Defying the odds: From Vision to Nearly $1 Million
My journey to raising nearly $1 Million as an Black-African female Co-founder,
In the quiet stillness that the COVID-19 lockdown brought to the world, a big idea was born. My husband and Co-founder, Dele and I sat amidst the uncertainty of the world and felt a pull - a need to connect children across the globe with the rich, diverse tapestry of African stories. We were new parents, figuring it out. And whilst there were many unknowns, one thing we were sure of was that we wanted our son Iremide. Kunda Olafuyi has a strong sense of identity and sees himself as a global citizen. This was the start of how Kunda Kids came into being in December 2020.
From an Idea to a Movement
The beginning was as humble as any startup tale. We were new parents, had a vision, and knew it would be a challenge, but with everything in life, you just put one step in front of the other. And while the world grappled with the pandemic, we channelled our energies into bringing diversity to children's content.
Our first significant step came in 2021 when fueled by a shared dream and supported by friends and family, we raised $170,000. This leap allowed us to amplify our publishing, ensuring that more young minds were introduced to the enchanting world of African tales.
As our journey unfolded, the end of 2022 marked another milestone - raising $700,000 to breathe life into our animated series, "Kunda and Friends", and further develop the Kunda Kids app. This feat is no small achievement, especially when viewed against the statistic that only 1% of black female founders secure institutional funds.
Diversifying Children’s Content about Africa
For too long, the stories about Africa have been told through a monochromatic lens, often coloured by bias and ignorance. With 54 countries, each with its own unique legacy, traditions, and tales, Africa's richness is unparalleled. Kunda Kids aims to bring this expanse to children everywhere, making them aware of and proud of their African heritage.
The Rallying Cry for Black Female Entrepreneurs
Every success story of a black female entrepreneur is not just a personal victory; it's a beacon of hope for countless others waiting in the wings. Our journey with Kunda Kids is a testament that with passion, grit, and resilience, barriers can be broken. It's my hope that our story serves as an inspiration, showing every black woman that her dreams are valid and achievable.
Unleashing African Talent in Edtech and Media
African talent remains a largely untapped reservoir in the global landscape, especially in EdTech and media. As we navigate the Kunda Kids journey, we aim to invest in this talent, paving the way for the next generation of African storytellers and creatives.
The Road Ahead
Every book we sell every app download we register, is a testament to the world's thirst for diverse, engaging content. With the unwavering support of our investor community and the belief in our vision, we march forward.
Our mission is clear - every child, irrespective of where they are, should see a reflection of themselves in the stories they consume. They should be able to revel in the beauty of African culture, drawing inspiration and pride from its depths.
Here's to a world where stories build bridges, cultures connect, and dreams know no boundaries!