“We started the Global Mindset Awards from church venues in 2011 because, at the time, we could not afford to hire big event halls.” — Amb. Odidi Godday
The journey of the Global Mindset Awards is a powerful story of humble beginnings, resilience, learning and unwavering belief in a bigger vision.
According to Amb. Odidi Godday, the initiative did not begin with the glamour, resources or recognition it enjoys today. In 2011, the team had to make do with available spaces, including church venues, because they simply could not afford expensive event halls. What they lacked financially, however, they made up for with vision, determination, creativity and consistency.
The journey was not without challenges. Amb. Odidi recalled that many people mocked the vision in its early days. Some doubted whether the initiative could survive or grow into something meaningful. Even more painful, he said, were the experiences of betrayal by people he trusted—people from different social and economic backgrounds.
“Many people mocked us. People I trusted betrayed me, both rich and poor,” he reflected.
Rather than allowing disappointment to destroy the dream, he chose to turn every experience into a lesson. For him, betrayal became a teacher, criticism became motivation, and limited resources became an opportunity to become more creative.
One of the greatest principles that has helped shape his journey is the commitment to keep learning. He believes that continuous learning is essential for anyone who wants to build something that will stand the test of time.
“Keep learning,” he emphasizes, explaining that the willingness to acquire new knowledge, adapt to changing times and improve existing ideas has played a major role in the development of the Global Mindset Awards.
From modest church venues to a broader platform celebrating excellence, enterprise, leadership and impact, the journey represents what can happen when a person refuses to give up on a vision simply because the beginning is difficult.
The story of the Global Mindset Awards is therefore more than an awards journey. It is a testimony that great institutions can emerge from humble beginnings. It reminds aspiring entrepreneurs, young people and emerging leaders that they should not be ashamed of where they start.
You may begin with limited resources. You may face criticism. You may experience rejection or betrayal. You may not have access to the facilities or connections enjoyed by others. But with vision, learning, resilience, integrity and consistency, the journey can evolve.
Today, the Global Mindset Awards continues to pursue its vision of celebrating global excellence with bold ideas, demonstrating that the size of your beginning does not determine the significance of your destination.
The lesson from Amb. Odidi Godday’s journey is simple: Start where you are, learn continuously, remain focused, and never allow mockery or betrayal to convince you that your vision is impossible.