The Brief Network

How to Scale a Creative Business with Style and Strategy — Lessons from Nandi Madida

Entrepreneurship

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May 31, 2025

How to Scale a Creative Business with Style and Strategy — Lessons from Nandi Madida

In the world of creativity, where passion often meets uncertainty, the path to success can feel like walking a tightrope – balancing passion with strategy, artistry with business acumen. Yet, there are a few who have not only walked this tightrope but danced across it with grace and flair. Nandi Madida is one such creative powerhouse.

Born in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, Nandi Madida is a singer, actress, TV host, and fashion entrepreneur known for blending style with strategy. Starting as a child model, she has built a career that spans music, television, and fashion – highlighted by her role in Black Is King and co-founding the Colour Fashion Label.

Nandi’s success is a testament to turning passion into purpose, using her platform to empower African creatives, especially women, and building a brand that reflects identity, culture, and vision.

So, how has she done it? And how can you?

1. Define Your Unique Brand Identity

Nandi doesn’t just follow trends – she creates them. From her music to her fashion line, she embodies an authentic African aesthetic infused with modern sophistication. Her commitment to celebrating her roots while embracing global relevance is a masterclass in building a unique brand identity. For creatives, the first step in scaling a business is to know who you are, what you stand for, and what story your brand tells.

2. Diversify Your Creative Portfolio

Nandi’s career is a testament to the power of diversification. She is not confined to one lane; instead, she flows seamlessly across music, television, fashion, and philanthropy. For creative entrepreneurs, this is a key strategy – don’t limit your potential. Explore new avenues, collaborate across industries, and seek opportunities that align with your vision.

3. Collaborate with Purpose

Nandi’s partnership with global brands and artists, including her role in Black Is King, wasn’t accidental. She chooses collaborations that align with her values and elevate her brand. In business, collaborations should be strategic – working with people who amplify your message, expand your reach, and help you grow sustainably.

4. Stay Grounded in Your Culture and Community

For Nandi, celebrating her African identity is not just a theme – it’s her foundation. She champions African creatives, advocates for representation, and uses her platform to uplift others. Scaling a creative business is not just about profit; it’s about purpose. Your business should give back to the community that nurtures you.

5. Build with Longevity in Mind

In a world that often glorifies quick wins, Nandi’s approach is different. Her career reflects long-term vision – from curating timeless fashion pieces to producing music with lasting appeal. Creatives must think beyond immediate trends and focus on building brands that stand the test of time.

Closing Note

Nandi Madida’s story is an inspiring reminder that creative success is not just about talent – it’s about how you package that talent, how you tell your story, and how you build a business around it. It’s about – your unique flair – with strategy – your plan for growth.

So, whether you’re an aspiring musician, a designer, a writer, or an entrepreneur, remember this: your art is your voice, but your business is your platform. Like Nandi, you can merge the two to create a legacy that empowers others and celebrates who you are.

What Entrepreneurs Can Learn About Leadership and Innovation from Iyinoluwa Aboyeji

VIctor Akinwale

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May 27, 2025

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What Entrepreneurs Can Learn About Leadership and Innovation from Iyinoluwa Aboyeji

Every entrepreneur begins their journey with a spark – a vision of change, a desire to solve a problem, or the hope to create something meaningful. Yet, the road from that initial idea to building a successful business is often filled with uncertainty, challenges, and moments of doubt. What separates those who succeed from those who give up is not just talent or luck, but a mindset grounded in leadership and innovation.

Iyinoluwa Aboyeji’s story is a blueprint for aspiring entrepreneurs. From humble beginnings in Nigeria, he co-founded Andela and Flutterwave, transforming Africa’s tech landscape. His journey shows that with bold vision, resilience, and a heart for purpose, entrepreneurs can turn ideas into game-changing realities.

His journey offers invaluable lessons, here’s what we can learn from him:

1. Harness the Power of Purpose-Driven Innovation

Aboyeji’s success lies in solving real problems. Whether empowering African developers or streamlining payments, his ventures focus on purpose. As he says, “Solve a problem that matters to a community.” The lesson: True innovation addresses real needs and creates meaningful impact.

2. Lead Through Servitude and Empowerment

Aboyeji sees leadership as service – uplifting others and nurturing talent. At Andela, he built a community of empowered developers. His belief: “Leadership is not about being the best; it’s about making others better.” True leadership is about empathy, humility, and creating spaces for others to thrive.

3. Cultivate Resilience in the Face of Challenges

Aboyeji’s journey, navigating complex markets and regulations, highlights resilience. “Resilience is what separates dreamers from doers,” he says. Entrepreneurs must persist, adapt, and push through obstacles to turn dreams into reality.

4. Embrace Visionary Boldness

Aboyeji’s ventures were bold leaps, not small steps. His vision was to integrate Africa into the global digital economy. “If your vision doesn’t scare you, it’s not big enough,” he challenges. Entrepreneurs should dare to dream big, take risks, and aim for transformative change.

5. Invest in Community and Collaborative Growth

Aboyeji champions collaboration. His ventures thrive on strong ecosystems of developers, investors, and users. “No one builds an empire alone,” he says. Building partnerships and networks multiplies impact and creates lasting change.

Conclusion

Iyinoluwa Aboyeji’s story is a beacon for entrepreneurs. His principles – purpose-driven innovation, servant leadership, resilience, bold vision, and community focus – are a roadmap for creating businesses that change lives.

Let his journey inspire you to lead with courage, innovate with purpose, and serve others. True leadership means leaving a legacy of empowered communities and a better world.

From Fashion Blogger To Kai Icon; The Inspiring Journey Of Fisayo Longe

Rachel E

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May 26, 2025

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From Fashion Blogger To Kai Icon; The Inspiring Journey Of Fisayo Longe

Let’s talk about Fisayo Longe, the woman who turned her love for travel and fashion into a global movement. Born in England and raised in Lagos, Nigeria, Fisayo’s journey is anything but conventional. After a career stint at KPMG as an auditor, and a brief academic detour in Durham University, where she studied Accounting, she followed her passion. She quit school and launched her blog, Mirror Me, in 2012, where she shared her unique style and travel experiences.

Her candid and relatable storytelling quickly garnered a loyal following. But she didn’t stop there. Recognizing a gap in the market for affordable yet luxurious fashion that empowers women, she launched Kai Collective in 2016 with an £8,000 loan from her mother.

Although, as with most business stories, the beginning wasn’t glamorous, Fisayo didn’t let it deter her. She listened to her community, refined her designs, and introduced the now-iconic, and most loved Gaia dress, a piece that embodies “main character energy” and celebrates the female form. And despite launching during the pandemic, the dress sold out immediately, propelling Kai Collective into the global spotlight.

Fast forward to today, Kai Collective has achieved over £6 million in revenue, with features in major publications and endorsements from celebrities.

Moreover, the brand’s recent collaboration with Dye Lab and Alára Lagos, with a pop up sale tagged “Kai Comes Home”, showcases its commitment to celebrating African heritage through fashion, and this is laudable.

Fisayo’s story is a testament to resilience, authenticity, and the power of believing in oneself. She has built a brand that not only offers stunning designs but also fosters a community where women feel seen, heard, and celebrated. The girlies love Kai, and so do we.

How African Musicians Use Sound to Preserve Identity and Inspire Change

People

VIctor Akinwale

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May 24, 2025

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How African Musicians Use Sound to Preserve Identity and Inspire Change

In every beat, Africa speaks.

Whether it’s the bounce of Amapiano, the richness of Afrobeat, or the soulful harmonies of Swahili ballads, African music does more than entertain – it preserves culture, inspires movements, and connects generations across borders. Today, African musicians are not just making global hits – they’re reshaping global consciousness.

These 12 powerhouses are using music as a tool to preserve Africa’s identity and ignite change across continents.

Burna Boy (Nigeria)

With his Grammy-winning sound and fearless lyrics, Burna Boy doesn’t just make music, he makes statements. Twice as Tall earned him his first Grammy and tracks like Way Too Big and Anybody continue to echo African pride with global flair.

Angélique Kidjo (Benin)

A five-time Grammy winner and cultural icon, Kidjo sings in Fon, Yoruba, and French – proof that Africa’s soul speaks many tongues. Her Grammy-winning album Mother Nature (featuring Africa, One of a Kind) is a sonic tribute to heritage, climate justice, and resilience.

Davido (Nigeria)

Though Grammy-nominated recently for Timeless, Davido has long shaped Afropop with hits like Fall and If. With his unmatched showmanship, he crafts soundtracks for celebration and global African excellence.

Sho Madjozi (South Africa)

With John Cena, Sho Madjozi turned Xitsonga into a global chant and took home a BET Award. Her fusion of traditional Tsonga dress and modern rap makes her a cultural ambassador on every stage.

Youssou N’Dour (Senegal)

A legend whose collaboration with Neneh Cherry on 7 Seconds earned him worldwide recognition. He won a Grammy for Egypt, an album that fused Senegalese tradition with Sufi spirituality and global appeal.

Tems (Nigeria)

Tems’ Grammy came through her feature on Future’s Wait for U, but her solo hit Free Mind remains a soulful anthem of healing and hope. She’s redefining Africa’s feminine voice with emotion and strength.

Sauti Sol (Kenya)

East Africa’s most celebrated band, Sauti Sol made waves with Suzanna and their classic Live and Die in Afrika. Their rich Swahili harmonies and Afro-fusion sound make them voices of pride and purpose.

Wizkid (Nigeria)

Wizkid brought Yoruba-infused Afrobeats to global stages with Essence (featuring Tems), which earned him a Grammy nomination and global acclaim. His album Made in Lagos sealed his place as a symbol of global African cool.

Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)

The Bongo Flava king has taken Tanzanian sound global with smash hits like Jeje and Waah! (featuring Koffi Olomide). A consistent MTV award winner, Diamond is Tanzania’s biggest music export.

Sha Sha (Zimbabwe)

Known as the “Queen of Amapiano,” Sha Sha’s breakout Tender Love made her the first Zimbabwean to win a BET Award. Her sound blends vulnerability with vibrant Amapiano energy.

Tyler ICU (South Africa)

The genius behind the global hit Mnike, Tyler ICU is bringing Amapiano to the world. His production style is bold, unfiltered, and proudly rooted in South African street culture.

Sarkodie (Ghana)

As one of Africa’s most celebrated rappers, Sarkodie blends Ghanaian rhythms with sharp lyricism. Hits like Adonai (featuring Castro) and Pain Killer (featuring Runtown) have made him a symbol of Ghanaian pride and African hip-hop’s global reach.

The Rhythm of Revolution

These artists aren’t just topping charts, they’re shaping narratives. They’re reminding the world that African music isn’t just for playlists, it’s for history books. Through their voices, our languages live. Through their rhythms, our culture breathes.

They carry the past.

They challenge the present.

They soundtrack the future.

This is Africa amplified. This is a sound that shifts the world.

Steve Bartlett: Powerful Lessons Every GenZ and Millennial Can Emulate From His Entrepreneurial Journey

Rachel E

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May 23, 2025

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Steve Bartlett: Powerful Lessons Every GenZ and Millennial Can Emulate From His Entrepreneurial Journey

In a world where entrepreneurial success is tied to how fast and quick a person can climb up the fame ladder, it is refreshing to reference stories like that of Steve Bartlett. He is a man who didn’t get to the top overnight, but pushed through difficult situations to be who everyone resonates with today.

The 31-year-old British entrepreneur, speaker, and investor has become a household name among forward-thinking creatives and business-minded young people, both among the millennials and the Gen Zs.

From dropping out of university to co-founding Social Chain, one of Europe’s most influential social media companies, to sitting as the youngest-ever investor on BBC’s Dragons’ Den, Steve’s journey inspires determination and grit. It is packed with lessons Gen Z and Millennials can learn from. Not because he did everything perfectly, but because he has built a legacy from grit, self-awareness, and an incredible level of intentionality.

Honestly? There’s a lot to learn from him, especially if you’re trying to figure out this whole life + purpose + “what am I even doing?” combo.

Here are five solid lessons from Steve’s journey you’ll want to hold on to:

1. Your background doesn’t disqualify you

Steve dropped out of uni. Grew up broke. No rich friends or family plug. But instead of seeing that as a disadvantage, he used it. That outsider energy? It worked. If you’ve ever felt like you’re starting from the bottom; that’s okay. That could just mean that your foundation is real.

2. Not everything has to go viral; Stick with creating value

We’re all guilty of chasing the algorithm, but Steve reminds us: value first, always. He built Social Chain by actually understanding people. If you’re building something, make sure it solves a real problem. Don’t chase Hype. Hype fades. Substance stays.

3. You don’t need to be loud to be a leader

Steve is known for being calm, quiet, observant, and still he commands a room. That’s a reminder that leadership isn’t always loud. You can lead with clarity, empathy, and presence. Soft power is still power. Own it.

4. Failing doesn’t make you a fraud

One thing we love about Steve? He talks about the Ls. The burnout. The self-doubt. The pivots. And he talks about them without shame. failure isn’t shameful, it’s human. And most times, it’s the best teacher.

5. If something’s missing, build it

Steve doesn’t follow trends, he fills gaps and solves problems. Whether it’s launching his podcast, investing in wellness brands, or showing up as that voice on social media, he creates from a place of honesty. If there’s something you wish existed, that’s probably your cue to build it.

Bottom line?

Steve Bartlett is proof that you don’t have to wait for someone to hand you the keys. You can start messy, start unsure, start with what you’ve got, just don’t wait too long to start at all.

Three Caleb University Students Develop an AI App that determines how Ripe a Fruit is

Inspiration

Rachel E

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May 22, 2025

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Three Caleb University Students Develop an AI App that determines how Ripe a Fruit is

With several GenZs taking the easy way out and avoiding the work, three students from Caleb University, Imota, Lagos, Nigeria, Harmony Abayomi, Nwachukwu Chibuzor, and Efod Freda, have carved their names in the sands of time.

They’ve built an AI powered application called Valor, taking first place at this year’s Bells University’s Hackathon. This app uses advanced machine learning and image processing technology to determine how ripe a fruit is, specifically, a mango, which is how it earned the nickname “The Mango App.”

The genius team, comprising Harmony Abayomi, a final-year Software and Computer Vision Engineer; Nwachukwu Chibuzor, a 400-level Data and AI Engineer; and Efod Freda, a 400-level Data Analyst, impressed the judges.

What makes this even more inspiring is that the app tackles key challenges in the agricultural sector by helping farmers, suppliers, and consumers accurately identify when mangoes are ripe or spoiled. Thus eradicating the common issue of food waste and loss of value.

The students shared in recent interviews that what pushed them was the need to cut down on waste and find a more accurate way to check fruit quality.

“Knowing when a mango is ripe or gone bad is still a big issue,” they said. “Overripe ones end up getting thrown out, and under ripe ones just don’t taste right. We’re trying to remove guesswork from the equation, by providing a more reliable method.” (Paraphrased)

Beaming with pride, the acting vice chancellor, Caleb University, Sunday Adewale, stated that “Caleb University has become a colossal hub for innovation and academic excellence”.

This is the kind of innovation Nigeria needs more of. We’re always saying young people are full of potential, and these three? They didn’t just talk about it, they built something. And not just anything, but something real, something needed. Mango isn’t your regular tech buzzword project. It’s proof of what’s possible when Nigerian youths are given room to dream, tools to build, and the confidence that they need to make a real impact.

It’s also a callout to our educational institutions: let’s nurture more of this. Away from the normal,let’s build a system where students don’t just cram to pass exams but are equipped to solve real-world problems.

Mango is proof that innovation isn’t reserved for the big cities or Silicon Valley. It’s happening right here — in classrooms, lecture halls, and in the hearts of students who aren’t waiting for permission to lead. They’re doing it already.

And for Nigeria? That’s a much needed hope in these times.

14 Life & Parenting Lessons from Netflix’s ‘Forever’ That We All Need Right Now

Seun Tayo-Balogun

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May 21, 2025

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14 Life & Parenting Lessons from Netflix’s ‘Forever’ That We All Need Right Now

After watching Forever on Netflix, I walked away not just entertained, but deeply reflective. It’s one of those coming-of-age stories that isn’t just for teens; it’s a mirror for parents, guardians, and anyone navigating the delicate balance of growth, trust, and communication. Here are a few life lessons and parenting takeaways:

1. Teach Kids to Think Before They Ask
One of my favorite moments was when Dawn taught her kids the simple yet effective method of asking, “Who, What, Where, When, and How.“ A concept we might remember from economics class, but here, it was parenting gold. It empowers children to process situations critically before even coming to a parent. It’s not just about giving answers; it’s about raising thinkers.

2. “Find the Howard in Your Life Today”
When George told Keisha, “Find your Howard today,” it struck a chord. How often do we wait for a perfect moment? A better time? George’s words remind us: what if tomorrow never comes? Live with urgency. Start now.

3. Compassion in the Face of Betrayal
Christian’s betrayal—leaking a private video—was painful. But what stood out was Keisha’s response. She didn’t seek revenge. She didn’t try to destroy him. She chose grace. That takes maturity and strength.

4. Communication is Everything
Whether you’re rich or just getting by, emotional presence matters more than material things. Parenting isn’t about perfection—it’s about connection. The way Justin’s parents handled difficult conversations showed that open communication lays the groundwork for trust and healing.

5. Preparation is a Life Skill
When Justin’s father reminded him to always be ready, it was a quiet gem. Preparation is more than a checklist—it’s a mindset. One that pays dividends across every area of life.

6. Let Them Grow Up
Eric, Justin’s father, said it best: “A man has to go through the fire to find out who he is on the other side of the heat.” Sometimes, the best thing we can do is step back and let our kids rise. Growth needs space.

7. Teens Think They Know It All—They Don’t
Keisha believed leaving school would fix everything. It didn’t. Teens may act confident, but they still need guidance. And more importantly, they need someone willing to listen.

8. Emotional Recovery Requires Room
Keisha was still emotionally recovering from Christian’s betrayal, yet she was entering a new relationship with Justin. This is where a foundation of open, honest dialogue could have made a difference.

9. Boundaries. Safety. Self-Worth.
We must teach our kids that intimacy isn’t casual. Not everyone deserves access to their heart—or body. Boundaries are essential for emotional and physical safety.

10. Vulnerability Heals
The moment Keisha’s mom opened up to Dawn was powerful. It wasn’t a grand gesture, but a simple act of being there. Sometimes healing begins with someone sitting in the dark with you.

11. A Man Must Follow Through
Justin wasn’t sure if college was the right path. His mom’s words were firm but fair: “A man must know how to follow through.“ It’s a reminder that doubt is natural, but commitment defines growth.

12. Owning Our Parenting Gaps
Keisha’s mom admitted she hadn’t created a safe environment for honest conversations. That moment of vulnerability was critical. Healing starts with acknowledging what went wrong.

13. Clarity Is Power
Keisha’s dad made a tough observation: Justin was clinging to her because he was lost. Keisha later repeated it during an argument—and it became Justin’s reality check. You can’t build a healthy relationship without first knowing who you are.

14. Honesty Pays
Every turning point in Forever was driven by one thing: honesty. Whether it was painful or freeing, honesty was always the door to growth.

Final Thought:
Yes, some of the explicit content caught me off guard. But it was also a wake-up call. Teens today are navigating intense, complex realities. As parents, we can’t afford to be silent or reactive—we must be proactive. Start the hard conversations. Create safe spaces for truth to thrive.

Have you seen Forever? What lessons stood out to you? Who was your favorite character?

Like and share with someone who needs to read this.

The Brief Network: Inspiring Stories and Empowering Lessons.

Breaking Barriers at Full Speed: How Favour Ofili Became a World Record Breaker

People

VIctor Akinwale

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May 20, 2025

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Breaking Barriers at Full Speed: How Favour Ofili Became a World Record Breaker

On May 17, 2025, on a sunlit afternoon in Atlanta, history was not just made – it was rewritten.

Favour Ofili, the 22-year-old Nigerian sprint sensation, blazed down the straightaway at the Adidas City Games, crossing the finish line in an astonishing 15.85 seconds. In that electrifying moment, she set a new world record in the women’s 150m straight race. It wasn’t just a personal victory, it was a seismic statement to the world: Africa’s daughters are not waiting for permission to be great.

But to truly grasp the weight of that moment, you have to understand where she’s coming from.

Born on December 31, 2002, in Port Harcourt and raised in the richly cultural Delta State, Nigeria, Favour Ofili’s talent bloomed early. With speed in her bones and fire in her spirit, she seized gold in both the 200m and 400m at the 2019 African Youth Championships, and later that year, earned a silver medal at the African Games, all before turning 17. She was already defying expectations and rewriting the script of what was possible for young African athletes.

Her journey took her to Louisiana State University (LSU) in the United States, where she wasn’t just an athlete, she was a trailblazer. There, she became a 13-time All-American, a six-time SEC Champion, and the first NCAA female athlete to run sub-11 seconds in the 100m and sub-22 seconds in the 200m. Her name became synonymous with dominance, resilience, and excellence. She graduated with a degree in Sport and Fitness Administration, all while leaving a lasting mark on collegiate track history.

Yet, greatness is often born through fire.

In 2024, despite earning her place to represent Nigeria on the Olympic stage, Favour was cruelly sidelined from the women’s 100m event due to administrative negligence. It was a painful moment – not just for her, but for a country watching one of its brightest stars denied the spotlight she earned. But Favour didn’t crumble. She did what champions do, she took that heartbreak and turned it into hunger.

So when she lined up at the Adidas City Games in 2025, she wasn’t just running a race, she was running a reclamation. A reclamation of opportunity. Of voice. Of narrative.

And when she crossed that finish line, not just ahead of her competitors but ahead of history, the world witnessed something powerful: redemption wrapped in speed.

Favour Ofili’s story is not just about medals or records, it’s about vision, discipline, and a relentless refusal to be defined by circumstances. She represents the strength of African women, the brilliance of youth, and the resilience of anyone who’s ever been told “no” and still chose to run toward “yes.”

She runs for herself. She runs for Nigeria. She runs for every girl who has ever dared to dream beyond the boundaries set for her.

And now, the world isn’t just watching. The world is running to keep up.

Edison, Oprah, Mandela, and Rowling Faced Failure – Here’s Why They Didn’t Quit

Seun Tayo-Balogun

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May 19, 2025

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Edison, Oprah, Mandela, and Rowling Faced Failure – Here’s Why They Didn’t Quit

Imagine failing over and over again – losing everything, facing rejection, or fighting for a dream that feels impossible. Most people would give up. But history’s greatest achievers didn’t. They had two things that set them apart: persistence and purpose.

Persistence is that unwavering drive to keep going despite setbacks. It’s what makes people push through failures instead of letting them define their journey. Purpose, on the other hand, is the deeper “why” behind the effort. It’s what keeps someone going when things get tough, not just for personal success, but to make a real impact. Together, these two forces create an unstoppable momentum toward greatness.

Lessons from the Greats

Take Thomas Edison, for example. He’s credited with inventing the light bulb, but what many don’t realize is that he failed over a thousand times before getting it right. Yet, he never saw those failures as roadblocks. Instead, he famously said, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” His purpose: to bring light to the world, kept him going. His persistence led to one of history’s most transformative inventions.

“I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.”

Oprah Winfery Image Credit: Getty Images via Inc Mag

Then there’s Oprah Winfrey. Born into poverty and facing rejection early in her career (she was even told she wasn’t “fit for television”), she refused to let those setbacks define her. Her purpose? To inspire and empower others through storytelling. That deep conviction fueled her persistence, helping her build an empire that changed lives. As she once said,

“The biggest adventure you can take is to live the life of your dreams.”

Nelson Mandela’s story is one of extraordinary resilience. Imprisoned for 27 years, he never wavered in his vision of a free and equal South Africa. When finally released, he didn’t seek revenge, instead, he focused on reconciliation. His purpose was bigger than personal struggle. His persistence reshaped a nation. He once said,

“Do not judge me by my successes, judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again.”

And then there’s J.K. Rowling. Before Harry Potter became a global phenomenon, she faced rejection from multiple publishers, financial struggles, and personal hardships. But she didn’t give up on her story. Her purpose: to bring magic to life through words, pushed her forward. Her persistence turned rock bottom into a stepping stone.

“Rock bottom became the solid foundation on which I rebuilt my life,” she later reflected.

The Common Thread

The lives of these great achievers prove one thing: failure isn’t the end unless you let it be. Every success story includes struggles, but what sets extraordinary people apart is their ability to keep going. Purpose fuels resilience, making it possible to endure hardships without losing direction.

Success doesn’t happen overnight. It takes patience, effort, and the courage to push through. When we stay committed to our goals despite challenges, when our actions align with a meaningful purpose, we are able to build something greater than success: a legacy that inspires others to do the same.

The Brief Network: Inspiring Stories and Empowering Lessons.

How to Build Customer Loyalty in the Digital Age – Practical Steps from Brian Chesky

VIctor Akinwale

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May 17, 2025

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In today’s fast-moving, digitally saturated world, customers can switch from one brand to another in seconds. Algorithms shift. Ads get skipped. Competitors multiply overnight. But one thing remains rare and powerful: genuine customer loyalty.

Brian Chesky, co-founder and CEO of Airbnb, has built a brand that people don’t just use, they trust and often love. Airbnb went from a struggling startup renting out air mattresses to a global platform with millions of loyal users. And Chesky did it not by relying on aggressive marketing or viral hacks, but by leading with humanity and designing for trust.

Here’s how to build that kind of lasting loyalty in your business – digitally or otherwise.

1. Create a Brand That Makes People Feel at Home

Loyalty starts with emotion. Airbnb isn’t just about booking places; it’s about belonging anywhere in the world. Chesky focused on making customers feel welcomed and understood, turning a simple service into a movement.

Your move: Think beyond features. Design your brand experience so customers feel seen, safe, and valued. Craft messages and touchpoints that build emotional bonds, not just transactions.

2. Show Up Authentically When It Matters Most

Real loyalty shines when times are tough. When the pandemic hit, Chesky didn’t hide, he reached out personally to hosts, refunded guests, and created a $250 million support fund. This transparency and care deepened trust.

Your move: Be proactive and honest during crises. Own mistakes. Communicate openly. Your willingness to stand by your customers in hard times builds unshakable loyalty.

3. Build Systems That Instill Trust

Airbnb’s biggest challenge was trust – letting strangers into their homes. Chesky tackled this head-on by building features like verified profiles, secure payments, and guarantees that eased fears.

Your move: Identify what holds your customers back. Build processes that remove uncertainty and show you prioritize their safety and satisfaction. Trust isn’t optional, it’s the foundation.

4. Make Your Customers the Heroes

Airbnb’s most powerful marketing is the authentic stories of hosts and travelers. Chesky understood that people connect with people – not brands. Highlight your customers’ wins and journeys.

Your move: Share user stories, testimonials, and successes. When customers see themselves reflected in your brand’s story, their loyalty deepens.

5. Focus on a Small Group Deeply Before Scaling

Chesky famously said, “Build something 100 people love, not something 1 million people kind of like.” Early on, Airbnb concentrated on delighting a core group of users with exceptional service.

Your move: Don’t rush growth. Perfect your product or service for a focused group. Deliver outstanding experiences that inspire your first customers to become your best promoters.

Ultimately: Loyalty Is a Relationship, Not a Transaction

Brian Chesky’s success teaches us that loyalty comes from connection, trust, and care – not just discounts or flashy ads. In the digital age, your brand’s human touch is what keeps customers coming back.

Start today by building experiences that make your customers feel valued and understood.

Because loyalty isn’t bought, it’s earned.

Closing Note

1. Your background doesn’t disqualify you

2. Not everything has to go viral; Stick with creating value

3. You don’t need to be loud to be a leader

4. Failing doesn’t make you a fraud

5. If something’s missing, build it

Bottom line?

Lessons from the Greats

The Common Thread

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