From Lagos to LinkedIn

To celebrate my 1 year anniversary of being active on LinkedIn, I decided to write a post about my online presence on this platform and what I've learned. It hasn't been a walk in the park, but I had to believe [in] myself and what I saw in this platform. It was wearing having an idea that no one else believed in, but that was all I needed. I made sure that everything my hands found to do, was part of a purposeful plan.

#BoundlessBlessing

I was born in Lagos, Nigeria. I've lived in Germany, Scotland and now the United States. I did not come to assimilate. I came to create change and to change the game with my experience, perspective and drive. 

Tip: No matter your journey. LinkedIn can and will impact your life, if you're willing to utilize it. Success is a process. Trust and embrace the process. Don't underestimate the power of LinkedIn.

Creating Content

I failed but more importantly, I learned. I explored the creativity of content creation and began to intently practice with the content I was putting out there. I learned not to feel too much pressure as a 'content creator' and embraced the idea of quality being more important than quantity. When it comes to documenting your story and sharing your voice, stop making excuses and just start somewhere. We shouldn't stop because we don't see the results we desire, instead, we keep going!

Tip: Learn from those you are inspired by and implement what you learned, in your own unique way.

Building Relationships

I made it a goal of mine, by the end of 2018, to meet new people and build meaningful relationships. I took a step further by taking LinkedIn connections offline and fostering a global community of students and professionals. I knew that, if I could expose myself to new people, my perspective would be broadened, which can in turn, propel me to greater heights. I wanted my community to be diverse. Diverse in viewpoint, thought, background and experience. Never do things alone. Let others work with you. Lift others as you rise.

Tip: Start building meaningful relationships with people by taking a genuine interest in others. It takes a community to truly thrive!

Initiating a Global Campaign for Students

I initiated the #StudentsOfLinkedIn campaign, which has the mission of educating, exposing and encouraging students to unlock their potential and utilize LinkedIn to its full ability. Earlier this month, I, along with my team, Ledo, Charles, Stephanie and Tamoy, hosted a webinar which attracted 300+ students from across the world. As the community expands, I'm increasing my team and working towards providing more opportunities for students, as well as providing them with tools to create their own path.

Tip: Turn a problem into a project.

Creating Opportunities

If you ever come across a situation where you don't have a seat at the table, be that person that creates your own seat, whilst creating seats for others as well. Do this by trying something new, stepping out of your comfort zone, and "flipping the switch". Through LinkedIn, I have been exposed to so many opportunities, and at the same time, created my own when I saw a chance. I've had the privilege of being involved with brands like Microsoft, Google, LinkedIn, Rewriting the Code, National Society of Black Engineers and more.

Tip: Never be afraid to ask. If people see how passionate you are about something, they just might listen.

Be the Change

In one of my first encounters with my mentor, Angela Harris, she shared the famous quote by Mahatma Gandhi,

Be the change you wish to see in the world

Upon hearing this quote and witnessing her put it to practice, I wanted to do it too. I consciously decided to be the change. This brings in the idea of creating opportunities that do not already exist. Remember, you have what it takes. It's not about your ability but your availability to do it.

Tip: It's not just information but implementation that makes a difference. Make a difference.

BONUS:

I will never forget the impact these individuals had/have on my journey and the journey of others. They are the trailblazers who helped me get to where I am today. Tyrone inspired me to #ChaseGreat and that hard work, will always pay off irrespective of your background. Goldie inspired me to be creative in all that I do, and to embrace my uniqueness. Quentin inspired me to tell my story (via video), and to embrace the obstacles that make you, you. Tim inspired me to be authentic in leadership and to see the importance of building community! Thank you all.

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