31/08/2025
When I was 27, I was given the opportunity of a lifetime: I became a branch manager at AllStates Trust Bank, a young bank in Nigeria. Banking was beginning to change the country, it was the sector to be in, ripe for transformation, ready for disruption, for democratisation.
At that time, few believed a 27-year-old could successfully lead a bank branch. But that opportunity changed the entire course of my life.
It gave me confidence. It gave me a platform. Most importantly, it gave me perspective.
That’s why today, I am passionate about giving young people the same chance I was given. Because I know what’s possible when someone believes in you early.
This belief is at the heart of everything we do at the Tony Elumelu Foundation. It’s why we invest in young African entrepreneurs - because someone once invested in me.
My journey didn’t begin with capital. It began with trust.
Let’s keep believing in Africa’s youth. They are ready to lead, grow and transform our continent.
