Aishah N. Ahmad, CFA, OFR, global finance and governance leader and founder of the Amfani Zhiba Foundation, delivered a keynote address at the recent LinkedIn Local Conference, organized by Emmanuel Nduka and Oladotun Ajayi. The event, run entirely by young professionals, drew an audience of over 3,000 attendees.
Ahmad described the conference as a “masterclass in excellence,” praising the organizers for their intentional attention to detail, diversity, and quality of programming. “I went there to inspire but left deeply inspired,” she remarked.
During her talk, Ahmad shared three key lessons for emerging professionals:
- Reframe the Margins – Being the “only one” in a room is an advantage; it offers a unique perspective others may miss.
- Consistency Beats Conditions – Perseverance through imperfect circumstances, such as studying for the CFA exam, builds resilience and a lasting legacy.
- From Survival to Legacy – While hustle pays the bills, lasting impact comes from using one’s platform to serve others.
She also shared two guiding truths: trust that your work matters, even in the face of cynicism, and maintain integrity, avoiding shortcuts even when resources are scarce.
Reflecting on the event, Ahmad said, “I saw the future in that room — creative, disciplined, unstoppable. Nigeria’s next generation is already building tomorrow.”
The conference highlighted the growing role of young professionals in shaping Nigeria’s professional and entrepreneurial landscape, emphasizing innovation, resilience, and leadership.
