26/01/2024
I recently had a conversation with a Cameroonian in the UK, and during our chat, she mentioned that she had been living there for over 10 years. She reached out to get my perspective on a few topics, and we ended up discussing on things like how to make , build wealth, and achieve financial freedom, particularly for those aged 40 and above.
In the midst of our talk, I asked her, "I assume in the last 10 years you've been in the UK, you've sent money back home to family and friends?"
"Yes," she replied.
I then inquired, "Of the money you've sent in the last 10 years, what percentage was intentionally directed towards wealth creation or wealth-building activities?" I added, "Many people in the diaspora mainly send money home for consumption and to solve family problems."
"Truth be told, all the money I've sent back home has been for consumption and family problems, as you said," she acknowledged.
I further asked, "Do you have any income-generating investments in the UK? This could be real estate, stocks, shares, online passive income etc."
"No," she responded.
Then I asked, "On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate your savings account?"
She laughed and said, "2, or maybe 1."
We both laughed about it.
Next, I asked, "Have you really considered intentionally investing back home in businesses or other wealth-building ventures?"
"No," she said.
I explained, "I know that many people like you in the diaspora often lack confidence in investing in countries like Cameroon and other African nations. This could be due to a lack of trust, negative stories you've heard, or the perception that the country is plagued with problems. However, thousands of businesses in these same countries are thriving, generating hundreds of thousands and millions in monthly income. I can say this confidently because as a consultant across the African market, I see this daily. It's your responsibility to find the right people to work with."
I continued, "You see, 1,000 pounds is just that in the UK, but in Cameroon, it's 750,000 XAF, and in Nigeria, it's one million Naira. 2,000 pounds may seem modest, but in many African countries, it's significant startup or scale-up capital for an SME."
"You're right," she agreed.
I advised her, "Imagine this possibility: you identify legal, well-structured, and well-managed SMEs in Cameroon, Nigeria, or another African country. These businesses are also looking for financial partners. You partner with them, sign the necessary documentation, and work with the right legal stakeholders to protect your investment actions. By doing so, you move beyond merely sending money back home for consumption and family problems. Instead, you invest in small businesses that, over the next 10 years, could become top players in the economy. You'll not only be a major stakeholder, but you'll also receive annual dividends from your investment. Yes, there are challenges in every business, but committed people focus on overcoming them to build a future." - Dr. Javnyuy Joybert
"Truth is, I've never looked at it this way," she admitted.....if you are interested to invest in a proven SME in Cameroon and really serious send an email to [email protected]. We have great businesses you can invest in and be part of growing profitable SMEs.
I suggested, "Also consider this: in developed nations like the UK, USA, and Canada, there are legitimate and financially regulated apps that allow you to buy stocks in companies like Facebook, Amazon, Microsoft, and Tesla, among others. You can even start with just 100 pounds. It's worth exploring. Start small, gain exposure, and experience it for yourself. You can buy stocks for 100 pounds and resell them after two weeks to get practical experience. Research apps like Fidelity Spire, Plus500, and Saxo Markets, and educate yourself further on these options."
To you reading this, continuing to handle finances passively or being unwilling to take risks, no matter how small or big, will keep you trapped in financial stagnation. Anyone who has risen financially has, at some point, taken significant steps to achieve that success.
In summary, this is the take home lessons from this long chat;
1. Expatriates often send money home primarily for consumption and family needs, not wealth building.
2. Intentional investment in home countries can significantly amplify wealth creation.
3. A small amount in developed countries can be substantial startup capital in African nations.
4. Partnering with well-managed SMEs in Africa can yield high returns and dividends.
5. Overcoming challenges is key to successful business investments.
6. Financial apps in developed countries offer accessible investment opportunities in major .
7. Taking risks and being proactive are essential for financial growth and breaking out of poverty.
Cheers
Keep building your life and your .
Dr. Javnyuy Joybert