Networking/Economic Ties
People do business with people they are comfortable with, and nations with economic ties are less likely to go to war. This is perhaps one of the most powerful secrets behind Pan-African unity. As long as we avoid exploiting ourselves for personal gain, we can build stronger, more peaceful economies. Nations have waged wars over economic conflicts, but true unity is found when we support one another’s growth.
Build Confidence
In examining a documentary on Tony Elumelu, it became clear how self-confidence played a crucial role in him securing his first job with the now-obsolete Allstate Bank. He firmly believed that he could make a success of any position he was given. Perhaps his confidence came from his upbringing, the books he read, or his educational background. Regardless, building your own confidence is essential. You’ll need it when pitching to investors or approaching new customers.
Confidence is attractive. It impacts your appearance, and, according to the Law of Attraction, your energy affects those around you.
Exponential Growth
At just 27 years old, Tony Elumelu was hired as an entry-level analyst, and within 12 months, he was promoted to the youngest bank manager. It’s not enough to just perform well; exponential growth requires excellence in your attitude toward work. You must continuously push yourself to improve, which can lead to rapid career advancements.
Vision/Legacy
A vision is a pathway, and every idea has the potential for success. As a young entrepreneur, understand that your initial idea may evolve into something far more significant. Your ideas will lead you down a path full of twists and turns, with opportunities that wouldn’t open up unless you took the initial risk.
For Tony Elumelu, his time as a manager at United Bank for Africa (UBA) gave him the opportunity to observe the economic shifts across the African continent. The power of a dynamic idea lies in its ability to open multiple channels for growth. Elumelu shared in a keynote speech at the Global Philanthropy Forum in Washington, D.C.:
“We wanted to democratize banking—not just for social good, but as an economic act.”
He went on to say, “But we learned quickly that by enhancing access to banking, communities prospered. And as those communities prospered, we prospered too. The lesson for us was clear: corporations can do well and do good at the same time. Integrating both can create even more wealth.”
A Lesson on Capitalism
African capitalism is an economic philosophy centered on the private sector’s commitment to transforming the continent through investments that generate both economic prosperity and social wealth. Private sector entrepreneurs and capital are the key to developing Africa.
Tony Elumelu believes that Africa holds great promise for investors. “Africa is a land of opportunity. Challenges exist, but we also have a massive return on investment,” he said during a TIME 100 Talks discussion with Kim Dozier. “There’s no better time to invest than now.”
Risk and Reliance
In Africa, the challenges are real, but so are the rewards. Elumelu often says, “There’s no better time to make that bet than the time we live in.” His belief in the continent’s potential is a testament to his faith in Africa’s growth.
The Secret to Greatness
What draws you to Tony Elumelu? Is it his fame, wealth, charisma, or a combination of all? Whatever the reason, I can assure you there’s no new secret to greatness—there are simple truths that many either don’t know or don’t apply. The key lies in taking a closer look at these lessons and applying them in your own life.