Meeting Sir Richard Branson

I had the surreal privilege of spending time with Sir Richard Branson on Necker Island.

I first encountered his story as a little boy, reading Losing My Virginity.

The part where his mother sold her necklace to help him start his first business?

That moved me. I asked my mom to do the same.

(She did.)

Fast forward to today: we played chess, went on walks and hikes, and had some of the most meaningful conversations I’ve ever had — not about fame or success, but about failure, grit, and staying true to mission.

Stories that aren’t in the books. Lessons that will stay with me for life.

We spoke about Nigeria — his time there with Virgin Atlantic, the airline’s rapid rise, and its eventual (and unfortunate) exit due to local challenges.

We traded war stories about building things in hard places.

He listened to mine: from selling candy at 8 years old to launching Nigeria’s first crypto exchange at 21.

He smiled and said, “You’ve got to write a book.”

(I promised I would.)

Of course, we also talked about blockchain, crypto, and the future of finance in emerging markets — where opportunity and innovation collide.

I also got to meet his family — his wife, son, and grandkids. It was wholesome. It was full circle. It was unforgettable.

Before I left his magnificent island, he called me aside one more time

“Promise me you’ll get that book out.”

So… I guess a book is coming soon. 😅📚

Let’s just say, when Sir Richard Branson asks — you don’t say no.

Thank you, Sir Richard Branson.

Thank you, Jimmy Ku, for making the connection.

Stay doing the most🚀

#Entrepreneurship #Crypto #Leadership #AfricaToTheWorld #Gratitude #Blockchain #Virgin #Startups