Martin Rüssmann

Finishing the year on a high note and …

… reminiscing about the past twelve months. As I reflect I’d like to highlight two things that stand out to me this year:

First, we tend to beat ourselves up too much. I do it all the time even though I’m aware for years I shouldn’t. While having personal ambitions, setting goals, and being disciplined enough to achieve them is important I believe, we often overrate what we haven’t accomplished and underrate the things we have. Finding balance in both is the essence.

Second, too many people overlook gratitude. I don’t mean talking about it but to be actually. Whether something big or small happens, often thanks to others, it deserves recognition. I know I’m not perfect, but I truly try to thank everyone for what they do—no matter the scale. I don’t take anything for granted. Leave your ego outside the room.

I know how it feels when others respond with gratitude. It’s a reminder of the power of genuine connection.

So, let’s step into the new year with this intention: act more consciously with others and be more grateful for the moments we share. Life becomes so much richer when we show appreciation—for ourselves and those around us.

Here’s to more kindness, connection, and gratitude in the year ahead! A “thank you” is always free. Happy New Year!

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LISTEN - LEARN - INVEST

At the beginning of December, businesses, diplomats, and international organizations from and across the African continent came together in to discuss and foster relationships between Germany and at the biannual GABS event.

There was great interest in mutual and the expansion of relations. It was clear that the African continent is truly on the rise, offering immense potential for companies of all sizes, from and to large .

Whether in , , , or even in the the panel discussions were diverse and pragmatic, highlighting where investments can have real impact. For instance, in European banks could learn a great deal from their African counterparts.

Kenyan Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign Affairs and Diaspora Affairs, Dr. Musalia Mudavadi, also called on other African countries to shape their legal frameworks in a way that facilitates easier foreign investment and ensures long-term security for investors. In Kenya, for example, it is very straightforward to establish a company in most sectors without requiring minimum local ownership.

I was particularly pleased to see that even the creative industries—such as , and got their moment. For me personally, the importance of these industries is far too often overlooked at traditional “business conferences.” The creative and cultural industries positively influence value creation across other sectors and industries.

In Germany, for example, the cultural and creative industries generate over 1.2 million jobs. Compared to other sectors, they rank behind the automotive and mechanical engineering industries with over 100 billion euros in gross value added to the economy, but they outperform sectors like the chemical industry.

Have you thought to invest in Africa, yet?

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Between the familiar paths of home and the undiscovered roads of the world lies true happiness. 🌳🌏

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Something‘s cooking … 🧑‍🍳