Global Leadership and Perspective Series- Passion
Passion is a quality every leader must possess.
CASE STUDY- KANU NWANKWO
We are all gifted with different potentials, gifts, and abilities. But what makes one different from another? Passion.
Passion can be used interchangeably with words like determination and conviction. It is what gives us a sense of purpose. It was what motivates us to do the things we love.
We see this displayed in the life of Kanu Nwankwo. Kanu is a former professional footballer, who played as a forward in the Nigerian national team and several international teams.
Kanu was born with a congenital heart defect, which impeded his aortic valve from closing properly. It was discovered and operated in 1996. He made a full recovery and went on to win African footballer of the year in 1996 and 1999.
He won BBC African footballer of the year in 1997 and 1999, he won FA Cup final man of the match in 2008.
As a talented player, Kanu always had an excellent touch on the ball, good dribbling ability, and close control. He also had good vision, movement, the ability to read the game, an eye on the final ball, and great finishing ability. This allowed him to score and create goals. His ability to score decisive goals when coming off the bench earned him the nickname ‘super sub’ during his time with Arsenal.
He was not only gifted but determined and passionate about the game that he loved. Kanu frequently cites his faith in God and has often talked about the trying time of his career and health, as a time when he prayed to God.
Lessons to Learn from the Life of Kanu Nwankwo
- No challenge is big enough to stop you.
- Every gift requires passion and hard work to excel.
- With Faith in God, you can overcome your trying times in life.
© CYMI Blog, Written By. Engr. Mrs. Nkese Umofia; Photo: Kanu Nwankwo; Stay connected with CYMI family of youths and mentors @ https://web.facebook.com/groups/cymiofficial
Christian Youth Mentoring Initiative provides opportunities for mentorship, leadership training, growth, and development of youths. Our vision is to raise well-balanced youths, high flyers, focused, and capable of standing out in the global world. Email us: info@cymi.org.ng
