The Full Story
Ben Paulo
The Early Vision—A Desire to Combine Science, Business, Technology, and the Arts
Hi, I’m Ben Paulo.
If we’ve just met, here’s what you need to know: I’m a curious guy with a big passion for blending science, venture capital, business, technology, and the arts to make a positive impact on the world. Sounds ambitious? Maybe. But stick with me, and I’ll show you how it’s shaped everything I do.
Let’s start at the beginning.
I grew up in Angola, raised by two incredible role models. My mom, a medical doctor, taught me what it means to truly help people. My dad, an army general turned entrepreneur, showed me the power of resilience and discipline. Together, they planted the seeds for the values that guide me today.
When I was 12, I discovered my entrepreneurial spark in the most unexpected way—selling ringtones I composed on a Nokia 3310 to my classmates. (Yes, I was a one-man mobile music store, and this is why I always had pocket money). Soon after, I upgraded to selling mobile phones. It wasn’t glamorous, but it taught me the fundamentals of business and sales—lessons I still use today.
The Call to Adventure—Leaving Angola
At 15, I made one of the biggest decisions of my life: leaving Angola for South Africa. It wasn’t easy, but I taught myself English, enrolled in university, and got to work. While studying Applied Geology, I also launched a record label that helped some of Angola’s top artists rise to fame. By the time I was flying to the U.S. to sign a music publishing deal and collaborating with Dr. Dre’s producers in Atlanta, I realized something important: creativity and business weren’t just hobbies. They were my purpose.
Trials and Growth—From Field Engineer to Entrepreneur and Business Developer
After university, I returned to Angola, juggling life as a field engineer and a music producer and artist. I launched songs that hit national radio and co-founded a tech distribution company serving the oil and gas and mining sector. That’s where I learned how to apply technical skills to real-world challenges.
But I wanted to do more, so I transitioned into business development. I advised on construction projects for Angola’s post-war reconstruction, learning how to navigate high-stakes deals and make a tangible impact.
The Transformation—Becoming a Leader and Advisor
In 2016, everything changed. I was selected for President Obama’s Mandela Washington Fellowship, where I joined Africa’s brightest young leaders. That experience opened my eyes to what’s possible when innovation meets purpose. It gave me the tools—and the drive—to tackle even bigger challenges.
The UK Transformation—Mastering Business, Impact and Technology
Moving to the UK was another leap forward. I worked for some of the world's leading tech companies including LinkedIn, Dell Technologies, where I partnered with C-level executives to solve complex problems, led digital transformation projects and drove millions of pounds in revenue.
But it’s not all about business for me.
I’ve been a mentor at Natwest Accelerator and TechStars, helping startups refine their strategies. I’ve worked with the UK Cabinet Office on initiatives to support digital inclusion and mental health. And I co-organized events at Dell Technologies that raised over £323,000 for The Prince’s Trust, helping disadvantaged youth find new opportunities.
What’s Next?
I'm just getting started! Today, I’m living in London, blending everything I’m learning to help people and businesses reach their full potential. Whether it’s solving a tough business challenge, angel investing, coaching a founder, or using tech to create change, my mission is simple: make a positive impact wherever I can.
If you’ve got a vision to make a difference, let’s connect! I’d love to hear your story.