grant applications and business competitions.

What major challenges have you encountered in your business?

One major challenge I have encountered is the gap of what I know now and what I need to know. The challenge to keep learning and keep growing. It’s not easy I confess. Another major challenge I have encountered is uncertainty in The Start up Journey. One needs to constantly revise models and ideas to see what works for the customers.

What platform do use to advertise your business?

At the moment, we use Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
Medium blogs and our Website.

You’re the boss, how does it feel working for yourself?

The feeling of working for yourself is good but not the real thing. The truth is that one is actually working for the customers.
However, it’s fulfilling to contribute to the development of Nigeria and Africa at large by building something great.
I also appreciate my team for their own sacrifices.

Will you say it’s been financially rewarding?

I believe in long term thinking like one of my role models, Tony Elumelu.
I believe in Delayed gratification and restrain.

The financial rewards will be an icing on the cake when we make real impact and do the work and provide the solutions.

Where do you see your brand in 5 years?

In the next 5 years, RenewCycle Energy will be known for integrity and sustainable growth. With a well structured team delivering scalable solutions and innovations.

Contact:

ogbonna.chibunna@gmail.com