#FoundersConnect: Tomiwa Aladekomo, The Man behind Big Cabal Media (Techcabal & Zikoko)

Big Cabal, which publishes the tech and youth publications, TechCabal and Zikoko. TechCabal provides the reporting, data, and events that will help the world understand the technology and tech business in Africa, while Zikoko creates high-engagement content around culture and what it means to be young in Africa today.

Tomiwa has taken Big Cabal through a transformation that's made it one of the most exciting new media companies on the continent, delivering 400% YOY revenue growth and high-impact projects like Jollof Road and TechWomenLagos

An experienced executive, Tomiwa has worked extensively across media and marketing roles in Nigeria and North America. In Nigeria, he led the team that transformed the Guardian Nigeria into a top-notch digital media operation. He’s worked in senior roles, leading digital for Heineken Nigeria (Nigerian Breweries) and heading one of West Africa’s top digital agencies. He worked in the US for companies like Atlantic Records and The Futures Company, where he worked on global strategy briefs for brands from Coca-Cola to Unilever.

Watch the Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eAoYh7Xl4sA

Video Timestamps

0:00 Introduction

1:00 Where did you grow up? What was your background like?

13:30 When you got into the business and decided to run it, what were the things you chose to focus on?

24:20 What is the difference between the people you hire for Zikoko and Tech Cabal and what are the key qualities you look out for when hiring?

27:55 What is the secret to the excellent Alumni network at Big Cabal?

30:39 Share one or two of your mistakes in your career

34:16 What are the biggest lessons you’ve learned in the last 10 years of your work?