Growth is rarely dramatic. More often, it is deliberate, disciplined, and built steadily over time. At The Triad Masterclass Special Edition by Meristem, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Coleman Wires & Cables, Mr. George Onafowokan, FNSE, shared thoughtful reflections on Coleman’s journey and the principles that have guided the company’s sustained growth. His message centered on the enduring fundamentals that continue to shape Coleman’s approach to business: patience, long-term thinking, consistent execution, and the courage to build beyond immediate outcomes. During the session, he emphasized the importance of resisting the pressure for instant success and instead focusing on building strong foundations that can support sustainable progress. He highlighted the value of investing in capacity, systems, and people—elements that may take time to develop but ultimately create stability, resilience, and long-term impact. A key theme from the discussion was the idea that empowering others does not slow progress; rather, it strengthens it. By building people, nurturing partnerships, and developing shared capability, organizations create the conditions for innovation, adaptability, and sustained performance. This philosophy has remained central to Coleman’s growth strategy and continues to influence how the company approaches leadership, workforce development, and industry collaboration. Entrepreneurship is often measured in milestones and visible achievements, but enduring institutions are built in the quieter moments—the sacrifices, the discipline, and the consistency required to stay the course when results take time to materialize. These unseen efforts form the backbone of sustainable success and define organizations that are built to last. We are proud to see these reflections resonate with entrepreneurs and industry leaders who are committed to building for the long term, strengthening industries, and contributing meaningfully to economic development.
