Dupe Olusola, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Transcorp Hotels Plc, outlined a visionary roadmap for Africa’s accelerated growth during the Yale Nigerian Students’ Association Accelerate Africa Business Conference.
Speaking virtually from Abuja, Olusola emphasized the significance of sound and stable micro and macroeconomic policies, the empowerment of youth and women, and the active involvement of the African diaspora in propelling the continent’s progress.
Olusola’s speech at the conference shed light on Africa’s potential, emphasizing the vitality of its burgeoning youthful population and abundant untapped natural resources.
Addressing the challenges ahead, she drew from her experiences at Transcorp Hotels Plc, narrating how the company navigated the obstacles posed by the pandemic to achieve impressive growth.
“During the pandemic, we faced the lowest occupancy rates in our history, but through perseverance and innovation, we were able to achieve a remarkable turnaround,” she shared.
“Our revenues have soared by over 200%, and our profits have tripled. We have become a significant contributor to the employment sector and a vital component of the country’s tourism economy.”
Elaborating on the key elements crucial for Africa’s progress, Olusola emphasized the importance of effective economic policies, the empowerment of marginalized groups, active engagement of the African diaspora, and the urgent need to address security challenges.
She stressed that the journey toward Africa’s prosperity is not solely an economic or gender-based pursuit but also one of perception, participation, and representation.
Olusola challenged Africans, particularly those in the diaspora, to actively engage in changing the narrative surrounding the continent.
“The portrayal of Africa in the global media often highlights its challenges, overshadowing its vibrant cultures and thriving arts. We must work to project a narrative of hope, resilience, and opportunity,” she asserted.
“By doing so, we can inspire more investments, partnerships, and collaborations, driving Africa’s bright and promising future.”
Olusola concluded her address by urging Africans to take an active role in the continent’s development, reiterating that the responsibility lies with the collective efforts of its people.
“Africa’s potential knows no bounds, and it is up to us to harness it,” she declared, expressing her unwavering commitment to contributing to Africa’s transformation and growth.
