Joel Amawhe, known to many as the “Sales Commando,” embarked on his entrepreneurial journey as a self-taught programmer in 2012. This saga commenced in a humble abode in his hometown, Ozoro, Delta State of Nigeria.
Initially lacking a personal computer, he would borrow his cousin’s mini laptop, and when this wasn’t an option, he would jot down codes from his modest mobile phone to practice later at a local cafe. His dedication saw a turning point when a generous donation from a brother enabled him to acquire a laptop, a tool that propelled his coding voyage forward despite the constraints of basic internet access in his locale.
His early career in tech blossomed as he laid the cornerstone for “Techoravia,” a web design agency that showcased his technical acumen. This venture was a precursor to a myriad of entrepreneurial endeavors that would follow.
In 2016, armed with self-taught coding expertise, Joel founded myPadi, a platform dedicated to easing the process of finding safe, affordable accommodation for university students in Nigeria.
Early on, myPadi clinched victory at the StartupSouth pitch contest in 2016. Following this triumph, a seed fund from Ventures Platform in 2017 bolstered its operations. That same year, myPadi was honored by NITDA and showcased at GITEX 2017 in Dubai, also securing a $5,000 grant from a NESG contest. The momentum continued with a follow-on funding from EchoVC Partners in 2018, propelling its expansion to more cities and universities.
Transitioning into international commerce in mid-2018, Joel emerged as a notable figure in the e-commerce sector, specializing in importing high-demand products from China, the US, and Vietnam. Operating from Abuja, Nigeria, he designed a model with which his products are distributed in bulk across markets in Ghana, Cameroon, and Nigeria.
In his quest to foster entrepreneurial growth, Joel established Bizthom. Bizthom aims to provide actionable, structured learning programs to help individuals adeptly sell their skills, products, or services. It currently hosts two live programs tailored for e-commerce entrepreneurs or enthusiasts, focusing on product sourcing, research, and a unique SWOF model for bulk selling across Africa. The academy boasts a vibrant community of over 6,000 students, keen on mastering the art of digital business success.
A pivotal aspect of Joel’s journey is his educational background. Despite holding only a National Diploma in Computer Science from the defunct Delta State Polytechnic, Ozoro, Joel’s relentless drive propelled him to heights often associated with highly credentialed individuals. This aspect of his narrative not only underscores his determination but also resonates with many aspiring entrepreneurs.
When not engrossed in his ventures, Joel shares street-tested strategies freely across social media, empowering the digital business community. His online presence is robust, with nearly 100,000 devoted followers across platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and an expanding audience on YouTube, showcasing his expertise and eagerness to share knowledge.
His journey and accomplishments haven’t gone unnoticed. Joel and his ventures have been spotlighted on reputable TV stations like ChannelsTV and CGNTV, and featured in prominent newspapers like Vanguard, among others. These media appearances have further solidified his standing in the entrepreneurial ecosystem, shedding light on his mission to empower others through digital business acumen.
Joel Amawhe’s narrative is a stirring testament to what determination, innovation, and a genuine desire to contribute to the entrepreneurial ecosystem can achieve.