My Trip to Lagos

If any of you read my post several weeks ago, talking about my connection with Theophilus Akhimie, who invited me to be a keynote speaker for the Swish Fusion Tech and Media Summit in Lagos, Nigeria (July 11, 2025), you know I was really excited to be a part of such an important event. Not only that, but I was delighted that a relationship Theo and I had been cultivating over several years would lead to such a monumental outcome.

I recently returned from Lagos, and can’t stop thinking about what an amazing time I had. Why? Well, for one, I was in my element, talking about branding with an audience excited to build on their knowledge. Secondly, I got to experience a part of Africa I hadn’t yet visited, and experienced some pretty cool things (I have been to Egypt, South Africa and Kenya). And, finally, I got to watch Theo put on a spectacular marketing event  – an area he is passionate about – with Samsung as a lead sponsor! Back in 2004, I was working with an agency that was hired by Samsung to help them execute the Athens Global Olympic Torch Relay. We carried the Olympic Flame from Sydney to Melbourne to Tokyo to Seoul to Beijing to Delhi to Cairo and Cape Town. This was the first time that the Olympic Flame had gone to Africa, and it was my first visit as well. Seeing the FUSION of my past with the present was a big moment for me.

There are so many great photos, videos and articles to share, but I’ll start with the radio interview Theo and I did for MAX 102.3FM. Not only were the hosts, Debbie and Simon amazing, but they also taught me how to say “how you dey” in Nigerian Pidgin.

If you’re open to it, the world can open up to you. I have met so many amazing people over the course of my career, through my time with Coca-Cola, working on the Olympic Games across the world, and sharing my branding work for my own company at conferences across the U.S. The people I’ve met have changed my life. And, they changed my career. I believe I’m a better person because of those I’ve met in my travels. I’m more open and willing to take chances. And I think those skills carry over into the work I do. I’m open to new relationships and new ways of thinking. Thank you, Theo, Paul Akhimie, Zibi Anani, and everyone who welcomed me with open arms to your country and your amazing event!