Kazan. The OIC Youth Entrepreneurship Forum. A room full of fire. That’s the best way I can describe the incredible experience I had as a keynote speaker. It was a chance to connect with some of the brightest young minds in the entrepreneurial world, and it left me completely energized.
It was a moment I’ll never forget, and it really made me want to deliver something real. I didn’t want to spout the same old business advice. So, I talked about the things I truly believe make a difference for young entrepreneurs, especially in OIC countries.
First up: storytelling. Forget the buzzwords – it’s about connecting with people on a human level. It’s about making them feel something, because that’s what they’ll remember. It’s about crafting a narrative that draws people in and makes them want to be a part of your journey.
Then we talked networking. But not the “collect-as-many-business-cards-as-possible” kind. I’m talking about building real relationships. Finding your people, your supporters, your collaborators – the ones who get what you’re trying to do.
Next, inspiration. That internal drive is what get you, quoting Muhammad Ali, to conquer yourselves. It’s about the deep down motivation that helps to keep you going when things get tough.
And finally, leadership. Forget the power suits and rigid rules. It’s about leading with empathy, being authentic, and inspiring your team to be their best selves.
The best part? The energy in that room was electric. These weren’t just polite listeners; they were engaged. They were asking questions, sharing ideas, and genuinely excited about what they were building. Seeing my message resonate with them was incredibly rewarding.
Beyond the keynote, I got to roll up my sleeves and lead a training session on pitching and storytelling. Working directly with these entrepreneurs, helping them shape their message and find their voice, was fantastic. Mentoring some of them one-on-one was a true highlight – their passion was contagious!
The potential in that room was undeniable. Entrepreneurship is clearly a force for good, and it’s inspiring to see the progress being made. But it’s not just about isolated successes; it’s about fostering a culture of innovation, constant learning, and adaptation where every aspiring entrepreneur feels supported and empowered.
Kazan was a powerful reminder of the impact that a supportive network and honest conversations, can have. My biggest takeaway? The importance of staying curious, seeking out new perspectives, and never stopping the pursuit of growth – both for ourselves and for the communities we serve. Thank you to everyone who made it so special.
