CAMP Bethel: A review of the year 2022.
It's about time I review 2022. I would always tell my wife and best friend, "2022 has been three years compressed into one", a year of lessons and grace. I remember ending the last year's review with a promise to break ceilings in 2022. I am not where I wish to be; however, I appreciate God for progress in all ramifications.
Highlights of the Year at work
2022 started with me working in two different time zones; it was pretty challenging; however, they say what does not kill you makes you stronger; that period in time helped me realise why I needed to make some career moves which I believe will help me be a great blessing to my community. I am tempted to say, "organise, every other day I organise…."
This year, I was opportuned to lead the BudgIT foundation's expansion to Senegal, allowing the organisation to expand to French-speaking African countries. So far, the team and I have reached over 20,000 people in the country through strategic programming.
Co-managed the BudgIT United State office opening at the Open Gov Hub, Washington, DC. We've got many questions about this idea, and our response has been simple: coordinating our global operations is much more accessible from the Global west. We also work hard to deliver the best in our work to strengthen democracies through civic participation.
Successfully managed nine countries on the CTAP project and its deliverables. The COVID-19 Transparency and Accountability Project entered its second phase this year, and I must tell you, it's been a great ride.
I hosted a session at the OGP- Open Government Partnership Africa and the Middle East Regional Meeting. This allowed me to sit down with current Nigeria's Minister for State, Budget and National Planning, Honorable Clem Agba, where we proffered solutions to the current challenges the economy of Nigeria faces due to the adverse effect of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Was chosen for the prestigious IVLP program. This is an opportunity I will forever cherish, as the platform has allowed me to connect with champions.
Moderated a panel at the prestigious NMCG
I remember to mention hosting the United States Consular General, Will Stevens and world-renowned whistle-blower champion, Stephen Kohn, to commemorate the day of Anti-Corruption globally.
I also had the opportunity to be part of the Nigerian delegate to Washington DC to be part of the dialogue on Uprooting corruption and defending democratic values, a program organised by Transparency International.
Highlights of the year heading a family
Once you start fathering children, you have a new reality entirely. I am glad for the faithfulness of the Lord Almighty! Bethel turned a year old; I noticed throughout the year that our decisions revolved so much around her. You can also see that in the framing of this year's review. Her energy has always been 100%, and I am glad to be a father to the little princess. I am pleased about the wins we've had as a family, and it is worthy of praise to master Jesus that we didn't lose anyone.
Life in General
I have learned a lot of lessons this year, and I sincerely hope they keep me going for 2023. I discovered that some bonds are more potent than the ones in your family; I have chosen to call them friends of purpose; this also further reinforced my thought to always invest well in relationships. In 2022, Oluseun Onigbinde, Niyi Agunloye, Folahan Johnson, Oreoluwa Adebayo, Oreoluwa Abiodun, Kehinde Agbaje, Tomiwa Adegbola and Ikumapayi Oluwaseun were brothers from another mother who chose always to drop whatever it was they had doing to always respond to my calls. The Olaomi have been the family of the year for me, and I appreciate how we relate and how well God has blessed this family.
Well, I have also learned that if it's not your house, it's not yours; I hope we get a country where mortgages work, so we are saved from this incessant wickedness of Lagos house owners. Well, I know the economy has not supported young ones to have their apartments; if you can invest in real estate, please do ~ this is not a piece of financial advice, and I am in no position to give one~
I have also decided to brush up on my Product Management skills; after being a certified APM for some time, I have decided to go back to school with Utiva and Pro bar to sharpen my skills in Product Management. So if you see me knocking on your doors, I always have value to offer!
I decided not to dwell on the Ls that came with 2022 because, once again, Pastor Poju Oyemade has taught me that it's the stepping stone to the next level.
Plans for 2023
I am hoping for the Lord's best in 2023. I plan to see the world and continue to lead impact in my immediate community, creating pathways and solutions to support democracies across Africa, wishing everyone a healthy, Joyful 2023. I look forward to connecting more in the new year. All the best, Iyanuoluwa
