Yele Bademosi’s journey into the world of crypto started with a humble $100 investment, a decision that would later become one of the best moves of his life. Today, he’s recognized as one of Africa’s most influential crypto investors, but his story is one of curiosity, determination, and big-picture thinking.
Growing up in Lagos, Nigeria, Yele always had a strong interest in technology and entrepreneurship. But his entry into the world of blockchain and cryptocurrencies wasn’t something he had always planned. It began in 2017 with a small, seemingly insignificant $100 investment in Bitcoin—a move that he calls a “calculated risk.” At the time, many people were unsure about Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. But Yele had a feeling that this technology was about more than just digital money. He believed it could change how we handle finances, especially for people in Africa who struggle with access to banking.
That $100 bet opened the door to Yele’s journey into the crypto space, where he saw huge potential. However, it wasn’t always smooth sailin
The crypto market can be unpredictable, and Yele had to deal with the ups and downs that came with it. Many doubted whether his vision for cryptocurrencies in Africa would work, especially given the continent’s unique challenges, like infrastructure and regulatory hurdles. But Yele wasn’t one to give up easily. Every challenge he faced taught him something new, and he used these lessons to refine his approach and strengthen his belief in crypto’s potential.
Fast forward a few years, and Yele had made a name for himself. His venture firm, Microtraction, became a go-to source of funding for early-stage tech startups in Africa. Under Yele’s guidance, Microtraction has invested in more than 20 companies, many of which have gone on to achieve significant success. One of the standout investments is Paystack, which was acquired by Stripe for $200 million, and BuyCoins, a major player in Nigeria’s crypto exchange market.
Yele’s success goes beyond just picking winning startups. He’s become a passionate advocate for financial inclusion, using crypto as a tool to bring more people into the global economy. He’s also played a key role in educating governments and regulators on how blockchain technology can help drive innovation in Africa.
Today, Yele Bademosi is seen as a trailblazer in Africa’s fintech and crypto space. His investment portfolio has grown substantially, and some of his early bets have delivered returns of more than 10 times their original value. But for Yele, it’s not just about making money. He’s driven by the bigger goal of creating opportunities for more people across Africa, giving them the chance to participate in the global financial system.
That original $100 bet on crypto may seem small now, but it was the spark that ignited Yele’s mission to make a real impact. He took a chance when many others hesitated, and it paid off. Today, Yele Bademosi continues to push boundaries, not just in the world of crypto but for Africa’s future as a whole. His story is a testament to the power of belief, persistence, and thinking ahead.
