Adesuwa Okunbo Rhodes recently delved into her formative years in the finance sector, sharing that her interest in investment banking ignited early in life and has since fueled her dedication to transformative investments throughout Africa.
In a podcast episode that has quickly gained traction on social media, the billionaire entrepreneur outlined her ascent in the global finance arena, which began soon after she completed her university studies.
Rhodes expressed that her fascination with the financial world was always present. She went on to divulge that she has dedicated the past 16 to 17 years to working extensively in private equity and investment banking.
Her inaugural role in investment banking was at Lehman Brothers, a position she secured at the remarkably young age of 18.
By 20, she had advanced to a role at J.P. Morgan, where she became well-versed in the fields of mergers and acquisitions and leveraged finance.
Reflecting on her career path, Rhodes explained that her time at J.P. Morgan further strengthened her interest in finance before she transitioned into private equity.
She said her perspective on investing changed significantly while working at a private equity firm involved in investments across Africa.
According to her, one particular investment in Uganda became a defining moment in her career.
Rhodes recalled that the investment involved a company manufacturing antiretroviral and anti-malaria drugs locally.
She noted that the project generated strong financial returns while also making a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
The experience, she said, introduced her to the concept of impact investing, demonstrating that investors can achieve attractive profits while contributing to positive social outcomes.
Watch the video here…
“I’ve always been interested in finance. I think I got my first job in investment banking at 18 years old, at Lehman Brothers and at 20 years old, I was already working for J. P. Morgan.” — Billionaire Businesswoman Adesuwa Okunbo Rhodes
pic.twitter.com/Zzw7ShXW7h— Instablog9ja (@instablog9ja) July 8, 2026