In today’s fast-paced, hyper-connected world, influence is more powerful than ever. It shapes opinions, drives trends, sells products, and even revives careers. But what really is influence? Is it reserved for the elite, the wealthy, or the older generation? Absolutely not. Influence is a force anyone can build and use, regardless of age, background, or status. It’s not about how long you’ve lived — it’s about how well you connect, inspire, and impact.
Let’s break it down.
What Is Influence?
Influence is the ability to shape the thoughts, decisions, or actions of others. It doesn’t always come from power, authority, or wealth. True influence is built on trust, visibility, authenticity, and consistency. Whether you’re a teenager with a voice on social media or an artist with a message, you can spark change.
What It Takes to Build Influence
- Authenticity: People connect more with real stories and raw emotions than with perfection. Show up as yourself.
- Consistency: Influence isn’t built overnight. Whether you’re creating content, mentoring, or selling a brand — staying consistent is key.
- Visibility: Be seen, be heard. Engage with people, show up in conversations, be present on platforms that matter.
- Value: Influence grows when you offer something meaningful — inspiration, information, entertainment, or solutions.
- Network: Who you connect with matters. Build relationships that elevate, challenge, and support your growth.
Anyone Can Influence for Good – Age Is Not a Barrier
There’s a common myth that influence comes with age or experience. But history and modern culture have shown otherwise. From teenage climate activists to young tech entrepreneurs, and from Gen Z creators to old-school icons — influence belongs to anyone who chooses to use their voice with purpose.
Case Study: Davido and Bright Chimezie
A powerful modern example is Nigerian superstar Davido — one of Africa’s most influential musicians today. With his music, massive fan base, and undeniable charisma, Davido has mastered the art of influence. But he’s not just about fame — he uses his platform to uplift others.
Take the case of Bright Chimezie, the veteran Nigerian highlife musician best known for his Zigima sound. While Bright was once a household name, the passing of time led to a decline in mainstream relevance. But Davido changed that narrative in a single moment.
When Davido publicly danced to Bright Chimezie’s song and featured him in a playful post, it went viral. Suddenly, a new generation was googling Bright Chimezie. Streams went up. Interviews followed. Respect was renewed. Davido’s influence didn’t just entertain — it revived a career.
It didn’t stop there. Davido’s endorsement deal with Martell Cognac did more than just advertise a drink. His partnership brought street credibility, style, and African flair to the brand. The result? Martell became one of the top-performing spirit brands in Africa, with a newfound youthful and urban market. That’s the power of strategic influence.
Other Famous Examples
- Greta Thunberg, a teenager, influenced world leaders and global climate policies simply by speaking her truth and staying consistent.
- Oprah Winfrey, from a difficult childhood, built influence through empathy, storytelling, and authenticity — becoming one of the most trusted voices on Earth.
- Elon Musk tweets and the stock market moves. Whether you agree with him or not, his influence is undeniable.
Steps to Start Building Your Own Influence
- Find your voice: What do you care about? What’s your message?
- Start small: Influence your circle first — friends, family, followers.
- Show up consistently: Share, engage, and deliver value regularly.
- Collaborate strategically: Partner with others who align with your vision.
- Be intentional: Influence is a tool. Use it to elevate, not manipulate.
Influence is not about being loud; it’s about being heard. It’s not about having millions of followers; it’s about impacting lives. Davido didn’t just build fame — he built influence, and with it, he’s changing narratives, reviving legends, and shaping cultures.
So whether you’re young or old, just starting or already seasoned — you too can influence something for the better. Influence is within reach. And when used wisely, it can be one of the greatest tools for progress and purpose.
Go on. Use your voice. Influence the world.
