At The Platform Nigeria May 2023, Speaker 7, Gbolahan Joshua, delivered an enlightening talk on the role of intrapreneurs and entrepreneurs in driving innovation. He emphasised that curiosity is an essential quality for every entrepreneur to cultivate in order to innovate effectively.

Joshua introduced the audience to the Intrapreneurship DNA Toolkit for Companies, which outlines the factors that determine an intrapreneur’s actions and functions within an organisation. He also discussed the concepts of Gatekeepers and Old Foxes in organisations. Gatekeepers, he explained, are the people responsible for the existence of an organisation, while the Old Foxes are those who resist change and maintain the status quo.

Additionally, Joshua encouraged the audience to develop a habit of staying informed by reading, particularly emphasising the importance of reading annual financial reports of companies. He suggested that examining these accounts can reveal valuable business opportunities.

The speaker also touched on the role of government in fostering a conducive environment for entrepreneurs to flourish. He cited the example of how the government facilitated the growth of the telecoms industry, subsequently improving the overall business ecosystem.

Debunking the myth that innovation is impossible when working with the government, Joshua argued that it is the people within a company who drive its continued success, rather than just the founder. He emphasised that in today’s rapidly evolving world, innovation requires collaboration and the involvement of more people.

In his closing remarks, Joshua urged individuals working within organisations to see their work as a platform for growth and personal development. By embracing this mindset, they can make the most of the opportunities presented to them and contribute to their organisation’s success.