Sannu, ?

Rejection is usually a very hard pill to swallow *gulps hard*

This year, I experienced two rejections that hurt and got me reflecting *heart break*

One was for a program with an international organisation.

The other was for a speaking engagement with an international platform.

For the program, I made it for the virtual written interview but didn't qualify for the next round.

For the speaking engagement, the organizers dropped some speakers because they reduced their event to only one day. Yours truly was affected *sad smile*

I am sure you are wondering, "Why is Ajala Nene sharing her woos with us these days?"

Well, the reason is to let you know it is not always rosey when building your brand and creating the kind of life that you desire.

There are good, not so good and bad experiences you will go through before you hit the jack pot...c'est la vie.

However, it is important to take note of two things - your attitude towards rejections and the 'gem of lessons' you gain from them.

Nothing good comes easy, *slight smile*

Also it is important to learn to look both ways,

What do I mean?

What if I got into this program, would I have performed to the best of my abilities? Or is this a sign that I need to upgrade myself so that I can be more prepared when another opportunity comes?

Paraventure I got the speaking engagement, what if I didn't perform well? What if my speaking template is outdated and this is an opportunity to fine-tune it?

Then the ultimate one: What if it is not yet my time? My time will eventually come *smiles*

Also, try to look at the positive side for each situation.

For example, during the virtual interview, I discovered I was the only black lady who qualified with more than 5 other international candidates. For the speaking engagement, they found and reached out to me online because they said I was a good fit for their event.

These just goes to show that truly, I am doing well in my corner. I just need to keep upgrading and putting myself out there for more opportunities and some will eventually click.

You should continue doing same, *gives you a knuckle*

On a much lighter note, September is classified as "Tourism Month" because World Tourism Day holds on 27th September

Last week kicked-off the month with me attending two major tourism events and showing up for two industry meetings.

Clock-wise: NESG-THITG Team Meeting; Akwaaba African Travel Market 2023; The Pyne-NESG Conference and the Pyne Awards 2023

For someone who does most of her tourism related business and projects online, it was refreshing to be out and about with my Tourism folks. The meetings were mind-stimilating, and the events were energetic and rewarding.

I also love how the younger generation are doing anazing things in both the Nigerian and African tourism, travel and hospitality space. From winning awards at Akwaaba and the Pyne to providing solutions via travel products at the Tourism Hackathon, truly, the future is bright for the industry *star struck*

A special shout-out to two of my faves in the Tourism space for their Pyne Awards, Jospeh Kafunda aka Bros. Emeka of Namibia 🇳🇦 and Omotoke Fatoki aka the Alárìnká of Africa 🇳🇬 Super proud! Keep doing you, guys!!!

With the award winners - Jospeh Kafunda aka Bros. Emeka, and Omotoke Fatoki, the Alárìnká of Africa

By the way, my outfit is a traditional herero dress from Namibia courtsey of Rafiki Tours and Safaris. They are your ultimate plug to Namibia and other Southern African countries. If you need a tour around that region, just buzz me and I will connect you to them.

To wrap up today's message...

"Sometimes rejection in life is just a redirection" - Unknown

Like I said above, look both ways, .

The rejection is a cue to build your resilience, your skills and all the in betweens that you need for your next big opportunities. Do not relent. There is light at the end of the tunnel for all of us *smiles warmly*

Till my next love e-letter, remember...

Life is short, live it to the fullest, .

Ka o di...e-see you soon *waves*

Your Wanderluster,

Ajala Nene 

P/S: You are receiving this email because you have either subscribed or attended one of my past events. Feel free to unsubscribe if you don't want to get emails from me anymore. No hard feelings *e-hug*