In an era where technology is rapidly reshaping industries and career landscapes, one truth remains constant: the importance of fundamentals has come to the fore.
This was the central message at the NextGen Konnect 3.0 forum, where thought leaders, professionals, mentors and students gathered to discuss the future of work, the role of technology, and the values that must guide young people as they chart their paths.
According to the keynote speaker, Management Consultant and CEO of Enzo Krypton, Emmanuel Tarfa, the lack of fundamentals in many spheres is the limiting factor behind many people not achieving greatness or even fulfilment.
He gave a number of real-world examples based on the theme, “using fundamentals to make money.” This effectively framed the day’s conversations, reminding participants that no matter how fast the world evolves, success is built on mastering the basics before layering or chasing shadows.
The first panel set the tone with a conversation on resilience, adaptability, and inclusivity. Control Room Analyst/Intelligence Reporting Mantrac at Nigeria Limited, Temitope Akindoyin,addressed one of the most pressing questions on the minds of young people today: Will artificial intelligence take away jobs? Her answer was both reassuring and challenging. “AI is not coming to take your job. It is evolving. Therefore, as young people, we evolve with it,” she said. The message was clear: AI is not a threat but a tool, and those who embrace it will find opportunities rather than obstacles.
Security Operations Manager, Provisio Global, Abu-Idris Abubakar, followed by drawing a strong link between success and service. “Pay attention, give it time, and be consistent,” he said. “You cannot take away failure from success. If you are not serving, you won’t be served.”
For Tanwa Ashiru, success is not an entitlement but something earned. Her advice was simple yet powerful: earn your stripes. It was a reminder that credibility and respect in any industry are built through hard work, discipline, and results.
The second session moved deeper into the interplay between skills, technology, and personal development. Founder & CEO AVZDAX Technologies, Gbenga Sosan, reminded participants of technology’s role in shaping the modern world.
“Tech builds the world. Do not relent, keep pushing until the right person connects with you.” His point highlighted the importance of perseverance, particularly in the tech ecosystem, where opportunities often come through networks and timing.
From a career development perspective, Lawyer and Human Resources Professional, Uche Ogbolu, drew attention to the balance between technical qualifications and personal attributes.
“Yes, your CV is important, but your soft skills take you further,” she explained, adding, “It all starts with a can-do attitude.” Her statement reinforced what many employers already know: attitude, adaptability, and communication often carry more weight than a list of technical achievements.
Country Head of Security at Everty – TeKnowledge, Seyi Ehinsanmi, added a practical layer to this conversation by urging young professionals to engage more with people.
“Interact with people. In your interactions, you get to better understand things.” Networking, he implied, is not just about exchanging business cards but about building understanding, perspective, and trust,” Ehinsanmi stressed.
