A Voice for African Innovators: Peace Itimi
She's not just sharing stories, she's influencing the future of African tech.
Hey hey… First off, my apologies for this newsletter arriving a bit late. You see, I have had to convince Peace that there’s absolutely no shame in letting the platform tell her story. It’s like convincing a chef to actually taste their own cooking. Turns out, even a remarkable storyteller sometimes needs a gentle nudge to realize that it’s okay to tell their own story. I guess humility has its downsides, right?
Anyway, this issue is about Peace Itimi, the Chief Storyteller at Founders Connect and the brain behind some of the most impactful narratives in Africa’s tech ecosystem. While her journey from medical biochemistry to digital marketing is fascinating, it’s the impact of her work that truly stands out. She's become this voice for African innovators, telling their stories. And in doing that, she's not just changing narratives – she's shaping the future of tech in Africa. Now that's something worth talking about.
Becoming the Peace Itimi
I remember when Peace was in university, buried in textbooks, studying Medical Biochemistry with dreams of becoming a doctor. The plan? Ace biochemistry, then charm her way into medicine. Simple, right? But, as life loves to do, it had other plans…and honestly, I’m glad it did. When she didn’t get into the Medicine department, she was quite disappointed about it. But instead of throwing a pity party, she threw herself into writing. She started this blog, sharing stories about her life and everything she was learning…because why not become the medical biochemist who blogs, right?
Then came the Google Student Ambassador Program. I remember how nervous she was about making the video application. She didn’t think she had enough tech experience, but that’s Peace…always jumping into the deep end, whether there’s water in the pool or not. And wouldn’t you know it? She became the first Google Student Ambassador at Delta State University, and just like that, Peace was teaching digital marketing to anyone within earshot. She went on to organize training sessions for local businesses around campus, because if you’re going to jump into something new, you might as well drag everyone else along with you.
Her work as a Google Student Ambassador wasn’t just about learning digital marketing - it was about spreading that knowledge in a community that was just starting to see the power of the internet for business. The impact of that work is still felt today, with many of the people she taught now working as marketing professionals themselves.
After graduating, Peace took an even bigger leap. Instead of sticking with biochemistry, she co-founded Rene Digital Hub with a friend, offering digital marketing and content strategy services. Rene Digital Hub didn’t last long as it closed after two years when all of us got full-time jobs, but it laid the foundation for what was to come. By helping businesses embrace digital marketing, Peace played a key role in changing how companies reached their audiences, sparking growth and innovation in a new market.
To keep growing in the tech industry, Peace realized she needed to be where the action was…Lagos. So in 2017, she packed her bags and moved to the city, taking a role at Webcoupers, a digital marketing agency, during her national service year.
At Webcoupers, Peace sharpened her skills, working on campaigns for big Nigerian brands. She was curious and driven, embracing every new challenge, from mastering Google Ads to nailing SEO strategies.
Her next move, to Wild Fusion, really put her on the map. Here, she wasn’t just running campaigns…she was teaching others how to do it. Pretty soon, big companies and institutions started noticing her work. She found herself conducting training sessions for Facebook and the British Council.
Key Takeaway: Sometimes, the biggest opportunities lie outside your comfort zone. Don't be afraid to pivot when your gut tells you to.
She's even taken her skills global, moving to London and becoming an ambassador for Tech Nation. Can you imagine the doors she's opening for African tech on the global stage? Her video on How to get Tech Nation Visa has one of the highest views on subject. Can you imagine how many people are able to access Global opportunities now with the awareness of it?
Peace has continued to champion African innovation on a global stage. Her work as a marketing consultant, fractional CMO, and mentor to startups has opened doors for African tech companies in the international market, fostering cross-border collaborations and investments.
Amplifying African Voices: Founders Connect
In 2020, Peace identified a critical gap: African tech stories were going untold. Her response?
Launched "Founders Connect" YouTube series
Interviewed 80+ African startup founders
Provided unprecedented insights into Africa's tech ecosystem
Created a platform for knowledge sharing and inspiration
You know how we're always talking about the need for more African success stories? Well, Peace is out there making it happen. She's become this incredible voice for our tech innovators, telling and amplifying their stories. Her YouTube series, "Founders Connect," has featured over 80 African startup founders. Again, just think about the impact that's having - showcasing our talent, inspiring the next generation, and changing how the world sees African innovation.
But here's the thing - Peace isn't just talking about change, she's driving it.
Peace is making sure our story - Africa's tech revolution - is told, and told right. Last year, she made a documentary - Innovating Africa - capturing how far we've come in the last 15 years.
Recently, Peace took her message to a global audience at the TED2024 event, where she delivered a compelling talk on the thriving tech startup ecosystem in Africa, particularly in Nigeria. She highlighted how young African entrepreneurs are not only reshaping Africa's economy but also challenging outdated stereotypes through their innovation and ambition. Peace's TED talk has reached audiences worldwide, offering a fresh perspective on Africa's potential and the critical role of its youth in driving economic transformation.
Watch Peace Itimi’s TED2024 talk
The Black Builders Network
Peace's ambitions show no sign of slowing down. Her most recent venture, the Black Builders Network, is an indication of her commitment to fostering community and connection among black professionals and founders globally. This community is dedicated to learning and growing together, facilitating meaningful connections, and fostering a supportive environment where founders can share their challenges and successes. The Black Builders Network also provides access to valuable resources, mentorship, and investment opportunities, and organizes events that keep its members engaged and involved. Through this network, she is creating a space where black entrepreneurs can thrive and build together, further amplifying her impact on a global scale.
Peace's Power Moves:
Identify gaps in your industry's narrative and fill them
Challenge stereotypes through concrete examples of success
Build communities that amplify collective success
What's Next?
Peace believes Africa's tech story is just beginning. She's betting on a future where African startups become the global benchmark. Her story encourages aspiring founders, creators and operators to be intentional about the legacy they are building, to embrace change, to share their knowledge, and to take bold steps in their own paths, knowing that their story can inspire and empower others.
Questions for you: How can you amplify the untold stories in your industry? What narrative are you uniquely positioned to change?
Remember, sometimes the biggest impact comes from simply shining a light on the stories that matter. What story are you telling?