We've all used AI to save time, boost productivity, and generate content at a moment's notice. But what if our reliance on these tools is costing us something far more valuable than the minutes we save? In this candid talk, Williams, a marketer, shares a personal story of how an AI-generated strategy for a Nigerian tech company, while technically "good," was devoid of the soul and originality needed to connect with a real audience. He argues that the biggest threat of AI isn't that it will replace us, but that it will make us all sound the same, slowly dulling our creativity and unique voice. This talk is a powerful reminder to use AI as a tool to enhance our skills, not as a replacement for our own minds, and that in a world where everyone is using the same technology, our greatest competitive advantage remains our creativity.Tomide Williams is a product marketing manager, top LinkedIn marketing strategist, and a personal development enthusiast. With over 40,000 engaged followers on LinkedIn, Tomide is widely recognized for his ability to help businesses and individuals build powerful online identities, generate high-quality leads, and position themselves for long-term success.As the founder of CoterieX, a fast-growing personal development community, and LeadBound, a marketing agency focused on LinkedIn lead generation, Tomide specializes in growth strategies that blend digital advertising, audience psychology, and go-to-market execution. His approach helps tech, SaaS, and fintech companies optimize their social presence, attract strategic partnerships, and convert online influence into business results.But Tomide’s journey didn’t begin with success—it started with confusion. After graduating from university in 2021 without a clear direction or passion for his course of study, he found himself lost and battling self-doubt. That turning point sparked a transformation. In 2022, driven by the need to redefine his future, Tomide picked up his phone and started learning. He acquired new skills, explored his strengths, and stumbled upon LinkedIn—a platform that would soon change his life.In just a few months, Tomide went from complete obscurity to becoming one of Nigeria’s most impactful Gen Z creators. He built his personal brand from scratch, landed marketing roles and gigs, went viral, and began teaching others how to do the same. By October 2023, he was recognized as one of Favikon’s “Top 23 Fastest-Growing Creators” and was awarded Most Influential Gen Z of the Year by The Iconic Brand Africa.Tomide is also the convener of LinkedIn Local Jos, the largest LinkedIn Local event in Northern Nigeria, which attracted over 500 attendees. He is currently co-leading the initiative to host LinkedIn Local Nigeria, a massive event designed to reshape the narrative about Nigeria’s youth and bring together 5,000+ professionals and creators.Whether he's training brands on how to use LinkedIn for lead generation, helping startups scale through strategic messaging and high-ROI campaigns, or speaking on stages to inspire young professionals, Tomide remains driven by one core belief:"If it’s meant to be, then it’s up to me."This guiding principle, inspired by Brian Tracy’s No Excuses! and rooted in personal responsibility, fuels his mission to help others find clarity, take action, and break through their limitations—just as he did.Tomide Williams is not just a strategist. He’s a storyteller, builder, and community leader who is using digital platforms to ignite possibilities across Africa and beyond. 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