Beyond the Bottom Line: Building a Legacy that Endures
Scrolling through social media, I stopped dead in my tracks. It was Peter's face, my friend, the same guy I'd just shared a goodbye hug with at the funeral of a mutual friend's father some days ago. A wave of shock washed over me. His sudden passing, like the recent loss of Herbert Wigwe, the African business giant, hit me hard. Both events were stark reminders of life's shortness and the lasting impact we leave behind.
Wigwe's death resonated deeply. The Vice-President, Yemi Osinbajo said it best: "He left things undone, but planted seeds that keep the forest growing." Those words stuck with me, highlighting the enduring impact individuals, like business owners, can have on the world. But Peter's passing hit differently. Here was a friend, someone I knew personally, and the news just felt…closer. The Nest, the company he co-founded, put it beautifully: "Peter's visionary leadership and dedication have shaped The Nest's journey, leaving an enduring legacy." This resonated even deeper. It is not just about big names and big businesses; it is about the mark we all leave behind, regardless of scale.
These experiences sparked a fire within me: how can we, as business owners, ensure our journeys leave a legacy, a ripple effect beyond just the bottom line? This, my friends, is what we're going to talk about.
I picked certain eulogies from Herbert Wigwe's memorial service and the way he was remembered as a young boy, a serial entrepreneur and a family man was absolutely beautiful.
The world stood still when Herbert passed. This statement, shared by Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, summarizes the immense impact Herbert Wigwe had beyond just the business world. His legacy went beyond financial success, etching itself onto the hearts and minds of millions.
Aliko Dangote, another iconic entrepreneur, described Herbert as a "visionary role model." This speaks volumes about the transformative power Herbert wielded. He wasn't just running a bank; he was reshaping the entire sector and addressing critical social issues. His dedication and passion for improving lives shone through, inspiring countless others.
Ronke Kuye perfectly describes how Herbert was always up for a challenge. He tackled a bunch of time consuming activities with total dedication, proving he was a go-getter and an awesome leader. Instead of avoiding tough situations, he put his energy into cool projects like making finance accessible to lots of people – and it's still helping millions today.
Herbert's story is a powerful call to action for all business owners. It's not just about profits; it's about building something that endures and creates a positive ripple effect in the world. Ask yourself:
What impact do you want to make?
What legacy do you want to leave behind?
How can your business be a force for good beyond the bottom line?
By answering these questions and embracing the pursuit of a meaningful legacy, business owners can emulate Herbert's example and contribute to a better future for generations to come.
As we move forward, let us carry the spirit of Peter and Herbert with us. Let their stories fuel our pursuit of meaning and purpose in our own endeavors, encouraging us to build legacies that extend far beyond the bottom line. May we strive to create positive ripple effects in the world, leaving a better tomorrow for generations to come.
Regards,
Ayo Bankole Akintujoye
Convener & Co-Founder.