Every year on my birthday, I pause to reflect on God’s goodness, life’s lessons and my hopes for the year ahead. This past year stretched me in ways I didn’t expect. Some mountains left me breathless, and some valleys brought me to my knees. But through it all—the good, the hard, and the in-between—I’m carrying with me five deep lessons that I hope will encourage you as well.
Do it. Do it afraid. Do it now.
I left AWS shortly after a big promotion. Most people didn’t understand why—and honestly, I wasn’t always sure myself. I wrestled with self-doubt and second-guessed my choices more times than I admit. But a year into building businesses full-time, I now see how small my world was—and how much bigger it has become. I’ve learned things I never knew existed a year ago.
So, if you’re waiting for a sign to start something new— this is it. Explore that dream. Research it. Make a plan. Know how you’ll pivot if it fails. But start. Clarity often comes in motion, not before it.
Growth Hurts (So Does Playing Small)
No one tells you how much learning you’ll have to do when you become an entrepreneur. It’s not just about strategy or execution—it’s emotional intelligence, leadership, finance, branding, failure, feedback, and the humility to keep going when you get it wrong.
It’s not always pretty. But it’s always purposeful. And the version of me that’s emerging? She is worth every lesson.
Kindness has compounding value.
One of the biggest opportunities our business received this year came from someone I was kind to years ago—when she was simply “the social media girl” at a firm we worked with. Today, she’s in a position of influence, and she remembered how I treated her. That moment reminded me: never underestimate the power of decency. Titles change. People rise. And the way you treat someone today might open doors tomorrow.
I still shudder when I hear, “I only speak to the MD,” as if those around the MD will never be decision-makers. Every person matters.
Reputation is currency. Your good name goes where you can’t.
A friend once asked me, “Who has a good name helped?” And I answered, “Me.”
I’ve often wondered whether it’s wise to anchor my work in integrity, faith, and transparency in today’s world. But the answer has been a resounding yes. Over 90% of the projects we’ve closed at PlacidCode and B4B Partners came because people trusted me. Not just my skills—but my character. I’ve learned that consistency, excellence, and values are not outdated. They’re rare—and that makes them priceless.
Writing my eulogy changed me.
It might sound un-Nigerian, maybe even morbid, but this year I wrote my own eulogy. It was sobering. And healing. It helped me get clear on what I want to be remembered for. Not titles or trophies, but how I served God, pointed others to Jesus, and helped people—even in small ways.
That’s one reason I created The Luminary Project—an annual fellowship that walks alongside 20 remarkable changemakers, giving them the visibility, resources, and funding they need to grow the impact they’re making in their communities.
Can I ask for a gift of hope from you?
This year, instead of gifts, I’d love for you to join me in giving hope. When you support The Luminary Project, you’re not just donating—you’re saying to a changemaker, “I believe in you. I’m with you. Keep going.”
Your gift empowers someone working in the trenches—solving real problems, serving people, and building the future we all hope for.
You’re not just giving to a project. You’re investing in legacy. Support our work here: https://www.luminaryaward.com/donate/
As I begin this new year, thank you for being part of my story. For your prayers, encouragement, and love.
Here’s to another year of showing up, staying rooted, and living with soul.
With deep gratitude,
Napa!