Unspoken Rule of Success: It’s Not What You Know, It’s Who You Know | Olusoji Oyawoye | TEDxTanke
We're often told that success is a direct result of academic achievement and what you know. But what if that's a myth? In this candid and inspiring talk, social entrepreneur Olusoji Oyawoye dismantles the notion of academic superiority by sharing his own story of repeated academic failures. He reveals how his life was transformed not by a perfect GPA, but by a series of pivotal relationships and a willingness to embrace the dignity of work. Through a powerful personal narrative, Dada argues that your network, mindset, and ability to leverage relationships are far more critical to success than your grades. He provides a practical roadmap for building and engaging a credible network, teaching that success is not about what you know, but who you know, and how you show up for them.Olusoji Oyawoye
Social Entrepreneur, Life and Business CoachOlusoji Oyawoye, a Nigerian, is the Founder and CEO of revolutionary House 12 Workspaces and Lifestyle Limited in Ilorin.Prior to House 12. He was Co-Founder and pioneer MD/CEO of leading HR Outsourcing organisation Resource Intermediaries Limited and sits on the board of 4 other companies in Nigeria, UK, Ghana and Kenya, two as non-executive Chairman.Outside Professional Pursuits, he is a Conference Speaker, a Certified Member of The Maxwell Leadership Team, and a certified Maxwell DISC Behavioural Analysis Specialist, a Life and Business Coach and Mentor to many.He has authored eight books, on Relationships, Entrepreneurship, Personal Branding, finding one’s Purpose in life, Leadership and How To Build A Legacy Business.He is married to Olabisi, and they have two wonderful Millennial children.His full Profile is on https://sojioyawoye.com This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
More from TED
- 13:02What If We Taught Communication Before Math? | Muhammad Shayan Azmat | TEDxUniversity of PeshawarIn a world driven by human connections and collaboration, what if we reimagined the foundation of education? This thought-provoking talk explores the idea of prioritizing communication skills over mathematics in early education. The speaker delves into how teaching empathy, active listening, conflict resolution, and effective expression could transform not just individual lives but entire societies. By equipping children first with the tools to understand and connect with others, could we create a generation better prepared to collaborate and innovate? The talk challenges traditional education systems, emphasizing that emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills could be the true building blocks for a more harmonious and successful future. Through compelling stories and research, this topic invites us to rethink what truly matters in the foundational years of learning. Muhammad Shayan Azmat is an award-winning leader in climate change, gender-inclusive development, and disaster risk reduction. He has represented youth voices at national and international platforms, including Radio Pakistan, and currently serves in ADB funded Khyber Pakhtunkwa Cities Improvement Project. Beyond policy and advocacy, Shayan is a seasoned public speaking and IELTS coach, with a passion for empowering young people to communicate with confidence and lead with purpose. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 14:05What If Our Hunger for Having More Never Ends? | Muhammad Yaman Khan | TEDxUniversity of PeshawarIn a world driven by consumerism, ambition, and the relentless pursuit of growth, what happens when our desire for "more" becomes insatiable? This thought-provoking talk examines the psychological, social, and environmental consequences of humanity's unending hunger for material wealth, success, and power. The speaker dives deep into the roots of this phenomenon, exploring how culture, evolution, and modern economics fuel our need for constant acquisition and achievement. What impact does this have on our mental well-being, relationships, and the planet we call home? Through personal stories, scientific insights, and a call for reflection, this talk challenges us to examine: Is there ever a point of "enough"? And if not, how can we balance the drive for progress with contentment and sustainability? This topic is a compelling exploration of the human condition and a call to redefine what truly matters. Muhammad Yamaan Khan is an International Relations student at the University of Peshawar and an intermediate graduate of Cadet College Swat. Known for his standout speaking abilities and academic dedication, he has actively participated in debates and discussions within his institution. He currently contributes to the departmental organization Mosaic as Deputy Editor and is stepping into the world of article writing, with his first piece recently published in South Asia Monitor which marks the beginning of his voice in public thought. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 6:09The Cage of Control | Dua Shalak | TEDxYouth@AKISGEMSIn The Cage of Control, Dua Shalak explores why we cling so tightly to control, even as life slips through our fingers. From the brain’s overload to the weight of uncertainty, she reveals how the pursuit of control sets off a domino effect of stress and fear. Through personal stories and insights, she shows that letting go is not defeat but the first step toward peace. Libyan speaker focused on human psychology This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 2:09Piano Performance | Hanna Marashi | TEDxYouth@AKISGEMSThrough a piano composition inspired by the domino effect, Hanna Marashi transforms a simple chain reaction into music. Each note triggers the next, creating a ripple of sound that captures cause, connection, and momentum. Iranian Piano Performer This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 3:58The Power of Words (قوة الکلمات) | Fatma Alshehhi | TEDxYouth@AKISGEMSWords are more than sounds — they can heal, harm, inspire, or break. In this talk, Fatma Yousef explores the hidden power of language and how it shapes our emotions and our lives.الكلمات أكثر من مجرد أصوات — يمكن أن تشفي أو تؤذي، تلهم أو تحطم. في هذه المحاضرة، تستكشف فاطمة يوسف القوة الخفية للغة وكيف تشكل مشاعرنا وحياتنا. Emirati Arabic Speaker This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 6:43The Ripple Effect of Literature on the World. | Sara Beyi | TEDxYouth@AKISGEMS"Literature is more than schoolwork. It's a spark. A journey. A mirror." In this talk, Sara Beyi explains the way literature has shaped history both as a form of art and a reason for reflection. Literature enthusiast This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
