Recently, I had the privilege of speaking to a vibrant group of trainees under the Global Icon Consulting initiative—young, driven individuals preparing to become active global citizens. Our session was more than a class—it was a launchpad for shifting mindsets, challenging shallow narratives, and shaping high-impact, legacy-driven thinking.
In today’s digital-first world, there’s a dangerous myth circulating: that visibility equals influence. That being seen means you’ve arrived. But influence without substance is like a megaphone with no message—loud, but empty.
Two Pillars I Left With Them
1. You Cannot Be Relevant Beyond the Level of Value You Create
Let’s call it out—clout does not equal competence.
If you want to matter in your space, build something that solves real problems.
According to the World Bank (2023), up to 60% of jobs in developing countries are created by small and medium enterprises (SMEs)—many of which are led by value-creating entrepreneurs. In Nigeria alone, SMEs contribute approximately 48% of national GDP and account for 96% of businesses and 84% of employment, according to the SMEDAN/NBS 2022 report.
🚨 Yet here’s the kicker: Only 15% of Nigerian startups survive past their fifth year.
Why? Because most are built for visibility, not value. For applause, not for problems.
“Those who build solution templates don’t just play the game—they own the system.”
If you want long-term relevance, don’t chase virality—chase viability.
Case in point?
Andela, which started by training software engineers in Nigeria, didn’t stop at education—they built a system that now exports top-tier tech talent globally. That’s value that scales.
2. Don’t Just Make Noise Online—Make Sure Your Offline Success Speaks Louder
Social media has become the showroom. But what’s the warehouse behind the showroom?
In an age of digital performance, tangible results still reign supreme.
According to Statista (2024), the average African internet user spends 3.4 hours daily on social media, yet Africa still struggles with a $100 billion infrastructure deficit annually (AfDB, 2023). That tells you something: Real-world challenges can’t be solved with Instagram Reels.
Offline impact is what truly endures. The Edelman Trust Barometer (2024) reveals that 62% of Gen Z trust people with a proven offline track record more than digital influencers. That’s a game-changer for those prioritizing real work over online noise.
“If your impact lives only on social media, you’re not building a legacy—you’re building a highlight reel.”
Whether you’re running a social enterprise, leading a youth group, or launching a startup—your offline wins are your loudest testimonial. Digital buzz fades; community change lingers.
Becoming a Global Citizen Starts With Local Impact
Everyone wants to “go global,” but you don’t export what you haven’t built.
Global relevance is a byproduct of consistent local excellence.
A 2022 UNESCO report on Global Citizenship Education emphasized that youth must be equipped not only with cross-cultural awareness but with the capacity to solve practical challenges in their own communities first. That’s how global icons are born—from the ground up.
Think of global icons like Dr. Ola Brown (Flying Doctors Nigeria) or Fred Swaniker (African Leadership Group). They didn’t build to escape Africa—they built to transform it.
Final Word to Emerging Leaders
To every dreamer, trainee, and future icon:
✅ Don’t just make noise. Make meaning.
✅ Don’t just talk about ideas. Build institutions.
✅ Don’t chase relevance. Create it through value.
✅ Don’t just be seen online. Be felt offline.
Because ultimately—global recognition follows local responsibility.
And true greatness? It’s not about how loud you are…
It’s about how much quieter the world becomes when your solutions start speaking.
Quick Stats & References
- SMEDAN/NBS (2022): 39.6 million MSMEs in Nigeria contribute 48% to GDP.
- World Bank (2023): SMEs create up to 60% of jobs in low-income economies.
- Edelman Trust Barometer (2024): 62% of Gen Z trust proven offline contributors over social media influencers.
- AfDB (2023): Africa’s annual infrastructure financing gap is over $100 billion.
- Statista (2024): Average Nigerian internet user spends 3.4 hours daily on social media.
- UNESCO (2022): Global citizenship starts with local engagement and civic action.
Written by: Tosin Oguntunde
Leadership Strategist | Global Project Manager | Founder, Opportunity Gist