The OPUS Insider: All Things New and Noteworthy
Welcome to the latest edition of the OPUS Insider – your window into the vibrant world of OPUS. Whether you're an ambitious business builder or someone with a passion for innovative leadership, this newsletter has something for everyone. Dive into curated content, community updates and insights tailored for tomorrow's leaders. Know someone who'd benefit from this digest? We'd be honoured if you shared it with them.
Happy reading, and have a great October.
With love and appreciation,
The OPUS Team.
The Quote of the Month
?"Optimism early, pessimism in the middle, optimism late.
Your starting position has to be somewhat optimistic or you'll talk yourself out of getting started. Believing in what you are about to do does not guarantee success, but a lack of belief can prevent it.
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Once you've committed, pessimism becomes useful. Question things. Find holes in your plan. Hold yourself to a high standard and try to identify your mistaken beliefs before they become your misplaced actions.
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After you've spent some time troubleshooting, it's back to optimism again. Nothing will ever be perfect, but you have to act anyway. Progress requires the courage to forge ahead despite the inevitable obstacles."
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- James Clear
Key Insights for Aspiring Leaders: This Month's Picks
Give Away Your Legos (and Other Commandments for Scaling Startups) - First Round Review (5 min read)
Scaling a startup involves more than just expanding its footprint—it requires leaders to let go, delegate, and entrust others with tasks they once held dear. This evocative article from First Round Review dives deep into the philosophy of "giving away your Legos," emphasizing the significance of fluidity and adaptability in the fast-paced world of startups. It's a must-read for founders and leaders looking to gracefully transition from one growth stage to the next, ensuring their startup remains agile, responsive, and innovative.
Tomorrow's Commerce?- Wunderman Thompson (Detailed report)
The landscape of commerce is rapidly evolving, and staying ahead means understanding the innovations and shifts that will define tomorrow. Wunderman Thompson’s latest insight piece illuminates the future of commerce by unraveling the trends, technologies, and consumer behaviors poised to reshape the market. From emerging payment methods to the confluence of physical and digital retail spaces, this comprehensive guide offers readers a glimpse into the future of buying and selling. For business leaders and entrepreneurs, it's a must-read to strategise for the commerce of tomorrow.
OPUS PULSE
Keeping you up to speed with all that is happening in our community!
#TheOPUSEffect in Full Swing: Celebrating the synergy of Simon, Zubair, and Matt. Zubair Junjunia, Founder at ZNotes kickstarted his first round with the backing from senior leaders in education and impact (ex-MD Pearson, Global Advisor at Ashoka, Misk, INTO). Matthew Henshall, an OPUS member and Founder at LessonSpace and Code4Kids, introduced the opportunity to Simon Ellis, another OPUS member who founded Paxos, an investment syndicate supporting early-stage businesses, who is now championing this deal through the platform! Three OPUS members, one dynamic collaboration. Reach out to Zubair, Simon or Matt if you'd like to learn more!
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领英推荐
Big Applause For Our Members at The Baobab Network:?Toby Hanington, Tom Fairburn and Niama El Bassunie have just announced their huge plans for the next decade. Their bold commitment? Investing in a staggering 1,000 African tech companies by 2033! With the recent announcement of their increased investment amount they've highlighted their newest investments with Brandrive, PocketFood, Bunce (Nigeria), Kawu (Uganda), and Alal (Senegal). Here's to Baobab Network, championing innovation and shaping Africa’s technological horizon! Find our more here.?
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Sam Elliott's Landmark Achievement: Cheers to Sam Elliott, the Founder and CEO of Daycare SOS, who has officially signed a 5-year contract with a top UK childcare group recently voted as the UK's Nursery Group of the Year. More than a win, this partnership underscores the expanding potential in the childcare technology arena. Well done, Sam!
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Equitas Closes Seed Funding:?A big congratulations to?Michael Blakley?and?George Oehlert, co-founders of Equitas, for closing their Seed funding round with Techstart, angels and a successful Seedrs crowdfunding campaign. There is a small allocation of top up funding available until the end of October. Their dedication to fair hiring and inclusive interview intelligence software, is making a significant impact with companies like HSE (the Irish NHS), the Irish Government and Charles Tyrwhitt. Congratulations Michael and George!
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Sonya Barlow as official host at COGX:?Big congratulations to?Sonya Barlow?who recently shared her insights at COGX, one of the UK's leading tech festivals. From discussing the nuances of AI and Web3, to delving into cybersecurity, neuroscience, and the future of work, Sonya's engagement spanned a spectrum of contemporary tech topics. Well done, Sonya!?
Events & Members in Action
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