In an era where technology is rapidly reshaping industries and career landscapes, one truth remains constant: fundamentals matter. That was the central message at the NextGen Konnect 3.0 forum, where thought leaders, professionals, mentors and students gathered to discuss the future of work, the role of technology, and the values that must guide young people as they chart their paths.
According to the keynote speaker, Emmanuel Tarfa, management consultant and CEO of Enzo Krypton, the lack of fundamentals in many spheres is the limiting factor behind many people not achieving greatness or even fulfilment.
He gave a number of real-world examples based on the theme, “using fundamentals to make money.” This effectively framed the day’s conversations, reminding participants that no matter how fast the world evolves, success is built on mastering the basics before layering or chasing shadows.
The Panel Session 1: Evolving with Change and Earning Stripes.
The first panel set the tone with a conversation on resilience, adaptability, and inclusivity. Temitope Akindoyin, Control Room Analyst/Intelligence Reporting Mantrac at Nigeria Limited addressed one of the most pressing questions on the minds of young people today: will artificial intelligence take away jobs?
Her answer was both reassuring and challenging. “AI is not coming to take your job. It is evolving. Therefore, as young people, evolve with it,” she said. The message was clear AI is not a threat but a tool, and those who embrace it will find opportunities rather than obstacles.
Abu-Idris Abubakar, Security Operations Manager, Provisio Global followed by drawing a strong link between success and service. “Pay attention, give it time, and be consistent,” he said.
“You cannot take away failure from success. If you are not serving, you won’t be served.” His words struck a chord with the audience, many of whom are at the beginning of their careers and eager to understand the true meaning of persistence.
For Tanwa Ashiru, success is not an entitlement but something earned. Her advice was simple yet powerful: earn your stripes. It was a reminder that credibility and respect in any industry are built through hard work, discipline, and results.
Finally, Tosan Kusi-Djan Fresh Graduate emphasized the need for inclusivity in all professional spaces. “Everyone should be included. No discrimination whatsoever,” she stated. In an increasingly interconnected world, diversity and inclusion are not optional—they are essential.
The Panel Session 2: Building Skills, Connecting with People, and Finding Purpose.
The second session moved deeper into the interplay between skills, technology, and personal development. Gbenga Sosan Founder & CEO AVZDAX Technologies reminded participants of technology’s role in shaping the modern world. “Tech builds the world. Do not relent, keep pushing until the right person connects with you.” His point highlighted the importance of perseverance, particularly in the tech ecosystem, where opportunities often come through networks and timing.
From a career development perspective, Uche Ogbolu Lawyer and Human Resources Professional drew attention to the balance between technical qualifications and personal attributes. “Yes, your CV is important, but your soft skills take you further,” she explained. “It all starts with a can-do attitude.” Her statement reinforced what many employers already know that attitude, adaptability, and communication often carry more weight than a list of technical achievements.
Seyi Ehinsanmi Country Head of Security at Everty – TeKnowledge added a practical layer to this conversation by urging young professionals to engage more with people. “Interact with people. In your interactions, you get to better understand things.” Networking, he implied, is not just about exchanging business cards but about building understanding, perspective, and trust.
Closing the session, Dr. Cynthia Greg CEO of Safety Signatures tackled an often-overlooked field security. “Security is not boring,” she declared. “Find your niche and win.” In a world grappling with cyberattacks, data breaches, and evolving threats, her words reframed security as a dynamic and rewarding career path.
Mentorship Insights: Michael Boniface on Solutions, Integrity, and Vision.
The highlight of the forum came during the mentorship session led by Michael Boniface, Chief Security Officer, Sterling Financial Holdings Company distilled years of experience into timeless lessons.
He told the audience that “successful people don’t look out for money first.” “They seek out solutions.” His point underscored a mindset shift: money follows value, and value comes from solving real problems. For young people eager to make quick gains, the advice was a sobering yet empowering reminder to focus on impact.
On the subject of security, Boniface was equally clear: “Security is now a necessity. You’re not just protecting assets; you are enabling businesses.” His perspective elevated security from a back-office function to a business enabler a critical insight in an age where data, assets, and reputation are always under threat.
But perhaps his most enduring advice revolved around values and vision. “Integrity is non-negotiable in security,” he cautioned, extending the principle beyond the sector to leadership at large. Without integrity, he argued, no career or enterprise can sustain itself.
He left the audience with a striking quote: “If you cannot picture your future, you cannot feature in it. Prepare today if you want to lead tomorrow.” It was a call to action, urging participants not just to dream but to act deliberately in building their future.
Key Takeaways: Fundamentals, Consistency, Inclusion, Integrity
The NextGen Konnect 3.0 forum made one thing abundantly clear: the future belongs to those who ground themselves in the right fundamentals. Whether it is embracing AI as a tool, persevering through challenges, building inclusivity into professional spaces, or understanding the role of soft skills, success is about combining knowledge with values.
Technology may build the world, but it is people armed with integrity, consistency, and vision who will lead it. And for the young professionals in attendance, the message was both practical and inspiring: prepare today, evolve with change, and remember that the fundamentals are what keep every structure standing.
