I’m Dr. Charles Apoki, and as I sit here with my son in Barcelona, I find myself reflecting on the journey of life, family values, and the decisions that shape us. Here in our hotel, with two beds side by side, it’s as though the room is set up for our unique connection—a relationship that spans family, business, and shared ideals.
Barcelona has been fascinating, a city with order, beauty, and deep-rooted development. Watching the steady flow of tourists, I’m reminded that a society’s growth doesn’t happen by accident. It takes generations of planning and commitment, values passed down from one generation to the next.
This trip has been an opportunity for my son and me to dive deeper into our reflections about life and the forces that shape individuals and nations. It’s inspiring to see the level of order here, the careful attention to civic responsibilities—even down to a person stopping to pick up after their dog. These habits speak volumes about the values instilled in people and the societal structures that support them.
One of the discussions we had was about the impact of circumstances on personal development. It’s true that while choices play a major role in defining our lives, we can’t ignore the influence of factors beyond our control, like family background, socioeconomic status, or location. As my son pointed out, those born into privilege have unique advantages—access to better education, resources, and networks, similar to people like Bill Gates who grew up with a head start in technology and mentorship. The key is to recognize and maximize the opportunities we do have while remaining grounded in our values.
My son has always been curious, asking questions that dig deep into the “why” of things. This curiosity has led him into technology, where he’s made impressive strides. I remember setting up a computer in our living room, watching him take to it like a fish to water, exploring and learning. Today, he has a Ph.D. in that field. It’s fulfilling to witness him build on the foundation laid early on, even as he’s independent and builds his own family and career.
Yet, independence doesn’t mean forgetting your roots. In Africa, we often emphasize the importance of family and community. The children who succeed are usually those who honor family values, who understand that while independence is necessary, respect for family legacy is essential. Even here in Europe, my son and I continue to work together, honoring the bonds that hold our family strong. His contributions to the family businesses, even from afar, highlight the balance between self-reliance and connection.
This theme of unity and shared purpose is reflected in Europe’s Schengen Agreement, where nations with different identities come together to enable open borders, seamless trade, and common values. I see this as a powerful example for African families—where personal achievements and independence do not mean abandoning family values and legacies.
As a father, one of my greatest joys is walking this journey with my children. This trip to Barcelona would have been lonely without my son’s company, and I am deeply grateful for these moments we share. For those of you raising children, my prayer is that you’ll have similar relationships—partnerships where mutual respect, values, and goals align across generations.
Finally, I want to invite you to my upcoming conference on Becoming a Person of Influence on the 8th and 9th of November. This will be an enriching time, especially as we consider the importance of influence, values, and legacy. My son, as the head of our European technical team, will be there as well, and it promises to be an event of growth and insight. Send a message to +234 80 2121 9262 to register.
God bless you all. Embrace your family values, nurture your independence responsibly, and always remember whose legacy you carry.
