Executive Team
Alex Santana - Director of Sales & Marketing
Alex Santana joined Zuri Shea from Google, where he excelled as a Sales Executive specializing in Google Cloud technologies. In this role, he led global teams and forged partnerships with Fortune 500 companies, enhancing product and service experiences through innovative design across North America. Alex holds a B.S. from Rutgers University, College of Engineering, and an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School.
With a strong foundation in the social and economic justice sector, Alex has held various leadership positions that enabled him to make significant community contributions. Early in his career, he ascended the corporate ranks at Verizon, leading the launch of its first 4G/LTE network and the introduction of smartphones such as the Droid and iPhone as a leading systems engineer.
Alex was also a founding team member at Rapid SOS, an advanced emergency communication and management company, where he built and led the product and technical teams. Under his leadership, the product team grew fivefold to over 30 employees. Rapid SOS earned numerous accolades, including Top Start-up at Harvard, Best New Venture at Harvard Business School, Best Mobile Technology at MIT, Top 3 Innovative World Technology at SXSW, Most Innovative Company in the Public Sector at Harvard, and Top-10 University Start-up Globally by Founder.org. The company has raised $200M to date, backed by top global venture capital firms and prominent individuals in technology, telecom, and investing.
In addition to his technology achievements, Alex is a dedicated advocate for urban youth, committed to creating opportunities for his community. Growing up with minimal guidance on formal education or career navigation, Alex's development is a testament to the impact of supportive nonprofits and mentors. He actively contributes to "Compass," a nonprofit aiding first-generation college students and at-risk urban youth, and F.I.R.E. (Free Inspiration Reaching Everyone), connecting the Western and Eastern worlds.
Alex believes in the transformative power of enabling underserved communities to make a positive global impact. His personal success stems from being resourceful, self-aware, and adhering to simple strategies for achievement. Alex's journey embodies his belief in paying it forward and his responsibility to uplift others.
Jason Acquaye - Director of Operations
With a robust background in leadership and business development, Jason has successfully partnered with Fortune 500 companies such as Mercedes Benz, Jordan Brand, and Beats by Dre. As co-founder of Create Motivate Inspire Inc., he led a team of creators and innovators to generate over $5 million in revenue through art sales and strategic business partnerships. Jason met John Hardy Bey while developing high-end designer toys in China with John’s company, which produced toys for major global brands like Disney, Marvel, DC, Funko Pop, and more.
Beyond the corporate realm, Jason has made substantial contributions to the community in Ghana. He co-founded the "Inspiration Weekend" program, which involved renovating sports facilities, donating essential items, and establishing computer labs in schools. Additionally, he and his team organized the "Ghana to the Moon" business and technology conference at the World Trade Center of Accra, promoting entrepreneurship among young Ghanaians.
At Zuri of Africa Shea, Jason leverages his extensive experience to drive operational efficiency and foster growth. He is dedicated to ensuring the company's mission and vision are realized, creating a positive impact not only in Northern Ghana but wherever his influence can reach.