To whom much is given, much is also expected – By Ijeoma Omodu

Hopefully, we have been able to read aspects of the vision, mission and potential project outcomes ANWEP would be working toward as put together by the founder and the several noble suggestions members have provided. I am sure many of us are trilled about them. How do we make sure we sustain this excitement and actually make a difference in our native homeland by achieving these goals?

We need to set our foundation right, challenge ourselves, have a strategy, ensure we have the capacity, and then set out to make specific plans.

There should be no issue with capacity where professionals and entrepreneurs are involved. My understanding is that Foundation, strategy and plans are being worked on and coordinated by the foundation even as I write.

In deed, we are among the privileged few. Not because we are exceptional, although some of us really are, but because we happen to be at a different location, removed from our homeland with the advantage of seeing and living the best and worst of both cultures and environment. These exposures have given us the vintage position to observe, learn and expand our understanding of humanity and goodwill. It has also provided us with some competitive advantage in general knowledge and skill, which impacts every aspect of our life and living.

Personally, I believe that our people back home are highly talented, competitive but lacking opportunities. I also see lots of determination and perseverance that in most cases become fruitless because of several legions of reasons including Religion, Corruption, Tribalism/Nepotism and Culture. Why are so many of us in the diaspora, starting from behind when we move overseas, are able to move ahead and in most cases get to the peak of our career/business irrespective of whatever we choose to do? Humans, consciously and/or unconsciously learn from any and every thing and we cannot underestimate the power of the environment. I am then advocating moving Nigerians out so that they can become successful? Hell no. I am rather indicating that each and every one of us in Diaspora, irrespective of the nature of our exposure and experience have got lots and lots to contribute, even when you do not know it. Gals…believe me, you know a lot! If you are still operating at the realms of that typical Gal…too modest to take credit for who you are and what you have achieved, get ready to shed that skin, so that you can optimize your contribution to a better homeland. You could be a role model for many. Think of it as advising your younger self, highlighting learning from those twists and turns that got you where you are today and imaginations of even better routes for going further. Think about it, if we are able to achieve a change in focus and value system; that alone would be monumental. Even the simple idea of understanding, showcasing alternatives, encouragement and mentoring can be fulfilling both ways.

There are so many things that can be done and would be achieved if we align our efforts through ANWEP.

About the author

My background and expertise is in science, engineering and business management, holding master degrees in both Engineering and Business Management. I would be focusing most of my writings on the intersection of my background with society and how to leverage them for knowledge, empowerment, interdependence and independence. Of course, the key objective is for discourse and learning from each other and helping our homeland.