An unexpected career move inspired Mary Asante-Asamoah (née Tabi) (BA ’06) to combine her passion for family, business and global studies

While Asante-Asamoah did not attend Laurier specifically for business, she credits her thriving as executive director at Barbex Technical Services Ltd., her family’s business in the mining industry in Ghana, with her learning experiences at Laurier both in her degree and beyond the classroom.   

“The journey in international business is often complex, and it is essential to consistently strive for excellence,” said Mary Asante-Asamoah (BA ’06 Global Studies & Political Science). “Success in this field requires an open mind and a willingness to understand the cultural differences that influence business practices. Staying informed about global politics is crucial, and acquiring a second language can provide a significant advantage in this competitive landscape.” 

“Laurier provided a strong foundation that continues to influence how I approach my career,” said Asante-Asamoah. “My background in global studies gives me a unique perspective. I tend to view challenges and opportunities through a broader lens, one that goes beyond just the technical aspects of the business. My experience at Laurier taught me to think critically and consider the global impact of what we do, and that has been invaluable in my role at Barbex.”  

Asante-Asamoah chose Laurier for two reasons: the excellent reputation of its global studies and international policy program, an area she was passionate about, and for its size.   

“As an international student, I didn’t want to be in an environment so large that I would feel lost, especially since I was far away from family.” 

To this day, she feels her Laurier professors left an indelible mark on her life’s journey. She shared that they deeply inspired her, and she greatly appreciated their support, both professionally and personally.  

“They really cared about our well-being, and that made such a difference, especially for someone like me who was far from home,” she said.  

Asante-Asamoah also valued her extracurricular activities, saying they helped her find her place at Laurier. She joined the Global Studies Club and served as an executive member. One initiative that really stood out for her was Bike for AIDS, which combined community service with raising awareness.  

“The sense of belonging I found through those activities is something I cherish deeply,” she said.   

After graduation, Asante-Asamoah began her career as a policy analyst for a nonprofit in Washington, D.C., where she found herself drawn to the world of finance while working closely with the finance director.  

“That experience sparked a passion for business, and I began applying to business schools. However, I was advised to gain more relevant work experience, and that’s when I decided to return home and join my father in our family business, Barbex Technical Services Ltd.,” she said.   

Asante-Asamoah started out as a special projects coordinator, which required her to immerse herself in all aspects of the business, identify gaps and propose solutions. Over time, she moved up the ranks and now plays a key role in decision-making at the executive level where she is “essentially taking over from my father,” she said.  

“What I love most about my role is the unexpected nature of it. This wasn’t my original plan, but I’ve grown into the position, developed a deep understanding of the business, and discovered a passion for leadership that I never anticipated.” 

As most people who have combined business with family know, there can be many challenges. For Asante-Asamoah, navigating these challenges is one of her proudest achievements.    

“When I joined Barbex, there was a bit of a culture shock, as my mindset was quite different from the traditional ways things were done,” she said. “Working closely with my father as my boss brought its own set of challenges, but it also helped me grow as a leader and understand the dynamics of family-run businesses.” 

The experience inspired her to start the Family Business Diaries, a podcast aimed at creating awareness around the importance of structure and systems in family businesses in Ghana. Her goal with this podcast is to encourage more sustainable practices that ensure these businesses thrive beyond the founder’s generation.  

“It’s a passion project that has already begun making an impact,” she said, “and I’m incredibly proud of the conversations it’s sparking within the family business community.” 

On top of her leadership at Barbex and in podcasting, Asante-Asamoah also makes time to stay connected with Laurier as a global ambassador. In 2011 she participated in a welcoming initiative in Ghana for Laurier professors and students on exchange. In 2012, she collaborated with a representative from Ashesi University to host Laurier students and visit various tourist attractions in Ghana. And in 2015, she helped organize a dinner with Laurier alumni from Ghana and representatives from Ashesi University and the University of Ghana.  

Throughout all of her work, Asante-Asamoah is building bridges and strengthening relationships, truly inspiring lives of leadership and purpose.