Ana Vilhete’s story is one of resilience, ambition, and the relentless pursuit of dreams. Born amid Angola's civil war, Ana grew up in conditions that many would find unbearable. Her early life was marked by poverty—“Where you have nothing, absolutely nothing,” she recalls. This backdrop fueled her drive to take risks: “You become really unafraid and open to new things.”

Ana felt a profound sense of dissatisfaction with her surroundings as a child. Growing up in Lisbon, she yearned for a different life. “I just knew that there’s something out there. There’s something I needed to be,” she reflects. This innate desire propelled her to London at 16, where she sought greater opportunities. “I didn’t think I was going to be able to achieve any of my goals,” she says, underscoring her limitations in her previous environment.

Despite facing numerous challenges, including dyslexia and homelessness, Ana’s determination never wavered. “I didn’t have good examples or any examples whatsoever,” she admits. Yet, she promised her mother that she would take care of her, a promise she is now fulfilling through her success as an entrepreneur and investor. “I always wanted to surpass anyone’s expectations,” she states, and she certainly has.

In 2020, Ana founded Alium Consultancy, which has rapidly grown to gross over £10 million a year. Her work is centered on empowering individuals in the health, data, and technology sectors, with a strong focus on promoting diversity within the workforce. Reflecting on her motivation to start the consultancy, she says, “I was working in the back office... I used to see the size of the deals they used to close and the commission they made. I was like, wow. I want to do this.”

Ana’s journey is not just about business success but also about inspiring others. She is passionate about sharing her story, especially with women and marginalized communities. “I would love to inspire more people... more black women, more black children,” she emphasizes. Her goal is clear: to be a beacon of hope and motivation for those who feel stuck or limited by their circumstances.

When discussing her vision for expansion, Ana expresses her ambition to open offices across the U.S. and Europe. “We’re currently having discussions of opening an office in Philadelphia... I want to do New York as well,” she shares, underscoring her global aspirations. She also aims to establish a presence in South Africa, reflecting her commitment to broadening her impact.

Ana offers a powerful reminder to those who doubt their ability to achieve their dreams: “If you don’t do it, who will? Who’s gonna motivate you every day?” This message encapsulates her belief in personal responsibility and the importance of self-advocacy.

Ana Vilhete is not just a successful entrepreneur; she is a testament to the power of resilience and the belief that anyone can overcome their circumstances with hard work and determination. Her journey from an inner-city slum to international business success is a potent reminder that our only limits are imposed on ourselves. She aptly says, “If I can do it, anyone can do it.”

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