Surround yourself with like-minded people

Last week, I hope you took the opportunity to follow the truly inspirational conference we co-hosted with Harvard University’s Center for African Studies, on the theme of ‘Women and the Changing Face of Entrepreneurship in Africa’. It was a powerful gathering of leading women entrepreneurs from across the African continent, together with senior academics, business decision-makers and influencers who all have a vested interest in this important subject. We may not have been able to gather in person due to the challenges we face in this Covid-19 world, but the power of technology brought us together digitally to share, inspire and connect. The robust debate and exchange of ideas was honest and refreshing, and reminded me once again of the positively transformative effect that takes place when you surround yourself with like-minded people with shared ideals. Our ability to talk about and debate important issues such as how we improve access to growth funding, or access to new markets, or access to mentoring, was stimulated by having like-minded women sharing their experiences and knowledge - and telling it like it is! I certainly learned a lot from the exchanges, and importantly, also felt uplifted in the company of so many women entrepreneur peers who are making a real impact on the continent and globally. We all need to surround ourselves with like-minded people if we are to keep our ideas continually fresh and our energy levels high.

Have yourself an inspired entrepreneurial day! — Melanie