S2 Ep 5: The Biggest Mistake We're Making About African Entrepreneurship

In this fascinating episode of The Bold New Normal Podcast, Jewel Thompson joins Lucy Quist to challenge many of the assumptions shaping entrepreneurship across the continent.

Together they explore why Africa cannot simply copy Silicon Valley, why culture is an often-overlooked driver of innovation, and why entrepreneurship must be rooted in context if African businesses are to thrive globally.

They discuss: • Why entrepreneurship should be driven by purpose, not just unemployment • Why culture influences how businesses are built • The differences between community-focused businesses and scalable enterprises • Why African investors need a different lens • The role of education in producing future entrepreneurs • Why women entrepreneurs still face structural barriers • Why policy alone cannot transform economies • How African innovation can compete globally without losing its identity

One quote captures the entire conversation: "African innovation isn't behind. It's been mismeasured."

If you're passionate about entrepreneurship, innovation, investment, leadership or Africa's future, this conversation will challenge how you think.