Leadership Talks: The Journey of Ousman Umar

The Journey of Ousman Umar is a powerful story of resilience, purpose, and transformation. Born in Ghana, Ousman endured incredible challenges, including human trafficking and years of hardship, to become a global advocate for education and opportunity. His experiences are a testament to the power of determination and the importance of creating change through education. 

Ousman Umar was born in Fiaso, a small village in the forests of Ghana. With no access to TV or modern toys, he honed his creativity by crafting his own playthings. His curiosity drove him to push boundaries, leading him to leave his village in search of something greater. 

Unfortunately, this decision led him into the dangerous world of human trafficking. The journey took him across 21,000 kilometers and eight countries, including a treacherous crossing of the Sahara Desert, where only 6 of the 46 people in his group survived.

In Libya, Ousman faced severe discrimination and forced labor. “I discovered I was Black in Libya because being Black there was almost a crime,” he shared. For four years, he endured slavery-like conditions before joining another trafficking operation that promised to take him to Europe. 

The traffickers forced him to help build the very boat he would cross the sea in. “It was like constructing coffins,” he said. His friend was on another boat that sank, killing everyone aboard. Against all odds, his journey continued as he arrived in Spain, where his story of survival took a new turn. 

After arriving in Fuerteventura, Spain, Ousman was transferred to Málaga and then Barcelona. In the bustling city, he felt more isolated than ever, describing it as a “forest of cement.” A chance encounter with a kind family, Montse and Armando, changed his life. They welcomed him into their home, giving him the stability he needed to reflect on his purpose.

That night, overwhelmed by emotion, Ousman cried. By morning, he reframed his suffering: “I realized I had a mission. My experience wasn’t just for me; it was to be the voice for those who didn’t survive.”

Thanks to his determination, Ousman learned Spanish and Catalan and completed his secondary education. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in Public Relations and Marketing and a master’s degree in NGO Management. In 2012, he founded Nasco Feeding Minds, an NGO that focuses on providing digital education in Ghana.

For Ousman, education is the key to change.

His organization aims to prevent dangerous migration journeys by empowering young people in Ghana to create prosperity within their own communities.

The Journey of Ousman Umar reminds us that talent has no color — only opportunities make the difference. Through his story, he challenges us to embrace resilience, foster education, and recognize the mission we each carry.

At Advantere, we are inspired by Ousman’s unwavering commitment to creating change and are honored to share his story. His journey is not just one of survival but of purpose, proving that with determination, even the most challenging paths can lead to incredible impact.

Discover more about Ousman Umar’s inspiring mission by visiting the Nasco Feeding Minds website. Follow the NGO’s journey on Instagram at @nasco_ict and stay connected with Ousman Umar at @ousmanumar.

Leadership Talks are exclusive Advantere sessions where leaders like Sandra Manresa inspire students through their stories. These events align with Advantere’s values: authenticity, innovation, and impact.

By sharing these insights, Leadership Talks prepare students to navigate challenges and create meaningful change.

If you’re looking for an official master’s degree in Madrid with an international perspective, explore our programs in International Management, Finance, and Talent Management (HR) today and start shaping your future with Advantere.