How one entrepreneur turned his global experience into a mission of impact

Many professionals dream of making a lasting impact beyond the traditional boundaries of their careers. For Ahmet Seren Sungur, that dream led to creating pathways for others to find new beginnings abroad. At 40, the Turkish-born entrepreneur is now the President of Renaissance Open Border Solutions, a Dubai-based consultancy reshaping how people access global opportunities.

Building bridges through open borders

Ahmet’s story is rooted in movement—both professionally and personally. After spending nearly a decade in senior marketing roles with global brands like L’Oréal, Bridgestone, Kraft Heinz, and Coty across Turkey, the UAE, and Africa, he realized something profound: not everyone had access to the same global mobility he did. “I saw firsthand how many talented people lacked access to the same opportunities I had,” he shared with TGFM.

This realization, combined with the glaring gap in ethical service providers in the cross-border recruitment industry, sparked the idea for Renaissance Open Border Solutions. “I wanted to be the bridge for others—especially Filipinos and other hardworking communities—so they could build brighter futures for their families through safe, trusted, legitimate pathways,” he said.

Launched six years ago, Renaissance Open Border Solutions specializes in international recruitment, investment migration programs, and relocation consulting. They work closely with government-approved employers, legal firms, and investment channels in major destinations like the USA, Canada, Ireland, Germany, the UK, and Australia. At the core of their mission lies a threefold commitment: creating a happy and ethical workplace, offering transparent solutions to clients, and giving back to the global community, including long-term support for the United Nations World Food Programme.

Leading with heart and resilience

For Ahmet, entrepreneurship is not simply about building a business; it is about making a tangible difference in people’s lives. “Nothing beats the feeling of knowing that someone is reuniting with their family, starting a new job, or gaining access to new horizons because of the work we do,” he said. Every message he receives from a successful client fuels his drive to continue, even through the inevitable challenges.

Among those challenges, Ahmet cited trust as one of the most difficult hurdles he faced when establishing a business abroad. “When you’re new in a foreign country, earning credibility takes time,” he explained. In a dynamic industry closely linked to third-party employers and immigration offices, uncertainties are constant. “Some people think this journey is as easy as shopping in a supermarket; however, it’s a long and dynamic process.”

To overcome skepticism and the inevitable operational obstacles, Ahmet leaned on transparency, consistent performance, and unwavering ethical standards. “I overcame this by staying transparent, being solution-oriented, and letting our results speak for themselves,” he said. His success would not have been possible without the dedicated team members and legal partners who helped him navigate unfamiliar terrains with integrity and professionalism.

Throughout his journey, Ahmet’s life mantra—”Fortune favors the brave”—served as his constant anchor, reminding him that the pursuit of big dreams demands courage and resilience.

Expanding horizons and deepening impact

Looking ahead, Ahmet has ambitious plans for Renaissance Open Border Solutions. “We aim to become one of the most trusted global brands in cross-border recruitment and relocation solutions,” he said. The company is actively expanding its reach into North America and Europe while investing in tech-enabled talent mobility services to serve a broader, more diverse range of clients.

Beyond business growth, Ahmet’s vision includes creating a foundation that offers scholarships and emergency legal aid for displaced or underrepresented individuals. “We don’t just want to open borders—we want to rewrite what’s possible for those who cross them,” he emphasized.

His advice for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to build something abroad is both practical and heartfelt: “Start with empathy and end with execution. Understand the people you want to serve, respect the local laws and culture, and don’t cut corners—especially when working in sensitive sectors like global workforce mobility.” He stressed the importance of building real relationships, exercising patience, and, most of all, being brave. “It’s not supposed to be easy—but fortune truly favors the brave.”

Throughout the conversation, Ahmet’s admiration for the Filipino community was clear. “Your strength, resilience, and work ethic inspire me every day,” he said. He credited much of Renaissance Open Border Solutions’ growth to the trust and loyalty of Filipino clients and partners. “I consider it a privilege to serve you,” he added.

Ahmet encourages those who embark on cross-border journeys to remain positive and adaptable. “Stay positive, adapt yourself to changes without resistance, and be patient,” he advised. For those who have placed their trust in his company, he made a heartfelt promise: “I will keep doing everything in my power to open new doors for you and your families.”