You're supposed to use every unfair advantage you have. Looks, genetics, connections, dad's money, whatever.
There's nothing noble about choosing the hardest path just to feel like an underdog.
I just shared my worst investor story with two co-founders over coffee. I rarely talk about it, and when I do, I normally don't mention the fund. For some reason I did this time.
They both screamed!
The exact same fund did the same thing to them!
Spent a year getting to know our business, came twice to Lagos just to see us, entered a competitive process, signed term sheet. I politely said no to three other firms. Two weeks later they reneged on the term sheet!
With these co-founders it was similar. Spent 6 months engaging them, signed a term sheet, then reneged.
Gave the same reason to both of us - must be their M.O. 😣
Mine was in 2018. Theirs 2026.
My advice to African Entrepreneurs - until the money is in the bank, the deal isn't done. Keep your options open.
What exactly is the definition of life changing money?
Endless supply?
The one that makes you retire on the spot?
The one that ensures you’re not broke ever again based on how you use it?
The one that gives you a launchpad to change your life through your actions?
It took me 8 years of overthinking, burnout, and self-judgment to realize what I’m about to tell you in 2 minutes.
This is how neurodivergent minds - the anxious, the hyper-focused, the “too intense” ones - were never broken: