Weekly Compass #3

Hi,

Welcome to the third issue of The Weekly Compass! I'm excited to share this week's insights and updates with you. Let’s get started!

Entrepreneurship: Storytelling

Storytelling is a powerful tool for entrepreneurs. I’ve learned the power of storytelling after being invited to speak in front of audiences. Eventually, someone gave me two major tips I took with me for a lifetime.

He said: “Akie, you should be able to tell each story within 5min, 15min, or 30min depending on how much time you have, there are two key factors here: 1)Talk about little, exciting details or leave out many details and talk about them broadly. 2) Pause more often when you have more time.

I went to practice this many times and noticed big changes in the people's attention span when listening to me telling a story. I take this with me into my businesses and so can everybody else.

This is how you can leverage it to build your brand and connect with your audience too:

• Create Your Own Story: Share your business's journey, mission, and values. Authenticity resonates with customers, figure out a storyline that you will stick to and can tell to anybody. My story for podcasts or interviews is 80% the same and I stick to the story so no mistakes can be made. For my businesses, it’s the same, the reason why I started is always key, and the name of the business too. More about this next week.

• Engage Your Audience: Use interesting stories to make your marketing materials more engaging and relatable. This should be very easy to remember for people and it should resonate with the audience.

• Highlight Successes and Challenges: Sharing both victories and obstacles can build trust and credibility.

Crypto Corner: The Future of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs)

Central Bank Digital Currencies are gaining attention as governments explore their potential and trust is lost in the market, this week was a blood bath on the stock markets… Here’s what you need to know:

• What Are CBDCs?: Digital forms of fiat money issued by central banks.

• Global Trends: Many countries are in various stages of researching or piloting CBDCs.

• Potential Impact: CBDCs could revolutionize the financial system, enhancing efficiency and financial inclusion.

Also, more in-depth next week as the Central Bank is now pushing heavily towards it and some nations do not want to be part of this.

Investing Insights: The Rise of Renewable Energy Stocks

Investing in renewable energy is becoming increasingly popular. Now that I live in Cairo, Egypt I see more and more foreign companies trying to enter the race in Africa. There are a few things I’ve learned so far and here’s why it’s worth considering:

• Market Growth: The renewable energy sector is expanding rapidly, driven by technological advancements and policy support. This is because people use about 5% more energy every year just for personal consumption.

• Long-Term Potential: Renewable energy companies are well-positioned for sustained growth as the world transitions to cleaner energy sources.

• Top Picks: Since last year I’ve been learning a lot about leading companies in the solar, wind, and energy storage sectors. This is where the future is heading.

Social Impact: The Nile Cleanup Foundation!

Our mission at the Nile Cleanup Foundation is progressing well. We've completed our playbook and are now focused on building a dedicated team to drive our efforts. Next week we will finish our complete business plan and this is where the games will begin. We’ve been in touch with several social impact entrepreneurs who are helping out and will help move the project faster toward our first big cleanup this year!

Visit thenilecleanup.org to learn more and get involved.

Event Highlights: Cairo Entrepreneurs Trip by AQCSS

I'm excited to share that this fall, I will be organizing an exclusive trip to Cairo for leading entrepreneurs in my network. From October 26th to 31st, we'll be exploring the heart of Egypt's vibrant culture, going to the awe-inspiring Pyramids, and gaining new business insights alongside top industry leaders.

I will be doing this under my new to-be-launched community: “AQCSS”. 
AQCSS [ˈækses] is an exclusive entrepreneurs’ community full of NO BS, Good Vibes, and Top Industry Leaders from all around the world.

If you're interested in joining this adventure, there's an opportunity to apply and be part of a select group as I am only inviting 16 people maximum to join on this trip. It's a chance to connect, learn, and experience something truly extraordinary.

Book of the Week: "Start with Why" by Simon Sinek

This week’s book recommendation is "Start with Why" by Simon Sinek. This influential book explores how leaders can inspire others by understanding and communicating their "why." It has changed I start any new project and what moves me into a partnership…

Download the PDF file of the book here.

I hope you find this third issue of The Weekly Compass insightful and motivating. As always, your feedback is welcome, so feel free to reply with your thoughts or suggestions for future topics.

Stay awesome and see you next week!

P.S. Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram and X for more updates and content.