Lawyer to Fintech Founder: Aki Hussain on Small Lessons, Big Impact, and Betting on Yourself

Lessons I Learned in Law

In this episode of Lessons I Learned in Law, we welcome Aki Hussein, a seasoned legal professional turned founder / entrepreneur. As Chief Legal Officer and Co-Founder of TerraPay, Aki shares his unique journey from Big Law to the bustling streets of Nairobi and eventually to founding an international payments company.

His career exemplifies the intersection of law and entrepreneurship, showcasing how legal expertise can drive impactful innovation.

We delve into how lawyers can harness their training to succeed beyond traditional roles, with actionable insights for legal professionals considering a shift in their career paths.

Key Lessons from Aki:

Focus on the Fruit Flies:

Aki shares how small, seemingly insignificant experiments in life can teach profound lessons.

Bet on Yourself:

Aki encourages legal professionals to trust their instincts and take calculated risks. Drawing from his decision to co-found TerraPay, he highlights how betting on oneself opens doors to creativity and professional growth.

Love vs. Fear:

Aki reflects on how decisions are often rooted in either love or fear. He challenges lawyers to overcome fear-driven mindsets and embrace opportunities for growth and connection.

This is real practical advice for lawyers considering non-traditional career paths, including the importance of incremental steps and self-reflection.

Book and Podcast Recommendations from Aki:

Book: High Output Management by Andy Grove – A tactical guide to systems thinking and team optimisation.

Podcast: The Professor G Podcast by Scott Galloway – An engaging resource for understanding complex topics like AI and market trends, with a dose of humour and practical insights.

About Heriot Brown:
Lessons I Learned in Law is brought to you by Heriot Brown, the in-house legal recruitment specialists dedicated to helping lawyers find fulfilment in their careers. Our mission extends beyond job placements, fostering a vibrant community that connects legal professionals with valuable insights and opportunities.

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