Augustina once ran a small beverage distribution business in her community in Nigeria. But when employees stole her capital, she lost her ability to earn an income.

Years earlier, she had dreamed of starting a catfish pond as a way to support her family. After losing her business, the idea remained, but she never pursued it. Fear made the risk feel too great.

A Question That Changed Her Next Step

Later, Augustina joined a leadership mentoring group in her community through the Global Leadership Network. During one session, she heard “Hello, Fears,” a message from Michelle Poler that included a simple but direct challenge:

“We cannot become fearless, but we can all be brave.”

Afterward, participants were asked: If there’s a fear holding you back, what would you do now?

“That was what gave birth to this fishpond,” Augustina says.

She went home, talked with her husband, and decided to begin.  

A Step That Strengthened Many Lives

Today, Augustina’s catfish business is providing steady support for her household. From its income, she is singlehandedly putting her daughter through university.

And the impact has extended beyond her own family. Augustina supports five widows each month through her earnings. People in her neighborhood no longer need to travel long distances to buy catfish, a dish they cook to celebrate birthdays and other special occasions — they can purchase it right in their neighborhood.

This long-delayed dream is strengthening her household and her community.  

The Global Leadership Network reaches leaders in more than 100 countries, including communities where leadership development can make an outsized impact. When you give leadership development, you help the next leader like Augustina take a step that can strengthen families and entire neighborhoods.

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