Today on Take the Stage, and our special series Ladies Who Rock, we shine the spotlight on Bukie Adebo Umeano, Investment Principal at Anthemis, a global VC firm that backs inclusive fintech and insurtech founders.

Bukie dives into her unconventional journey into venture capital, the lessons she’s picked up along the way, and shares no-nonsense advice for anyone looking to break into VC or carve out their own path in a not-so-linear career.

Episode Highlights

[02:25] How Bukie’s Career Path Took Shape

Bukie shares how she stumbled into consulting post-undergrad (without even knowing what VC was!) and how each career step helped her refine what she actually wanted in her professional life.

[09:06] Discovering Venture Capital

She walks us through the gradual “lightbulb moments” that got her thinking seriously about VC.

[11:25] Building Skills Before You Get the Job

Bukie breaks down the two biggest things junior VC hopefuls need to demonstrate.

[16:13] How to Build a Standout Investment Thesis

She shares her own experience crafting an investment thesis pre-VC and explains her method for combining deep-dive research and market analysis to build a point of view that turns heads (even if your first few ideas miss the mark!).

[22:49] Avoiding the One-Size-Fits-All Trap

Bukie highlights how every VC firm is different—and why it’s crucial to tailor your approach when networking or applying.

[27:32] Networking Tips That Actually Work

Bukie shares the real strategies that helped her build meaningful connections in the VC world.

[34:39] Navigating Bias and Underestimation

Bukie opens up about being underestimated in rooms where people don’t expect to see a Black woman investor—and how she prepares, shows up confidently, and handles those moments with grace and resolve.

[46:02] Learning Through Deal-Making

Reflecting on leading early-stage deals and the surprising personal growth that comes with negotiating investment terms.

[48:22] Recognition and Staying Energized

Bukie talks about being named a VCJ Rising Star for 2025, what that recognition means to her, and why moments of validation—while not the ultimate goal—help fuel the journey.

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Connect with Bukie on ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠

📍 Anthemis: ⁠Website⁠ | ⁠LinkedIn⁠

📩 Connect with Alexis Alvarez on ⁠LinkedIn

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