The World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) recently released the 2025 Global Innovation Index. This index ranks innovation clusters, which are cities or regions, using three signals of density:

• Inventors, measured by PCT(Patent Cooperation Treaty) patent applications
• Scientific authors measured by publications
• Venture capital deals measured by startup financing activity — a new metric

Interestingly, The top 10 clusters alone account for about 40 percent of global PCT filings, 35 percent of global VC deal activity, and 15 percent of scientific publications worldwide. This concentration suggests something simple. More invention plus more startup formation in a single place tends to lift a cluster’s rank.

My writing today is to give a breakdown of what this report holds and surface the key insights.

Invention drives innovation

Shenzhen–Hong Kong–Guangzhou(1st) and Tokyo–Yokohama(2nd) are neck and neck for the number one spot. A common thread is their global share of patenting. From the report a conclusion was made that nearly one in five PCT applications filed worldwide comes from China and Hong Kong or from Japan. This just shows that when inventors are concentrated, everything else follows.

London’s leap and the VC advantage

London jumped from 21st (last year ranking) to 5th (Thanks to the VC metric). I see venture activity doing a lot of the lifting here. London’s share of global VC deals is high, which shows up in the new methodology. Capital finds teams, teams ship products, and the ranking moves.

Tel Aviv also climbed from 30th(last year ranking) to 19th, clinching a spot inside the top 20. On both PCT filings and VC deal flow, Tel Aviv outpaces cities that still sit above it in the table, such as Singapore and Washington.

In the country ranks, China leads with 24 clusters in the top 100 this year (2 less than last year). The United States follows closely with 22(+2 compared to last year). Compared to last year, the top US cluster moved up the table. The inclusion of the VC metric in this year’s ranking has narrowed the gap between both countries because it rewards the scale and speed of startup financing.

The United Kingdom keeps pace with India on the number of clusters in the top 100. Manchester joins the list at 94th, even if it still trails India’s leading hubs. With VC now part of the ranking methodology, some Asian clusters, with the exception of India and Shenzhen–Hong Kong–Guangzhou, slide a little compared to the older, VC-free method. A similar effect appears across parts of the EU where venture markets are thinner than in financial capitals like London or Singapore.

Africa and LATAM are under-represented

Only one African cluster made the top 100. Cairo(Egypt) ranks 83rd, up from 95th last year, which is a strong sign of growth. Si-Ware Systems and Cairo University are notable leaders among PCT applicants and institutions respectively, driving innovation growth in the cluster.

In Latin America, São Paulo appears at 49th, which keeps the region mostly outside the top 50.

From the index table(see below), the pattern is clear. Many African and LATAM clusters show decent VC and publication activity, but they lag on PCT filling. The missing link is turning research output and technical know-how into protectable inventions at scale.

Conclusion

The new methodology now favours countries with entrepreneurial(startup) progress by including the VC activity metric, more clusters who have less research output but more VC activity will be gradually introduced in the top 100 in coming editions. I still have a long way to go in the publication, I will be sharing more insights as I dive deeper. Thanks for reading.

Note: figures and ranks referenced here come from WIPO’s Global Innovation Index 2025 cluster chapter.

Checkout the Top 100 innovation clusters(2025) below.

A recent Microsoft-backed study has listed the top 40 jobs where artificial intelligence (AI) is already performing a large part of the work. These roles were selected using what the researchers call the AI Applicability Score. This score looks at how often AI tools (like Copilot) are used to perform job tasks, how well they complete those tasks, and how broadly they apply across the responsibilities in each role.

In short, the higher the score, the more of the job AI is currently capable of performing.

For example, interpreters and translators are at the top of the list. According to the study:

“Interpreters and Translators are at the top of the list, with 98% of their work activities overlapping with frequent Copilot tasks, with fairly high completion rates and scope scores.”

That means almost all the core tasks of this profession are being attempted and completed successfully by AI tools today.

This information is not intended to cause panic. It offers insight into how work is evolving, and how different roles are being affected. Below, the 40 occupations have been grouped into five broad categories to make the implications clearer.

1. Language and Communication Roles

Interpreters and Translators, Historians, Writers and Authors, Broadcast Announcers and Radio DJs, Technical Writers, Proofreaders and Copy Markers, Editors, News Analysts, Reporters and Journalists, Political Scientists, Archivists

This group contains some of the highest-scoring jobs on the AI applicability scale. The average score across these roles is 0.83, meaning AI tools are currently capable of handling a large portion(≥83%) of the tasks typically associated with them.

These roles involve a lot of writing, reviewing, or translating, tasks that AI tools are already handling in many work environments. From drafting content to translating text or checking grammar, AI is often being used to speed up or automate large parts of the process.

For professionals in these fields, one option is to shift focus from creating every piece manually to guiding the process. However, the changes in these roles may also affect income levels, demand, and the nature of the work available.

2. Customer Support and Public Interaction Roles

Customer Service Representatives, Telephone Operators, Ticket Agents and Travel Clerks, Sales Representatives (Services), Hosts and Hostesses (Restaurant, Lounge, Coffee Shop), Concierges, Telemarketers, Demonstrators and Product Promoters, Counter and Rental Clerks, Switchboard Operators (Including Answering Service)

AI is increasingly being deployed in customer-facing roles through tools like chatbots, virtual assistants, and voice recognition systems. These technologies are now able to handle common customer requests, manage bookings, and respond to basic sales queries without the need for human intervention.

This trend is already shaping workforce decisions. In a recent move, Atlassian announced the layoff of 150 employees, many of whom were in customer support functions. The company stated that these roles would be largely replaced by AI tools, which they believe can now handle a significant portion of customer service operations.

However, the shift is not complete. While AI can manage standard and repetitive interactions, more complex issues still require human involvement. Context, tone, and emotional understanding are critical in many service encounters, especially in settings where communication is not just about information, but also about building trust.

In Africa, there are added layers of complexity. Many widely used AI language models do not yet support the full range of African languages or dialects, limiting their effectiveness in local customer service contexts. This creates a temporary buffer against widespread replacement. Cultural sensitivity, knowledge of local norms, and the ability to switch between formal and informal communication styles remain essential in many parts of the continent.

The role of AI in this space is growing, but its success still depends on how well it can be adapted to the linguistic and cultural realities of each market.

3. Clerical and Data-Oriented Jobs

Brokerage Clerks, Statistical Assistants, New Accounts Clerks, Data Scientists, Library Science Teachers (Postsecondary), Business Teachers (Postsecondary), Advertising Sales Agents, Public Relations Specialists, Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists

These roles involve structured, repetitive tasks, which AI handles particularly well. Based on the report, in the top 40 jobs, this category has an average AI applicability score of 0.77, meaning AI can already perform around 77 percent of the core tasks.

Jobs like statistical assistants and brokerage clerks are especially affected, as AI tools now sort data, generate reports, and support analysis with little human input.

To stay relevant, professionals in this field may need to shift from data entry to data interpretation. Skills like analysis, data visualisation, and decision-making will be more valuable as AI takes over routine work.

4. Teaching, Research, and Knowledge-Based Work

Farm and Home Management Educators, Management Analysts, Economics Teachers (Postsecondary), Personal Financial Advisors, Geographers, Mathematicians, Business Teachers (Postsecondary), Library Science Teachers (Postsecondary)

AI tools are gradually finding their way into educational and research environments. They are being used to generate summaries, draft teaching materials, and support decision-making. These tools can be helpful in reducing routine workloads, allowing educators and researchers to focus more on higher-level tasks.

However, adoption remains cautious. The average AI applicability score for this category is approximately 0.72, which means AI is currently capable of performing about 72 percent of the tasks associated with these roles. One reason this score is not higher is the resistance within many academic institutions to fully embrace AI. A common concern is that frequent use of AI in classrooms and assignments may weaken students’ critical thinking skills.

This concern is supported by recent studies showing that students who rely heavily on tools like ChatGPT for writing assignments tend to engage less in analytical thinking. Many educators are wary of allowing AI to become a shortcut that undermines learning.

To address these concerns, developers are introducing tools that promote active learning rather than passive answers. For example, ChatGPT’s Study Mode guides students step by step through problems using scaffolded responses and interactive prompts. Instead of giving instant answers, it encourages reasoning, helping learners work their way to a solution.

As AI becomes more integrated into education and research, the role of professionals in this space may shift. Rather than focusing primarily on delivering content, educators and researchers may take on more of a facilitative role by mentoring students, encouraging critical dialogue, and shaping the learning environment. AI may assist with routine tasks, but the need for human oversight, interpretation, and context remains essential.

5. Physical and Creative Roles

Passenger Attendants, Web Developers, Models, CNC Tool Programmers

Although these roles often involve physical presence or creative judgment, some aspects are still affected by AI. For instance, AI tools now assist with website building, layout suggestions, and even automated safety alerts.

The level of disruption varies, depending on how structured the task is and whether it can be turned into software or digital systems. Physical presence and hands-on experience remain important, but the use of AI as a support tool is growing in these professions too.

Key Risks and Considerations

One clear risk from the report is that some roles may experience a reduction in demand or see significant changes in job content. Tasks that were once manual are now being handled by systems, which could affect income, hiring, or required skill sets.

Another risk is assuming that this change will happen slowly. The study is based on current usage, not just predictions. AI tools are already being used to carry out key functions in many roles.

How to Respond

This does not mean every job is going away. But it does mean the nature of many jobs is changing. Here are a few practical ways to stay adaptable:

1. Learn AI tools used in your field: Becoming familiar with basic AI tools can help you stay productive and informed.
2. Focus on skills AI cannot easily replace: This includes judgment, critical thinking, relationship building, and local knowledge.
3. Take on a supervisory role: Where AI is doing the task, your role may shift to checking, reviewing, or directing it.
4. Adapt continuously: As work evolves, new opportunities will appear, but they may require a different set of skills. Be open to learn quickly.
5. Stay open to transitions: Even if your current job changes, related roles may open up that use your experience in new ways.

Conclusion

The Top 40 Occupations with the highest AI applicability does not predict the end of work. Rather, it shows which professions are currently seeing more overlap with what AI tools can do. In some cases, that overlap is high enough to raise concerns. In others, it simply points to the need for new approaches.

For professionals in Africa and beyond, the important step is not to fear AI, nor to depend on it blindly, but to understand where it fits into your industry and what that means for your career planning.

Change is happening, and awareness is the first step toward adapting to it. According to the future of work report, AI is projected to displace 92 million jobs by 2030, while also creating 170 million new ones. The question is, will you be replaced or prepared?

South Sudan is the world’s youngest nation, having gained independence from Sudan in 2011 after decades of conflict. Unfortunately, shortly after this “hard-won” freedom, a civil war erupted in 2013. The fighting eventually led to the formation of a temporary resolution known as the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity. This arrangement saw leaders from various factions sharing power, with one president and five vice presidents currently at the helm. I won’t delve deeply into the political intricacies, as they are complex and I lack comprehensive knowledge of the situation. However, it’s clear that the potential for chaos looms during elections or in the wake of a leader’s demise.

Now, let’s shift our focus to my observations of the country. South Sudan is a developing nation undergoing rapid change, primarily driven by external funding and foreign investments. With about 75% of its population under the age of 30, sectors like hospitality, banking, and construction appears to be major economic drivers. The country is also endowed with crude oil — a blessing or a curse, depending on the narratives of mineral exploitation in Africa you are aware of.

Yet, despite these opportunities, South Sudan faces significant economic challenges. The economy is in decline, with soaring inflation eroding the value of the South Sudanese Pound (SSP) and diminishing its purchasing power. As a result, many transactions are now conducted in U.S. dollars, underscoring the “Zimbabwelisation” of the economic situation.

Internally Displaced Persons

War brings zero benefit, only to displace countless individuals. In South Sudan, the repercussions of the civil war has un-housed over 2.2 million people internally, with an additional 2.2 million refugees from neighbouring Sudan(UNCHR, 2023). This situation has created a significant migration and humanitarian challenge. In 2024 alone, South Sudan has received about $999.5 million in humanitarian aid, aiming to assist 5.9 million out of the 9 million individuals in need(Humanitarian Info, 2024). During my visit to an internally displaced persons (IDP) camp, it became evident that despite the substantial funding, there is still a tremendous amount of work to be done by humanitarian organisations.

Displaced Men, Working Women, and Slave Trade

Recent studies have shown that South Sudan ranks second in East Africa for gender-based violence (GBV) prevalence(UNFPA South Sudan, 2023). For this piece, however, I will focus on my personal experiences and the stories shared with me during my time in the country. Many men in South Sudan exhibit a strong sense of entitlement rooted in cultural customs that designate them as the primary decision-makers and heads of the household. While I was working alongside a female colleague to train a group of South Sudanese on a digital tool for GBV response, we encountered little behavioural changes from the local GBV response staff. The men reacted strangely to my female colleague’s authority, feeling insulted by her role as a trainer. Some even (among themselves) inquired about her marital status and how many cows it would take to marry her.

In the IDP camps, the stories became even more harrowing. The prevalence of GBV incidents is alarming, with reports of assaults occurring even within marriages. This includes issues like child marriage and economic violence. Customarily, any salary a working woman earns is often handed over to her husband. Many men justify their dominance by claiming that they have paid dowries, which they believe grants them “ownership” over their wives. If a woman wishes to leave the relationship, she may be pressured to return all the items that constituted her dowry, which can range from 20 to over 500 cows depending on her height and family background.

To combat intimate partner violence effectively, I believe dowries should be abolished. No one — neither women nor men — should feel shackled by customary demands when seeking to exit a relationship. Marriage should not be a debt transaction but rather a mutual commitment between two consenting adults. In this 2010 article by the Sudan Tribune — The ugliness of excessive dowry in Southern Sudan — It discusses the excesses of violence that follows the excessive dowry prices and forced marriage in South Sudan for both men and women. While it will take more than just an article to dismantle this deeply ingrained tradition, acknowledging its implications is a crucial first step. Like in Nigeria, some modern households have adopted a progressive approach to dowries. During the introduction or engagement, the groom may present gifts to the bride’s family, but on the wedding day, these items are returned to the couple. This act symbolises the start of their new life together and reinforces the idea that their female child cannot be bought. While abolishing dowries alone won’t eliminate intimate partner violence (IPV), it’s a step worth considering.

We All Need to Re-Learn

Significant funding is currently directed towards equipping and educating women on practices to protect them from gender-based violence, Women economic empowerment and Post GBV health care. However, it is crucial to recognise that men also require education and empowerment. They need to undergo a process of re-learning and unlearning many ingrained behaviours. We have the opportunity to redefine these traditions for the betterment of our current lives and that of future generations.

As we work to transform societal norms, we can become the forbearers of a new era that values respect, equality, and mutual understanding.

Tackling GBV with Tech: Just Build What Matters

In my not-so-short journey of helping global teams combat gender-based violence (GBV) through technology and modern innovation, here’s the one takeaway: it’s simpler than you might think. No one cares if you build your solution with no-code, low-code, or full-code. The real goal? Solve the problem, save lives.

When it comes to GBV tech, two things are crucial: confidentiality and accessibility. Your tool needs to be as user-friendly as possible for people with low or no technical skills — no steep learning curves, just a smooth experience. And when it comes to privacy, keep users’ data locked down tight. In fact, even you, the programmer, shouldn’t have access to their personal details. The best tools protect users and make help easy to find. So don’t overthink the codebase; just focus on building a solution that makes a difference.

References

1. UNHCR South Sudan Situation Report 2023 — https://reporting.unhcr.org/operational/situations/south-sudan-situation.
2. UNFPA South Sudan — South Sudan ranks second in GBV prevalence rate in East Africa — a new study indicates — https://southsudan.unfpa.org/en/news/south-sudan-ranks-second-gbv-prevalence-rate-east-africa-–-new-study-indicates.
3. Humanitarian Info — South Sudan Financials — https://humanitarianaction.info/plan/1157/financials.
4. The Ugliness of Excessive Dowry in Southern Sudan — https://sudantribune.com/article35895/.

Lately, it feels like I’m one of the last few people who aren’t making video content. Sure, I consider writing a form of content creation, but TikTok fans would probably disagree. And honestly, it looks like video creation is where the money’s at. I mean, skit makers churn out a few videos and suddenly, they’re driving a Benz. But what can I do? I’m no comedian(or what ever they call what they do).

Writing is my thing, and to be honest, I’m a bit camera shy. But it seems times are changing — even big shots like Dangote are jumping on the content creator bandwagon(with the way he complains every few days). I remember seeing Tony Elumelu drop random videos on Twitter every couple of weeks. The digital economy is booming, having a stake in it can benefit both career and personal growth.

Here’s what I have decided to do:

1. Stop Overthinking: I actually have to not give a f*ck. One of my biggest hurdles has been worrying about my “steeze”. But let’s be real, worrying about “steeze” (or anything at all) doesn’t pay the bills.

2. Focus on What I Know: I can’t talk about politics or marine engineering — I don’t know enough about those topics. But I can create content about my writing, my tech background, and my experiences in the humanitarian sector.

3. Consider Going Faceless: I’ve seen plenty of motivational videos that use just text and voiceovers, or clips from interviews and movies patched together to tell a story. Maybe I don’t have to show my face after all.

4. Avoid Podcasting with Friends: If I decide to start a podcast, I should probably avoid involving my friends. Our group chats are already full of things we can’t defend in court — imagine the chaos if we were given microphones!

At the end of the day, everything starts with writing: from content ideas to scripts to storylines, every content creation process begins with writing. And I’m lucky to have that skill on lock.

I’ve spent too much time overthinking what to create, how to create, and why I should create. The truth is, I have everything I need to start. I just need go numb and create — no matter how it turns out.

By the way, how much is a tripod and ring light in your area? Asking for a friend 😉

It’s no secret that I “Japa’d” — I took the opportunity to spend time abroad, detox, and experience life in a developed country. However, one thing becomes clear, whether quickly or slowly: there’s no place like home. I wrote briefly about my experiences here — We All Bleed Blood.

I’m not here to debate whether it’s better to leave Nigeria for school or work, or to persuade anyone to stay or go. This is simply about my personal experience. One thing I learned from my travels is that traveling broadens your mind and prevents limited thinking. I wish more Nigerians had the opportunity to travel to other countries, whether within Africa or to other continents. Then they would realise that the problem isn’t our currency — it’s us.

Nigerians often have a “you love it so much, you have to let it go” relationship with their country. I experienced firsthand what it’s like to Japa, and it’s not … as sweet as it might seem. I was fortunate to have a job that required my presence on-site, providing me with enough income to survive (it’s way worse for students, no thanks to FX rates). The most challenging part of Japa is starting a new life: making new friends, getting used to new food, new traditions, new laws, finding a job. These might seem like normal survival routine, but no one fully talks about the loneliness that comes with doing all of these, most times at once.

You must keep yourself alive by communicating with people, visiting new places, and socialising, all of which cost money. Abroad money is sweet if you are not paying abroad bills. People talk about how much they make in developed countries, wait till you hear how much rent is or food not to mention TAX. As an only child and a natural loner, I was used to being on my own, with few friends, and the comfort of my parents nearby. While away, I had no control over that. Socialising becomes an obligation, and it can really mess with your mental state. This is something that’s hard to explain — only those far from home truly understand.

True Friends

Want to know your true friends, leave the country. People who have aired you for years, will text just to “check up on you”, lmao. You will also see the true reality of those in the abroad that “flex” on other people at home. Nothing will amaze you again, I promise. Also it might change you, you might see people who have zero intentions of exploiting you as leeches, your emotional guard will be up 24/7. I am not a saint either, I ghosted some (good) people, ended some relationships, and let time take its toll on others. Some days, I was exhausted from always being the one to reach out. Your new life abroad may leave you with little time for old friends, as establishing yourself in a new place is a monumental task but time is limited. The smaller your friendship circle, the tighter it can hold against distance and time difference.

The Sun is Our Body’s Solar Power

I never knew the sun could be a source of joy! You might think the sun in Nigeria is overwhelming, but wait until you go weeks without seeing sunlight — your melanin-rich skin will definitely feel it. I always thought weather-related depression was a problem specific to the Western world, but I was shocked when I almost experienced it. When the weather is freezing cold, going out isn’t enjoyable. You have to wear heavy winter jackets or fleece and focus on keeping warm. If you don’t smoke, be prepared to drink plenty of hot water. One of my Ghanaian friends told me one of the ways to mitigate the seasonal depression is Vitamin D supplements. According to her, melanated skin require sunlight (Vitamin D) to produce melanin, and a deficiency in this can affect our mood, leading to feelings of gloominess and depression.

My 2 cents

If you want to leave, do leave, but do it at your own pace and not under pressure. There are actually a lot of opportunities out there, short term, long term, paid or unpaid positions that can sponsor your travel.

For me, I’m back home, learning a new UN language and working remotely. I plan to document my journey from start to finish, maybe even vlog a bit. Another minute I might be away, taking on new adventures. Time will tell.

What I am about to share is straight from my personal investment rollercoaster. I have had friends asking me questions about how to dip their toes into the investment pool, especially as Nigerians earning a moderate salary, or aspiring to build wealth in this inflation-stricken country. While I am no Wall Street wizard, I can definitely spill the beans on my experiences and give you a few pointers to get you started. So, buckle up and let’s take a look at the world of investing from my lens!

Investing is a common trait among wealthy individuals worldwide. While popular traditional paths to wealth in Nigeria include; politics, music, sports, entrepreneurship, religion, banking/finance, medical field, and more recently, tech, there has been limited information about investing. The common belief is that excelling in any of these fields guarantees wealth, but the reality is more nuanced. Understanding investing is key to sustainable wealth.

Basics of Investing in the Stock Exchange

To start investing in stocks, it’s essential to understand some key concepts:
1. Stocks: Stocks are financial securities that represent part-ownership in one or more companies. When you buy a company’s stock, you become a shareholder (KotakSecurities, 2023).
2. Shares: A share is the smallest denomination of a company’s stock. So, each unit of stock is a share, and each share of stock is equal to a piece of the company’s ownership (KotakSecurities, 2023).
3. Dividends: Payments made by a company to its shareholders from profits. See it as a “thank you” gift from the company. It is crucial to note that not all stocks provide dividends; this varies from one company to another.
4. Indexes: Groups of stocks from different companies, combined to spread risk.
5. Stock broker: a person, institution or platform that facilitates your transactions on the stock exchange. They can also offer market insights and recommendations on which stocks to buy or sell.
6. Stock Split: A stock split is like cutting the big pizza slices into smaller ones. If you had one of the big slices before, after the split, you’ll have two smaller slices. You still have the same amount of pizza, just in more, smaller pieces. In the same way, a company might split its stock to make the shares more affordable, but you still own the same total value, just in more, smaller shares.

Getting Started as a Nigerian Investor

Investing in Nigerian Stock Exchange
The Nigerian Stock Exchange (NGX), regulated by the SEC, lists all publicly traded Nigerian companies like MTN NG, Total Nigeria, GTCO, and lots more. You can either use Institutional stock brokers like Chapel Hill Denham or invest directly through investment apps like InvestNaira, Wealth.NG, and Bamboo. These apps allow you to fund your wallet, buy stocks and manage your portfolio easily.

Investing in Foreign Stocks

The US stock market is popular due to its many internationally renowned companies such as Apple, Meta, Nvidia, Coca Cola, and lots more. Bamboo is a notable app for Nigerians to invest in US stocks. If you are also a frequent traveller or a Nigerian residing in another country, find out about the stock exchange market in your country of residence and laws guiding foreigner investments, and get your self acquainted with the system.

Investing in a dollar-backed market as a Nigerian often feels like a double win. Why? Because converting your Naira to dollars offers some sort of protection against inflation. Since the Naira is usually compared to the dollar on the foreign exchange market, and local prices are judged by the dollar’s value, your Naira deposit can actually increase in value if the exchange rate rises.

Long-Term Commitment and Fractional Investing
Investing is not a get-rich-quick scheme. It’s about delayed gratification and long-term growth. Also, you don’t need to be wealthy to start; You can buy a slice of a share. For example, a company is selling a unit of share for $200, but you only have $5. With your $5, you can buy 2.5% of the single share, so you own a slice of a full share. Half loaf is better than none, right?
You can start with this and continue investing in the same company until you have the total amount of a share. With the fractional share, you will still experience gains or losses on the shares. For instance, if the unit price of the stocks later rises after your $5 purchase to $250, then your slice is now worth $6.25(2.5% of $250).

Dollar-Cost Averaging

Dollar-cost averaging involves investing a fixed amount regularly, regardless of the stock price. This strategy can lower your average cost per share and reduce the impact of market volatility. Think of it like a subscription service: you invest consistently, irrespective of market fluctuations.

Investing in Stocks vs. Other Investment Products

Sure, there are plenty of other investment options out there that promise a fixed annual profit. Take PiggyVest for example, offering a cozy 10% ROI per annum on your investment. Should you overlook these in favor of diving into the stock market? Well, it all boils down to your “Risk Appetite.” If what you’re investing is your hard-earned life savings and you crave some form of guarantee, then fixed investment products like treasury bills and fixed deposit accounts might be the better bet. I always say, if you can’t afford the possibility of loss, don’t invest it into the unpredictable stock market.

Knowing What to Invest In

When I started, I invested in a lot of companies just because it was cool, saying “I am a shareholder in these big companies” and also out of fear of missing out. Well, a lot of my money got burnt, yielding zero profit. Now I have a very tailored approach before investing in a company, but for you, I will just give a few tips to hit the ground running as you embark on your investing journey.

1. Invest in a sector you have knowledge about: It’s best to invest in a company or industry you have background knowledge of, so you can identify when the company is making the right innovations or falling behind other competitors. Knowledge here is not limited to what you know but also what you understand, including information or news about the company. You have to understand the sector you are investing in.

2. Understand numbers: This is also part of the first tip. You have to understand sale agreements and the metrics the sector uses to achieve success. For instance, social media companies use the number of users and ad profit as major metrics to indicate success or failure, so a decline or increase in those metrics can make or mar the company’s share price. Later on, when you get in-depth in investing, you will need to understand the company’s financial sheet for the year-in-review to understand the company’s profits, and losses before and after tax, to see if the dividend you received is fair enough and if you would like to continue investing in the company.

3. The management of the company: Do your research on who is in charge of the company and their management tactics. A poorly run company is a failed one, so be on the lookout.

4. Trends: Watch the company’s growth over the years to understand the risks involved when investing in such a company and how volatile their prices move in the stock market.

5. As a newbie in the investing circus, avoid crypto for your sanity.

Conclusion

With these fundamental concepts and strategies, you can begin your investment journey confidently. Remember, investing requires patience, research, and a strategic approach. The more informed you are, the better the decisions you make. Always stay updated and seek professional advice if you’re ever in doubt. The best way to learn? Start with what you have!

Platforms I use

1. Bamboo for Investing in the US Stock Market.
2. InvestNaija by Chapel Hill Denham for Investing in Nigerian Stocks.

Resources I found useful when starting my investing journey

1. How does the stock market work — https://youtu.be/p7HKvqRI_Bo?si=ujHGp0mNX_tbAZA3.
2. Netflix Explained| The stock market — https://youtu.be/ZCFkWDdmXG8?si=93HYbR1LiT_OThME.
3. Always do your own research.

Apple's latest Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) brought a lot of excitement with its new announcements. One of the highlights was the introduction of Apple's own version of Artificial Intelligence, a feature they've been quietly working on for years. Alongside this, Apple unveiled iOS 18 and macOS Sequoia. Now let’s sieve through all the pop culture updates and focus on the serious features that will affect our work lives.

Here's a breakdown of the most useful features for remote workers that will boost your productivity for the rest of 2024 and beyond.

1. iPhone Mirroring on Mac

A standout feature is the new iPhone mirroring on Mac. This is a game-changer for those who frequently switch between their iPhone and Mac. Now, you can seamlessly transfer documents or multitask between both devices.

Imagine you’re working on a document on your Mac and want to reference a text message or use a specific iPhone app that isn’t available on macOS. With iPhone mirroring, you can see your iPhone screen directly on your Mac, making it easy to drag and drop files or interact with mobile apps without switching devices. It’s seamless and super handy for multitasking. Looks like this feature was referenced from Android emulator apps for windows like BlueStacks and Nox Player.

2. Window Tiling on Mac

Apple has introduced a new window tiling feature in macOS Sequoia. This feature allows you to organise your open apps efficiently by dividing your screen into different sections, much like a puzzle.

Previously, you might have used third-party apps like Rectangle to achieve this functionality, but now it's built directly into macOS and is free to use. Asides Apple keeping up with its unofficial mantra of converting early startups into OS features, this will make multitasking smoother, as you can quickly access and manage multiple apps side by side without any hassle.

3. Enhanced Siri with Text Input

The new and improved Siri is now more productive than ever. One major enhancement is the addition of text input, allowing you to type your queries instead of speaking them. Up until now, I can count on one hand the number of times I’ve used Siri, and those were mostly for trivial questions like "What’s 1 billion divided by 3?". I haven’t relied on it for any serious tasks or search queries. However, with the new text input method available for Siri, I am confident I won’t need to open a ChatGPT tab in Safari as often.

This makes Siri a more versatile assistant, useful for a variety of tasks from quick calculations to searching for information, without interrupting your workflow. Additionally, if Siri finds a task too complex, it can pass the query on to ChatGPT with your permission.

4. Smart Text Editor Integration

Apple’s new AI integration into text editors is another exciting feature. Whenever you’re typing in Mail, Pages, Messages, or any text input field, Apple Intelligence can assist you. It offers features similar to those found in Grammarly or GPT-based tools, such as rephrasing text, Summarising content, writing tone and more, all in real-time.

This integration means you can write emails, documents, and messages more efficiently, with AI helping you to ensure clarity and correctness on the fly.

5. Priority Summariser

Let’s face it, we all love features that make life easier. Apple’s new priority summariser is a dream come true for the busy professional or DnD warrior. It scans through your messages, emails, reminders, and more to create a prioritised to-do list. This means you spend less time sorting through your inbox and more time focusing on what’s important

For instance, if you’ve missed several important emails during the week, the priority summariser will highlight these for you, ensuring you address the most critical tasks first. This feature is designed to help you focus on what’s important without spending time sifting through every message yourself.

The Drawback

Unfortunately, updates related to Apple Intelligence are only available on the iPhone 15 Pro and later, as well as Macs with Apple silicon chips. It’s frustrating that even the iPhone 13 isn’t included. Apple has a tendency to phase out support for older models too quickly, and it doesn’t seem justified. There’s likely nothing the iPhone 15 Pro can do with Apple Intelligence that the iPhone 14 Pro or 13 Pro Max couldn’t handle. If this trend continues, we might see a future where Apple users have to pay a subscription fee to access new features or OS updates.

Conclusion

These new features from Apple are set to make remote work more efficient and enjoyable. Whether it’s the convenience of iPhone mirroring, the productivity boost from window tiling, the enhanced capabilities of Siri, the smart text editor integration, or the helpful priority summariser, there's something for every remote worker to appreciate. As we move into the latter half of 2024, these tools will undoubtedly help streamline your workflow and keep you on top of your tasks.

After completing my NYSC, I secured a remote tech job at a Nigerian company that provided enough income to support my basic needs. However, being someone with a forward-thinking mindset, I never envisioned staying in this job for an extended period. Upon completing my service year, pursuing a master’s degree became the next logical step.

Considering the reputation of the university I graduated from and the ambitious circle of people I associate with, we all shared a common perspective — getting a Master’s degree is the surefire path to JAPA. If someone had the financial means or was willing to take the risk of borrowing in the absence of immediate funds, it was considered a viable option.

In the last days of my undergraduate years, I made a personal commitment never to stress my parents with the financial responsibilities of my education, again. Regardless of the educational path I chose, I was determined that it wouldn’t cost my parents a dime. Hence my foremost prayer and aspiration were crystal clear. “I need a Post-graduate Scholarship”.

During the day, I diligently worked on my remote job responsibilities, and at night, I dedicated my time to actively scouring scholarship opportunities. I crafted multiple Statements of Purpose (SOPs), cover letters, and sent cold emails, completing numerous demanding applications with the hope of securing a scholarship. With no specific country in mind, my search was extensive, resulting in a wide scope and a substantial number of applications.

The Turning point

Three months into my remote job, I found myself facing an unexpected layoff. While I was diligently searching for scholarship opportunities, I was suddenly thrust into the disheartening statistic of unemployment in Nigeria. Now, I had to embark on the quest for a new job. This situation led to my second prayer: “Father, I need a new job”.

During this challenging period, I found myself applying for scholarships during the day and job positions during the night. I understood that whichever opportunity came first had to serve as a pathway for me to leave the country, whether in the short term or long term. Like many young Nigerians seeking employment, I had rejection emails for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The constant barrage of rejection emails left me feeling drained, with the specter of Sapa looming on one side and the weight of depression on the other, eagerly waiting for me to break down.

Bold Steps

Following several rejection emails for both scholarships and jobs, I received interview invitations for both applications. Somewhat reluctantly, I applied to continue my education at my alma mater, as suggested by my Head of Department. Despite my initial hesitance, this decision would anchor me in Nigeria for an additional 1–2 years, considering that the master’s program at the university is strictly conducted in-person. However, I understood that a master’s degree would significantly ease the process of obtaining a PhD scholarship, especially given my BSc track record. Consequently, I applied for the scholarship program recommended by my HOD and underwent the interview, now awaiting their final decision.

On the job front, I received numerous interview and technical assessment invitations. Among these, one particular interview with an international organization stood out. I dedicated significant time and effort to ensure I was fully prepared to excel in answering their questions. Having completed several other interviews, I found myself with three more interview invitations from different organizations. However, I made a deliberate decision — I declined all three. Preparing for an interview is really demanding, it drains you. To complete one round of interviews and then gear up for another series was simply not feasible for me. I had to take a pass on these opportunities and hope for positive outcomes from the interviews I had already completed.

Email

Following a series of interviews, I found myself becoming somewhat obsessed with the Gmail App on my phone. I would habitually check it every 5 minutes, anxiously refreshing the inbox in the hopes of receiving some good news. The waiting period for responses from the interviews I had attended felt mentally taxing, so I eventually took the step of uninstalling the Gmail App and opted to access my emails solely through my laptop, in an attempt to alleviate my constant worries.

During the last days of September, I got an email, It was the scholarship program I had applied to, informing me that I had been granted a full scholarship to study in my alma mata. This scholarship encompassed full tuition coverage and even included a monthly stipend of about $70. It felt like a double blessing, combining the relief of a scholarship with the financial support necessary to sustain myself during my studies. With this positive news in hand, I held onto it while patiently awaiting any responses from the companies I had interviewed with. About a week later, I received another email from one of the companies I applied to… It was a rejection Letter.

The Dilemma

It was on October 2nd when an email arrived with the subject line “OFFER LETTER.” It was a moment to recall the international organization I had interviewed with. They were highly impressed with the technical assessment I had completed, and I emerged as their top choice among all the candidates who had applied. The offer included a fully funded trip to their headquarters in Switzerland and other juicy bonuses. Unlike my previous role, this new position required me to be physically present at the office. This email moved me to tears.

Both of my prayer requests have been granted, and I now face a decision that needs to be made before the end of November. If you found yourself in this situation, which option would you choose? I’m eagerly awaiting your insights and recommendations in the comments.

It’s been a long time since I felt like writing, but today, I couldn’t resist the urge. I just returned from a six-month program with the United Nations, where I had the chance to travel extensively.

During this time, I interned with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and gained a wide range of experiences. It was my first time working with an international organisation, my first time leaving Nigeria, and my first time visiting Europe. While these first-time experiences were incredibly exciting, they were also overwhelming. I couldn’t quite believe everything that was happening — like how did I go from job hunting to working with a United Nations cluster in Geneva?

After sorting out essentials like travel documents, accommodation, and money for initial settlement, I was ready to fly. I flew with Qatar Airways, and my itinerary was exhausting. The flight from Nigeria to Qatar took like eight hours, followed by a three-hour layover in Doha’s airport, which felt like an amusement park. Then, I took another four to six-hour flight to Geneva. Upon arrival, I wore my dad’s winter jacket from Nigeria, but I was completely unprepared for the cold. It felt like being submerged in an ice-cold bath; the jacket was no match for the winter weather and felt more like a heavy singlet.

Transitioning from the airport to my accommodation was thrilling. I still couldn’t believe I was in another country; everything felt like a dream. I was struck by the efficient transport system, the ticket payment stalls at each bus stop, and the random police patrols. It felt like being immersed in a Hollywood flix.

Working with a UN organisation

The world is small when working in a United Nation organisation, and that helps you truly understand the meaning of diversity. People from different cultures, backgrounds, race, sexual orientations and life aspirations, setting aside those differences and working hand in hand to solve the world’s biggest problems. In my case, this involved advocating for refugees, stateless individuals, and internally displaced persons. I’ve always believed in “giving back to the community,” but this was my first time seeing people who are “giving back to the world”.

With a degree in computer science, I used to envision countless applications for my IT skills. However, I never imagined how these skills could be used to help those truly in need, people who are seeking to have their voices heard and searching for their identity. Now I see there is an aspect of tech not yet fully explored in the world, “Tech for social good”.

Geneva is quite an interesting city

I was stationed at the UNHCR headquarters in Geneva. Geneva is a hub for international organisations, so the city is full of expatriates. Aside from the expats, Switzerland itself is fascinating. It has three official languages — French, Swiss German, and Italian — reflecting its borders with France, Germany, and Italy. Interestingly, people from the French-speaking part of Switzerland often can’t understand those from the German-speaking part, and vice versa. I jokingly think that the Tower of Babel story must have happened in Switzerland because it’s remarkable how people from the same country can have such communication barriers. Despite these language differences, Switzerland remains one of the most peaceful and developed countries in the world.

Geneva is in the French-speaking part of Switzerland, and navigating life there with the language barrier was an enjoyable challenge. I still managed to make friends who spoke both French and German. Despite the language differences, I found that humans are fundamentally the same everywhere — curious, and eager to connect. This experience reinforced my belief that, irrespective of language, our shared humanity binds us together.

My time in South Sudan

In my quest to see firsthand the people at the receiving end of donor appeals and most UN refugee programs, I visited South Sudan to understand the refugee situation there.

As I mentioned in one of my previous pieces, “Humanity in Numbers,” no one is a NPC (Non-Playable Character). Every one of us has goals, aspirations, and feelings. In South Sudan, I witnessed hope — a war-torn country rebuilding itself from the ground up. Despite the ongoing refugee crisis, which has become more strenuous as many international organisations withdraw due to financial shortages from major donors, there is a resilient spirit among the people. Refugees from Sudan are banding together to sustain their community with the limited resources available.

Refugee situations vividly illustrate the devastating impact of war, economic hardship and worsening climate conditions. The primary victims of war are not just those who perish, but those who survive to witness the unfolding destruction, living while dying inside. What benefit do our leaders gain by struggling for power just to govern a war-torn country? It serves nothing but their selfish interests.

But Guess What?
As much as we are divided by religion, tribe, language, location, race, and financial status, in critical moments, none of that matters. When we are injured, one thing remains the same: we all bleed blood.

Hard-to-get is so old-fashioned. Gone are the days of intricate games and elusive pursuits. Today’s dating landscape encourages authenticity and open communication. The concept of playing hard-to-get, once considered a tantalizing challenge, is losing its appeal. In a world where options abound, individuals are embracing a more straightforward and honest approach to connection.

I value the sincerity that arises when intentions are clear and direct. Authenticity, I believe, is the cornerstone of meaningful connections. According to Worldometer, There are over 8 billion people in the world, there’s literally no time to allow 1 human (who makes up 0.0000000125 of the world population) mistake your attention for games.

Love by Proximity

Often, our heart pants out of fear of being lonely, leading us to die down whatever idea we had of a perfect human and opt for the most available person. Rarely, it ends up being beautiful. more often than not, it proves unsustainable. As the fear of loneliness diminishes over time, the longing for a more genuine connection resurfaces. Lately I have been made to understand that fear is not a bad thing, fear is in fact a good thing, it’s a pointer to an incoming danger. It is how we respond to that fear that determines how bad the outcome will be.

The Ultimate Formula

X-1, where 1 represents the person released from the confines of the heart, whom you once loved, and X representing the 8 billion-plus potential humans awaiting your version of true-love. This formula profoundly impacted my perspective on relationship setbacks, prompting a shift in how I approach the aftermath of mistakes. I’ve learned to value the vast array of possibilities rather than dwelling on a single, potentially unfulfilling connection. But, there will come a time when age will catch up with us and life will be more than an equation.

Enjoyed this exposition, clap for me! Let me also know what you think in the comments, I will be reading and replying all of it. Read this next -> Been a while since I failed

This exposition is part of my latest Extended Reads(ER) titled “Torn Drafts” — check the other 3 stories here