by Deborah Walker

When Emmanuel Amponsah began dreaming of coming to the U.S. from Accra, Ghana, he wasn’t just thinking about his own future – he dreamt of making an impact by diversifying the finance industry for people of color. Now, having completed his year of undergraduate classes at Livingstone, the rising sophomore Business Administration major and president scholar is already making his mark on, and beyond, the college.

Emmanuel, who has visions of becoming an investment banker, also has a passion for community, leadership, and advocacy. “I knew Livingstone was the right place for me,” he says. Emmanuel researched the historically black college’s website after learning about it from a friend. “I was impressed by their commitment to leadership development and community service. As someone who hopes to diversify the finance industry and who is passionate about both finance and advocacy, I knew it was the right fit for me.”

As he met other students on campus, he knew there was something missing: An interest group dedicated to students who were interested in finance. So, he took it upon himself to build one. With the help of a friend, Emmanuel co-founded the Livingstone Finance Club, which already has 16 members. Open to all majors, the club not only teaches students about finance, but also connects them with real-world opportunities and exposes them to relevant issues.

Recently, Emmanuel organized a club discussion, featuring District 6 Rep. Harry Warren, on the impact the elimination of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives has on Black students. Emmanuel says, “I hosted the event with the goal of amplifying the voices of students. Everyone was able to leave with a deeper understanding and broader perspective.”

Emmanuel’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. “One of the biggest challenges I face as a first-generation and international student is navigating my citizenship status and how it affects my opportunities,” says Emmanuel. “As an international student, there are many programs I don’t qualify for. Instead of getting discouraged, I’ve learned to accept that I can’t control every situation. Instead, I focus on finding programs that will accept me and I don’t let anything stop me from reaching my professional or financial goals.”

That philosophy is working to his advantage.

Emmanuel has earned spots in competitive programs like the Goldman Sachs Fellowship and BNY Mellon’s Jumpstart. He was the only HBCU student selected to participate in the Annaly Capital Management Bridge Program, where he explored the real estate industry in depth. This summer, he’ll participate in the Ackman Z Educate Summer Internship Program, a virtual opportunity focused on real estate. And, he was invited to participate in the Humana Early I.D. Program, where he will spend three days in Kentucky gaining insight into the insurance industry and the skills required to succeed in it.

“Every opportunity brings me closer to where I want to be.”

Emmanuel’s story is grounded in both grit and gratitude. He credits mentors like faculty members Dr. Da’Tarvia Parrish, Dr. Aisha Johnson and Dr. Terrance Simon, who not only serves as the advisor for the Finance Club, but also played a key role in helping Emmanuel secure funding for the Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) Exam, a critical step for aspiring finance professionals.

“Emmanuel is an aspiring leader whose insightful character, steady temperament, and sharp intellect are invaluable assets, shaping a future marked by integrity, vision, and purpose,” says Simon.

Emmanuel also receives support from his church family at First Presbyterian Church in Salisbury, especially mentors Ozzie Reynolds and Carl Repshar.

“When I talk to Emmanuel it is exciting to hear about all of the things he is learning at Livingstone and what he is doing here in the community of Salisbury. He inspires me to tell local people in our community about what Livingstone College students are up to on and off campus,” Reynolds says.

“I don’t want to achieve my goals alone,” Emmanuel says, “I’m committed to helping my friends, members of the Finance Club, and every student on campus reach their own goals as well. I pride myself on being open with information and staying resourceful.”

Emmanuel encourages future students to embrace intention and make most of the resources around them. “Take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way,” he says. “Learn to accept rejection, because both winning and losing are part of the journey. Just last week, I received about seven rejections, but I know I have to keep pushing forward. Look beyond just college. Use resources… but don’t rely on them alone; take initiative and advocate for yourself.”

Emmanuel Amponsah’s journey shows that with grit, gratitude, and a heart of service, nothing is impossible. At Livingstone College, he is proving that with all of the right tools, ambition can be turned into a lasting impact. His commitment to uplifting others reminds us that true success is measured by how many people we bring along with us. In addition to creating a future for himself, Emmanuel is creating a legacy at Livingstone College and beyond as he pursues his dreams.