University of Leeds : Black Futures Conference - Panel Speaker
Karen Emelu had the opportunity to speak at the Black Futures Conference, hosted by the University of Leeds Union in partnership with the Grounded Network. The conference brought together students and aspiring entrepreneurs for conversations centred on the future, opportunity, leadership and the importance of equipping the next generation with the confidence and tools to build their own paths.
During her session, Karen shared insights from her journey as a founder and entrepreneur, emphasising the importance of having a clear and intentional vision for whatever one is building. Drawing on her experience of building Black Girls in Tech and navigating the realities of entrepreneurship, she explored the distinction between having an exciting idea and possessing the clarity, direction and strategy required to turn that idea into a profitable and sustainable venture.
A central theme of her session was the question she often asks aspiring founders and entrepreneurs: “What’s the vision?” For Karen, this is one of the most important questions anyone can answer when embarking on a business journey. An idea may spark excitement, but it is the vision behind it that provides direction, shapes decision-making and creates a foundation for long-term growth.
Karen also shared one of her favourite scriptures for business, Habakkuk 2:2, which speaks about writing the vision and making it plain so that those who read it may run with it. She reflected on the significance of this principle in entrepreneurship, highlighting how a clearly articulated vision enables founders to communicate their purpose, align people around a shared goal and remain focused on what they are building.
She emphasised that vision is more than simply having an idea of what the future could look like. It is the driving force behind the work, the propeller that keeps a founder moving beyond the initial excitement and through the inevitable challenges of building. Having clarity of vision allows entrepreneurs to make intentional decisions, remain grounded in their purpose and continue progressing even when the journey becomes difficult.
The session was an opportunity to encourage students and aspiring entrepreneurs to think more deeply about their ambitions, approach their ideas with intention and recognise the importance of building with purpose. Karen was delighted to share her experiences and perspectives with the audience, reinforcing her belief that the next generation of entrepreneurs must be equipped not only with ideas, but with the vision and conviction to bring them to life.
