Celebrating a Decade of Entrepreneurial Excellence: Under 40 CEOs Launches "How We Made It in Africa: Volume 2"
Under 40 CEOs, a prominent entrepreneurship platform, marked its 10th anniversary with the launch of "How We Made It in Africa: Volume 2," a compelling publication showcasing the inspiring journeys of 52 accomplished African business leaders. The book, unveiled at a gathering of industry leaders, innovators, and members of the Under 40 CEOs community in Lagos, serves as a testament to the platform’s decade-long commitment to fostering entrepreneurial growth and impact across the continent. This volume captures not only individual stories of triumph but also a collective narrative of resilience, innovation, and the transformative power of entrepreneurship in shaping Africa’s future. The book’s release is a milestone in Under 40 CEOs’ journey, underscoring its evolution from a television series in 2015 to a pan-African ecosystem empowering young business executives.
The featured stories in "How We Made It in Africa: Volume 2" offer a glimpse into the diverse experiences and strategies employed by successful African entrepreneurs. One notable chapter focuses on Banky Wellington, the co-founder of Empire Mates Entertainment, whose journey exemplifies the potent combination of passion and strategic planning. Wellington’s story, recounting his launch of the label from his university dormitory, emphasizes the unwavering drive that fuels entrepreneurial pursuits. Other prominent figures featured in the book include rapper Jude ‘M.I’ Abaga and makeup mogul Banke Meshida-Lawal, each contributing their unique perspectives and insights to the rich tapestry of African entrepreneurship. The book not only celebrates individual achievements but also highlights the collective spirit of innovation and collaboration that drives the African business landscape.
The launch event served as a platform to celebrate the platform’s achievements and its multifaceted approach to nurturing the next generation of African entrepreneurs. Beyond the book release, attendees witnessed the premiere of the Under 40 CEOs Legacy Video, a visual chronicle of the organization’s transformation over the years. The video showcased significant partnerships, including "Drive Your Ambition" with Mitsubishi Motors and "They Said I Couldn’t" with Sunlight Nigeria, demonstrating the platform’s commitment to collaborative initiatives that empower young leaders. These collaborations underscore the platform’s dedication to providing practical resources and support to aspiring entrepreneurs.
Temitope Runsewe, CEO of Dutum Construction and a featured entrepreneur in the book, characterized the initiative as a call to purpose-driven entrepreneurship. He emphasized that Africa is not merely a place to build businesses but a place to build legacies, highlighting the transformative potential of entrepreneurship on the continent. Runsewe’s perspective underscores the idea that building businesses in Africa contributes to shaping a brighter future, where opportunities are boundless and impact extends beyond financial gain. His insights resonate with the core values of Under 40 CEOs, emphasizing the long-term vision and positive change that entrepreneurship can bring to African communities.
The launch event also highlighted the platform’s broader initiatives, including the Jumpstart Fund, the Learning Hub, and the Under 40 CEOs Junior Club, all designed to cultivate the next generation of African entrepreneurs. These programs demonstrate Under 40 CEOs’ comprehensive approach to supporting young business leaders at various stages of their development. From providing seed funding to offering educational resources and mentorship programs, the platform equips aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools and networks they need to thrive in the dynamic African business environment. This multifaceted approach ensures that young entrepreneurs are not only inspired but also equipped with the practical resources they need to succeed.
The 10th anniversary celebration extends beyond the book launch and legacy video premiere, with a series of planned activities throughout the year culminating in a major event. This ongoing commitment to celebrating a decade of impact underscores Under 40 CEOs’ dedication to fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem in Africa. The forthcoming events promise to further amplify the stories of successful African entrepreneurs, providing inspiration and guidance to aspiring business leaders across the continent. By showcasing the achievements and challenges of established entrepreneurs, Under 40 CEOs continues to inspire and empower the next generation of African business leaders.
