Hi, I’m Jone Lee
a Developer. Professional Coder. UI/UX Designer.

Start with Passion, Humility, and the Spotlight—Not Money!

As young people striving to make a difference, it’s easy to get caught up in the idea that success comes with immediate financial rewards. But the truth is, success starts with putting yourself in the spotlight first—before the money, before the recognition, before the rewards.

When I first completed the YALI program in 2018, I was surrounded by amazing people, all doing incredible things. I felt like I didn’t have much to offer compared to their accomplishments. But over time, it became clear to me: the key to making an impact is prioritizing what you can give, not what you can get. It’s about being humble and passionate about your work, focusing on creating value, and making sure your actions resonate with others.

Starting something from scratch, like I did with The African Youths’ Online Assembly (TAYOA), wasn’t about chasing money or fame. It was about connecting with others, sharing what I knew, and creating a platform where we could learn from each other. When you start with a genuine desire to help and inspire, people will notice. And that’s how you begin to make a difference.

Through TAYOA, I’ve learned that it’s not always easy to get people to join or participate, especially when you’re offering something for free. But that’s the point: success comes from being seen and heard, not from asking for something in return right away. When you position yourself with passion and humility, the opportunities—and the recognition—will come.

It’s crucial to remember that what you do must make sense to others. You have to be impactful. Whether you’re sharing your knowledge, supporting a cause, or starting a project, make sure it adds value and speaks to the needs of those around you. People are drawn to authenticity and purpose, not just to financial gain.

So, take the time to build your presence, share your story, and let your impact speak for itself. The money will follow when you’ve shown that you are truly dedicated, humble, and passionate about making a difference. Start small, start with heart, and people will join you on the journey.

Let’s focus on building, learning, and connecting. The spotlight comes before the paycheck, and with it, the chance to make a real difference.

Dear Young People: Let Your Riches Begin With Rich Ideas

In a world that constantly flashes material success, it’s easy to feel left behind when your bank balance doesn’t reflect your dreams. But hear this — if our riches are not yet monetary, our wealth should be in ideas. Bold, transformative, forward-thinking ideas that have the power to attract money, opportunity, and impact over time.

Your current financial state does not define your potential. What truly defines you is the depth of your thoughts, the clarity of your vision, and your passion for what you do. Whether you’re a student, a young professional, a creative, or an aspiring entrepreneur, your passion is your compass. It tells you where your energy should go. But passion alone isn’t enough.

Passion + Preparation = Power

Whatever field you’re in, don’t settle for the bare minimum. Grow. Learn. Stretch your expertise. Spice up your knowledge with short courses, mentorships, trainings, and fellowships. These are the things that will give you an edge and keep you relevant in an ever-evolving world of work and entrepreneurship.

In today’s competitive landscape, staying still is the same as moving backward. Every training session you attend, every skill you master, every conversation you engage in — adds value to your personal brand. Make yourself a person of substance, not just someone with big dreams but no preparation.

Collaboration: The Currency of Great Ideas

Here’s something powerful — you don’t always need money to start something impactful. Some of the most successful businesses and social projects began with a conversation, a shared vision, and a willingness to collaborate.

Ideas grow stronger when shared. Collaborations and partnerships often begin with a simple exchange — a message, a pitch, a brainstorming session. From there, powerful things can emerge: initiatives that address societal problems, businesses that serve communities, and projects that bring real value to the world.

Don’t underestimate the value of your network. Find people who think like you, or better yet, people who challenge and complement your thinking. Together, you can launch something far bigger than what you could ever do alone.

Solve Problems, Create Impact

The world is full of problems waiting to be solved. And many of those solutions lie in the hearts and minds of young people. Use your skills, your knowledge, your creativity — not just to make money, but to make a difference.

Think beyond survival. Think legacy. Think of the value your business or project could offer to a struggling family, a vulnerable community, or a broken system. When you focus on impact, the money often follows.

To the Young and Ambitious ????

If, as young people, our riches are not yet monetary — let our minds be rich with ideas. Ideas that have value. Ideas that attract the right opportunities. Ideas that, when nurtured with consistency and vision, will eventually bring in the money.

It’s okay if your bank account isn’t impressive yet — what matters is that your mind is. Be passionate about what you do. Whether you’re an artist, a techie, a farmer, a writer, or an aspiring entrepreneur, let passion fuel your journey.

But passion alone is not enough — sharpen your edge. Deepen your knowledge. Get new skills. Attend trainings. Apply for fellowships. Stay curious. Stay growing. The world of work and entrepreneurship is changing fast, and relevance is earned by those who adapt and evolve.

Don’t keep your ideas to yourself. Share them. Collaborate. Partner with others. From simple brainstorms can come powerful projects, initiatives, and businesses that change not just your life, but the lives of others too.

Here’s the secret: some businesses don’t need capital to start. They need people. They need ideas. They need shared vision. When you have a great idea and you connect with the right people — you unlock a chain of possibilities.

Build with purpose. Start small, but start now. Your idea might be the solution someone’s been praying for. ????

#YoungMinds #BuildTheFuture #IdeasMatter #CollaborationIsPower #PurposeDrivenYouth