BIOGRAPHY
David Adefeso is a highly accomplished finance executive and entrepreneur, known for his remarkable achievements and unwavering commitment to success.
With an impressive educational background and a track record of impactful ventures, Adefeso's biography exemplifies his expertise, resilience, and dedication to making a positive impact in the business world.
1969 - BORN IN LAGOS
I was born in Lagos, Nigeria in the same year that the country’s violent civil war came to an end. Although the Nigerian-Biafran War was over, Lagos was still considered one of the most dangerous cities in the world. But while everything outside of my home was turbulent, I was fortunate enough to have been brought up by loving parents who provided a safe and stable home for me and my five siblings.
​
Throughout my life, my mom had an especially profound impact on my worldview. She taught me at a very young age that nothing is impossible. You can achieve anything you want with the help of two things: Faith and a Mission.
1980 - DREAMING OF HARVARD
Growing up in Lagos, I was captivated by Harvard's reputation and aspired to be recognized as a bright mind.
Inspired by my brother's friend, Dolly, who spoke about the extraordinary life finance could offer, I veered from the traditional path and pursued a degree that empowered me to guide money, defying expectations and forging my own path.
1987 - BARBARIANS AT THE GATE
Pursuing an accounting degree at the University of Lagos, my passion for financial education reignited upon reading "Barbarians at the Gate" which showcased the exciting life of Wall Street tycoon Bruce Wasserstein.
Inspired more than any blockbuster film, I resolved to enter high finance and pursued an MBA from Harvard, completing my accounting degree at 20.
1990 - ARRIVING TO THE USA
At 21, I embarked on a journey to New York with little money, but unwavering faith. Despite facing homelessness and working multiple jobs, I earned my way into Harvard's MBA program.
However, I encountered the familiar burden of $125,800 in student loan debt upon graduation, echoing the struggles experienced by millions of Americans.
1996 - PAYING OFF $125,800 IN STUDENT LOANS
After graduating from Harvard Business School in 1996 with significant student debt, I landed a coveted position at Salomon Smith Barney (later Citigroup Capital Markets) on Wall Street.
Working tirelessly under esteemed leaders, I facilitated multi-billion-dollar mergers and acquisitions and corporate finance transactions for global corporations, paying off my student debt within a few years due to the substantial bonuses in the industry.
2003 - FOUNDED THE PACIFIC GROUP
Seeking greater purpose beyond Wall Street, I founded The Pacific Group in 2003, partnering with AXA.
Our financial advisory firm focuses on assisting families, regardless of wealth, in establishing strong financial habits and securing their future through retirement planning, tax minimization, education funding, family protection, and asset preservation.
2018 - FOUNDED SOOTCHY
One day while at The Pacific Group, I was speaking to a large group of prospective clients on fife today ways to build wealth. A young lady walked up to me with her dad. She must have been about 24-years old and introduced herself as Angela. Angela was crying. She had accrued more than $120,000 in student debt and was earning $53,000/year.
Angela's story opened my eyes to the student debt crisis: 46 million Americans owe over $1.6 trillion, with 15% unable to make payments. Another 50 million kids will face similar burdens. Sadly, 70% lack knowledge or access to savings for education. That's why I created Sootchy, ensuring every child can pursue higher education without the weight of debt.