Saying goodbye has always been difficult for me. Growing up, I avoided connecting with people on a deep level because I never wanted to be in the position to say goodbye at some point. Leaving AFG has come with mixed feelings. I remember my first day in the company just like yesterday.  

On the 10th Feb 2020, I took my first step into Management consulting, a totally different path from my previous job. The first thing that struck me was the red-themed office, which seemed really bold and endearing. It was easy to see how AFG was a people company as everyone was welcoming and offered to make my experience in the firm unforgettable one way or the other. 

It did not take me long to settle in. I found myself in an environment where I had to quickly process information and constantly challenge my thinking. My first few PS (problem solving) sessions were the worst. None of my contributions were taken and I became even more stunned at how members of the team were able to come up with intelligent ideas on the spot. This gave me sleepless nights. I found myself reading several management consulting books and watching a lot of tutorials online. In summary, I did my 10,000 hours! After this, I took on several projects to apply my new skills and continue challenging myself. 

I would never forget the time I got my first co-sign. I was building a deck with one of the partners and I had just sent in my deliverable. 2hrs went by and I had not gotten feedback so I followed up. The response I got back from the partner marked the beginning of a new era in my career. The partner had shared the deck with the client and did not think we needed to change anything. In other words, my deck was the bomb and it could not get any better. 

This was how I learnt my first lesson at AFG; Never Give Up. Knowing this and my new found confidence led me to take on bigger challenges. Over the past 2 years, I have been exposed to a wide variety of people all over the world, opening up endless opportunities for my development. AFG has made me believe that anything is possible if you are willing to dream crazy, have an air tight plan and be disciplined enough to follow that plan. 

As I take on the next step in my journey to contribute to Africa’s development, I would continue to embody AFG’s values and carry on the lessons I have learnt. As we build the continent together, I want us to always remember this; “vitória é certa”, which means Victory is certain. AFG is just getting started and the growth is going to be astronomical. 

I want to use this opportunity to thank everyone who has contributed directly or indirectly to “Project Ola”. Till we meet again friends, family and loved ones 🙂