Yoofi Annan
Class of 2023-2024
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology (KNUST)
Bsc. Aerospace Engineering
Why did you choose ESTEEM?
I chose ESTEEM because it is the perfect canvas to blend my diverse backgrounds in Aviation, web3, digital marketing, and innovation into a master's program that resonated with my ambitions.
What is your Capstone Project and why are you excited about it?
Drone Response is a pioneering tech start-up affiliated with the University of Notre Dame, with a mission to revolutionize autonomous operations across various industries. As drones become increasingly integral to modern applications, the potential for impactful use cases continues to expand. However, challenges persist, and the need for a universal solution that seamlessly coordinates multiple autonomous vehicles is more apparent than ever. With a bold vision to become a global leader in autonomous software, Drone Response has embarked on a groundbreaking journey to develop an AI-guided interoperability software platform. This platform aims to empower drone pilots and stakeholders to swiftly deploy and coordinate an autonomous fleet of drones, ensuring ease, efficiency, and minimal resource utilization. By tapping into cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and computer vision, combined with the University's deep tech expertise, Drone Response aspires to redefine the landscape of autonomous operations. The potential impact of Drone Response's platform is far-reaching, with transformative applications in various sectors. From Defense and Emergency First Response initiatives to Energy and Infrastructure, the platform holds the key to optimizing operations, enhancing safety, and driving innovation. Drone Response has identified the Energy and Infrastructure industry as one of its top priorities and requires a go-to-market strategy, identification of barriers to entry, market sizing + TAM, and business model considerations amongst others.
What do you hope to do after ESTEEM?
After ESTEEM, I'm enthusiastic about putting my experiences and the knowledge I've gained into action within the dynamic tech enabled landscape, with a focus on creating a meaningful impact. In the long term, my vision includes becoming an angel investor among other things, actively engaging in addressing advisor-ship and capital accessibility challenges for startups, including, but not limited to, those in Africa.
What do you like to do in your free time?
When I am not working, I thrive on adventure! Whether it's taking the plunge with skydiving, expanding my social horizons by meeting new people, getting lost in the magic of movies, soaking the vibes of Afrobeats, attempting to set the dance floor on fire with Latin moves I learnt the week before, strumming my guitar, or simply diving headfirst into new experiences—my downtime is all about embracing life's exciting opportunities!