‘We had to learn to be global from day one’: Day 1-1000 of GoNomads
Tech • Feb 21
**From Scratch to Global: The GoNomads Story**
In Nigeria, the phrase 'global' often evokes images of foreign companies dominating our markets. But what if our own businesses could be just as global from day one? For Uke Enun, a Calabar native, this question sparked a journey that would change the face of African trade.
Enun's first attempt at e-commerce in 2018 ended in failure. His online store selling print-on-demand merchandise couldn't accept foreign payments, and customers abandoned their carts. The experience left him wondering why African businesses struggled to trade internationally. Two years later, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the shift to online trade, and Enun's question came back with a vengeance.
Determined to find answers, Enun spent 2020 researching the problem, mapping the blockers, and understanding the challenges. He assembled a team of talented individuals, including Esther Airemionkhale, who would lead operations, and Liberty Oyugboh, his Chief Technical Officer. Together, they began testing ideas and iterating towards a solution.
**The Birth of GoNomads**
By September 2021, they had a working prototype. GoNomads, a business-to-business (B2B) market-entry consultancy, was born. This innovative platform helps African businesses expand into new markets digitally by handling everything from licenses and banking setups to payment processing and legal structures. The pitch sounds simple, yet the problem it solves is far from it.
**Lessons from Failure and Success**
Enun's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and collaboration. His experience at Selar, an e-commerce startup, taught him the importance of a well-organised team. He credits his co-founders for their dedication and expertise, which helped turn his idea into a reality. As he puts it, "When someone gives you their time for free, that's the signal."
GoNomads is not just a business; it's a solution to a long-standing problem. With their platform, African businesses can now trade internationally without the hassle of navigating complex regulations and technical barriers. As Enun would say, "We had to learn to be global from day one." And with GoNomads, many more African businesses will follow suit.
**Conclusion**
Uke Enun's story is a reminder that success often lies at the intersection of hard work, collaboration, and a willingness to learn from failure. GoNomads is a testament to the potential