Sandy's African Food Hub congratulates Dr Kingsley Agoha on amazing Doctorate achievement

A Derry resident has been congratulated for receiving his Doctorate from the Ulster University.

Dr Kingsley Kalu Agoha was awarded his doctorate in Rural Tourism Development from the university's Department of Hospitality, Tourism and Events at the its recent graduation ceremony in Belfast.

The management from Derry restaurant Sandy’s African Food Hub extended their “warmest congratulations” to Dr Agoha on his fine achievement.

They said: “It is with great honour that we celebrate you—not only as a newly minted scholar of the highest academic standing, but as a visionary community leader, cultural ambassador, and devoted family man.

“Your academic journey, which has spanned continents and disciplines—from Accounting to IT, from Business to Rural Tourism—tells a remarkable story of resilience, sacrifice, and excellence. You have turned every challenge into a stepping stone and proven that determination, supported by purpose, leads to greatness.

Dr Kingsley Kalu Agoha with his wife Sandra.

“Your PhD. research in rural tourism development in Northern Ireland, focused on the role of entrepreneurial networks in rural tourism development, is both timely and transformative. It adds value not only to academia but to grassroots communities and rural tourism entrepreneurs across the region. Your commitment to empowering rural voices and fostering collaboration through entrepreneurial networks is truly commendable.

“Beyond your academic brilliance, we at Sandy’s African Food Hub are especially proud of your deep investment in cultural preservation and community engagement. Your leadership as founding member/ chairman of the Igbo Community in Northwest Ireland and co-founder of the African-Caribbean Community Network - ACCN in Derry-Londonderry is a testament to your vision for an inclusive, united, and empowered African diaspora in Northern, Ireland.

“We also celebrate you as a husband to the ever-supportive Sandra Agoha and a proud father of our wonderful children. Your life is a living proof that excellence in academia can coexist with leadership in community and love in family.

“As you enter this new chapter, we are confident that your research contributions will continue to shape policies, uplift people, and inspire future generations. We look forward to seeing you rise—not just as a scholar, but as a future leader, representing the voices of those often unheard.

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“Congratulations, Dr. Agoha. Your journey inspires us all.”