"I did everything I said I would, and said it first"

Sometimes when I sit back and really let it register, I did everything I said I would, and said it first - Jack Harlow

These words have been echoing in my mind as I reflect on my journey with the incredible individuals I’ve had the privilege of training during my four years with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) program. Throughout work in professional development from pitching, fundamentals of Excel and data processing, CV writing and basic finance, one of the most powerful tools we used was the Vision Board—an exercise that allowed participants to create a roadmap for the next five years of their lives.

Recently, I had one of those rare moments of validation that reminds you why you do what you do. A former trainee reached out to say, "Isaac, I’ve completed everything I put down on my Vision Board years ago—except for one thing, and I still have a year to go." Hearing this level of intentionality, focus, and achievement was deeply rewarding. It wasn’t just about the goals met—it was about seeing a dream come to life, one milestone at a time.

And he’s not alone. So many of those I’ve trained have gone on to accomplish things that extend far beyond what they initially envisioned. Today, several are living and working in the U.S., including one who is now stationed at the United Nations Headquarters in New York—a place that once felt like an impossible dream. Others have advanced their careers within the UN system, transitioning from UNFPA to the World Food Programme Western Africa , 联合国粮农组织 , or regional HQ offices across Africa. Some have left the UN system to pursue advanced degrees at prestigious institutions like 英国伦敦政治经济学院 and 荷兰鹿特丹大学 or are working for global organizations that are changing the landscape of industries across Africa.

Take, for example, Michael Blankson , who is now at African Health Innovation Centre founded by Emily K. Sheldon or Cyril Alexis Otabil working at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office or George Koranteng at 联合国粮农组织 . Their success is a testament to the calibre of individuals who have come through the UNFPA program. The program has become much more than a training ground—it’s a launchpad for African talent, propelling people into positions of influence on the global stage.

Five years ago, few would have imagined that entering UNFPA would open doors to the highest levels of the UN, corporate leadership roles, consultancies, and access to world-class universities across Europe and the U.S. Yet here we are, witnessing it firsthand. The foresight of people like Isobel Acquah , who pioneered the personal development side of the program, and the relentless drive of individuals like Micheal Opeyemi Ige have made all this possible.

So, to those of you who were part of the UNFPA program, I have to ask—how far along are you with your Vision Boards?

What goals do you have left to tick off?

For those outside the program, are you leveraging tools like #VisionBoards in your own professional journeys? If you haven’t, I encourage you to start now. There’s real power in turning your aspirations into clear, actionable steps.

Let’s spark a conversation about the power of vision, intentionality, and perseverance.

I’d love to hear your thoughts—share your own stories in the comments. What have you achieved that once felt impossible? Let’s celebrate these milestones together and continue to inspire one another.

I am Isaac Newton - The Scientist, and I love to put Ideas In Motion

What I do?

• Accelerate Growth Startups across Africa
• Conduct Train the Trainers for the private and public sector on business, tech and trade
• Hold keynotes & workshops on leveraging emerging tech like #AI, #Blockchain and #Web3