CEO Message

A Review of Operational Activities

This year, 2009, will be a challenging one for the African Network (TAN) organization. The global economic crisis will pose some financial obstacles to overcome, much more than in previous years. As a non-profit organization, TAN depends on organizational sponsorships for our events and conferences, and on membership dues to run operations. Indeed, the economic crisis could potentially limit our ability to execute multiple programs in the USA and Africa as we did in 2008. Nevertheless, with a focused attention on our mission statement and cautious optimism, we look forward to 2009 with positive sentiments hoping that our members and corporate sponsors will deliver.

As the organization expands, there was a need to make new operational appointments. After leading a successful 2008 TAN Conference, Luc Tengueu was appointed the new Chief Operating Officer (COO). In this role, he will lead TAN Membership Networking Event (MNE), Empowerment Program (TEP) and TANCon 2009. He has since selected Marie-Ange Eyoum as the TANCon USA Chair; Geanie Asante and Dennis Mattews as Co-Directors of the TEP Program. Globally, TAN Conference Africa 2009 goes to Sierra Leone. One time TAN Board Member and now, Founder and CEO Access Point Africa, Conrad Conyanda-Parkzes will lead the TAN African Conference in Sierra Leone. At the same token, Sade Sobande’s role as TAN Public Relation person expanded to include overseeing special projects. This additional role was necessary to accommodate some demands for joint events with some of our affiliates and corporate sponsors.

In all, in addition to the membership monthly events, TAN will host two entrepreneurship conferences this year (USA and Africa), two TEP programs (all in the USA), a joint half-day entrepreneurship workshop with Fenwick & West, LLP., a mid-year social event and an end of the year party for our members, friends and volunteers. Indeed, these are exciting and challenging times for us at TAN. We need committed and passionate individuals to volunteer and help us in this year’s activities. If interested, please send email to info@theafricannetwork.org or TAN executives at tan_executives@theafricannetwork.org.

In 2009, we look forward to your continued support of TAN and its activities. We depend on your ability to spread the words to friends and family about the premier African organization that is focused on promoting entrepreneurship on a global scale. We cannot do it without your support and encouragement, especially in these trying times. It’s our honor to serve you.

Paschal Iwuh
President & CEO
The African Network