I want to talk about something truly powerful, something that makes our vast world feel wonderfully small: human connection. Forget the stiff, transactional definition of “networking” you read in business books. I’m talking about the organic, person-to-person chain reactions that can start with a simple conversation and end up changing your personal and professional map forever.
My journey, which now feels like a thrilling global relay race, started with Suhaib in Jordan. He was the initial spark. A friendly introduction that, at the time, was just a handshake. But Suhaib had a connection, and that’s the key. He introduced me to Adeniyi from Nigeria. Adeniyi is a dynamo—someone whose energy is infectious. Our paths crossed, and suddenly, my world expanded to include West Africa. This is where the magic really accelerated. While I was visiting the vibrant city of Kazan, Adeniyi connected me with Zeljko from Serbia. Think about that: a thread running from Jordan to Kazan, and then to the Balkans, all based on mutual trust and shared interests.
Zeljko, in turn, was the one who brought me to a pivotal moment. He introduced me to Professor Dimitri at a massive innovation workshop in Moscow. The professor was a brilliant mind, and meeting him was an incredible learning experience. But the Moscow workshop wasn’t just about professional growth; it was about human serendipity. It was there, amidst the buzz of new ideas, that I met Arpi from Armenia. Arpi has this incredible warmth and perspective. It was Arpi who then shared the next crucial link: Sora from Oman.
Fast forward a bit. I was recently visiting the stunning city of Muscat, and thanks to Sora, I was introduced to Michael from Lebanon. Stop and trace that line for a moment:
Jordan –> Nigeria –> Serbia –> Russia –> Armenia –> Oman –> Lebanon.
This isn’t a business plan; it’s a chain of friendship and shared curiosity spanning multiple continents. Every single person in this chain was met through a genuine introduction—a person saying, “You know what, you two should meet.” No spreadsheets, no cold calls, just the generous act of sharing your world with someone else.
This journey is the most beautiful illustration I have of what real connection is. It’s not about collecting business cards; it’s about being a bridge. It’s about recognizing the value in another person and having the generosity to connect them with someone in your circle who might benefit from their perspective, their skill, or simply their friendship. It shows that when you approach people with genuine interest and an open heart, the world shrinks. You realize that no matter where you are—Kazan, Moscow, or Muscat—you are only a few kind introductions away from a friend or a mentor. This human web we weave is our greatest asset. It’s what keeps me traveling, keeps me learning, and constantly reminds me that the world is full of incredible, kind people just waiting to be connected. It’s a powerful, very human, beautiful thing.
Now, I’d love to hear your story! Have you experienced a surprising chain of connection like this? Who was the person that started your most unexpected global link? Share your story in the comments below!:)
