‘Go forth and change the world’
This is a phrase that most commencement speakers at graduation ceremonies use to urge graduands as they pursue their future after school. During the many similar ceremonies that have taken place in Kenyan universities in the recent past, many speakers have mentioned something in that regard. Usually, it is a call to action for them to take on pursuits that would create impact in the society.
I attended a graduation ceremony two weeks ago, my very own (props to me for bagging that first degree), and was impressed by the departure from the normal narrative by one of the speakers: He was more specific. He asked the graduands to begin by changing home - Africa. He said, “It is now the African transformation journey beginning in your life. Today, your new journey begins; the journey to contributing to reshaping the African story.” This was inspirational.
‘Africa produces what it does not consume and consumes what it does not produce.’
~Ali A. Mazrui, Africa, The Next Thirty Years
It is now time for Africa to start producing what it consumes and utilizing what we produce-be it in financial services, STEM talent, entrepreneurs and much more. There is a massive opportunity to make an impact on the continent in the midst of its digital transformation.
I do not know whether this speaker knew that amidst the graduands live streaming his speech on YouTube (adding to the list of things that the pandemic has robbed us; physical graduation ceremonies), was a fellow at Impact Africa Network, an organization that has shaped mindsets into believing in the possibility of Africa reigning. A place that aims to change the African narrative by ensuring young talented graduates can participate in the digital transformation of Africa as creators and owners. Whether he knew this or not, I felt proud that I was already part of a mission that he was imploring us to strive for.
Since joining IAN, my experience has been electric -working with highly collaborative colleagues with a thirst to create Africa’s next ‘big thing’. A place that encourages personal development through the numerous learning sessions and hosting fireside chats with some of the world’s most esteemed entrepreneurs . Also, if you ever doubt how much women can achieve in entrepreneurship, you need to tune in to the Power to Our Women livecast series that is hosted by the women of IAN. They are inspiring a new generation of leaders one conversation at a time. You will be amazed by not only the milestones women can achieve, but also their generosity in sharing inspiration, insights and advice for FREE!
I wrap up by sharing a memory from my first week at the university. I met a faculty member one Friday morning who assured me that 100 years would move faster than I thought, and that I should not blink. I appreciate this fact today more than then. My four years at the university moved faster than I thought. And now it is time to shape my home.
Africa should not blink in the wake of the digital revolution. We at Impact Africa Network shall not blink either. Cheers!
