Today we’d like to introduce you to Kofi Douhadji
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Kofi Douhadji is a distinguished thought leader and U.S. Air Force officer whose transformative journey from Afagnan, Togo, to the heart of American leadership has inspired countless readers. His story is one of resilience, ambition, and transformation.
Growing up in Afagnan, Togo, Kofi’s early life was marked by humble beginnings. He always believed in the power of perseverance and optimism, themes he would later explore in his debut memoir, “Unbroken Optimist.” These early experiences shaped his character and set the foundation for his future endeavors.
Kofi’s journey took him to the United States, where he joined the U.S. Air Force. The military taught him discipline, leadership, and the value of service. Alongside his military career, Kofi nurtured his entrepreneurial spirit, founding Flying Wings, a publishing company dedicated to helping first-time authors bring their stories to life.
As a publishing consultant, Kofi’s impact grew, inspiring aspiring authors and readers alike. His work transcended personal achievement, embodying a mission to empower others through storytelling. This mission is reflected in his subsequent books, such as “Tiny Sparks: Insights to Light Your Way on Life’s Journey,” which encourages readers to find inspiration in everyday moments, and “Roots and Fruits,” an allegorical tale about growth and resilience.
Kofi’s multifaceted life also includes his passion for ultra-running and his innovative ventures in activewear and sneaker design under the brand dooko®. These endeavors symbolize his relentless pursuit of goals and his belief in the extraordinary potential of small beginnings.
Through his books, entrepreneurial efforts, and service, Kofi Douhadji strives to be a beacon of hope and inspiration, demonstrating that with determination, optimism, and a commitment to helping others, one can achieve great heights and make a significant impact on the world.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road has not been smooth. From studying by candlelight to walking barefoot to school and experiencing starvation, I’ve learned that nothing in life is a straight line. One key moment I’ll never forget was right before our final exam in high school when my sister and I were locked out of our room because we owed rent. Being away from family and fending for ourselves with hopes to graduate and change our lives took me through some of the most challenging moments of my life.
I’ve faced starvation and lacked essential items, even basic things like soap to shower. During high school, I often had only three meals a week, and that would be considered a good week if I managed to scrape together those meals. The uncertainty, loneliness, and pain of enduring sickness without proper care were incredibly challenging. The only way to get through those tough moments was to hold on, hoping that time would heal and that I wouldn’t succumb to the hardships.
Additionally, I faced a lack of support from those around me. When I talked to my family, even my parents, about my dreams, they often mocked me, thinking my aspirations were too big. It was confusing and disheartening to not have their understanding or support.
Despite these obstacles, I persevered. These experiences taught me resilience and the importance of holding onto hope, even in the darkest times.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Flying Wings is a hybrid publishing company dedicated to empowering independent authors by providing them with the tools and support necessary to produce professionally crafted books. Our mission is to help authors create great books that can compete with traditionally published works, and often perform even better. Unlike many publishers that produce in large numbers, we focus our time and energy on each individual project, ensuring exceptional quality and attention to detail.
The genesis of Flying Wings came from my personal experience writing and self-publishing my first book, Unbroken Optimist. This journey, combined with my background as an executive coach, enabled me to craft a path and build a team that supports independent authors from the initial idea to placing their books on the shelves.
What sets Flying Wings apart is our deep commitment to each author’s unique voice and vision. We don’t just publish books; we partner with authors throughout their entire publishing journey. Our specialization lies in offering personalized support, professional editing, design, and marketing services tailored to the specific needs of each project.
We are most proud of our ability to help authors produce books that stand out in the marketplace. Our authors’ success stories are a testament to the effectiveness of our approach and the high standards we maintain.
One of the things I am most proud of about Flying Wings is how I have come full circle. Books have changed my life, starting from my small, beautiful village of Afagnan. I benefited greatly from the books I read, such as Power Through Constructive Thinking by Emmett Fox. I can only imagine what my life would have been without that book. Fox didn’t have to write it, but he did, and it had a profound impact on me.
Now, I have the opportunity to help others publish their books—books written from the heart with messages that the authors care deeply about sharing with the world. These authors are not writing for fame, money, or the title of ‘author.’ They are creating timeless works that will serve generations to come, long after we are gone.
At Flying Wings, we are passionate about storytelling and dedicated to helping authors bring their stories to life. Whether you’re just starting with an idea or ready to publish, Flying Wings is here to provide the expertise and support you need to succeed. We’ve published books for authors in Europe, the United States, and Africa, and those books have created ripple effects that I can only imagine. Contributing to the world at this level is something I am hugely proud of. It is an honor to support independent authors and witness the profound impact their books have on readers around the globe.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I believe in luck, but I also believe that relying on luck alone brings bad luck. Throughout my life, I’ve seen how doing my fair share and taking proactive steps often aligns with fortunate outcomes. For example, in 2014, while working as a civil engineer in Togo and passionate about the United States, I entered the diversity visa program, a lottery with thousands of participants worldwide. Against all odds, I was one of the few winners.
This experience reinforced my belief that luck plays a role, but it’s not something you can depend on solely. Instead, it’s about seizing opportunities and being prepared when luck strikes. In my work with Flying Wings, I apply this philosophy by empowering authors to put in the necessary work and dedication, knowing that while luck can open doors, it’s their effort and commitment that ultimately lead to success.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://kofidouhadji.com
