Bisila Bokoko is an award-winning entrepreneur, philanthropist and global brand ambassador. Bisila is also one of Africa’s humanitarians and is breaking new grounds – not just for her, but for millions of people worldwide. In this episode Bisila shares what it was like growing up in Spain to African parents and how being a “cultural hybrid” has shaped her life and work. We also talk about the inspiration behind her African Literacy Project and finally Bisila’s advice for those looking to follow in her entrepreneurial and empowering footsteps.
What does it mean to be a cultural hybrid?
As Bisila was growing up in Spain she was the only black child in her school. When I asked her what that experience was like for her she disarmingly responded by telling me that she went through the typical stages every child does in realizing their uniqueness. At first, she didn’t realize she was different at all. Then she went through a stage where she was unhappy that she was not like everyone else. But in time, in a way that is characteristic of her positive, energetic personality, she decided that she wasn’t different, she was special – and she began to love who she was made to be. She now calls herself a cultural hybrid, which is absolutely appropriate. I love who Bisila was made to be, too. I’m confident you’ll feel the same.
The value of reading even when you don’t know WHY you’re reading a particular book
One of the most impacting things Bisila has accomplished is the establishment of the Bisila Bokoko African Literacy Project. It’s an endeavor to build libraries across Africa and teach those who are illiterate how to read. The project flows from Bisila’s recognition that without being able to read she would never have been able to accomplish all she has or to experience life at the level she does. Seeing the thousands of people in Africa who don’t have that same opportunity, she decided to do something about the problem. On this episode of NextFem, you’ll hear how she took her first steps to get the project going and why she believes anyone can do projects of the same magnitude if they are courageous enough to simply start.
When you really want to do something, just get started. Everything else will come
As I was speaking with Bisila about her African Literacy Project she remarked that she didn’t think about the size of the problem she was trying to solve, she just wanted to make a difference in whatever way she could. So practically, she started with something small and it just grew over time. She emphasized that you don’t have to have all the details in place to make a difference, you just have to be willing to start – everything else will come as you do. I invite you to hear her inspiring story and realize from her example how much of a difference you can make.
Your family is both your support system and your playground to learn about life.
One of the things that is so appealing about the way Bisila lives her life is that she doesn’t allow her career or international recognition to dampen her enthusiasm for her family or to push them out of her sights. In her words, her family is simply a part of all the things that make up her life. She doesn’t hide anything. She doesn’t compartmentalize. She shares herself and the events of her life openly with her husband and kids. She says it’s the support they offer her in return that makes everything possible. They are her main support system, but also as a playground in which she continues to learn about life. I love her perspective on life, family, and success and I hope you’ll take the time to hear it.
Episode Highlights
- 0:49 – Why I’m excited to feature my guest, Bisila Bokoko
- 2:01 – The African roots that have informed who Bisila is as a person
- 4:54 – What does it mean to be a cultural hybrid, and why is it important to understand?
- 7:20 – The awareness and perspective shift of “being different”
- 13:34 – How Bisila found her way into international business from humble beginnings
- 19:01 – The origin of the Bisila Bokoko African Literacy Project
- 29:50 – Your family is both your support system and your playground to learn about life
- 36:39 – Why it’s important for Bisila to get time alone, to get away from everything
Resources Mentioned
- Bisila’s website, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram
- The Bisila Bokoko African Literacy Project
- Bisila Wines
- Huffington Post video of Bisila and her son
1. Favorite book for women?
- The Greatness Guide by Robin Sharma
2. Favorite self-care hack?
- Meditation: It has changed Bisila by teaching her to focus her mind. It’s like a shower for her mind. Also, she takes care of her body to complement it.
3. Best piece of advice and who gave it to you?
- “Always put family first” – Demonstrated to her by her grandmother.
4. Female CEO or thought leader you’re into right now?
5. One piece of advice you’d give your 5 years younger self?
- “Stop being busy, being busy.” Bisila now gets more done in less time without being busy.
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