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5 African Entrepreneurs Making Waves and the Powerful Lessons Behind Their Rise

VIctor Akinwale
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0
5 African Entrepreneurs Making Waves and the Powerful Lessons Behind Their Rise

Success doesn’t always make a grand entrance. Sometimes it starts as a quiet thought, a gap no one else noticed, or a personal frustration turned into purpose. These young African entrepreneurs didn’t wait for the perfect opportunity. They built something from the ground up, shaped by their values and a desire to make a difference.

Their stories go beyond headlines. What truly matters are the lessons that remind us success isn’t always easy but it’s always possible.

  • Iyinoluwa Aboyeji
  • Co-founder, Andela & Flutterwave | Founder, Future Africa
  • Industry: Tech, Venture Capital

Iyinoluwa Aboyeji co-founded Andela to connect African developers with global opportunities, then co-founded Flutterwave to simplify how businesses across the continent handle payments. Both companies became game-changers in African tech.

Now through Future Africa, he’s backing the next wave of bold African founders, those building solutions for education, health, finance, and beyond. His work is proof that solving real problems is more than a career, it’s a commitment.

Lesson:

Big things happen when you stay focused on the bigger picture. His journey shows the power of resilience, clarity, and building with purpose, especially when the goal is bigger than just personal success.

  • Seun Tayo‑Balogun 
  • Founder, Brief Essentials
  • Industry:Tech, E-commerce, Fashion, and Retail

In 2011, Seun Tayo‑Balogun started Brief Essentials to change the way women felt about lingerie. At a time when the market overlooked lingerie, plus-size and functional options, she saw an opportunity to do things differently, by offering pieces that prioritized comfort, confidence, and inclusivity.

But Seun didn’t stop there. She also created The Brief Network, a platform that shares practical tips and inspiration for success. As CEO of Brief Essentials and Creative Director at Techmonks Limited, she blends entrepreneurship with digital strategy to help others grow in the e-commerce space. She also co-founded Appmint, an AI-powered no-code platform that helps businesses build smarter and scale faster.

Building an online brand when e-commerce was still new in Nigeria wasn’t easy. But Seun leaned into digital tools, educated her audience, and built a loyal community by putting women’s real needs at the center of her business.

Lesson:

You don’t need perfect conditions to build something meaningful. Her story reminds us that real entrepreneurship is about service, understanding your audience so well that your product feels like it was made just for them, and staying consistent through every season.

  • Papa Oppong 
  • Fashion Designer, Illustrator, Educator
  • Industry: Fashion, Design

Papa Oppong‘s designs are bold, vibrant, and unapologetically African. His fashion journey began with sketchbooks and social media, where he gained a following for his distinct style and storytelling flair. Today, he’s been featured by the likes of Vogue, CNN, and Business of Fashion, and he’s trained the next wave of designers through mentorship and education.

But Papa’s path hasn’t been all glitz, he’s spoken openly about mental health, identity struggles, and staying grounded in a fast-paced industry.

Lesson: 

Your work will evolve, but your values must stay rooted. Papa teaches us that creativity thrives when it’s nurtured with honesty and community.

  • Zim Ugochukwu
  • Founder, Travel Noire
  • Industry: Travel, Media, Lifestyle

Zim Ugochukwu was tired of never seeing people who looked like her in travel spaces. So she did something about it. She founded Travel Noire, a platform that made it easier for Black millennials to explore the world and feel like they belonged.

What started as blog posts and curated visuals soon became a movement, shifting how Black travelers saw themselves and were seen. The brand’s success caught attention and was eventually acquired by Blavity Inc.

Lesson:

When you build for people who feel left out, you don’t just create a product, you create a community. If your idea solves a real pain point, especially one you understand deeply, don’t wait for validation. Just start

  • Mahlet Afework
  • Founder, Mafi Mafi
  • Industry: Ethical Fashion, Cultural Preservation

Mahlet Afework didn’t set out to become a designer, she started out as a model. But along the way, she discovered a deeper passion for expressing culture through fabric. With Mafi Mafi, she began working with traditional Ethiopian weavers, reimagining ancient techniques for the modern world.

Her designs have caught international attention, but for Mahlet, it’s not just about fashion, it’s about honoring home, creating jobs, and keeping heritage alive.

Lesson: 

You don’t have to leave your culture behind to be seen. Her story teaches us that when passion and purpose are rooted in heritage, the future becomes brighter and more beautiful. 

In Closing

There’s no one way to build a meaningful life. These entrepreneurs didn’t wait for perfect conditions, external permission, or overnight fame. They started where they were, stayed close to their values, and let their work speak for itself.

Their stories are not just aspirational, they’re deeply instructive. And if there’s one thing we can learn, it’s this: you don’t have to be extraordinary to begin, just intentional.

From a 9-to-5 Career to Becoming a Two-Time Grammy Winner: Tems’ Journey of Purpose and Perseverance

VIctor Akinwale
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0
From a 9-to-5 Career to Becoming a Two-Time Grammy Winner: Tems’ Journey of Purpose and Perseverance

“It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are.” — E.E. Cummings

Becoming isn’t always loud. Sometimes, it’s a quiet decision to stop hiding, to stop shrinking, and to choose growth, even when no one is watching.

For Temilade Openiyi, known globally as Tems, that decision meant walking away from a 9-to-5 job and stepping into the unknown. No fame. No safety net. Just a voice, a conviction, and a calling she couldn’t ignore.

Today, she stands as one of Africa’s most influential voices. But her story isn’t just about music. It’s about believing in your difference, growing in the dark, and rising on your own terms.

Early Life and Education

Born on June 11, 1995, in Lagos, Nigeria, Tems was raised by her mother after her parents separated. She attended Dowen College and later earned a degree in Economics from the University of Johannesburg, Monash, South Africa.

At age 17, she wrote her first song, a moment that marked the beginning of a lifelong relationship with music. While she thrived academically, music became her private escape, a space where she could fully express her truth.

Leaving the Office for Purpose

Tems began her career in digital marketing, working a regular 9-to-5 job. But deep down, she knew she was called to create. In 2018, she made a defining choice to quit her job and pursue music full-time.

Without connections or major backing, she taught herself to produce music using YouTube tutorials. She recorded from her bedroom, driven by a voice no one had heard, but she believed in it anyway

Breakthrough Moments (2018–2020)

In 2018, she released “Mr Rebel”, her debut single which introduced audiences to her distinctive sound – a blend of alternative R&B and soul rooted in Afrobeat. Her next single, “Try Me” (2019), became a breakout hit across Nigeria, earning her recognition as a rising star in the alté scene.

But her turning point came in 2020, when she featured on Wizkid’s “Essence.” The song became a global hit, earning critical acclaim and becoming the first Nigerian song to chart on the Billboard Hot 100. Tems’ voice was suddenly everywhere, but she had been preparing for this moment long before the spotlight.

Global Recognition and Grammy Success (2021–2023)

Tems released her second EP, “If Orange Was a Place”, in 2021, featuring the hit “Crazy Tings.” That same year, she collaborated with Drake and Future on “Wait For U,” which earned her a Grammy Award in 2023.

She also co-wrote “Lift Me Up” for Rihanna on the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack, showcasing her writing as well as vocal depth.

In 2024, she dropped her debut studio album, Born in the Wild, which showcased singles like “Love Me JeJe” and “Burning”, both nominated at the 2025 Grammys. Then, in February 2025, Tems secured her second Grammy, winning Best African Music Performance for “Love Me JeJe”

She has received multiple awards and nominations, including BET Awards, MTV Europe Music Awards, and the Billboard Women in Music Breakthrough Award.

Staying Grounded in Purpose

Tems’ influence is not only in her sound but in her stand. She refuses to conform, choosing creative freedom over commercial pressure. Her music speaks from a place of depth, and her story speaks to anyone who’s ever felt unseen, unsure, or unqualified.

She once said, “God told me I am great.” And she lived like it, before the world ever confirmed it.

Final Reflection

Tems didn’t rise by chasing trends, she rose by trusting her process. She chose purpose over pressure, and in doing so, found her voice and gave others permission to find theirs.

Her story reminds us: you don’t need fame to be faithful or applause to make an impact. What you need is the courage to begin, the patience to grow, and the strength to stay true.

This week, trust your process. Stay grounded in purpose. And when your time comes, rise—boldly, fully, and with intention.

5 Nuggets from Ruby Agu: On Discipline, Fitness Myths & Life-Changing Decisions

VIctor Akinwale
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0
5 Nuggets from Ruby Agu: On Discipline, Fitness Myths & Life-Changing Decisions

Before we talk about fitness, let’s talk about real life. Because most times, the battle isn’t just about lifting weights or eating right, it’s about showing up for yourself. It’s about the quiet decisions, the tough days, the small wins, and the courage to try again.

It’s easy to get lost in the noise, online fitness trends, unrealistic expectations, and the pressure to do it all perfectly. But every now and then, someone reminds us that progress doesn’t have to be complicated—it just has to be consistent.

This week on Founders Friday, we’re joined by Ruby Agu, a certified fitness professional and lifestyle coach whose wisdom stretches far beyond workouts. She shares 5 bold truths that cut through the noise. From discipline and decision-making to fitness myths and real results, Ruby reminds us that transformation is built through intentionality and consistency.

Read below for practical, powerful advice that applies to life, health, and purpose.

1. No one is “built different”

We often think some people have it easier or are just “made” for this. But Ruby says that’s not true. What you’re seeing in others is often the result of discipline, not DNA. Whether it’s fitness or any other goal, showing up, even when it’s hard—is the real gamechanger. The results? They’ll come, as long as you keep showing up.

Start where you are, stay disciplined, and the results will follow.

2. You’re one decision away from a different life

It sounds simple, but it’s powerful. That one decision to sleep earlier, to drink water, to move your body, to say no, to speak up—that’s how the shift begins. Ruby’s approach isn’t about overwhelming change; it’s about daily decisions. One small “yes” to yourself at a time.

Your life is shaped by your choices—change your decisions, change your outcomes.

3. “No pain, no gain” is a myth

You don’t need to hurt to grow. Ruby breaks the old mindset that says you must suffer for progress. Pain is your body’s way of saying something’s off. What actually works? Training that’s safe, smart, and steady. Think long-term. Think sustainable. Think self-respect.

Pain isn’t the goal. Smart, consistent training is.

4. You can’t spot-reduce fat

We all have that one area we wish we could target, but Ruby is clear: the body doesn’t burn fat that way. Instead of trying to shrink a single spot, focus on your full health. Eat well. Move often. Your body will take care of the rest in the right time and right way.

Fat loss happens systemically—diet and full-body movement matter.

5. Consistency beats workout length

Even short, regular sessions lead to lasting progress.You don’t need two hours at the gym every day. In fact, most people don’t have that kind of time, and that’s okay. Ruby emphasizes that consistency is what brings results. A 30-minute workout done regularly will do more for you than a long session you only manage once in a while.

Beneath It All

These five truths from Ruby don’t just apply to fitness—they echo into how we live, lead, and grow. Whether you’re starting from scratch or trying to stay consistent, her words are a reminder that the journey is personal, the process is powerful, and the results are always worth it.

Ruby Agu

About Ruby Agu:

Ruby Agu is a certified trainer and fitness expert (CFT – IREP), lifestyle & weight management specialist (LWMS – NESTA), nutrition consultant (FNC – NESTA), and Strong by Zumba® trainer. She’s passionate about helping people build stronger, healthier lives through informed choices and sustainable habits. Her work goes beyond routines, it’s rooted in helping people build discipline, break myths, and take back control of their lives one step at a time.

7 Health Lessons from Dr. Chinonso Egemba (Aproko Doctor): How to Eat Better, Live Longer, and Avoid Common Mistakes

VIctor Akinwale
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0
7 Health Lessons from Dr. Chinonso Egemba (Aproko Doctor): How to Eat Better, Live Longer, and Avoid Common Mistakes

When Dr. Chinonso Egemba, widely known as Aproko Doctor, speaks about health, people listen. Not just because he’s a trained medical doctor, but because he’s mastered the art of making health education feel personal, practical, and possible. Through his digital advocacy, he’s helped thousands rethink what it means to “live well,” showing that you don’t need expensive supplements, complicated diets, or a gym subscription to be healthy.

The truth is: many people today are dying slowly, not because they lack doctors or hospitals, but because they ignore the everyday choices that keep them alive.

Here are 7 timeless lessons from Dr. Egemba that transcend geography, truths anyone can apply to eat better, live longer, and avoid the common health mistakes that are silently stealing lives.

1. You Can’t Cheat Nature: Your Body Remembers Everything

Aproko Doctor often reminds us: “Your body keeps the score.” The soda you drink daily, the hours of sleep you skip, the veggies you refuse to eat—it all adds up. Many people wait until their bodies break down before they pay attention. But prevention isn’t just cheaper; it’s wiser.

Practical Step:

Start a food journal for one week. Not to shame yourself, but to see patterns. What are you really feeding your body? Are you fueling life or slowly poisoning it?

2. Eat What Grows, Not Just What’s Packaged

One of his most repeated mantras is: “Eat food, not food-like substances.” In a world obsessed with fast food, instant noodles, and processed snacks, we’ve forgotten the taste and value of natural food. The truth is, poor diets are now one of the leading global causes of death.

Practical Step:

Build your plate around what grows from the earth—fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts. Even if you can’t afford everything organic, choose whole, fresh ingredients over processed items.

3. Stop Abusing Your Body with Sugar and Salt

We often say “life is short,” and then go ahead to shorten it even more with our choices. Excess sugar and sodium are slow killers—leading to diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. Sadly, many don’t realize this until it’s too late.

Practical Step:

Check food labels. Aim for less than 5g of sugar per serving. Replace salt-heavy seasonings with natural herbs and spices. Start cooking at home more often—you’ll control what goes into your body.

4. Move Your Body—It’s Not Optional

While we often treat exercise like a “fitness goal,” Aproko Doctor breaks it down to something more essential: movement is life. You don’t need a gym membership or fancy workout clothes. What you need is commitment to move regularly. From joint stiffness to heart disease, movement is medicine.

Practical Step:

Start small: 20-minute daily walks, stair climbing, stretching routines. Dance. Play. Do squats while brushing your teeth. Build movement into your lifestyle—not just your goals.

5. Your Health is Your Responsibility—Not Just Your Doctor’s

In many parts of the world, healthcare systems are overwhelmed or expensive. But even where healthcare is accessible, one thing remains true: no one can care for your body like you can. Aproko Doctor teaches that health isn’t just what you do when you’re sick, it’s what you do when you’re well.

Practical Step:

Create a monthly self-check system: monitor your blood pressure, get routine blood tests if possible, know your BMI, and stay informed. Prevention is not paranoia—it’s wisdom.

6. Rest is Not a Luxury—It’s Medicine

We often celebrate hustle culture and wear exhaustion as a badge of honour. But Dr. Egemba is one of the voices reminding us that “hustle will not save you from hospital bills.” Sleep, rest, and silence are healing agents too. And don’t forget: fatigue is often a sign you need more water, not just more sleep.

Practical Step:

Set a screen curfew—no phones 30 minutes before bed. Drink a glass of water when you wake and before you sleep. Create a bedtime routine. And once in a while, allow yourself to do nothing. You’re not lazy—you’re human.

7. Health is a Community Effort

Beyond the clinic, Aproko Doctor uses his platform to talk about clean water, menstrual hygiene, health misinformation, and the power of collective awareness. His belief is simple: health education should be free, accessible, and shared.

Practical Step:

Talk about health in your circles. Share correct information. Challenge unhealthy norms. Be the reason someone goes for a checkup, drinks more water, or takes their first walk this week.

In Closing 

Dr. Chinonso Egemba message is clear: health isn’t complicated. It’s consistent. And it starts with simple steps—steps you can take today, no matter where you live.

In his 2024 talk on Staying Healthy, he gave a line that sums it up:

“We wait until sickness shows up before we start paying attention. But your body has been speaking to you. It whispers through fatigue, headaches, shortness of breath. Don’t wait for it to scream.”

So before the next meal, next hustle, or next excuse, pause and ask yourself:

“Am I living in a way that my future self will thank me for?”

William Elong: The Bold Young Visionary Behind Africa’s First Homegrown Drones

VIctor Akinwale
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0
William Elong: The Bold Young Visionary Behind Africa’s First Homegrown Drones

When we think of innovation, our minds often wander to Silicon Valley. But brilliance isn’t confined to geography. Sometimes, it emerges from unexpected places like the heart of Yaoundé, Cameroon. That’s where William Elong’s story begins. A story that reminds us what is possible when youthful curiosity meets unwavering conviction.

Meet William Elong, a young visionary whose story is a gentle but firm nudge to every African youth who has ever felt limited by geography, economy, or expectation.

At just 26, Elong became one of Africa’s youngest tech CEOs in the aerospace sector. He’s the founder of Will & Brothers, the startup that launched Drone Africa, a project that once seemed almost too ambitious to believe. Today, he is the visionary behind Algo Drone, Cameroon’s first drone manufacturing company. Not only did he break into the competitive drone space, but he also made history by designing, assembling, and launching drones from Africa, for Africa. 

“My dream is to show that Africans can be part of the technological revolution. We have the talent. What we often lack is belief, opportunity, and visibility,” – Elong said in one of his public talks.

Early Brilliance, Bold Decisions

William Elong’s brilliance showed early. At 20, he earned his degree from the prestigious Ecole de Guerre Economique in Paris, a school known for shaping top-tier business intelligence professionals. He later worked as a strategy consultant and analyst in France, gaining exposure to global business ecosystems.

But despite the comfort and stability abroad, Elong made a bold decision: to return to Cameroon. He knew the road would be harder. Infrastructure, funding, and policy frameworks were lacking. But something stronger called him home, a mission to prove that world-class innovation could be born on African soil.

“We don’t have to wait for Silicon Valley to fix our problems. We can build our own labs, our own drones, our own futures,” – he once said.

Building the Sky from the Ground Up

The journey wasn’t smooth. Skepticism, lack of capital, and limited technical support challenged his vision at every turn. But he pressed forward. Piece by piece, he and his team built drones designed for real-world problems, from agricultural monitoring and terrain mapping to security surveillance.

Drone Africa’s success didn’t go unnoticed. It sparked interest not only within Cameroon but across the continent. In 2019, William unveiled Algo Drone’s “Logarithm”, a home-built drone prototype entirely designed and assembled in Cameroon, a historic first for the country.

Through these innovations, William positioned Cameroon as a rising voice in the global drone tech conversation.

Recognition for Resilience

William Elong’s trailblazing work has earned him global recognition. In 2016, he was named one of Forbes Africa’s 30 Under 30 in technology. He was selected as a Global Shaper by the World Economic Forum, joining a network of young leaders driving positive change. His company was highlighted by Jeune Afrique, France 24, and BBC, and was celebrated for contributing to the Fourth Industrial Revolution from within Africa. He was invited to speak at international tech and entrepreneurship conferences, including VivaTech in Paris, where he advocated for African innovation on a global stage.

Still, William doesn’t let accolades distract him from the mission.

“Recognition is good, but the real reward is seeing Africans believe again in themselves, in their potential, in their power to create,” – he shared during a panel session in 2021.

A New Kind of Leadership

What sets William apart isn’t just technical skill, it’s vision and conviction. He embodies a new kind of African leadership: grounded, future-facing, and deeply committed to building from within.

He didn’t take the path of least resistance. He chose to fight for relevance in a space that rarely includes young Africans. And through sheer determination, he’s opened doors not just for himself but for a generation of innovators behind him.

“We need to move from being consumers to creators. That’s the only way Africa can redefine its place in the world,” – he declared in an interview.

A Final Word for Dreamers

William Elong’s journey is proof that the future is not reserved for people born in privileged places, it is for those brave enough to build what they wish existed.

If you’ve ever been told your dreams are too big for your environment, remember William. If you’ve been tempted to settle because the odds seem stacked against you, think of a young man who built drones without a factory, shaped algorithms without a blueprint, and sparked a movement without waiting for permission.

Failing forward was part of his process, but he never stopped pressing on.

So here’s the truth William Elong’s life whispers to every African dreamer: you don’t need to leave home to build something global. You just need courage, clarity, and the commitment to start with what you have.

Let his story inspire you to look beyond limitations, to act boldly, and to believe deeply that your roots don’t restrict your reach.

Failing Forward: The Lessons Jack Ma Teaches Us About Resilience, Vision, and Purpose

VIctor Akinwale
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0
Failing Forward: The Lessons Jack Ma Teaches Us About Resilience, Vision, and Purpose

We often hear about billionaires who launched their startups from garages, but few stories are as humbling or as instructive as that of Jack Ma, the Chinese entrepreneur who co-founded Alibaba. Long before he built one of the world’s largest e-commerce empires, Jack Ma was just a man with big dreams, poor grades, and a long list of rejections.

He failed his university entrance exams twice. He applied for 30 different jobs and was turned down by all of them. Even KFC rejected him. Harvard said “no” ten times. But Jack Ma was never chasing perfection; he was building persistence.

This isn’t just a success story, it’s a masterclass in mindset. A story of failing forward, again and again until the path made way for purpose.

Below are five distinct and empowering lessons from Jack Ma’s extraordinary journey. 

1. Rejection Is a Lesson, Not a Verdict

One of Jack Ma’s most defining traits is how he responded to rejection. While most would shrink after being told “no” repeatedly, he saw each failure as preparation, not punishment. Every closed door became a redirection. This mindset allowed him to develop thick skin and a deeper vision. 

“If you don’t give up, you still have a chance. Giving up is the greatest failure.” — Jack Ma

Lesson: Don’t let “no” be your full stop. Rejection is a redirection toward growth, resilience, and self-discovery. 

2. Build to Serve, Not Just to Succeed

When Jack Ma started Alibaba, it wasn’t to dominate the market, but to empower small businesses in China. He understood early that technology could help people, not just impress investors.

 “Help young people. Help small guys. Because small guys will be big. Young people will have the seeds you bury in their minds, and when they grow up, they will change the world.”

This philosophy, sometimes called “servant entrepreneurship” reminds us that true success lies in creating value for others. A business or idea that uplifts people is more sustainable and impactful than one that simply seeks personal gain.

Lesson: The most powerful businesses are not built to make noise but to make a difference. Serve others, and success will follow.

3. Your Background Doesn’t Limit Your Future

Jack Ma wasn’t a tech expert. He studied English, worked as a teacher, and had no formal experience in computing. But he had something else: the ability to see what others couldn’t, and the courage to pursue it.

“I’m not a tech guy. I’m looking at technology with the eyes of my customers—normal people’s eyes.”

Instead of focusing on what he lacked, he leveraged what he had: communication, leadership, and vision. Ma’s story is a loud reminder that your uniqueness can be your superpower.

Lesson: You don’t need to have it all figured out or fit into a mold. What you already have – your voice, your vision, and your story, might be your greatest asset. 

4. Stay Mission-Driven, Not Money-Obsessed

Even after Alibaba became a giant, Jack Ma consistently emphasized values over valuation. He believed that businesses should be built on trust, culture, and service – not just profit margins.

“Customers first, employees second, shareholders third.”

For anyone building something, whether a project, company, or community – Ma shows us that putting people first creates a stronger foundation than chasing numbers ever will.

Lesson: Money can fund your mission, but it should never replace it. Purpose is what sustains both profit and people in the long run.

5. Keep the Long View in a Fast World

We live in a world of overnight fame and fast wins. Jack Ma wasn’t interested in that. He was building for the future.

 “Today is hard. Tomorrow will be worse. But the day after tomorrow will be sunshine.”

It’s one of his most quoted lines, and it captures his core philosophy: endurance over excitement. Whether you’re growing a business, developing a skill, or navigating uncertainty, the real rewards come to those who wait, learn, and keep moving.

Lesson: Don’t quit in the storm. Success takes time, and the road to it is rarely straight. Failing forward means learning through the hardship and pressing toward the light.

Conclusion: Fail Forward, Dream Wide

Jack Ma’s journey is not the story of a perfect entrepreneur. It’s the story of a man who believed in possibility even when no one believed in him. He didn’t allow rejection, failure, or lack of resources to define him. Instead, he let those things refine him.

His life invites us to ask: What if failure is just part of the path? What if being told ‘no’ is exactly what shapes us to become ready for ‘yes’?

For anyone feeling stuck or uncertain today, remember Jack Ma’s legacy: Failure is not the opposite of success, it’s the doorway to it. 

“You either win or you learn. And when you learn, you grow. That’s failing forward.”

From Grief to Innovation: Dr. Ola Brown’s Journey to Building Flying Doctors Nigeria

VIctor Akinwale
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0
From Grief to Innovation: Dr. Ola Brown’s Journey to Building Flying Doctors Nigeria

We often hear that necessity is the mother of invention. But sometimes, it’s raw, personal, and unrelenting grief that pushes a person to change the world.

That was the case for Dr. Ola Brown – a Nigerian-British medical doctor, entrepreneur, helicopter pilot, and investor. But more than anything else, she is a woman who saw the devastating void between life and death, and chose to build a bridge across it. That bridge became Flying Doctors Nigeria. 

But her journey didn’t begin in a hospital or boardroom. It started with the ache of loss.

Humble Beginnings in the UK

Born in 1986 as Olamide Orekunrin, she was raised in Lowestoft, a quiet coastal town in England, by a white British foster family. The home was modest, but rich in discipline, compassion, and a deep respect for education.

At just 15 years old, she enrolled in medical school at the University of York, later becoming one of the youngest medical doctors in the UK. But it wasn’t her brilliance that shaped her path, it was tragedy.

The Moment That Changed Everything

Years later, during a family visit to Nigeria, her younger sister, who had a chronic health condition—fell critically ill. Ola and her family needed to fly her to a hospital with better care. To their shock, no functional air ambulance service existed in the entire region.

They tried everything. But time ran out. Her sister died, not for lack of love or money, but because the system failed.

“We had the means, we had the will, but we didn’t have the infrastructure. I could stay angry, or I could create what we lacked.” – Dr. Ola Brown 

Becoming the Solution

Instead of returning to a comfortable career in the UK, Ola took an extraordinary step. She trained as a helicopter pilot, studied emergency medical systems around the world, from the UK to South Africa to the UAE—and moved to Nigeria to build what had never existed before.

In 2007, at just 21 years old, she founded Flying Doctors Nigeria—the first indigenous air ambulance service in West Africa. 

She started with a single aircraft, a handful of trained doctors, and an unshakable conviction that every life, no matter where it begins, is worth saving.

“People told me Africa wasn’t ready. But that’s exactly why I came—because we have to be ready. Lives can’t keep waiting.” – Dr. Ola Brown 

Flying Beyond the Skies

Today, Flying Doctors Nigeria has transported thousands of patients, providing emergency medical services to oil companies, private clients, and governments. From remote areas to crash sites, their work is saving lives in places once deemed unreachable.

But Ola didn’t stop there.

She co-founded the Greentree Investment Company to support health tech, fintech, and logistics startups. She also launched the Flying Doctors Healthcare Investment Group, focused on hospital infrastructure, diagnostics, and pharmaceutical manufacturing. 

Her mission remains clear: to reduce preventable deaths by strengthening Africa’s healthcare systems.

A New Kind of Leadership

Dr. Ola Brown represents a powerful shift in African leadership – one rooted in vision, fearlessness, and personal conviction. Her work has earned her global recognition, from Forbes and CNN to the World Economic Forum, where she was named a Young Global Leader. She is also a recipient of the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in Nigeria. 

Yet she stays grounded in the reason she began: a promise never to let another family suffer what hers did.

 “Purpose doesn’t always come from passion,” she said. “Sometimes, it comes from pain. And when it does, it can be the most powerful kind.”

What Her Story Teaches Us

Dr. Ola’s journey shows us that you don’t need perfect conditions to start. You don’t need everyone to agree. Sometimes, you just need the courage to build what doesn’t exist yet.

Her story isn’t just about flying helicopters, it’s about lifting people out of helplessness, through vision, grit, and love.

This Inspire Monday, Ask Yourself:

Where is the system broken around you?

What pain have you experienced that the world hasn’t fixed?

What would happen if you stopped waiting, and started building?

The path won’t be easy. But as Dr. Ola Brown shows us, when you let purpose rise from your pain, your impact can reach beyond what you ever imagined, even as far as the sky.

The Light We Carry by Michelle Obama – Lessons on Courage, Self-Kindness, and Steadiness in Uncertain Times

VIctor Akinwale
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2
The Light We Carry by Michelle Obama – Lessons on Courage, Self-Kindness, and Steadiness in Uncertain Times

In times of disruption – whether personal, political or global – the question isn’t whether fear will visit us. It’s what we will do when it does.

Michelle Obama’s The Light We Carry doesn’t attempt to erase fear or uncertainty. Instead, it offers a thoughtful framework for navigating them. Drawing from her lived experiences as a mother, lawyer, First Lady and Black woman in the public eye, Michelle invites readers into a toolkit for steadiness: a set of practices and perspectives cultivated not in ease, but in tension.

Through stories of struggle, self-doubt and quiet triumph, she reveals what it means to lead oneself and others through seasons of darkness by carrying light.

The following are five enduring lessons from the book – relevant not only for personal growth but for leadership, resilience and cultural clarity.

1. Fear Never Disappears – But You Can Still Move

Early in the book, Michelle writes:

“Fear is a natural reaction to change, to the unknown, to everything that lies beyond our control. But courage isn’t the absence of fear; it’s doing what you have to do, even when you’re afraid.”

She admits that even as First Lady, she battled fear – fear of not belonging, of saying the wrong thing, of being judged too harshly or too softly.

The lesson? Courage is not a magical state you wait to feel. It’s a practice. A choice. We learn to carry fear, not eliminate it – and still press forward.

2. “Start Kind” – Especially With Yourself

One of the standout chapters in the book focuses on self-talk and inner compassion. Michelle shares that during tough seasons, she would remind herself to “start kind.”

 “We are often kinder to strangers than we are to ourselves. We extend patience, understanding, and gentleness outward – while holding ourselves hostage to perfection.”

This reminder is a quiet revolution in a culture that worships hustle and constant self-optimization. It urges us to treat ourselves as we would a close friend – not with shame, but grace.

3. Authenticity Is a Superpower

Michelle tells the story of her early insecurity as a young Black girl from the South Side of Chicago, walking the halls of Ivy League institutions and later the White House. The gap between where she came from and where she stood was immense.

And yet:

 “When we allow ourselves to be known, when we step into a room and bring our full selves with us, even if our voice shakes – we give others permission to do the same.”

In a world of filters, comparison, and pressure to conform, authenticity becomes a kind of rebellion, a light we carry for ourselves and for others.

4. The Small Things Save Us

In one of the most tender parts of the book, Michelle reflects on her daily habits: knitting, long walks, regular calls with friends. They’re not glamorous, but they’re grounding.

“When the world feels heavy, I reach for the smallest things – a cup of tea, the click of needles, the voice of someone who knows me well. That’s where I find my footing again.”

It’s a beautiful reminder that healing doesn’t always come from big breakthroughs – sometimes it comes from slow, steady rituals.

5. We’re All Light-Bearers

The Light We Carry is a call to action. To recognize that, no matter how ordinary we feel, we carry light – a power to comfort, guide, and uplift others.

 “Your light is not just for you. It’s for the people who are watching, hoping, and learning from your story.”

This book isn’t just Michelle Obama’s story. It’s an invitation for all of us to show up – flawed, human, and full of light – and share what we have.

Final Reflection

Michelle Obama doesn’t write from a pedestal, she writes from a place of shared struggle, laughter, and learning. The Light We Carry isn’t about being fearless or perfect. It’s about being human – and doing it with courage, care, and community.

So if you’re feeling stuck, uncertain, or simply tired, this book offers more than just motivation. It offers solidarity. And a soft but firm reminder:

You carry light. And the world needs it.

Ready to find your light?

Get your copy here. 

At 26, She Became a Rocket Scientist – Now Dr. Wendy Okolo Is Uplifting the Next Generation

VIctor Akinwale
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At 26, She Became a Rocket Scientist – Now Dr. Wendy Okolo Is Uplifting the Next Generation

Some people follow the path laid before them. Others create a new flight plan – one that inspires generations to soar beyond what they once thought possible.

Dr. Wendy A. Okolo belongs to the second group.

Born and raised in Nigeria, Dr. Wendy didn’t grow up near space centers or surrounded by aerospace icons. But she was raised in a home where education mattered, curiosity was nurtured, and ambition was not a foreign language. That early support became the launchpad for a future she had never fully seen – but always believed was possible.

And by age 26, she became the first Black woman to earn a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Texas at Arlington.

Today, she is not only one of NASA’s brightest minds, but a role model proving that your background doesn’t define your ceiling – your vision, work ethic, and purpose do.

Soaring in a Space Meant for Few

Dr. Wendy joined NASA’s Ames Research Center in Silicon Valley, where she quickly stood out – not just as a young engineer, but as a leader in systems design.

She contributed to NASA’s Orion spacecraft program, helping develop systems for one of the most advanced human spaceflight projects of our time. She also played key roles in the System-Wide Safety (SWS) Project and now works in NASA’s Intelligent Systems Division, building technologies that allow aircraft to “think” mid-flight – shaping the next generation of autonomous aviation.

Her research ensures that space and flight missions become not only possible but safer and more sustainable.

But beyond her brilliance in science and technology, what makes Dr. Wendy truly inspiring is who she never stopped being – a woman proud of her roots, committed to mentorship, and passionate about making space – both figuratively and literally – for others.

Honors That Reflect Her Impact

Dr. Wendy Okolo’s brilliance has been recognized across the globe. In 2019, she received the prestigious Black Engineer of the Year Award (BEYA) as Most Promising Engineer in Government – a symbol of rising Black excellence in STEM. She also earned the NASA Ames Honor Award for her groundbreaking work in aerospace systems.

Named among OkayAfrica’s Top 20 Young Women in Africa, her story has appeared on CNN, BBC, Forbes, and The Guardian.

And yet, when she speaks, there’s no prideful posturing – just humility, vision, and a call to open doors for others.

“It’s not just about me. It’s about opening doors for others who may not see themselves represented in these spaces.” — Dr. Wendy Okolo

In June 2023, Dr. Wendy released her book titled Learn To Fly: On Becoming a Rocket Scientist – an academic memoir mixing personal anecdotes with actionable advice for anyone pursuing STEM. It emphasizes that everything is for everyone, from scholarships and time management to networking and grit.

A Role Model for a New Generation

Dr. Wendy’s presence in aerospace labs sends a powerful message: representation matters. She actively mentors students, especially young women – showing that science is not a gated club, but a frontier for all brilliance. Her journey reminds us that success is not just about achievement – it’s about inspiring and uplifting others.

In a fame-obsessed world, Dr. Wendy offers something deeper: legacy.

She doesn’t just make space for herself – she builds space for others. Her success is not loud – it’s rooted in purpose, service, and consistency. 

Finally 

Let Dr. Wendy Okolo’s story propel you upward – not just with talent, but with clarity, courage, and compassion.

You don’t need privilege to achieve greatness.

You need vision, discipline, and a purpose that lifts others as you rise.

Because the greatest success is not just aiming high, it’s bringing others along.

5 Strategic Lessons from Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu on Building a Global Brand from Scratch 

VIctor Akinwale
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5 Strategic Lessons from Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu on Building a Global Brand from Scratch 

In business, we often hear the phrase: “Start where you are.” But what does that actually look like when you have no funding, no connections, and you’re building from one of the world’s most overlooked neighborhoods?

Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu, a young woman from Zenabwork, Ethiopia, answered that question – not with tweets or TED Talks, but with action.

In 2005, she founded SoleRebels, a footwear company built using recycled tires, hand-woven fabrics, and traditional Ethiopian shoemaking techniques. Today, that company sells in over 50 countries, runs stores on multiple continents, and is celebrated globally for its innovation, sustainability, and authenticity.

But this isn’t just a story about success. It’s a blueprint.

Here are five timeless lessons we can all learn from how Bethlehem built a global brand from the ground up.

1. You Don’t Need Perfect Conditions to Start — You Need a Clear Vision

Bethlehem didn’t wait for investors or imported machinery. She started with what her community already had – skills, materials, and culture.

“We wanted to prove that we could compete globally – not as a charity, but as a world-class brand.” 
– Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu

  • Lesson: Start with what’s in your hands. Tools will come. Capital can follow. But if you lack vision, nothing can grow.

2. Culture is Not a Limitation — It’s a Competitive Edge

Rather than imitate foreign fashion brands, she leaned deeply into local identity. SoleRebels became known for its authentic African craftsmanship, sustainable practices, and cultural pride.

  • Lesson: In a world of copies, originality wins. Root your brand in something real. People buy into authenticity before they buy the product.

3. Think Global from Day One — Even If You’re Still Local

Bethlehem didn’t build for her street alone. She built with a global consumer in mind – designing for quality, opening e-commerce channels, and speaking the language of ethical consumerism.

  • Lesson: Your environment may be small, but your mindset shouldn’t be. Design to scale. Prepare to export – even when you’re still in the prototype stage.

4. Sustainability is More Than a Trend — It’s a Business Model

Bethlehem didn’t chase green buzzwords. She built a company on waste reduction, local sourcing, and zero-carbon workshops. Today, SoleRebels is one of the most environmentally friendly footwear brands globally.

  • Lesson: You don’t need to harm the earth to make profit. Build models that serve people and the planet.

5. Ownership Matters — Don’t Build Just to Sell

Despite global recognition and media attention, Bethlehem stayed true to her roots and retained ownership of her company. Her focus wasn’t just scaling, but building a generational institution.

  • Lesson: Growth is great, but don’t lose your soul in the process. Protect your values. Own your story.

Closing Note 

Bethlehem’s story is not about being African. It’s about being bold. It’s a reminder that you don’t need to be in Silicon Valley to build something world-class. You can start where you are, use what you have, and grow into places you never imagined – if you stay grounded in purpose, originality, and service.

Build something worth building — not just for money, but for meaning.

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