Ben Youssouf Koussoubé, a Burkinabé man, arrived in the United States in 2011 with big dreams and the encouragement of his father. However, he was soon confronted with the harsh realities of immigration, including menial jobs, long working hours, and solitude. He worked as a dishwasher, pizza delivery person, and newspaper vendor to make ends meet. Despite the difficulties, Koussoubé was determined to change his circumstances.
Koussoubé's turning point came when he decided to go back to school and acquire new skills. In January 2013, he moved to Cincinnati, Ohio, where he pursued his studies while working full-time. His hard work earned him several academic scholarships and distinctions. His university experience opened doors to prestigious institutions and companies, including JPMorgan, Deloitte, and Ernst & Young. With the guidance of his mentor, he landed a job at Ernst & Young.
Koussoubé's career progressed rapidly as he earned his Bachelor's degree in accounting in three years and became the top student in his class in 2016. He then obtained his Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification in just seven months while working full-time at Ernst & Young. He further enhanced his expertise with a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and a Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) certification.
As a specialist in audit and information systems, Koussoubé worked for prominent organizations, including the United Nations, Guidehouse, and the US federal government. His experience in the Pentagon was particularly significant, as it marked a milestone in his journey from a struggling immigrant to a successful professional. He reflected on his humble beginnings, recalling his early days as a dishwasher and pizza delivery person in New York.
Today, Koussoubé is an entrepreneur seeking to create bridges between the US and Burkina Faso. He aims to leverage his expertise and experience to generate economic value for his home country. With his background in audit, construction, engineering, and import-export, he is well-positioned to make a positive impact. His message to African youth emphasizes the importance of perseverance and hard work.
Koussoubé's philosophy, "Motivation allows you to start; discipline often enables you to finish," has guided him throughout his journey. His story serves as a testament to the power of determination and resilience in overcoming adversity. As he continues to build his businesses and create opportunities, he remains committed to sharing his experiences and inspiring others.
Koussoubé's achievements demonstrate that success is within reach for those willing to put in the effort. His journey from a struggling immigrant to a respected professional and entrepreneur is a shining example of what can be accomplished with hard work, discipline, and a clear vision. As he looks to the future, Koussoubé remains focused on making a positive impact in Burkina Faso and beyond.
Key points
- Ben Youssouf Koussoubé's inspiring journey from immigrant to successful entrepreneur and accountant in the US.
