Business

Ghanaian CEO and lawyer Markwei Boye J.D. teaches his children to never give up

ROLLINGOUT — Markwei Boye, J.D. is the owner and CEO of Smart Business Tax Solutions, PLLC since 2000. A highly respected tax professional, Boye is a licensed financial advisor and lawyer whose broad expertise ranges from IRS Tax representation, small business tax solutions to estate planning for individuals and companies.

Published

7 years ago

June 19, 2019

Oakland Post

By Porsha Monique

Markwei Boye, J.D. is the owner and CEO of Smart Business Tax Solutions, PLLC since 2000. A highly respected tax professional, Boye is a licensed financial advisor and lawyer whose broad expertise ranges from IRS Tax representation, small business tax solutions to estate planning for individuals and companies. Boye holds a bachelor’s of science degree in finance from the University of Detroit Mercy, a master’s in business administration (MBA) from Wayne State University, a law degree from Thomas M. Cooley Law School and completed his coursework for his doctorate degree in business management from Argosy University of Chicago. In addition, Boye holds an Enrolled Agent designation, a specialized license earned by individuals who have passed a rigorous tax examination administered by the IRS. Boye has demonstrated technical competency in all levels of federal taxation. He is a member of the American Institute Certified Public Accountants, American Bar Association, Registered Financial Planning Institute, National Association of Enrolled Agents, National Association of Tax Professionals and National Society of Accountants.

How would you describe your Fatherhood culture?

In Ghana, my home country, family is absolutely everything and the responsibility of fatherhood is one that is held in very high regard. Your average Ghanaian man provides for his family and takes care of his children. There really is no other acceptable way.

Why is it important to expose children to education and valuable skills?

Education is the tool that provides opportunities beyond your circumstances. I did not come from wealth. It was through education that I learned valuable skills that allowed me to flourish professionally as an employee and then as an entrepreneur. So, I know firsthand its benefits and I wish for every child to take advantage of educational opportunities and continually learn skills. It opens the doors for greater possibilities to come – and the skills, once learned cannot be taken from you.

Why should you read every day?

I think reading every day allows you to hone in on your critical thinking skills. No matter the subject or genre of book, reading expands your mind, your vocabulary, your imagination and your ability to analyze. These benefits from daily reading only serves to enhance your acumen in any area going forward.

How important is keeping your word?

In my opinion, keeping your word speaks directly to your integrity. So, for me as a man and father, keeping your word allows for certain assurances your family and your children need and expect. And professionally as a businessman and attorney in the tax and accounting fields, keeping my word is something I take very seriously because I know the implications if I do not. Having integrity personally and professionally, and keeping your word go hand in hand in my book.

What advice would you give on being responsible for your own dreams?

I would encourage anyone to dare to dream. Think long and hard about what brings you joy. Money is important, but it is not everything. Discover what piques your interest and pursue it. Life goes fast so find your dreams and work towards them.

Finish the sentence: Never give up on yourself because …

I have a true testament as to never give up on yourself. A few years ago, after completing law school, I spent a considerable amount of time and sacrifice studying to take the bar exam, a highly rigorous exam. Unfortunately, I did not pass the first time. I could have easily given up on myself because I felt that I gave everything that I had to give. Luckily, I knew that I had to try again, as many times as it took to complete my goal. The benefit on the other side of my feeling initially defeated was much greater than the current circumstance, so I chose to press on. Thankfully, I passed the bar exam, set a great example for my family and my children who saw my journey many a night, and who now knows not to cower to challenges and adversity.

This article originally appeared in Rollingout.com.

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Oakland Post: Week of March 18 – 24, 2026

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Financial Wellness and Mental Health: Managing Money Stress in College 

While everyone’s financial situation is unique, several common sources of stress have the potential to strain your financial health. These include financial and economic uncertainty, existing debts, unexpected expenses, and mental or physical health changes. Financial stress may differ from situation to situation, but understanding the factors contributing to yours may help you begin to craft a plan for your unique circumstances.

Published

2 weeks ago

March 17, 2026

Oakland Post

Sponsored by JPMorganChase

As a college student, managing financial responsibilities can be stressful.

If you’ve found yourself staying up late thinking about your finances or just feeling anxious overall about your financial future, you’re not alone. In one survey, 78% of college students who reported financial stress had negative impacts on their mental health, and 59% considered dropping out. While finances can impact overall stress, taking steps to manage your finances can support your mental, emotional and physical well-being.

When it comes to money, the sources of stress may look different for each student, but identifying the underlying causes and setting goals accordingly may help you feel more confident about your financial future.

Consider these strategies to help improve your financial wellness and reduce stress.

Understand what causes financial stress

2. Determine your financial priorities

Start by reflecting on your financial priorities. For students this often includes paying for school or paying off student loans, studying abroad, saving for spring break, building an emergency fund, paying down credit card debt or buying a car. Name the milestones that are most important to you, and plan accordingly.

3. Create a plan and stick to it

While setting actionable goals starts you on the journey to better financial health, it’s essential to craft a plan to follow through. Identifying and committing to a savings plan may give you a greater sense of control over your finances, which may help reduce your stress. Creating and sticking to a budget allows you to better track where your money is going so you may spend less and save more.

4. Pay down debt

Many students have some form of debt and want to make progress toward reducing their debt obligations. One option is the debt avalanche method, which focuses on paying off your debt with the highest interest rate first, then moving on to the debt with the next-highest interest rate. Another is the debt snowball method, which builds momentum by paying off your smallest debt balance, and then working your way up to the largest amounts.

5. Build your financial resilience

Some financial stress may be inevitable, but building financial resilience may allow you to overcome obstacles more easily. The more you learn about managing your money, for instance, the more prepared you’ll feel if the unexpected happens. Growing your emergency savings also may increase resilience since you’ll be more financially prepared to cover unexpected expenses or pay your living expenses.

6. Seek help and support

Many colleges have resources to help students experiencing financial stress, like financial literacy courses or funds that provide some assistance for students in need. Talk to your admissions counselor or advisor about your concerns, and they can direct you to sources of support. Your school’s counseling center can also be a great resource for mental health assistance if you’re struggling with financial stress.

The bottom line

Financial stress can affect college students’ health and wellbeing, but it doesn’t have to derail your dreams. Setting smart financial goals and developing simple plans to achieve them may help ease your stress. Revisit and adjust your plan as needed to ensure it continues to work for you, and seek additional support on campus as needed to help keep you on track.

 JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC