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What Nearly Broke Her, Built Her. The Resilience of Ruby Agu

Seun Tayo-Balogun
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What Nearly Broke Her, Built Her. The Resilience of Ruby Agu

When Ruby Agu was diagnosed with low blood pressure in 2011 at age 31—after having two children—she didn’t realize how serious it was. She followed the doctor’s prescriptions, but never really connected the dots between her health, her heart, and her lifestyle.

Like many women, she assumed her weight was simply “baby weight,” something to shed for looks—not health. That would change in 2013.

After delivering her third child, Ruby received a diagnosis that shook her: Left Ventricular Hypertrophy (LVH)—a serious condition where the heart’s left ventricle thickens, making it harder to pump blood and potentially leading to heart failure. But instead of prescribing medication, her cardiologist prescribed weight loss.

Under medical supervision, she lost 10kg in one month, and that marked the beginning of FitAuntyRuby. In 12 months, she lost a total of 35kg.

But weight loss wasn’t the only battle she fought.

Following her third delivery, Ruby began to experience abnormal and prolonged menstrual bleeding. Her first postnatal period lasted over 2.5 weeks, followed by episodes that came in waves of 10 to 17 days. Weak, dizzy, and constantly bleeding, she leaned on her mother for support.

Eventually, after consulting with multiple specialists, Ruby made the difficult decision to undergo a hysterectomy just 7 months after giving birth via C-section.

During her post-op review, she received yet another critical piece of information: The mass they thought was fibroid was actually endometrial hyperplasia—a condition that could have progressed to endometrial cancer within 18 months if left untreated.

The Emergency Surgery

In 2016, Ruby began to feel unimaginable abdominal pain, rushed to the hospital, and throwing up repeatedly. Tests, scans, and prolonged suffering led to an exploratory laparotomy—a major abdominal surgery.

The cause? A severe intestinal obstruction that had already led to perforation in both her large and small intestines. Portions had to be removed and patched up. Healing took time. It still does.

“So the next time you wanna judge my abs as a fitness trainer—DON’T! You have no idea what I, or this stomach, have been through.”

Ruby Agu

A Life Rebuilt with Purpose

Today, Ruby Agu is not just a fitness coach. She is a survivor. A woman who turned her pain into purpose. Her story is proof that fitness is not just about aesthetics—it’s about reclaiming life, protecting your health, and honoring your body.

She now helps others transform their lives—not just through exercise, but through knowledge, compassion, and lived experience.

About Ruby Agu

Ruby Agu is a certified trainer and health coach with specialties in Lifestyle & Weight Management (NESTA), Fitness Nutrition Consulting (NESTA), and more. She is the founder of FitAuntyRuby and a strong advocate for sustainable wellness, especially among women navigating motherhood, recovery, and long-term health.

The Brief Network: Inspiring Stories and Empowering Lessons.

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck* by Mark Manson – 7 Lessons That Might Change How You Live

VIctor Akinwale
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0
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck* by Mark Manson – 7 Lessons That Might Change How You Live

In a world obsessed with positivity, performance, and curated perfection, Mark Manson’s The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck* cuts through the noise with brutal honesty and refreshing clarity. This best-selling book doesn’t offer the usual motivational fluff. Instead, it presents a surprisingly grounded guide to living a focused, intentional, and meaningful life by choosing deliberately – what truly deserves our time, energy, and emotional investment.

With a voice that is equal parts philosophical and street-smart, Manson challenges readers to abandon the endless pursuit of happiness and instead embrace responsibility, discomfort, and clarity. His core message is simple yet profound:

“You only have so many fcks to give, so give them carefully.”

Here are seven compelling lessons the book offers:

1. Not Everything Deserves Your Energy

Manson’s central thesis is that our emotional bandwidth is limited. Trying to care about everything – every opinion, failure, or expectation is a surefire path to burnout. Maturity, he argues, is about knowing what truly matters and letting go of the rest.

“Maturity is what happens when one learns to only give a fck about what’s truly fckworthy.”

Lesson: Living well requires discernment. Focus on what aligns with your values and let go of the distractions.

2. Pain Is an Inevitable Part of Growth

Instead of promising a life free from pain, Manson emphasizes that struggle is part of the process. In his words,

 “Who you are is defined by what you’re willing to struggle for.”

 Every meaningful pursuit, whether it’s building a career, nurturing relationships, or chasing a dream – demands discomfort.

Lesson: The path to purpose is often paved with struggle. Pain isn’t something to avoid – it’s something to choose wisely.

3. You Are Always Responsible for Your Choices

One of the book’s strongest themes is ownership. Even when life throws unfair circumstances our way, Manson reminds us that how we interpret and respond is always within our control.

“We don’t always control what happens to us. But we always control how we interpret what happens to us, as well as how we respond.”

Lesson: You may not control every situation, but you always control your response. That’s where true power lies.

4. Certainty Is the Enemy of Growth

In a culture of strong opinions and echo chambers, Manson urges readers to welcome uncertainty. He argues that being open to being wrong is essential for personal evolution.

Lesson: Humility is a superpower. Growth only happens when you’re willing to challenge your own beliefs.

5. You’re Not Special – And That’s Liberating

Manson makes the bold claim that believing we’re special or entitled to an extraordinary life sets us up for disappointment. True freedom, he says, comes from embracing our ordinariness and letting go of the need for validation.

 “Entitlement strips us of our ability to grow. It’s the opposite of accountability.”

Lesson: You don’t need to be exceptional to live meaningfully. Embrace your humanity, and focus on what you can control.

6. Happiness Comes From Solving Problems

Happiness, according to Manson, isn’t about luxury or escaping challenges. It comes from facing meaningful problems head-on and making progress. 

“Happiness comes from solving problems.”

Lesson: Fulfillment doesn’t come from ease, it comes from overcoming what matters.

7. Death Clarifies What Matters Most

In the closing chapters, Manson reflects on mortality as a source of wisdom. Far from being dark, he frames death as a clarifying force that helps us live better.

“You are going to die someday. And in the face of that terrifying reality, everything else becomes more meaningful.”

Lesson: Life is short. Let your values, not fear or comparison – shape your priorities.

A Thought to Leave You With 

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck* is not your typical self-help book. It doesn’t offer empty affirmations or polished success formulas. Instead, it gives readers a sobering, liberating message: you’re not promised an easy life, but you can choose to live a meaningful one.

This book is for anyone feeling overwhelmed, lost in the noise of expectations, or looking for clarity in a culture that tells us to always want more. 

Sometimes, real growth begins not when we say “yes” to more, but when we start saying “no” to what doesn’t matter

Ready to rethink how you live and lead?
Grab your copy of The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck* here, and start choosing what really counts.

Nelly Cheboi: The Woman Using TechLit Africa to Build a Generation of African Dreamers

VIctor Akinwale
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Nelly Cheboi: The Woman Using TechLit Africa to Build a Generation of African Dreamers

There are stories that stir you. Not because they begin with privilege or prestige, but because they are born out of struggle and lit by a relentless desire to rewrite the narrative.

Nelly Cheboi’s story is one of them.

Born and raised in Mogotio, a small rural village in Kenya, Nelly grew up in a home where going hungry wasn’t unusual, and attending school barefoot was a norm. Poverty was her daily reality – raw and unforgiving. Yet even as a child, she was certain of one thing: 

“I never forgot what it felt like to go to bed hungry. That gave me the fuel to change things.”

Today, Nelly Cheboi is the founder of TechLit Africa, a nonprofit bringing computer science and digital opportunities to thousands of children across rural Kenya. But her journey to becoming CNN’s Hero of the Year in 2022 wasn’t paved with convenience – it was defined by courage.

A Vision Beyond Borders 

In 2012, Nelly won a full scholarship to study Applied Mathematics and Computer Science at Augustana College in Illinois. She had never touched a computer before then. Yet within four years, she wasn’t only writing code – she was already building a vision to transform her hometown.

She worked multiple jobs, lived frugally, and even cleaned toilets to save money. Why? To start a school in her village and ship donated computers back to Kenya. She personally carried suitcases full of tech on her flights home, refusing to let distance, bureaucracy, or burnout hinder her mission.

When she co-founded TechLit Africa in 2019, it wasn’t just about bringing hardware into classrooms. It was about building a system where young kids could learn tangible skills like HTML, typing, Python, graphic design, and even video editing – skills that could one day earn them a living beyond local limitations.

“I’m passionate about creating employment opportunities for people in rural Africa. My goal is not just to give them tools, but to give them purpose.”

A System That Gives Hope 

TechLit Africa now reaches over 4,000 students across 10 schools and counting. In places where access to the internet once felt like a fantasy, children now build websites, solve coding challenges, and gain confidence to imagine themselves as global contributors – not just passive consumers.

What makes Nelly’s work so compelling isn’t just the technology – it’s her belief that hope is best delivered with systems. Sustainable ones. She trains locals to become tech instructors. She ensures computers are recycled and repurposed. She builds bridges not just between continents, but between generations and their dreams.

She says,

“I don’t just want to tell these kids they matter. I want to give them the tools to prove it to the world.”

Lessons from Nelly Cheboi

Nelly’s journey is a masterclass in what’s possible when passion meets perseverance. She teaches us that you don’t need to wait for perfect conditions to start something meaningful. You just need a reason that’s bigger than your comfort.

Her life echoes this truth:

Empowerment doesn’t always start with a microphone or a massive stage – it often begins quietly, with one bold step toward service.

So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed by where to start or what impact you can make, remember Nelly’s story. Start with what you have. Ask what you can carry. Give what you know. Build what you believe. Even if you must carry computers in suitcases, do it.

Because the world doesn’t change by watching from the sidelines. It changes when people like Nelly Cheboi step in – and stay.

Inspire Monday Challenge:

This week, think of one area where you can serve, teach, or uplift – even if it seems small. What skill do you have that could change someone else’s story?

And as Nelly Cheboi reminds us:

 “Poverty has an expiration date. If we give people the right skills and the right tools, we can end it – in our lifetime.”

Let’s believe that. Let’s build that.

Faith over Formulas: Gbemisola Adebayo on Building Differently

Seun Tayo-Balogun
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Faith over Formulas: Gbemisola Adebayo on Building Differently

There’s often quiet pressure to follow the same scaling strategies everyone else is using—more products, more followers, more funding. But for faith-driven founders, success isn’t about doing what works for the world; it’s about doing what aligns with God’s Word.

This week on Founders Friday, Gbemisola Adebayo, founder of the beauty brand Hegai & Esther, shares a powerful reflection on five popular business scaling strategies—and how they sometimes clash with timeless biblical truths.

From the myth that “you need many products to succeed” to the pressure of “having a large social media following,” her insights challenge us to reframe growth—not just as something we chase, but something we steward. Her message is a reminder that faith, not formulas, is our true compass.

Each slide is rich with Scripture, storytelling, and soul. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling something big, this wisdom might be what you need.

1. You Need Many Products to Succeed

  • What the world says: A wide range of products increases revenue and market reach.
  • What the Word says: “How could one chase a thousand, and two put ten thousand to flight, unless their Rock had sold them, and the Lord had surrendered them?” — Deuteronomy 32:30

2. You Must Be Educated by Experts to Scale

  • What the world says: Formal business education is essential for success.
  • What the Word says: David didn’t defeat Goliath with formal training, he used the skills he had acquired in solitude, tending sheep and fighting wild animals.

3. You Need a Large Social Media Following to Grow

  • What the world says: Strategic networking is key to breakthrough opportunities.
  • What the Word says: “Now announce to the army, ‘Anyone who trembles with fear may turn back and leave.’” — Judges 7:3

4. You Must Network with the Right People to Scale

  • What the world says: Strategic networking is key to breakthrough opportunities.
  • What the Word says: David didn’t maneuver his way into Saul’s court — God orchestrated it. “Awake, north wind, and come, south wind! Blow on my garden, that its fragrance may spread everywhere…” Song of Solomon 4:16

5. You Can’t Grow Without External Funding

  • What the world says: You need investors or loans to scale.
  • What the Word says: God gave Jacob a divine strategy for breeding strong livestock. Without external capital, he became exceedingly wealthy. “In this way the man grew exceedingly prosperous and came to own large flocks, and female and male servants, and camels and donkeys.” – ‭‭Genesis‬ ‭30‬:‭43

Final Reflection:

In her own words, Christian entrepreneurs are called to operate by faith, not formulas. Yes wisdom is profitable to direct, but never let secular strategies drown out divine instructions. God is still in the business of raising people with little and making much of them.

About Gbemisola Adebayo:

Gbemisola Adebayo is a seasoned beauty entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. She began her journey in Lagos, Nigeria as a makeup artist, and is the founder of Hegai & Esther, a beauty brand known for creating simplified, skincare-infused makeup products tailored to the unique needs of African women. Her mission is to make beauty effortless, inclusive, and empowering for women everywhere.

The Brief Network: Inspiring Stories and Empowering Lessons.

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

VIctor Akinwale
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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.

Trailblazers in Power: 7 African Female Presidents Who Inspire Us All

VIctor Akinwale
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0
Trailblazers in Power: 7 African Female Presidents Who Inspire Us All

In a continent rich with vibrant cultures, deep histories, and unshakable resilience, the stories of Africa’s women presidents shine like beacons of possibility. These remarkable women rose to the highest offices in their nations, they shattered centuries-old barriers, rewriting the narrative of leadership in nations where tradition often said “no.”

Their journeys are more than personal victories; they are powerful reminders that leadership knows no gender, and that with courage, vision, and an unwavering commitment to serve, even the most unlikely doors can be opened.

These are Africa’s Female Presidents – women who dared to lead, and in doing so, transformed their nations and inspired the world. 

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf – Liberia (2006–2018)

They called her the “Iron Lady”, but behind her steely resolve was a heart fiercely dedicated to peace and progress. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Africa’s first elected female president, led Liberia out of the shadows of civil war and into a new dawn of hope.

In her words:

“The size of your dreams must always exceed your current capacity to achieve them. If your dreams do not scare you, they are not big enough.”

Her leadership taught us that true change begins when we refuse to let fear define our future.

Joyce Banda – Malawi (2012–2014)

When Joyce Banda became Malawi’s first female president, she faced a nation in crisis – economic collapse, political unrest, and deep-rooted challenges. Yet she rose to the occasion, driven by a belief that leadership is an act of love.

She once said:

“Leadership is about falling in love with the people you serve and the people falling in love with you.”

Her vision was simple but powerful: serve the people with humility, and the nation will follow.

Catherine Samba-Panza – Central African Republic (2014–2016)

Amidst the chaos of conflict, Catherine Samba-Panza stepped forward as a mother to a nation in pain. As interim president, she became a symbol of peace and reconciliation.

She famously declared:

“We who know our rights can help those who do not.”

Her words remind us that leadership is not about status, but about service – and that those who have the power to lead must also lift others.

Ameenah Gurib-Fakim – Mauritius (2015–2018)

A scientist by training, Ameenah Gurib-Fakim brought a fresh perspective to leadership – one that valued knowledge, innovation, and the transformative power of science.

Though she didn’t often speak in grand slogans, her life’s work sent a clear message: education and opportunity are the keys to unlocking Africa’s future.

Sahle-Work Zewde – Ethiopia (2018–2024)

As Ethiopia’s first female president, Sahle-Work Zewde brought the wisdom of a seasoned diplomat to the highest office. Her mission? To remind Africa and the world that women’s voices matter.

In her words:

“If the history of Africa was written by Africans and by women, I think we would find many unsung heroes.”

She challenges us to reimagine our narratives, to write stories that reflect the fullness of our shared humanity.

Samia Suluhu Hassan – Tanzania (2021–Present)

Stepping into leadership during a time of uncertainty, Samia Suluhu Hassan became Tanzania’s first female president having served as vice president – a calm yet firm voice in the storm. She leads with empathy, dialogue, and a commitment to peace.

She once reflected:

“The opposition is lucky that it is a woman president in charge because if a misunderstanding occurs, I will stand for peace and make the men settle their egos.”

Her words are a call for unity and a reminder that true power lies in bringing people together.

Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah – Namibia (2025–Present)

As Namibia’s first female president, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah stands as a beacon for the next generation. Her journey – from freedom fighter to foreign minister to president – embodies the spirit of resilience.

In her words:

“Women have taken up their place in the world. Let us continue to embrace equity and shape a world where every woman is empowered to use her capacity to its potential.”

Her message is clear: the future of Africa is brighter when every woman has the chance to lead.

Let Their Stories Inspire Us

These remarkable women remind us that leadership is not a title – it is a responsibility, a calling to serve others with integrity, wisdom, and heart. They have not only reimagined what is possible for women in Africa, but they have also shown that the future of our continent is brighter when every voice is heard, and every talent is given the chance to shine.

Their stories challenge us to ask: What barriers am I breaking today? Whose lives can I impact by the courage I choose to show?

This Inspire Monday, let their legacies fuel your own journey. Because no dream is too big, no challenge too great, and no voice too small to make a difference.

Here’s to the dreamers, the barrier-breakers, and the leaders who light the way.

What Entrepreneurs Can Learn About Leadership and Innovation from Iyinoluwa Aboyeji

VIctor Akinwale
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0
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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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

VIctor Akinwale
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0
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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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.


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