This week, I joined the Google Hustle Academy AI Bootcamp — a free bootcamp designed to help African small business owners grow their businesses. It covers everything from business strategy and sales to digital marketing and pitching to investors. I’ll be sharing my experience each day, starting with today’s deep dive into business strategy.
I thought Day 1 would be all about digital tools and platforms, but instead, it challenged me to think more clearly about how I run my business — and what’s holding me back.
💡 It’s Not Just About Growth — It’s About Knowing What’s in Your Way
One of the biggest lessons for me was identifying the barriers to growth. I hadn’t given much thought to funding before this, but after today’s sessions, I realised that access to funding — and knowing how to pitch for it — could be one of the biggest challenges for my business down the line.
It also made me reflect on how I problem-solve. I usually keep most of my thoughts in my head — the problems, the possible fixes — but today I saw the value of structured thinking. Writing it down, breaking it apart, and looking at it clearly. Simple shift, big difference.
😬 Getting Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable
The hardest part? Speaking openly with my peers about the real challenges in my business. But that’s also where the gold was. I was honestly impressed with the quality of people in the room — thoughtful, experienced, and all pushing to grow. You learn a lot just by hearing how someone else describes a problem you’ve been quietly struggling with.
🛠 The First Change I’ve Already Made
After today, I’ve promised myself this: Don’t leave problems floating in my head. If something’s unclear, I’ll write it down, define it, and work through it like we practised in the problem statement exercises. I can already feel the clarity it brings.
✅ Is Hustle Academy Worth It?
Absolutely. Google pulled together a strong group of people, and the programme content is practical, focused, and tailored to real African businesses. Day 1 taught me that Hustle Academy isn’t just about what tools you use — it’s about how you think.
📍Want to Join Hustle Academy?
The programme is completely free and runs in several African countries. You can find out more and apply at:
👉 https://rsvp.withgoogle.com/events/hustle-academy
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