Business Administration A.A.
During the 1989 civil war in Western Africa (Liberia, the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire), Regina Karluah’s family faced unspeakably violent circumstances. Throughout terrible adversity, however, her family was thankfully able to remain together and ultimately make their way to settle in the United States. Although physically distant from her home country, Regina keeps it close in her heart and mind in her current work as founder of the non-profit Echoess of Africa*, which provides educational opportunities both domestic and international, focusing on the growth of youth and providing accessible resources for better education. Bucks was an important first step on Regina’s journey to becoming the entrepreneur and humanitarian leader she is today.
“I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude for the education I received at Bucks County Community College, where I honed my skills, participated in clubs, and developed the diverse perspective that has shaped my success today. Bucks fostered a clear concept for me to understand business and the mindset of businesspeople. Looking back, I can confidently say Bucks was one of the best decisions I ever made. The professors, coaches, and peers I encountered played a pivotal role in shaping my academic and personal growth. The support I received, both academically and personally, helped me overcome challenges and thrive in my studies.”
Regina’s time at Bucks included taking part in the Temple dual-admission program; founding a track club; and participating in several other organizations, including the Business Association, Catholic Club, and Student Council.
“These experiences instilled in me a deep appreciation for the value of education and community engagement and propelled me forward in my career, leading me to create many businesses, from personal trainer to dance instructor.”
Like many students, Regina faced financial difficulties and academic struggles while at Bucks, which she says only strengthened her resolve and determination.
“I learned the importance of perseverance, resilience, and seeking help when needed. There came a time when I needed to utilize the tutoring program, and I am honored to have put my pride aside and sought help. The tutoring program at Bucks was stellar. My tutor was a student at the top of the class who truly understood how to relate the concept of study to others. This positive experience even encouraged me to create a study group with some tutors and a few classmates. The tutoring program provided the help I needed to successfully complete my degree.”
After graduating from Bucks in 2015, Regina began her own business, H&D Personal Trainers (which she still operates today) and transferred to Temple University, earning her bachelor’s degree in Global Economy with a minor in International Business in 2020.
“I carry with me the lessons learned at Bucks and Temple and the unwavering support of my family and the essence of God’s grace. I am excited for the opportunities that lie ahead and look forward to the continued pursuit of academic excellence as well as personal and professional growth.”
In 2016, Regina received a scholarship to attend Given, a forum for Catholic young women. Attendees were given a mission to create an action plan to showcase the “confidence, strength, and authentication of womanhood.”
“I accepted the challenge because I knew I was capable of so much more. The mission was to create an idea and showcase my beliefs through my gifts, which is how I founded Echoess Of Africa. I chose my focus because I enjoy education and have always wanted to be a liaison between Africa and the world.”
As part of the Bucks Business Association, Regina helped to host the organization’s first Business Etiquette Dinner, which was a huge success. She used this knowledge to organize and host the Echoess Of Africa Gala in 2022 to raise awareness as well as money to fund scholarships.
Today, Regina’s goals include continuing to expand her business in addition to Echoess Of Africa and contributing to global education and self-growth initiatives. She also aspires to earn her JD in International Law to further her expertise and make a positive impact on a broader scale.
Regina draws from a wealth of life, educational, and professional experiences to provide great constructive advice for Bucks students.
“We are the current, and what we do now creates ripple effects. Think about what you will do today and how it will impact your tomorrow. Stay on course. It's okay to ask for help. If you were a stellar student in your high school years but now struggle in college, nothing is amiss with you—it's just a different playing field. Take a deep breath, amble to a tutor, and get comprehensive lessons. If you struggled during high school but are now in college—you did it; ask for the help you need to reach your end goal. You didn't come this far to give up!”
*Spelling of “Echoess” is an intentional choice as “Echoes of Africa” was already in use.
**Website, Echoafrica.org; Instagram, @echoessofafrica; Facebook, Echoess Of Africa