The two feature in the latest episode of The Long Form Podcast, hosted by Sanny Ntayombya, where they shared their impressions of Rwanda, the universal language of financial literacy, and the untapped opportunities for Black investment on the continent.
Discovering Rwanda's charm
Upon landing in Kigali, Bilal and Millings were struck by Rwanda's stunning landscapes and efficiency.
'It surpassed my expectations,' Bilal said. 'I knew it was going to be clean, efficient, but I didn't know it was going to be so beautifulâ€"mountain ranges, hills, lights at night.'
Millings echoed, noting the seamless airport processes and pristine streets, even at night.
'This is a hidden treasure that the world doesn't know about,' he said, challenging outdated media portrayals of Rwanda like those shown in movies like Hotel Rwanda.
The country's transformation over the past 30 years since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi impressed the duo.
Millings remarked, 'Seeing the infrastructure, real estate, businesses, and a tech hub todayâ€"it's remarkable. What does it look like in the next 10, 15 years?'
Rwanda's rapid growth, driven by strong leadership and a unified vision, positions it as a model for African progress and a magnet for Black investors worldwide.
Earn Your Leisure is renowned for making financial literacy accessible and culturally relevant for Black communities. In Rwanda, Bilal and Millings explored how this mission aligns with Africa's economic rise.
When asked why a young Black investor from the U.S. should consider Rwanda, Bilal highlighted its stability and low corruption.
'You need confidence, especially in a foreign country,' he said. 'Rwanda has a lot going for itselfâ€"low to almost no corruption.' This, paired with a young, dynamic population, makes Rwanda a prime destination for Black capital.
The duo also discussed their investment in Ghana, where they're developing Sombra City, a diaspora-friendly welcome city.
Bilal explained, 'It's a model that can be replicated in Rwanda and beyond, creating something that welcomes you and keeps you here.'
The episode also emphasised Pan-Africanism, highlighting the shared history and destiny of African and African-American communities. Millings noted that cultural shifts, through music, social media, and initiatives like Ghana's Year of Return, have bridged the gap.
'Culture is a door that gets people in, like a Trojan horse,' he said. 'Once inside, they see opportunities and feel comfortable investing.'
Bilal addressed historical barriers, noting that negative media portrayals of Africa, including war, poverty, and danger, were intentional to deter Black investment.
'Social media now lets us see things in real time, countering that narrative,' he said.
This shift, Bilal believes, empowers Black Americans to view Africa as a home for economic and cultural reconnection.
The power of wealth
Bilal and Millings reflected on how wealth shapes the Black experience.
'Having money and being independent allows you freedomâ€"allows you to be you,' Bilal said.
'You don't have to code-switch or change who you are.' Yet, Millings added, 'Money doesn't exempt you from being a Black man in America. You're never fully safe.'
Bilal hopes his children and grandchildren will see this Rwanda visit as a pivotal moment in Africa's rise.
'I hope they understand the significance of a new world orderâ€"the real rise of Africa,' he said. Millings envisioned a future where Rwanda, Ghana, and Kenya become regular destinations for the diaspora, not as tourists but as stakeholders.
'Africa is home,' he affirmed.
Watch the full episode of the podcast below:
Wycliffe Nyamasege
