He explained: “Beyond Entobo, I am a recognised voice in data protection, operational excellence, and digital transformation, guiding businesses across Africa and globally to thrive in a privacy-conscious, tech-driven world. I do some mentoring on the side both via Global Mentorship Initiative (GMI) and private mentoring.”
Shalom's primary accomplishment has been the founding and development of Entobo Technologies, transforming a mere idea into a market-ready product.
He explained: “I think my biggest achievement is founding my startup and building from idea to market. We have created a platform that redefines how businesses manage relationships and workflow. The feedback and progress we have made so far about the problem that we are trying to solve has been mind-blowing.
“Alongside that, I was recognised as a Privacy Rising Star in 2023, and I have also been invited to speak at industry events back in Nigeria, a testament to my impact, vision and leadership in both tech innovation and regulatory excellence.”
However, entrepreneurship brought along significant challenges for Shalom, particularly the unpredictability of navigating a complex business landscape without established guidelines.
“I think for me entrepreneurship has really come with a handful of challenges that I must say I have come to relish. From leading a team to balancing ambition with practicality, navigating the business landscape as an immigrant in the UK, managing financial pressure, and constantly making high-stakes decisions without always having clear answers,” he said.
He added: “Thinking about it now, you realise your entire life is just a series of challenges...haha! But this phase has taught me resilience, strategic thinking and the value of surrounding myself with people who believe in the vision.”
Shalom’s was drawn to the University of Sunderland due to its strong international community, which he discovered during the lockdown through social media.
The Sunderland graduate explained: “I think I first came across the university on Twitter (now X) during the lockdown. A student or maybe a lecturer was sharing about how strong the international community was, particularly the Nigerian community. It might sound too good to be true, but that moment made an impression on me about the University and the rest, they say, is history. I genuinely loved my time here. I made some solid friendships, and a few of those have been instrumental to my entrepreneurial journey, too. No regrets, just plenty of lessons learned.”
His experience at the university was marked by the diversity of perspectives and a supportive atmosphere that encouraged creativity and independent thinking.
He stated: “I think the University gave me the mental exposure to explore beyond the boundaries of my course.”
A defining memory from Shalom’s time in Sunderland is his jogging routine, which allowed him to immerse himself in the city.
“I had a jogging routine throughout my two years in Sunderland, and I think that’s what really connected me to the city,” he said. “I have lived in so many cities in my life, I think Sunderland is definitely in my top three. I mean, I grew so familiar with the streets that I could almost recognise them by their scents. It is a bit strange, but I think it speaks to the kind of connection I had with this place. I still crave that feeling with other cities I have been to since, none like Sunderland yet.”
Shalom emphasises the importance of seizing opportunities while at university.
He said: “Small regret here, I didn’t quite understand what SUPA was during my time at the University, and looking back, I realise I didn’t fully take advantage of all the opportunities available. That said, I genuinely believe the University provides the requisite tools and platforms needed to thrive, far beyond the classroom.
“My advice? Make the most of your time here, explore every opportunity, and don’t be afraid to shoot for the stars. I look forward to crossing paths with many of you in boardrooms and on executive teams someday.”
Looking ahead, Shalom aims to come back to complete an MBA. He also intends to strengthen his ties with the University of Sunderland, focusing on value exchange and creating a significant impact in both the business realm and the communities he is passionate about.