Joseph Afolabi Beats All Odds, Rises from Intern to CEO in the Tech and Finance World
Joseph Afolabi’s journey from an intern to the CEO of Finlogic Nigeria Limited is a story of determination, innovation, and leadership. His career path and success story remain a testament to how passion and hard work can lead to remarkable success.
Joseph started his professional journey as an intern at British American Tobacco in Ibadan. There, he managed machines and recorded daily mechanical functions. Though it was a humble beginning, it laid a solid foundation for his technical skills and work ethic. Reflecting on this period, Joseph says, “Those early days taught me the importance of attention to detail and persistence. Every task, no matter how small, was a stepping stone.”
After his internship, Joseph transitioned to the field of cybersecurity as a Cyber Security Analyst at Commercio Limited. Here, he worked with major companies, including Fidelity Bank, to prevent exploits and conduct vulnerability assessments. This role not only broadened his technical expertise but also introduced him to the world of corporate security. “Cybersecurity was an eye-opener,” Joseph recalls. “It showed me the critical role of protecting data and how vulnerabilities can impact businesses.”
In 2018, Joseph founded Finlogic Nigeria Limited, a company specializing in the exchange of Nigerian Naira to Chinese yuan. Starting a business is never easy, but Jospeh’s leadership and innovative mindset drove the company’s growth. Today, Finlogic employs six people and reported a net revenue of $270,000 in 2022. “Starting Finlogic was a big leap,” Joseph explains. “But I believed in the idea and was ready to face any challenge that came my way.”
Joseph’s s educational background also played a significant role in his success. He holds a Bachelor of Engineering from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta. His passion for learning didn’t stop there; he earned a Private Pilot License from Moncton Flight College, Canada in 2022. “Education is a continuous journey,” Joseph says. “It has been crucial in shaping my approach to business and leadership.”
In addition to his professional and educational achievements, Joseph has been recognized with several awards, including the Most Versatile Student award from the College of Engineering, FUNAAB, in 2017, and the Sustainability Leader award from United People Global in 2018. These accolades highlight his versatility and commitment to making a positive impact.
Joseph’s rise from an intern to a CEO is inspiring. His story shows that with dedication, innovation, and a passion for learning, one can achieve great heights. As he continues to lead Finlogic, Joseph remains committed to tackling new challenges and driving forward with his vision for the future. “The journey has just begun,” he says with a smile. “I am excited about what lies ahead.”
