Imagine if TEF said, we will give every entrepreneur $10,000 grant, the training and business plans are optional. Plus, we will get each entrepreneur a free air ticket, 5-star room, free food at the Forum.
I think that is what some of us thought we would get from TEF - everything rossy and beautiful with no hustle. Even with that, some people will still not benefit.
Think about it, why would the TEF team give accommodation to only 300 out of the 3050? Why must we pay for the travel and accommodation ourselves? Why 12 weeks training? Why business plan approval? Why $5000 grant and $5000 random investment?
Unfortunately, I don’t have all the answers, but I think it’s because of the commitment they need from our side. Even heaven helps those who help themselves. We all will be learning a lot of practical soft skills that can help us build and run our businesses one day through the “short hustle” we go through. If not for anything, some of us have learned how to tell our stories. Some too will learn how to book their next flight, seek accommodation, attend international conferences, etc. through this TEF forum. If not anything, some will get to meet the real Naija and tell others how Abuja is. Those experiences, those little things are what will set us up differently among others. Personally, I learnt how to request for contributions. You may also learn how to talk to business people or organise meetings.
Some are too laid back for our liking. I watched last year’s TEF Forum where our President attended. While a lot of Nigerians and Kenyans were busy asking him questions, some countries did not ask a single question. Guess what, he ended up getting to the stage to shake the president and take photos with both the prez and the founder (TOE ).
We are too laid back, always waiting for last minute. And when all goes wrong we sit and complain that it’s someone’s fault. Instead of going out to hustle and face life, we prefer to sit in our room and complain or insult on social media…and wonder why we are still where we are.
When will some Afrikan youth arise and take hold destiny? When will we be proactive instead of being reactive?
I sound harsh. But don’t get it twisted, I am in it too. I’m no angel. But, working hard to not be too weak in my thinking.
May God help us. May God help US!