By Eno Oduok, Founder & Techstars Associate

From being a founder to working in the venture capital and startup ecosystem, I’ve gained memorable experiences. From advising and working with founders to investing and collaborating with VCs, here are some valuable lessons I’ve learned:

1. Create Your Own Opportunities.

Some of the best opportunities you receive — whether in your founder or VC journey, or in life — are the ones you create or co-create with others. You can’t wait to be picked or to be seen. You can’t wait for a handout. If you do, 9 times out of 10, you’ll be waiting a longggg time. You have to shoot your shot. So lace up your shoes and channel your inner Michael Jordan, A’ja Wilson, Diana Taurasi, or LeBron James.

2. You are Super.

I like to tell founders: you are a superhero, and your story, perspective, and experiences are your superpower. Nothing is more super than that. Leverage it to empower yourself and others. Use it to create new opportunities. Use it to grow and scale. Use it to be the change the world needs. This is coming from a first-generation Nigerian-American, proud daughter of immigrants, Houston native, HBCU grad, MBA player, Chief Dream Officer, and someone who carries many identities and intersectionalities — but most importantly, a human.

3. Be Audaciously You.

The venture capital and startup ecosystem has its biases. I already knew that getting into this industry wouldn’t be easy — I don’t check certain boxes or fit the status quo of what the average “professional” or “founder” looks like in this ecosystem. But adaptability, consistency, and perseverance are key. So, although the front door might not be your entry point (just like it wasn’t mine), maybe the back door is. Maybe you’ll have to come through the ceiling or a window on the side of the building. Figure out what your entry point is and what works best for your journey. There will be trial and error, but you will find it. And when you do, don’t conform to the status quo. Whether you’re from a city no one’s heard of or you're a college dropout, whether you have bright red hair or wear Jordans to the office every day — be audaciously you.

4. Pay it forward (Give First).

Pay it forward – or as Techstars would say, Give First. I’m very grateful to have mentors, mentees, and advocates who have supported me and championed me. Whether you're a founder or a VC, someone has helped you on your journey. Pay it forward and open the door for others, especially those from versatile backgrounds or those who don’t fit the status quo. Help someone else. Champion others. Support generously. It goes a long way and creates lasting impact.

5. Innovation and Brilliance Exists Everywhere.

Innovation and brilliance don’t just exist in Silicon Valley or on Wall Street. Don’t believe me? Learn about the founders and stories behind innovative companies like Calendly (Tope Awotona) and Canva (Melanie Perkins). Innovation isn’t confined to Harvard and Stanford. It exists in Alabama, Ohio, Australia, and Nigeria too. It exists at Howard University and FAMU. It exists everywhere.

6. Nothing Happens by Accident. 

My personal life quote/motto: Nothing happens by accident. You’re exactly where you need to be. You are in the right place, at the right time, with the right people. Whether it’s a good or bad experience, it’s all working toward the greater good and the best version of your future self. Whatever is meant for you will be for you — and no one can take that away. Whether you’re a founder, a VC, or both.

From creating opportunities to embracing your story, staying authentic, giving back, and recognizing global innovation — impact in startups and VC is about grit, perspective, and purpose. Nothing is accidental. Your journey is uniquely and powerfully yours.

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