This post was first shared on Janet Kuteli's LinkedIn page.
They say behind every smile is a story and for sure, behind this smile as I hold my Africa's Business Heroes trophy is a story of almost not applying, because it felt safer not to be seen, judged, and measured.
But I am courageous. I’ve never been one to back down, so I applied anyway.
I was selected among the Top 50 out of more than 32,000 entrepreneurs across Africa… then Top 20… and then Top 10. In between were rounds, interviews, and pitches. And in one of those pitches, I didn’t even finish within the stipulated time. I walked off that stage convinced that was the end for me.
But it wasn’t.
And that’s the power of impact. It speaks even when you feel like you haven’t done enough. And clearly, it cannot be ignored.
When I started Fortune Credit, my goal was simple: to impact lives financially for those who often feel unseen. That’s what our tagline carries: ‘Delivering Dreams.’
Thanks to Africa’s Business Heroes Competition and this recognition, I’m reminded of why I started.
I’m reminded of the lives we’ve touched. The small businesses that kept going because someone believed in them. The families whose stories changed because access to credit became access to dignity. I’m reminded of how far we’ve come.
And it’s not just me anymore, the world sees it too: customers, investors, partners, staff. They know Fortune Credit, which means even more lives will be reached, and even more stories will be changed.
This recognition has given me even more motivation to keep going. It’s a reminder that being seen is not about me. It’s about the impact that gets amplified because of it.
My ABH experience has positively transformed both me and my business.
If you’ve been sitting on the edge, unsure if you’re “ready”, this is your sign.