Category: AfroTech 2025

What does it take to go from ordinary achievements to an extraordinary life? François Locoh-Donou, the CEO of the Fortune 500 company F5, shared some profound truths for Black professionals at the recent AfroTech Conference 2025, all rooted in the power of continuous learning and meticulous preparation.

Lessons from an Extraordinary Father

Locoh-Donou’s journey is deeply inspired by his father, who overcame humble beginnings in a West African fishing village. Despite facing initial barriers to education, his father’s unwavering determination led him to pursue higher education and eventually become a pillar in his community. He not only built a medical facility and a church but also supported his family by providing health insurance and academic sponsorship.

“Over time, I came to understand that the reason that this boy, who was too short for school, had become the tallest pillar in our community was because he never accepted the ordinary achievements that the world offered him. Rather, he pursued the extraordinary at all stages of his life.” — François Locoh-Donou

This powerful lesson—the difference between ordinary achievement and an extraordinary life—has guided Locoh-Donou throughout his own impressive career, which includes advanced degrees in physics, engineering, optical communications, and an MBA from Stanford. He also co-founded Cajou Espoir, a cashew-processing facility that employs many women in Togo.

Locoh-Donou’s Truths for Black Professionals

1. Make Learning Your Obsession

With over 30 years in the tech industry, Locoh-Donou emphasizes a relentless pursuit of knowledge. This could mean pursuing a Ph.D., taking a lower-paying job with greater long-term potential, or simply staying curious across various disciplines. He believes that the knowledge you gain is yours to keep and can make you indispensable.

He shared a personal anecdote about becoming indispensable at Ciena by treating experts as private teachers. This dedication not only helped him avoid layoffs but also led to his first promotion within a year. Even today, he dedicates hours each week to learning through books, podcasts, and even AI.

2. Recognize and Over-Prepare for Your Moments of Truth

Locoh-Donou stresses the importance of over-preparing for critical career moments—big meetings, quarterly reviews, or client calls. He advises dedicating focused time to these high-stakes situations, even if it means temporarily setting aside other tasks. The return on investment from such preparation can significantly accelerate your career.

“You should never aim to pass in a moment of truth. You should aim to blow people away because this is what accelerates one’s career.” — François Locoh-Donou

3. Embrace Your Ambition Unapologetically

For many Black professionals and underrepresented groups, expressing ambition can feel uncomfortable due to fear of perception or lack of social capital. However, Locoh-Donou insists that you must communicate your value and clearly state your ambitions. “You will never get anything that you don’t ask for,” he stated, encouraging everyone to take that uncomfortable step to push for the opportunities they deserve.

4. Become a Giving Leader and Tell Your Story

Generosity, active listening, and problem-solving are key to becoming a leader people want to work with and for. Locoh-Donou also highlighted the crucial importance of sharing your story, whether through writing, blogging, or speaking engagements. Silence can be misinterpreted as surrender, so make your voice heard.

He concluded with a powerful message to those who are the first in their families to enter the tech industry or graduate from college: “Nothing about you is ordinary. You are the proof that your achievements do not need permission. You are the broad shoulders that others will stand on.”

Don’t Miss AfroTech Conference 2026!

Locoh-Donou’s inspiring words are a reminder of the incredible potential within the Black professional community. Hearing from leaders and founders at events like the AfroTech Conference is invaluable. Mark your calendars for AfroTech Conference 2026 in Houston, Nov. 2–6, and secure your early bird ticket now to avoid FOMO!