Agunbiade Seun Richards was a winner of the 2023 Top 25 Canadian Immigrant awards

Editor: This report was first posted on Canadian Immigrant: https://canadianimmigrant.ca/

Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards

Agunbiade Seun Richards

Social entrepreneur
City: Saint John, New Brunswick
Country of Origin: Nigeria

Door to entrepreneurship

It’s only been five years since Nigerian-born Agunbiade Seun Richards immigrated to Canada, but, in that time, he has started a promising business, won multiple awards and has made a name for himself as a volunteer and mentor in his community of Saint John, New Brunswick. He launched Door2Door Pickup Couriers, providing free delivery services during the pandemic, as well as the first multi-purpose delivery mobile app in Atlantic Canada. The company, which has partnerships with Amazon and DHL, operates zero-emission delivery services.

Currently pursuing a PhD in immigrant entrepreneurship at the University of New Brunswick, Richards says, “Upon arriving, I realized the significance of networking for entrepreneurial success, but lacked pre-existing connections and familiarity with the local business landscape. My biggest struggle was building a network and establishing connections within the business community,” he says. “When attending a networking event, I felt out of place, struggled to initiate conversations, and experienced cultural and language barriers.”

To overcome these obstacles, Richards actively joined industry-specific associations, attended newcomer workshops, sought out mentors and volunteered in the community. “Gradually, I built meaningful relationships, but it was challenging.”

Richards then started sharing what he learned with others, including as the co-founder of the Black Business Professional Networks in Atlantic Canada, co-founding member of UBUNTU Founders Network and a founding board member of the International Institute of Business Analysis New Brunswick chapter.

“Giving back and supporting others, especially fellow immigrants starting their own entrepreneurial journeys, is important to me. Witnessing the growth and success of the individuals I mentor brings me great joy and fulfillment,” he says.

Named one of the Most Inspiring Immigrants in Atlantic Canada for 2023 among many other accolades, Richards is currently working on expanding his business, while continuing to help others. “Working hard, giving back to my community and striving to make a positive impact in my new country are not only personal motivations, but also a way to express my gratitude and contribute to the broader success and prosperity of my new home.” 

Seun Richards’ Top Tip:

“As an immigrant entrepreneur, my top tip for other newcomers to Canada is to embrace networking and build meaningful connections. Networking plays a crucial role in navigating the Canadian business landscape and opening doors to opportunities.”