Henry Sule: Connecting Communities and Cultivating Entrepreneurship in Sioux Falls
Henry Sule, a 23-year-old community coordinator at Startup Sioux Falls, embodies the spirit of a true connector. Having arrived in Sioux Falls from Nigeria in 2021 to pursue his studies at Augustana University, Henry quickly immersed himself in the city’s thriving entrepreneurial landscape.
His journey began with a leap into the unknown, marking his first time setting foot in the Midwest. "I had never been to South Dakota, or even the Midwest," Henry recalls. "It was a whole new world for me."
Despite the initial culture shock, Henry found solace and support within the close-knit Augustana community. "The community and support system here have been incredibly vital to me," he shares. This welcoming environment helped Sioux Falls feel like home.
After graduation, Henry chose to make Sioux Falls his permanent home, drawn to its unique blend of affordability, a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit, and a welcoming atmosphere. As he navigates his professional path, he actively seeks opportunities to give back to a community that embraced him.
"As someone who had to navigate moving to a new place and adjusting to a new culture simultaneously, helping people make that shift is crucial to me," Henry explains. He actively contributes to the Augustana University International Programs Office’s Cultural Exchange Ambassador Program, sharing his experiences and supporting newcomers.
His passion for soccer also motivates him to give back, potentially coaching or refereeing local leagues in the future.
At Startup Sioux Falls, Henry’s work is more than just a job; it’s a deeply fulfilling experience. As the community coordinator, he witnesses firsthand the transformative impact their work has on individuals and businesses.
“Every action we take, as individuals and as a team, feels heavy in the best way possible,” Henry says, emphasizing the profound connection they have with the people they serve. “Seeing the direct impact of our efforts is something I truly cherish.”
Henry’s passion for entrepreneurship was ignited during a junior year internship at Startup Sioux Falls. This experience exposed him to the vibrant world of startups, the collaborative spirit of coworking spaces, and the vital role of non-profits in building strong communities.
Describing his workplace in just three words, Henry chooses “dynamic, collaborative, and energizing.” These words perfectly capture the fast-paced, supportive, and inspiring environment he thrives in.
Looking towards the future, Henry dreams of bringing a taste of his West African heritage to Sioux Falls. He envisions opening a restaurant specializing in authentic cuisine. If financial constraints were no object, Henry says he would dedicate his resources to tackling food insecurity.
“I would create modular vertical farming solutions for local communities,” he explains. “Access to fresh, healthy food is becoming increasingly limited, and food deserts are becoming more prevalent.”
Henry envisions these stackable, self-contained DIY units powered by hydroponic, aeroponic, or aquaponic systems, bringing fresh produce directly to communities and empowering individuals to grow their own food.
When asked about the biggest challenges and opportunities for entrepreneurial growth in Sioux Falls, Henry reflects on the unique dynamics of the city.
"I think it’s getting things done. It can be hard to get buy-in from different stakeholders and get everyone on the same page," he says when discussing challenges. "But the opportunities are vast. Sioux Falls is a growing city with a lot of potential, and there’s a lot of support for startups here."
Startup Sioux Falls plays a vital role in nurturing this entrepreneurial ecosystem.