I first met Davidson on a site called Quora, a place I never imagined would change my life. One day I came across a photo of a young man sitting barefoot in a field, working a manual sewing machine and crafting leather bags to sell. I was instantly impressed by his dedication and skill.

I reached out to tell him so and offered to send him $100 to help him get started. He insisted on sending me a bag in return, but I declined. Shipping would cost too much, and after 12 years as a United Airlines flight attendant flying to China, I already owned several great bags.

That was five years ago. Since then, I have watched Davidson’s unwavering determination take him from a humble field in Nigeria to a growing career in artisan leatherwork.

I was amazed to discover how connected people in Africa are through social media. Nearly everyone has a cell phone, and they are often far more digitally savvy than we imagine. What is more, they are eager to work hard and succeed, even though opportunities can be limited.

During our early conversations over WhatsApp, I told Davidson about Undercover Billionaire, where Grant Cardone started with nothing but $100 and a beat up truck, aiming to make $1 million in 90 days. Davidson stayed up all night watching all eight episodes. By morning, his ambition had skyrocketed.

A few weeks later, he called for advice. He had two options: stay in Abuja and take a small loan to grow his business locally or take an eleven hour bus ride to Lagos to try and get hired at a high end bag factory. The Lagos option came with no guarantees, no money for food or lodging, and the risk of returning home empty handed.

But Davidson’s response was simple: If Grant Cardone can do it, so can I.

He made the journey, was hired, and even slept in the factory for several months. After more than a year and a half refining his craft, he returned to Abuja with stronger skills and bigger dreams.

Later, at a private dinner in Miami with Grant Cardone himself, I shared Davidson’s story. I told him he probably did not realize how far his influence had reached, all the way to Nigeria.

Today, Davidson is on his way to building a thriving artisan brand. By supporting him, I am also helping the textile suppliers, weavers, helpers, and their families. In return, we receive beautifully made products that enrich our homes while creating sustainable livelihoods.