As the final quarter of the year approaches, calendars are rapidly filling with a diverse array of conferences, summits, and meetings. These include high-profile events like UNGA80, the World Bank/IMF Annual Meetings, the WIMBIZ Annual Conference, and the 'Preparing for 2026' series. Amidst this flurry of invitations, a common dilemma emerges: how does one judiciously select which events to attend for maximum personal and professional benefit?

Reflecting on past experiences, many individuals recount how a singular moment in a conference, sometimes decades ago, profoundly altered their life's trajectory. This phenomenon prompts a deeper inquiry into the true power of such gatherings. A wise perspective suggests that "The true impact of a meeting is not what happens during the event, but what happens in your life after it ends." This philosophy perfectly encapsulates a monumental meeting experienced on April 29, 2017.

At that time, navigating the early days of motherhood with a month-old infant, the challenges of sleepless nights and constant diaper changes were paramount. It was then an Instagram post announced Omilola Oshikoya, a deeply admired figure, was launching her book, 'The Richer Woman,' in Abuja. Despite the ₦15,000 ticket price feeling like a significant stretch financially, an inner conviction prompted attendance. The decision was made to go, alone.

The event itself was not a sprawling conference in a massive hall filled with thousands. Instead, it was an intimate gathering, imbued with a palpable sense of community. The atmosphere felt akin to being surrounded by older sisters offering uplifting words of wisdom. There was no focus on knowing the speakers, taking photos, or exchanging contacts for 'networking.' The sole purpose was to learn and absorb the stories shared. One particularly resonant phrase from Omilola, which she is renowned for, was "Do it afraid." This message alone provided immeasurable value, justifying every naira spent on registration.

However, the true significance of the meeting unfolded in its aftermath. Following the event, a conscious decision was made to reach out personally to three of the women speakers, not for a generic pitch, but to share reflections on what had resonated most and to ask thoughtful questions. This intentional follow-up led to two of those women—Chiomah Momah, now an executive at Guinness Nigeria, and Bola Adefila, founder of the leading Nigerian fashion brand, Iredire—becoming enduring mentors and 'big sisters' who have significantly influenced the personal journey over the years.

Remarkably, eight years later, a chance encounter brought a reconnection with the lady who had moderated that 2017 event. Back then, her brilliance had been awe-inspiring. This time, their paths converged through a professional context. Upon reintroducing and reminding her of the April 2017 meeting, her face lit up with recognition and a shared smile, acknowledging the profound full-circle moment their connection had become. This exemplifies how some meetings don't merely conclude but continue to echo through one's life, creating lasting ripples of impact.

From this deeply personal experience, several invaluable lessons emerge regarding the approach to meetings, connections, and personal growth:

Firstly, true networking is a long-term endeavor. It transcends the mere accumulation of contacts, emphasizing genuine connections that deepen and evolve over time. This principle underscores the importance of quality over quantity; a single profound connection can yield far greater impact than fifty superficial ones.

Secondly, attendance should be driven by a desire for growth, not mere proximity or social obligation. It is crucial to select events that truly align with one's personal journey, values, or current season of life, rather than simply going where "everyone else is going."

Thirdly, intentional follow-up is paramount. A thoughtful message that specifically references what resonated with you from a speaker's presentation demonstrates active listening and respect for their time, fostering a more meaningful connection.

Fourthly, sometimes the most opportune moment to step outside your comfort zone is when uncertainty is highest. Embracing the mantra "do it afraid" can unlock unforeseen opportunities and growth.

Fifthly, view investments in personal development, even those that feel financially stretching, as exactly that: an investment, not an expense. The ₦15,000 ticket for 'The Richer Woman' event, for instance, yielded priceless relationships and a transformative shift in mindset.

Finally, recognize that some seeds take years to blossom. The reconnection with the moderator eight years later serves as a powerful testament that impact is not always immediate. Some valuable outcomes require patience and time to fully manifest.

As invitations continue to populate inboxes this season, the imperative is to attend those events that promise to stretch you, genuinely connect you, and speak directly to your current life season. Often, the most transformative gatherings are not necessarily the largest or the most glamorous, but rather those intimate moments where your inner spirit intuitively whispers: "This is where you need to be." Because, truly, the real impact of a meeting begins only after the meeting ends.