2nd February, 1989.

Today makes it exactly 33 years that IBTC (now Stanbic IBTC) was started by a few young folks.

33 years ago!

It was founded by Mr. Atedo Peterside (CON)

He was just 33 years old.

The picture below shows his early team when they started, in a room, reviewing documents.

Today, a bank he started with a small group of like-minded friends is worth trillions in assets.

Today, the same bank has not only impacted Africa in GDP but also created thousands of jobs.

There are families who have sent their children to schools because someone built this vision.

There are many social infrastructures that are funded today from the taxes paid by this vision.

There are folks who found love in this same vision and went ahead to raise great families.

There are businesses that have been funded and empowered who in turn have created good jobs.

There are purposes that have been discovered and fulfilled by people who worked in this bank.

There are scholarships, hospital bills, pension, paid for because some people built this vision.

There are leaders who have emerged and built successful careers because of a man's vision.

I can go on and on and on.

But this is the beauty of entrepreneurship and when we commit to building for the long-term.

Imagine the lives and societies that have been impacted because some folks chose to build.

This is magical!

So as you build your business, always remind yourself that this whole thing is not about you.

You are too small for God's ultimate plan.

Destinies are at stake here.

That's why you must invest your heart and soul in building that business and be patient all the way.

33 years is not beans.

33 years is not for kids.

33 years is not for hit-and-run entrepreneurs.

So if you came into this game with a short-term mindset and you want it to happen fast, then sorry!

Take a look at Mr. Atedo Peterside (CON)

He was 33 years old when he started.

Take a look at his small team 33 years ago.

Then take a look at Stanbic IBTC today.

Now, imagine where your business would be in 33 years if you stay focused and keep building.

Oh... if only you'll just keep building.

My bank.