Kwame Boateng
Property Development and Planning BSc (Hons)
Kwame embraced his time at BCU and gained a wide range of transferable skills that he now uses daily in his role as an Entrepreneur. Since graduating, Kwame has founded his own company, Ingrained Oil, which he is working hard at to make it a market leader in the alcohol-free cosmetic industry.
“When I finished Sixth Form, I wasn't sure if university was the right path for me. I kept an open mind and attended various university open days, where BCU stood out to me, and it felt like home. I was confident that I would receive the support I needed during my time there.
Attending BCU for my undergraduate studies was a great experience. Not only did it shape my professional journey, but it also allowed me to build long-term relationships with fellow students on my course. The experience enabled me to truly discover myself as a person and gave me the confidence to take a leap into the next stage of my life.
Now, I am the founder and CEO of Ingrained Oil, an alcohol-free brand dedicated to individuals with fragrance sensitivity. Our mission revolves around ensuring that everyone can experience the joy of smelling good without suffering from the negative symptoms often associated with traditional perfumes.
However, our commitment at Ingrained Oil goes beyond merely offering a solution to this specific problem. We are deeply passionate about creating a brand that inspires and empowers individuals, reminding them that greatness is inherently ingrained within their very being.
Embarking on my entrepreneurial journey to create my own brand has been a challenging but rewarding rollercoaster journey. Despite the obstacles, the brand has grown significantly, collaborating with manufacturers in the UAE, taking on six interns from BCU, and even developing a partnership with John Lewis. My dedication has also been recognised through several accolades, including Startup of the Year Black Owned Business.
A typical workday for me involves completing administrative tasks, attending team meetings, and preparing orders. If we're not in the office, we may be out doing in-person sales, particularly at John Lewis. My day's structure depends on the goals and tasks that have been set for the week ahead.
Whilst my course at BCU doesn't directly relate to my current profession, it provided me with fundamental skills that have had a significant impact on my daily routine. These skills include scheduling my week effectively, writing professional emails, and honing my personal and professional skills. The foundational skills I acquired during my time at BCU have been invaluable in my current job and have prepared me for my future career aspirations.
The most challenging aspect of embarking on my chosen career path has been navigating the business landscape, especially when I'm unfamiliar with certain aspects.
However, I've overcome these challenges by prioritising my mental health through regular exercise and maintaining a close network of individuals who possess knowledge in various areas of business. This network has been invaluable in guiding me through challenging times and providing valuable insights when needed.
My proudest moments so far have been recognised by three prestigious institutions within one month; Potential Unlocked Awards Entrepreneur of the Year, Prince's Trust Young Person Awards, and being named a Young Black Entrepreneur to Watch in 2024 by Business Live.
My long-term goal is to continue building my business and position Ingrained Oil as a market leader in the alcohol-free cosmetic industry.
My advice to anyone considering studying at BCU would be to take that step and trust that it will always work out in your favour. Hold on to the skills and knowledge you build over the years of studying at BCU, as they will shape and support you in the larger world. Remember that university support doesn't end when you finish.
For me, 'I AM BCU' highlights the significant impact an institution like BCU can have on an individual's life, helping to shape their professional careers.”