Adetola, Durotoye, Adesanya, Other Urges Young People to Step up as Leaders

The need for the youths to engage mentoring in their quest for a better future was part of the resolution adopted at the just concluded networking and discussion session organised by the Founder Of Glitz Group Companies, Adetola Akinola.

The conference, tagged: ‘A Day with DT,’ had in attendance, Founder and CEO of Gemstone Group, Fela Durotoye; former two-time commissioner of Ogun State, Jokotade Odebunmi; and Chairman of the Dr. Niyi Adesanya Foundation, Niyi Adesanya, held in Lagos.

The event provided a rich tapestry of knowledge, focused on redefining mentorship, leadership, and the practical application of wisdom in personal and professional spheres.
Founder of Glitz Group Companies, Adetola Akinola challenged conventional views on mentorship, advocating for a mentee-driven approach.

Adetola emphasized that mentorship should be based on the mentee’s goals and persistence, rather than on the mentor’s age, wealth, or social connections.

This perspective shifts the focus from mere guidance to an empowering, goal-specific relationship distinct from traditional coaching or sponsorship.

Founder and CEO of Gemstone Group, Fela Durotoye brought attention to the often-overlooked power of appreciation.
He urged the audience to become conduits of value by sharing and multiplying the grace they receive.

Durotoye highlighted that approaching mentorship with a mindset of giving and gratitude can be transformative.

He stressed that the most significant gift mentees can offer their mentors is the evidence of their growth and gratitude.

Former two-time commissioner of Ogun State, Jokotade Odebunmi provided invaluable strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome, a common barrier to personal and professional growth.

She encouraged attendees to own their achievements and embrace their imperfections.

Differentiating between humility and fear, she underscored the importance of being open to new opportunities and seeking support to combat self-doubt.

According to her, confidence comes from recognizing and celebrating one’s own accomplishments.

Chairman, Niyi Adesanya Foundation, Dr. Niyi Adesanya offered a pragmatic approach to applying knowledge effectively.
He introduced a success formula that intertwines self-awareness, effective communication, and strategic networking: “What you know, how you express what you know with who you know and who knows you.”

He underscored the significance of both self-knowledge and understanding one’s environment.

Adesanya highlighted four key elements for expressing knowledge: effective communication, creativity, confidence, and collaboration.
His insights noted that “the delivery of our message often carries more weight than the message itself and that creativity and perception management are essential in today’s competitive marketplace.”

The event not only redefined how people view mentorship and leadership but also emphasized the crucial role of effectively applying knowledge.
As attendees reflect on these lessons, they are poised to integrate these insights into their personal and professional lives, leading with integrity, creativity, and resilience.