Getting to Know VestedWorld’s Newest Analyst — Von Onyango
VestedWorld welcomed investment team member, Von Onyango, earlier this year. He joined us as an Investment Analyst to support the investment efforts of Rising Star Fund. VestedWorld Managing Partner, Nneka Eze, sat down with Von to learn more about his background and areas of excitement in his role.
Nneka: Tell me a bit about your journey before joining VestedWorld.
Von: I’ve always been passionate about investments and unlocking capital to drive sustainable development, create jobs, and improve livelihoods. After studying Economics, I pursued the CFA designation, still work in progress, to deepen my understanding of how investors assess risk, allocate capital, and build balanced portfolios. I was particularly drawn to alternative investments, especially private equity and venture capital, given their transformative impact in Africa, as seen with companies like MKOPA and Goodlife Pharmacy.
This inspired me to start my career in sell-side corporate financial advisory, where I helped entrepreneurs become investor-ready and connected them with the right PE and VC investors. Over the years, I’ve honed my expertise in financial analysis, modelling, valuation, and fundraising. Through this work, I’ve seen firsthand how private equity and venture capital can fuel business growth, drive societal change, and generate strong returns.
I quickly realized I wanted to be directly involved in investment decision-making, leveraging my skills to fund and support companies that create a real societal impact. This prompted my transition to the buy side and into venture capital.
Nneka: What was your journey to joining VestedWorld?
Von: I was referred to VestedWorld through a connection in the VC space, and the opportunity to join aligned perfectly with my purpose. VestedWorld’s vision of unlocking capital to drive growth in underserved African markets and investing in businesses that create meaningful jobs and improve livelihoods resonated with my goal of being a catalyst for sustainable development in Africa. I joined VestedWorld in February 2024, initially as an Investment Fellow and then in June 2024, as a full-time Analyst.
Nneka: We are glad that you decided to join us, Von! Our team is growing and in doing so, we try to build a diverse team that is invested in our mission and focus on Africa. What diversity of thought or perspective do you feel you are bringing to VestedWorld and for the broader ecosystem?
Von: I greatly value the experience I gained in consulting, especially in financial analysis, valuations, and fundraising, along with insights into how market trends influence investment decisions. In my current venture capital role, this skill set is vital for evaluating opportunities, building conviction for deal sourcing, and conducting due diligence, particularly in the consumer, agribusiness, and tech-enabled sectors, where innovation, technological advancements, and shifts in consumer behaviour are prominent.
Nneka: You are six months into your role as an Analyst, tell me what you were most looking forward to then, and now, what you’re looking forward to for the rest of 2024?
Von: I was eager to take my first deal through the entire investment process, and I’m thrilled that it was with [a new addition VestedWorld’s portfolio as yet unannounced], which is making a tremendous impact in Kenya. I’m proud to be part of this journey!
Since then, I’ve navigated two more deals and aim to close them before the end of 2024. This has been an exhilarating start in my role, thanks to the incredible support from the team. As we move through Q4, I’m excited to keep the momentum going, collaborating synergistically to create value for our portfolio companies and investors.
I’m also looking forward to connecting with ecosystem players and founders at networking sessions as we work together towards our shared goals of driving sustainable development in Africa!
Nneka: Q4 is normally a busy period. I like the idea of collaborating and using the momentum of this quarter to move into the new year. What has been surprising or challenging about your experience so far?
Von: I’ve always believed in [my motto] “Keeping Hope Alive”, but I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the resilience of entrepreneurs navigating the post-COVID landscape and building sustainable businesses. Despite the muted fundraising environment, the determination to build is still strong, with many entrepreneurs actively raising funds. It’s exciting to see more ecosystem builders stepping in — not just with financial support, but also non-financial resources. I’m proud that VestedWorld is playing a key role in this effort.
Nneka: What are those investment themes that you’re most excited about and areas that you feel that we should try to invest?
Von: I’m excited about the consumer goods and services sector, as Africa’s rapidly growing population will be a key driver of economic growth. Many countries are focusing on industrialization by leveraging human capital and lower business costs compared to regions like China, positioning Africa as the last frontier. In our primary markets — Ghana, Nigeria, and Kenya — policies to establish Economic Processing Zones are set to boost manufacturing. Value addition, particularly in agricultural products, will create meaningful jobs and improve economic livelihoods.
I’m also fascinated by technological advancements in the tech-enabled space, especially how technology is driving efficiency in traditional brick-and-mortar sectors like agribusiness, consumer goods, education, health, and finance. At VestedWorld, I’ve actively supported these opportunities and look forward to unlocking more capital for founders. I’m glad VestedWorld is committed to investing in these transformative themes.
Nneka: Me, too! What are you currently reading that might be interesting to others?
Von: I’m currently reading Getting Things Done by David Allen, and his insights on productivity and focus resonate deeply with my role in investments. He emphasizes that productivity isn’t about doing everything but about knowing which actions to take and when — a principle that’s crucial in assessing opportunities and conducting due diligence. One of his key takeaways, “You can do anything, but not everything,” highlights the importance of prioritization. At VestedWorld, I’m glad we’ve defined our thesis and are focused on investing in agribusiness, consumer products, and tech-enabled sectors, where unlocking economic potential will drive more secure and equitable growth.
Nneka: Do you want to share anything else with the world about being an Analyst at VestedWorld?
Von: My experience so far has been both enriching and challenging. Collaborating with founders across diverse countries and sectors to address African challenges has been truly fascinating. The steep learning curve in the VC space, particularly in due diligence, has been incredibly rewarding. It reminds me of a quote from James Clear in Atomic Habits: “The secret to getting results that last is to never stop making improvements.” This perfectly captures the “keep swimming” mindset and the importance of continuous learning, which I wholeheartedly embrace.
I also value the multicultural team at VestedWorld, which brings together rich perspectives that challenge me to hone my craft. The support from my colleagues is invaluable. Our balanced team of both male and female professionals fosters engaging conversations, enriching our professional and personal discussions as we work to deepen our understanding of various thematic areas.
Nneka: Thank you, Von.
