Whatever the Question, Intrapreneurship is the Answer

People often ask me why I chose the topic of intrapreneurship for the podcast. Why Intrapreneurship? Working in vulnerability communities, at the service of the disenfranchised for over twelve years has taught me that ingenuity in any organization is priceless. 

Fighting against the displacement of marginalized communities? Intrapreneurship.

Trying to navigate a corporation in an emerging market? Intrapreneurship.

Need to mount a strong advocacy arm of an NGO? Intrapreneurship.

Seeking to navigate a system mired in bureaucracy and red tape? Intrapreneurship.

No matter what your work, passion or calling, you will find yourself part of a team, group, organization or company that requires you to be creative to solve problems. This creative flair is what will set any operation apart from competitors or contenders. That is why building an intrapreneurial culture is important for sustainability and longevity in any industry or field of human endeavor.

This fact became even more evident when it came time for me to do my own hiring for my company, The Afropole. I spent countless meetings giving my staff and volunteers permission to think outside the box or try new things or venture on google for the answer. I wondered, why is it that we are so reluctant to try new things? Why are we content to just keep doing what is safe and normal, even or especially when it does not serve us in the long term?

Even in my professional career, I was growing increasingly tired of being in organizations where people who looked like me felt disempowered or unable to advocate for themselves and therefore advance in their career. I recognized my privilege, of course, and yet I felt the things I had gained were not inaccessible for others who did not have my educational or professional background. I decided I wanted to democratize the privilege of feeling I could bring my ideas, my experiences, my concerns to the fore— and trust that they would be valued. That is why I started Inside Out. That is why I chose Intrapreneurship for the blog and podcast series. 

Intrapreneurship for me, is social justice. It is a desire to see African and Afrodiasporan people bring their full identity to the workplace, and in so doing, contribute to more efficient and effective organizational practice. I believe that if we are intrapreneurial, we make room for generations after us to bring their whole selves to the work place— something that will enrich society in the long term. I hope you enjoy the series and find it helpful. Leave a comment and let me know what you hope to gain from being part of the tribe!