36. Market Dynamics - Your Business Environment

In business there are always the market leaders and other players working to get a portion of their market share. A company with different services may be a leader with one customer group or service and not with another. It is imperative that if they are to continue being the leader that they are aware of the environment, who the different players are and strategically continually position themselves to provide on the next level of service. This way they dictate the market and the direction it takes especially if they are able to address the customers need. At Elan our core business is to set the trend because if we don’t someone else definitely will...



James drives from the club parking lot after making sure everyone can receive the E-frequency clearly. The following scenes happen simultaneously as the different team members are driving home or are at the club, while using the E-Eye system. Dan is to follow James after the group following on his bike.

James, ‘I am still being followed, well, let’s go to the airport I will join Mark in Abuja tonight instead of tomorrow. Dan you will handle the meeting with Al tomorrow and remember the team is not to be brought up. If possible get yourself sacked.’

Dan, ‘Ok, that guy doesn’t like me much anyway, have a safe flight. We will see where these guys end up. Maria, are the eyes working well?’

35. Team Work

One thing that's continuously amazing to me is the diversity of the different teams at the Elan companies. Though I am the same person, have the same values and vision and the companies are in different ways working to meet this, it, goes to show that a vision is accomplished  by quite a wide range of people and companies. A founders role is really to determine the culture that will work well with the type of business they are in and figure how you can get the best from each team and keep them motivated ...

James drives into the club parking removes his sweater, and then talks to one of his team members Jake. He had put him in the loop when he realized they were being followed. In the past, whenever a thing like this happened, he would notify the The Team and they would gather at this club to strategise. Naturally his guys started moving immediately he they got the message they might be needed. This club was one of their many meeting places. The team had been used twice before to rescue hostages. The first time it was by chance, by the second they had a modus operandi. James checks the recorded conversation with Elan to make  sure everything is working fine, then speaks to another party.

34. Business Models That Work

Business Models define how a business is going to make money and remain sustainable. They determine the scalablility and success of a business. A business model that works with one team may not necessarily work with another team. A business model should not only work for the industry and team to implement it but also for the different customer groups for it to be successful. If the different aspects of the business model are not in sync then the model will not give optimal returns. Often businesses, especially if they are transforming industry i.e.disruptive, will need tweaking several times before optimal performance is achieved...

After Dela leaves Elan explains the situation to James. With the different businesses Elan runs, her senior management have learn to be very conservative of their time just as Elan is. Work life balance has been a priority in the company since from the onset when the company was setup, Elan’s key staff were single heads of families or had little children (often desperate to take a job that was flexible to allow them care for others). Naturally the company’s growth strategy focused on the use of technology and highly qualified freelance staff and multi skilled full-time staff to bring it all together. This meant a lot more was done on typical day as different people worked round the clock from around the world. This resulted in great efficiency. Face to face time was gold. Meetings were short precise to the point and no one lingered to make small talk. If time was a gold ring, family time was the diamond on it. Business is fast at Elan Group because they operate in highly competitive creative industries, use technology and the team has a lot at stake both in their personal lives careers.

33. Right Man For The Job

Everyone has a unique skill they are really good at. As I have grown as a business person I have learnt to focus on getting the right people for particular jobs and often avoid crossing roles. it saves on so much time. It is not that I do not appreciate multi skilled people, my regular staff are all multi skilled team members that can handle several roles in our system. However there is always a time you need an advanced level of expertise to do a specific job fast and efficiently and this is where I often get a special team of people. For a couple of years I paid so much for little loses that came up as a result of inefficiencies in our system and production. Once we got where our problem was, we had experts come in and fix the problem. What would have taken my regular staff a half a year to sort out was done in less than three weeks. They were not the regular guys you would hire. since then 'The Team' as I call them has been growing. ...

Having let her sisters refresh before they meet at her house for dinner, Elan goes to the bar area of the hotel and waits for Dela. It’s been a while since they met each other and they are glad to have some time to chat. The two, having had a close working relationship, had established a routine of briefing each other of their different perspectives on the previous day’s happenings, and business environment. Dela always had the 411 from what their major competitors were dong thanks to her chairing the PA Association. They both have missed their morning talks.

32. No Pressure, No Diamond

True character is revealed under pressure. Different kinds of pressure reveal different character traits. Like diamonds, human beings are so multi faceted. The right kind of pressure, situation or conditions will bring this out. I suppose that is why experiential interviews and other behavioral interviews are increasingly popular. When not under pressure, as in normal day to day life, one can consistently display a certain behavior that would portray them a certain way. However pressure can reveal true character in seconds ...

Until Elan’s comment Tekla had not forgotten or rather tried to forget Mzee and Meline’s conversation on the day their journey started. Now it came back to mind and not so sure what it all meant she decides to confront Meline. It could have been nothing – just Uncle trying to get influence as he normally did but if it was something there could be some gains with this information. She follows Meline to the bathroom. As soon as Meline finishes and is drying her hands she approaches her.

Tekla, tries to be calm but eventually blows up. ‘You know, I did think there was something wrong with the way your dad insisted on you being on this trip. But now Elan said it, it seems obvious, you have a hidden agenda. That is why each time there is someone important around you try to cause a fuss and shut us up. But you know I have been observing you. I also heard uncle talking to you before we left. I may not know what your whole agenda is lakini whatever you are up to, let me tell you usithubutu’

31. People Are Who They Are

When people show you who they are believe them. They say is someone is gossiping with you about someone, chances are they are gossiping with someone about you. This I believe goes for many other things in human relationships; if together you are scheming against someone, chances are they are scheming as well against you. It all has to do with character; leopards don't  change their spots  ...

Elan, ‘I see you have discovered this peppered chicken. Most people talk of jollof but I think pilau is much better. Sfor many other things. However this chicken - This is just out of this World and there then there’s another called suya, basically mshikaki but the spices are slightly different’

They all node in agreement. They had tried suya the evening before going to the party and had loved it. They continue eating, chatting and laughing, Meline so comfortable now that she is almost nice. Finally Elan brings out the elephant in the room that everyone has been asking since Tekla raised it during the family meeting almost a month earlier.

Elan, ‘I must say it was quite a surprise seeing you all yesterday. A beautiful surprise too!’

Meline, ‘We have been wanting to visit for a long time but ...’.

Elan, ‘You too Meline? Meline in all honesty, that statement did not include you. If someone else said that, I would have believed it but you, why are you here? To swindle me once more? Put the final nail in my coffin?’

30. Where You Headed?

There is no favorable wind for a ship going nowhere. Many people don’t know or understand who they are and live from day to day totally dependent on people opinion of them. It makes it hard to not only build networks but make decisions as each person you encounter will have a different view. If you have 50 people in a room and asked each to write their opinion on something, chances are, without hearing others opinion, there will be 50 different opinions, Knowing who you are and what you stand for or want – your personal vision is the first step to being a successful entrepreneur. It gives you direction and a destination  ...

It was a great party, lots of gifts for Mich and Tunu and the grand-parents were more than elated. As usual Leila’s parents stood in for Elan as hers had long past. Her sisters were pleasant to them and the conversation was easy all evening - except for the little incidents with Meline. She eventually blacked out and was taken to the hotel and everyone had lots of fun after.

With all the excitement of meeting after so long, the sisters stayed on late. However given Elan had so many guest and the her newly acquired friends and family felt the need to get to know them, they hardly got time to catch up. Eventually they decided to meet for brunch next day at the hotel and spend the rest of the evening being good hosts.

29. Beyond the Sixth Sense

An understanding of the people around you is important for your success and survival. As a business leader sometimes people tend to tell you what you want to hear not what you need to hear. Pushing them to tell you staff only courses them to withdraw. Before your gut feeling and facts come to play, just understanding your key team members helps with your information gathering or decision making if their opinion is important - not that you want to impress them but so you know what to do where there's disgreement or conflict ...

Elan is having the same dream once again. She is sitting under a tree with fruits. However this time when she picks them and puts them in her basket one after the other they start having worms so she has a basket with good and bad fruit. She screams and throws it and immediately wakes up. She has disturbed Al slightly but he doesn’t fully wake up. She goes to the bathroom, washes her face and heads over to the nursery to check on the babies.

Mich is awake playing with the hanging toys on his bed. He immediately lifts a hand to be carried when his mother comes in. Tunu is fast asleep. Elan carries him and they go sit outside on the veranda watching the day break. She starts talking to him not aware that Al, who has by now woken up to go get Tunu, is at the bedroom door listening.

28. Sense of Urgency

Often when people feel you not doing or behaving the way would like you too, they ask you to take it easy, to go with the flow. I have learnt this is never  an option for a man (or woman) going somewhere. A man with a purpose or goal has a sense of urgency. It could be because they have energy to get things done, know the opportunity will not be there for ever, or just don't want to see another person suffer because they slackened. Whatever it is, you know they are committed because they don't feel they have forever, and this does not mean they are not patient but even when they are, they are doing something. It is a sign of an entrepreneur, of purpose ....

Mzee Zablo has been talking to Shaddy while outside the Governors' House. He is here for a very important meeting the result of which could set the course of his legacy. He now gets out of his pickup, straightens his Kaunda suit and top hat and gets into the house. Mzee Zablo is the son of the youngest wife of Elan's grand father. He was born well after Elan's father, his half brother, had finished college and was looking to get married. Though not quite old, being the only Uncle alive, he is naturally accorded the most respect, thus the prefix Mzee to his name. He does look like a Mzee though, the result of many years of laboring in the farm before he was introduced to easier ways of making money by his nephew, Nadia’s husband Otieno. Currently, the business is not so good so he is on to other avenues – politics.

27. Analysis Paralysis

They say entrepreneurs take risk. That sounds like a gamble. I think good entrepreneurs are just good at seeing an opportunity and analyzing data quickly. Based on whatever information they have, they act fast. If they did not take the time to analyze data they would be taking risk and that would make them gamblers. If they over analyze information on the other hand, they are cowards. It can lead to not making a decision for. fear of failure. I think entrepreneurs, though not gamblers, are brave. They have courage because they are willing to go where others may not have If one is continually looking for more information they may be a good manager but entrepreneurship was never their calling in the first place as it requires often making quick decisions on the fly ….

The party is still on. It is early evening and Shaddy is with his gang in a van parked outside Elan’s compound. They are mean looking guys in official gangster uniform; black hoodies and too much bling. Though the street is practically empty with most of the late arriving guests having parked in the compound, and earlier guests in a common secured parking a block away they are trying to be as discrete as they possibly can. The van is cloudy as they are smoking inside the vehicle with windows closed to avoid drawing attention to themselves. Shaddy’s phone rings. He looks at suddenly and suddenly sits up

26. Your Business Can Only Grow As You Grow

One of the key services I offered as a business advisor was strategy and business plan development services. This was one of the most grueling mindshift processes for entrepreneurs I was advising. Most of the time entrepreneurs feel since a business idea is theirs the development of the plan does not matter as long as they got investors in. They assume they are the person to implement in and they can have majority share ownership. One thing they don’t realize is there is no right to ideas, the circumstances that lead you to think of something applies to millions others. Ideas are common real estate. Implementation is king. Sadly, though those who do not really appreciate the process and develop their plans based on this are rarely able to implement or even attract investors to their business. Reason? Lack of congruence between the business idea and entrepreneur. However beautiful a business opportunity is, it can only be implemented by the person who has grown to the level and complexity of the opportunity....

Elan and her mother-in-law Shamim are playing with the babies as they talk while the party is going on in the garden. They have been good friends since Al got married and she realized he was not going to change his mind. His father took longer accepting Elan but eventually he came round. His brother Sam was eating from her palm from the word go. He had taken a liking to her straight away, probably would have made an advance had Al not been the first to get to know her. The two brothers had a tendency to like the same kind of women. All in all, the animosity that was there before their marriage had completely disappeared which was rather strange to Elan. She would have expected some reservations to continue lingering on but there was nothing of the sort.

25. Opportunities Abound

I believe there is no saturated sector in this continent. Opportunities for business abound every where in our environment. Often they are glaring yet we miss them. Sometimes because we don't know better, other times because we are afraid or intimidated, most of the time because we are living in our own little world. The one thing one can do to open up their eyes immediately is be personable, mingle, talk to people, listen and network ....

It is a few minutes after Al has informed everyone that Elan is fine and will be joining them shortly. He invites their guests, who are now about fifty to the barbecue in the garden. The ladies from Kenya prefer to wait till she comes down despite Al's request that they join him. They are in the living room whispering amongst themselves; so worried and embarrassed. By now most of the party has moved outside

Jenny, ‘That was too much of a surprise. We should have notified - her it’s been too long. 

Meline, not knowing when to stop says spitefully, ‘Oh please, it doesn’t matter. It is the guilt enjoying all this wealth when---’ 

24. 6th Sense

One of the first successful entrepreneurs I had the pleasure of listening to told me about trusting my guts. He was a man. I found this strange because till then, I was made to feel gut feeling was not a good way to make decisions and a sign of weakness or, in sheng, ‘umama'. As it were, I ‘killed’ my guts. But after some major failures I realized my guts had warned me in one way or another contrary to logic or emotion (yes gut and heart are different). With listening more to my gut, aside from facts and back ground checks, my decisions have led to much better results ...

Al is pating Elan’s forehead with a damp cloth after she fainted. Nurse Kate is standing aside after checking for her vital signs and establishing she had just fainted. Elan wakes up after a minute to their relieve. She tries to get up but Al tells her to take it easy.

Elan realizes that this is what her dream meant. Hand on her chest, she mutters The dream! The dream!’

Feeling guilty for having  caused her the stress, Al comforts her, ‘Sorry honey, it wasn’t a dream. Your family is down stairs.’ 

23. Discipline and Self Control

You will fall, how do you get up? Self discipline and especially the ability to control your emotions will give you more mileage than you can imagine. Al is the master of self control. Me, I wear my emotions on my sleeve, a rookie at my best. I know you are surprised. My greatest loses and mistakes happened when I lost control. I am learning to keep myself together. It is not always easy especially when I am surprised but I am better every day at this. No one practises for surprises, but it is not about how you fall but how you get up ...

Elan and Al’s close friends and family are gathered at their home. The garden looks beautiful and everyone is drawn to it, they are talking outside and a few are walking around the garden amongst the well manicured hedges. The gateman, Saeed, is looking outside the gate impatiently. He eventually gives a signal and they scurry inside. Moments later, the reason for the flurry, Al’s car, is driven into the compound. The housekeeper Njeri, cook Mustafa and Saeed all come to the car to welcome their madam. In the car is Al, Elan, Nurse Kate and the babies.

As soon as it stops, Saeed hurries to get the bags. Elan, so glad to be home, can hardly wait for her husband to open the door. Her staff seem to have equally missed her, despite their formal greetings, as required in their training from Al's mother, their big grins show they are likely to have hugged and joked around if Al was not there. 

Saeed, ‘Welcome home Ma’

22. Inlaws, Outlaws and Customers

One cannot avoid being interrupted in day to day operations. Having systems that work, training employees to take on senior roles and learning to delegate is crucial if one is to manage the various interruptions that happen in the course of the day. These are skills that every entrepreneur needs to learn to survive or you will die on the job. I have no problem delegating, but Al, he had to learn it the hard way when each day at work became a nightmare, he finally got the hang of it and delegates with ease though sometimes still struggles and looks over peoples shoulders ...

Al received a call from Dela yesterday evening informing him of the surprise guests in town. This would be the first time he would meet any blood relative of Elan's. He wanted to make a good impression give them the very courtesy Elan would have if she knew they were in town. He had all his meetings cancelled to free up his day for them. Right now he was engrossed finishing the days' paper work before their arrival but the phone rings. He picks it while still preoccupied with a document on the computer. 

Al, ‘ Hello?’

Dela, ‘Elan’s sisters are here.’

21. Schedules, Rituals & Routines

With my busy life and the unpredictability of each day, having a schedule or ritual may look like a dream. However it is a necessity for every entrepreneur. Wherever I go, I stick to my ritual. It helps me stay focused and remain grounded ensuring the most important things are addressed and never forgotten. Al also has a ritual, being an athlete required it, and joining me in business while overcoming his injuries made it mandatory if he was to get back to a healthy life and pull his weight in the organisation. Occasionally our routine is interrupted and this often means we are not as productive or miss out on things  we had planned. However this is rare. I cannot over emphasise how much having a regular schedule, ritual or routine (depending on what word you want to use) has helped me move steadily towards my goals and maintain sanity in this entrepreneurial rollercoaster ...

 It is early morning and Elan's second last day at the hospital. Elan is still in bed. The babies are also sleeping in their cotts next to her they had woken up earlier, around 4 am, after being changed and getting comfortable they went back to sleep. This has been everyone’s routine since they were born. But today is slightly different for Elan: she is not just sleeping early morning but is dreaming. 

In her dream she has a basket and is looking for fruits. She gets tired and finally sits under a tree. She realises it is a fruit tree when she sees lovely juicy fruits hanging down. The fruits hang closer to her so she can pick them. She happily takes her basket and starts picking them. However when she takes one from the basket to eat, it suddenly turns rotten and ugly and there’s a big fat worm. She screams throws it down then wakes up.

20. Home Away From Home

Delighting customers is a part of every business if it is to survive. It is not always obvious what will delight a particular customer but after you have done everything that is generally expected by your target customer, taking it a notch higher requires that you give your team the leeway to make some impulsive decisions that will not influence the bottom line adversely but pleases the customer. Given, some customers will still want to drive you up the wall to proof whatever ...

The ladies arrive at the hotel. It is a small Hotel Apartment – hardly 20 units by the look of it. The Apartment units are set on two blocks behind a 3rd long two story  building that houses the recreational areas; a restaurant, the lounge and a spacious gym above. This third building is the front of the complex so outside guests can also use the recreational facilities. A blooming garden with a large sparkling blue pool separates the recreational block from the residential areas. Being a small outfit with few walk-in clients, the front office staff is limited however the facilities are exceptionally clean and well maintain – obviously the handiwork of a larger efficient back end team. 

Their apartment is beautiful but only has 2 bedrooms. It is decent, actually nice, but Meline, ever fussy, will not pass an opportunity to criticise and so asks for extra beds in the most arrogant tone she can master after the long trip.

19. Corporate Structures and Laws That Govern

Your business structure can enable you do a lot and stay focused or get you no where – even hinder you or keep you where you are. Most people will take any standard copy of the legal documents of a similar business and copy paste on their articles of association. After being duped by my cousin and losing all I had worked for in the first half of my life, I did different this time round. No one, not even myself would be able to dupe me this time round. While my business structure  and the laws governing are stiff on me, they have enabled all my businesses stay focused and continue to benefit all stake holders. Most importantly we have been able to survive economic turmoil that has made larger companies fold up. Strategy is good, structures that support good strategies, very good, entrepreneurs willing to stop their ego interfering, better, partners who support such decision, best ...

Zan continues, ‘He has always wanted to impress him though the things he desires are always the exact opposite of what his dad wants. They have this love hate relationship. He is Chiefs only true son but his half brother has more the characteristics of Chief and is more obedient. Chief hoped he would take over after him, when Uncle passed on the legal documents to me, Chief was going to make him his sole hire but his persistence on marrying Elan changed all that. His father did not disinherit him outright but gave him a condition on how he can get his half of the inheritance.’

He is interrupted by Zippy bringing in their food. They wait for her to leave. After she unpacks the bags and serves the food,  Zan continues talking.

18. Past Collections Helpful Data For Today?

We all collect all manner of data and information as we go through life. Often this is informed by what we need, the situations we go through and the questions we ask. Our desires play an integral part of data we collect. The quality of data we have determines the decisions we make, how well we are able to adapt and how strong we are mentally to handle issues. Ofcourse other biological factors and our genes come inyo play, but an informed person with quality information makes better decisions ...

 It’s a beautiful day. Leila has invited Zan to come over to her shop and see how they can work out her plan to bring Elan and him together. Though Elan’s best friend, Leila is so fixated on bringing the two together even though this is not going to work in favour of Elan’s marriage. This is because Leila's family is closely knit and when Zan brought her home they were elated. 

They had never accepted Nina, Zan’s wife who had ‘accidentally’  gotten pregnant and her bad attitude towards their son and grandson did not help matters. They continued to hope that Elan would one day go back to him and be part of their family officially though in every way they already treated her as a daughter and she as her family in Nigeria. Their breaking up was a big blow for them. Not just because she is a good woman, but because she is the only woman Zan truly loved or even spoke about to his family before the mishap with Nina.

17. Delighting Internal And External Customers

Part of being a good entrepreneur is pre-empting what customers want and allowing your team to dare try new things and ways to impress the customer. Often as startups we are willing to try out new ways to engage the customer but larger organizations tend to become less flexible and stick to processes and procedures that are tested. Thenjoy of working for a startup for most staff is the personal relationships that are built. Staff, should feel free within their authority to come up with new ideas whether this will enhance work relationships and team work internally or impress customers. However sometimes such experiments can  come at a cost – and this should be budgeted before ...

On the other end Olu is trying to get in touch but being a roaming Kenyan number, it does not show on her office line. In her frustration she starts talking to herself and doesn’t realize Dela has just stepped out of her office and can hear her.

Olu, ‘Oooo!, what do I do now! I cannot get Junior either! Can’t get the lady’s number on my phone. Ohhhh this is trouble Oluwaseunbabaralaiyemi! why do you get involved in these things eeehe? Why? This desire to impress Madam always puts you in trouble!

16. Push and Pull Strategies

We spoke about hidden agendas and opportunists. For them to be successful in their objectives they need to be very good at selling - at getting you where they want you to be without raising alarm. This requires push and pull strategies which are not unlike business marketing strategies though often the mastery  can be quite advanced at a personal level. As part of ones personal growth as an entrepreneur, it is important to learn what strategies are available and how to use them smoothly because one is always  selling – It is what life and relationships are about. As the targeted ‘victim’ of a sales process it is not often clear when intentions are for good or bad. Following your gut becomes a very integral part of your interactions and business relations as well. It can save you lots. ...

As luck would have it after dropping his aunties, the van has a problem on the way back. Junior spends the rest of the day trying to fix it and is not able to contact Olu. Mzee Zablo, normally a very stingy man will ordinarily wait until the vehicle is almost falling apart before he replaces anything.  His mantra is ‘Don’t fix anything unless it’s broken.’ So the ladies arrive in Lagos but there is no one to receive them.

Tekla who had wanted them to contact Elan instead of making a surprise visit is the first to speak out – making fun in broken swahili. ‘Heeehe! Tumewezwo!’

15. Hidden Agendas

Whenever people come together for anything, there is the public, known agenda that everyone strives for. In business it could be to make money, cut costs, offer the best service and so on. But there is always the hidden agenda known only to a select few or so personal no one else is aware of it. That is the nature of any place where humans congregate. And the larger the congregation, the more diverse and varied the hidden agendas. And my family is no exception. Such agendas may not necessarily divert efforts from the known purpose of a business, but they are the backbone and reason behind office politics – as alliances are formed to move forward different agendas....

Tekla goes on to her room but the conversation outside bothers her. She would like to confront the two, but is not sure if that would be the right move at this time. Meline’s drunken husband Petro however, has no inhibitions whatsoever. He blurts out, ‘How do you quote the bible to support such evil intentions?’

Hoping no one has heard him, Meline tries to shut him up before he causes a scene. ‘Just be quiet! If you were doing what was expected of you I would not be hatching evil plans as you call them!’ He is about to make a retort but lucky for them, Junior announces:

14. Passion, Self Worth and Fulfillment

I know, you have heard it over and over again. Do what you are passionate about. But what is passion? Westerners view this as something you love to do. I view it as anything that you feel so strongly about that you cannot be still. It could be a thing you love: art, music or beauty. On the other hand, it could be a thing that causes a range of negative emotion - fear, hate or pain: for poverty, a disease and so on. You are as likely to find entrepreneurial success with any but my bet is with the negative. Chances are more likely that you are feeling and filling a glaring need in the market that people will pay for when you address their pain. Finding the delicate balance of how to translate passion, the very core of our personality to business is often a challenge and is key to your growth as an individual and entrepreneur...

Meline, Penrice, Tekla and Jenny are ready to leave for the airport. It has been an exciting two weeks with all the preparations for their travel. While they were all nervous not sure what reception they would get from their sister, they were all excited at the thought of seeing her again.

Elan had always been a very loving and forgiving person. If unhappy she would let you know and move on. No grudges. However, in the last year before she decided to leave she had been aloof. It seemed they had pushed the button too far. Each person had their own perspective of what they could possibly have done to cause such distance but no one for sure knew the hair that had broken the camels back.

13. Culture And Tradition

They say birds of a feather flock together. This is as true about business as it is about friendships. Like-minded staff, partners and clients will be attracted to working together more than those of a different mindset. employing a person of a different mind leads to their frustration. Teams learn and get to do things a certain way. I think the culture at the Elan group reflects a lot of my own values hopes and dreams. I like perfection, and hate getting involved in things I am lousy at. I am clear about what I am good at and though people around me are good at things I am not, they still share the same values. Hey, your whole world can’t be exactly like you are, that would be boring. However there are certain things they better be sharing and when I look at my team I can define that as in one word – excellence. The earnest poise, energy and innovation that go into each project are unquestionable...except those two women who Al referred. 

Now, that was a nice thought but she felt so helpless around them. She was absolutely happy to have them but was so terrified of anything going wrong. They couldn’t talk, all they could do is cry and she wasn’t sure she would be able to interpret their mode of communication. She was no expert in 'Baby'. You don’t become an expert mum or dad just because you had babies. Just like you not an entrepreneur by starting one business. Now a curious thought came to her mind. Was that why Al was suddenly interested in the office more than usual? 

12. Leadership Earned Or Imposed

It is important to understand; you cannot lead people unless they let you. There is no democratic dictatorship. One can force authority in different ways, but even in such situations, if the people have not accepted a leader, it results in a dictatorship. The two words are so contradictory, whoever thought of using one to describe the other? ….

Al, now intrigued by Dela’s change of attitude walks around the table to Dela like a lion circling his prey. However, this is only in his perspective. From Dela’s, she is not prey at all. Al, not fully aware of what could have possibly made Dela corky decides to do some research.

Al, ‘Look, Dela, perhaps there’s something you want. I will make it happen for you. But in all assurance, I will remain CEO of this group and Elan will be busy with the children. Why are you so loyal to her, anyway?’

Dela, ‘Hmmmm! So she doesn’t know you do not want her back after the break?’

Al shakes his head realizing he has given unnecessary information. However, it gets Dela talking.

Dela, ‘It’s obvious you do not know your wife as well as you should Sir. Only a fool would not remain loyal to Elan.’ She goes on passionately with a far off look on her face, obviously reflecting on something Elan did that Al is not aware of.

11. Every Character, Every Move Important

Business, similar to any strategy is a game of chess; Each character on the board is critical and every move gets you closer or further away from your goals. The problem is many people think the game starts when you get into the business, but the truth is, you are always preparing for or playing critical moves. Many also try to separate business, religious and social life, the truth is that your character and success in one will affect your character and success in another simply because in all these areas the most crucial skill is your ability to relate with other human beings – to build networks, negotiate, sell, give and as a result of all this get what you want and need in return ...

Having been asked to step out of Elan’s room, Leila and Zan wait outside at the hospital reception but soon start strolling towards the parking lot. Its approaching midday and the scorching sun makes them thirsty and hungry. Zan suggests they should go get some food and get something for Elan while at it as she does not like the hospital food.

‘What if they release her while we are away’, wonders Leila.

Zan knowingly replies, ‘No they will not.’ His sister frowns at him. What did he go do she wonders? Leila, ‘You seem so sure! wait, hope you did not tell Uncle to keep her there?’

Zan sounding defensive yet equally desperate explains that he had been worried about Elan’s continued exhaustion after the first 24hours and so had Al. When they mentioned this to the doctor, Uncle Kunle had explained the possible reasons for this and asked for extra tests which Al had agreed to. From that conversation, it was likely she would be spending at least the rest of the week in the hospital for her to rest. According to Al, if she went back home, Elan was likely to continue working through her maternity leave instead of resting.

10. Ignorance is bliss

Ignorance is bliss, there are many things I have accomplished that I possibly would never have ventured into had I known the risks and costs involved. Eventually, it has all paid off but that does not discount the difficult journey to getting to where I am. Some things I would repeat because the rewards are well worth it though I did them in ignorance not aware of the full impact of the risk I was taking. These are having my babies at an older age and leaving my country to start a business amongst Nigerians. Both risks were equally crazy and I am thankful and happy I pulled through. Not many are successful with such risks but when your gut and circumstances put you in the right place and you give it your all, providence ensures everything works together for good. Many successful entrepreneurs will tell you after hard work, doing all they knew to do right, providence or luck played a major role. So don't take your success or failures personally ...

Elan finishes talking to Dela and slowly walks to the bed. The doctor shifts his attention to his patient, after checking the clipboard at the foot of her bed.

‘Hello Elan, how are you all feeling?’

Elan is still struggling to catch her breath after the short walk from the window so Leila answers.

Leila, ‘Doc. The babies are fine but my sister here seems tired’

Afraid to be stopped from goinģ home. Elan smiles trying to look better than she feels. ‘Doctor I am fine, I suppose it is just tiredness from the whole process?’

9. Power Games

As you build your business and political networks/ relationships different people will want to be closer to you and have more influence. This leads to office politics and alliances. It is easy to separate influence when the home front and office are separate but it becomes more complex  in a family business. Often when people feel threatened, there's an unnecessary need to compete and with family relationships these are not clearly separated for example when husband and wife work together or with their children and relatives. Threats may be real or imagined and result in office politics or sibling rivalry in the home. This unhealthy competition can be controlled if there’s trust and respect. However, competition isn’t always as a result of mistrust neither is it always negative. Sometimes it brings out the best of us and more often than not births courage, confidence and innovation...

They get into the office - Elan’s office and Al goes to the coffee cabinet. He thoughtfully starts making instant coffee a thing he doesn’t like as he prefers brewed coffee. Finally, he turns to Dela and asks, rather too politely for her liking.

‘Coffee?

Dela, ‘No thanks Sir, just had some.’ She continues to observe his movements. Al finishes making his coffee and sits down while stirring it thoughtfully. He eventually speaks;

‘Dela, how long have you been with us, or rather how long have you worked for Elan?’

Dela frowns, not sure of the direction the conversation is taking. 

Dela, ‘Why do you ask?

Al nodes his head gesturing that he is expecting an answer not another question. Realising this is not exactly a friendly conversation, Dela sits up - if it is possible to straighten her back more than it already is, and answers.

8. Entrepreneur Relationships

Whoever you are there are different levels of relationship you have with the community and people around you. When running a business or in politics, the people around you form the pipelines of resources that you need to grow both as an individual and as a business. A good example in my case is Margaret, my former workmate who though we lost touch practically saved my life and business because we had a good relationship before we parted ways. But people could also serve as the pipeline to your destruction when they are a source of wrong information and toxic networks. Sometimes useful information exists in a toxic person. What does one do then?  ...

Elan is sitting at the window enjoying a light breeze coming through. She still looks tired though prim and proper despite the hospital gown. Her phone rings and as the doctor comes in. Zan goes on to speak to him while she is on the phone.
 
Elan, 'Hey Dela, how is everything going? How did the meeting go?' She is feeling more tired than she was a few minutes ago and loses her breath between sentences. While Dela realises this, whatever she has to say is very important, so she goes on. By the sound on her voice, Elan realises this so though she would rather just finish with the doctor and sit and watch the beautiful scenery, she listens on.
 
Dela, 'Quite well Ma. Mr Ugo let everyone know he will be available to manage operations moving forward'
 
Nothing extraordinary with that thinks Elan, 'Oh that’s good. Did the staff receive the news well?'

7. Too Little Too Late

Did I say Al is reliable? He has never given me a reason to think otherwise. However, you cannot always guarantee anyone's behaviour, not even yourself! This is especially true of men who society has put little expectation on. I have been a student of human behaviour for years now. I often am spot on about peoples reactions and this is good for business. However, Al is different, he pretty much is consistent, that means fewer worries and headaches for me. Being so stable himself, I wonder how he copes with me. My heart and mind rarely move in the same direction - at least not on matters of the heart; and for me, everything is a matter of the heart. May be that is why they never let me know that Zan and he were relatives. Did they also think I was I was still emotionally tied to him? Al is a good man, safe and committed unlike Zan. But again Zan in Nigeria is a very different man from the man I knew in Kenya.

Al unwraps himself from Sadia's arms, 'Excuse me, what are you doing? What are you talking about?'

He is completely lost about what Sadia is thinking. Their relationship had ended months before he met Elan. Though he had helped her get a job at E-group, it was more for old times sake than because he felt anything for her. Her sin was unforgivable as far as he was concerned, or did he make a mistake?

Sadia, 'Al I have missed you, I still care about you.'

Al, flustered and upset takes several steps back.

'So? Look I told you it is over stop this, your, you are a distraction. I am now not just married, I have kids - just KEEP OFF!

6. More Temptation

My interest in entrepreneurship started when the first shipments of yellow maize were sold in my country in the 80s. Many people did not have food yet shopkeepers were hoarding it to sell at high prices and politicians making a killing on relief food. I wanted to be the person knowing where to get the maize and getting it to everyone who needed it freely or at a price they could afford. This thinking was reinforced in high school. It's said, great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people. I never really put this to the test but learnt my lesson early. A classmate asked for my opinion on someone when I gave it she went straight ahead and told the lady. Since then, I figured, a better use of my brains was to analyse business ideas and what skills are needed in executing them ...


At Elan Group, key staff are gathered in E-oval room - their largest meeting room. Staff are talking to each other excitedly as they wait.

Olu, always amazed by her female boss's achievements cannot help herself. She starts the conversation with her two colleagues, Sadia and Gina. 'This lady is lucky o. At her age; fine man, this conglomerate, and now twins! Oh God, bless me like that o!' She lifts her hands in supplication.

Gina, always irritated at the mention or thought of Elan quips, 'What do you mean at her age?'

'Thirties now, eeeeh ... she can’t be a day older than thirty-five!' replies Olu, not sure about Elan's age

5. More Opportunists

Zan for me is one of the most perfect examples of altruistic opportunists. Maybe I was more sceptical of his intentions because we have history, but he generally knew how to take advantage of any situation and come out smelling like a rose. But that is a story for another day. What I knew for sure, very few people can remain selfless when what they desperately want is within arm's length. Then there's the ultra ego or need to impress and simple greed. My family comes in all these shades ...

The meeting in Kenya is still going on. Mzee Zablo calls the meeting to order after throwing his trump card which has pretty much worked excellently. The rest of the meeting goes on pretty much as he had planned except for the wild Swahili girl.

Mzee Zablo, 'ok ok, Yes I mean she is very, very rich. She may not be flaunting her wealth but you can tell from the activities she has been supporting and working on. I sent Musa’s son to check what was happening and he was lucky to get a job in her firm in Nairobi. He has been reporting to me regularly. It is important that we make every effort to restore the relationship with her.'

Nadia, having watched her relatives exploit her father through the years, seems to be the only one with reservations.

'Mzee, ni vizuri unavyosema. Lakini madhumuni si sawa. If we are to mend our relationship with Elan it should be because she is family. Sio eti sababu ya pesa zake - la hasha! Kila mtu lazima achukue jukumu ya jamii yake - we should let her and her family be -'

4. Opportunists

You met the cocktail of characters that is my family. Mix it with Al's family, and we have a bubbly  - a frizzy drink that will explode when slightly shaken....simply because all things remaining equal human beings are opportunists in business and in relationships. If you do not take up an opportunity presented before you someone else will. Just be sure to pick the opportunities that are inline with your intentions and goals.

Leila and Zan are busy with the babies, giggling and laughing. Elan has been talking to Al while looking outside the window. She disconnects the phone, continues enjoying the beautiful view and breeze. Zan notices she is done. Excuses himself and walks over to Elan. He puts a hand on her shoulder.

'You alright?' he asks.

Elan, 'Yes, I - '

Zan, 'You happy?'

Elan smiles though she is still feeling tired. 'Yes, I am. This is what I came to Nigeria hoping for - business, love, family - I got it all! '

Zan, 'Love? Did you really find love with him - they should have been mine you know.' He nodes at the babies and comes too close for Elan’s comfort, she flinches.

3. The cocktail of characters that is family

Meet my family. I suppose it is like any other family. Most families as you know are dysfunctional. I learnt a little late in life that perfect families as with perfect human beings are an illusion. However bad, things here have always been much better than the night I left Nairobi. Then, I thought my heart would never heal. I had been disappointed by everyone I loved and I was broke. Leila my childhood friend made it possible for me to start afresh. No one knew me here, I could walk with my head held high - well almost - though my heart was still sad and broken. Sometimes I thought about my family, especially since I learnt I would be a mother. I wondered if they ever thought about me ... it had been a long road. Not lonely, but long. Often opportunity doesn't come to you, you go out there and find it ... that's what I did then. The general financial situation brings our true nature. When younger I was very idealistic - thought family sticks by you no matter what and that in hard times people would share. However, that is not so, there are self cantered, greedy as well as generous people in each family. The illusion of African extended family is applicable only for the one considered most successful in a group till their season changes....

Elan’s relatives are gathered at the family home. Its a large homestead with six houses round a central play ground where children are playing outside and the older girls are serving tea. Some young men are playing drafts and others are busy on their phones. The homes are semi permanent built of red brick tiles. Three ladies Meline, Penrice and Nadia are taking their tea as they gossip. Chicken and goats roam freely and a cow pen is visible from this central bustle of activities.

Meline, always wanting to show how much she knows and how good she is can't help herself. 'Hmmm! that one! I was the only one she used to relate with in this family. I know her - she will not want anything to do with you guys. If, while she was just here in Nairobi she kept away, now that she is so far away why should she come close? She is very proud ...'  she sneers knowingly.

Penrice, 'He! and I hear Mzee Zablo wants us to go to her ...'

Nadia though having not met Elan in person is concerned at the direction the conversation is taking.

2. Temptations

So my husband left me to go take care of business. I am surprised that he left my side at this moment - especially with his sworn enemy in the room. Normally, Al is like a faithful pet. Whenever I am sick he is all I need. He will do the hospital rounds with me, ensure I take my medication and all that. The business has always been my headache, not his. He comes along to work more to be with me than because of a love for the hustle. In his perspective, 'a man's gotta do what a man gotta do' how I hate that phrase because to him it means he comes to work to maintain the peace! I suppose, like most young men his age, his preference would have been to continue with his football career. Probably be a football coach. For me, business is a lifeline, entrepreneurship my raison d'être. I love the difference each business makes and the jobs created. it started with me being the only employee now we have over 3000 staff and we are creating more jobs ...

Al arrives at Elan group offices still in his casual attire from the hospital. The office premises is as exceptional, as the woman behind its ideas and execution. It is spacious with large windows and exquisite décor. It holds two companies Elan Talent Management and Elan Marketing and Production. As he goes to Elan's office he greets the receptionist Olu and Marketing Manager Gina who were talking at the reception but immediately stop when they see him. They both greet him.

Gina goes 'Good Morning Sir' and Olu, 'Congratulations Sir!'. It is easy to see which greeting resonates with him most as he beams at Olu. One reason Olu is a favourite in the organisation is this, tact. For a marketing genius, Gina doesn't seem to be able to pick even the right greeting for such a beautiful day - the day he became a father!

Al, in his usual flamboyant, all so confident style replies smiling at Olu 'Morning, Thank you Olu. Gina, have you notified the managers of the meeting?'

1. A Dream Come True

I tell this story not because it's over but because my goals and dreams when I left home are fulfilled. It was not an easy road … to highlight a few things, within 24 hours I had been betrayed, lost a child, lost all I had, and to crown it all forced to leave my country. Today is a new day. It is a beautiful sunny morning and now all my dreams have come true. We had spoken about this day so many times, pictured it together so often that I had started living it even before there were any signs of hope. I sit here holding my babies and wondering which of them will want to take over from us as President of this empire we have built together ...

On a beautiful Monday morning, Elan and Al are in a hospital room. Elan is on the hospital bed looking exhausted but happy. Al props up her pillow and lays her back gently. He kisses her forehead, all the time focused on her face for any sign of discomfort or pain. He is casually dressed in a polo and slacks. Elan is in hospital clothes. Just as she gets comfortable, the nurse walks in pushing a trolley bed with two babies, Tunu and Mich the new additions to their family. Both parents beam and Elan stretches her hands to receive her babies.

Nurse,  'Congratulations! Here they are! Just perfect!'

Nurse Kate hands over one baby at a time to Elan. Hands trembling with joy, Elan then hands the baby over to Al and receives the second baby. After ensuring they are alright Nurse Kate leaves the parents brooding over their babies. A few moments later, smiling, they look at each other.

 'You made it happen!' They laugh, amused at how they said the same thing in unison.

'Well, we did it!' says Al