Networking -How to Built a Global Business Empire- One Connection at a Time

Charlie Monson’s story doesn’t begin in a boardroom or with a graduation day—it begins in the quiet margins of untapped genius. Born into modest circumstances, Charlie left school in the ninth grade, trading textbooks for tools. His first formal training was in bookkeeping and junior accounting, but it wasn’t long before he found himself drawn to hands-on work, qualifying as an automotive mechanic. While some saw these moves as irrelevant, Charlie saw them as layers, each skill adding to a foundation built not on formal education, but on curiosity, practicality and an unshakable work ethic.

Even then, long before social media, the entrepreneurial spark was impossible to ignore. As a teenager, Charlie began selling whatever he could get his hands on: products, services, ideas. He found freedom in the exchange, satisfaction in the solve. His first real taste of business came through a humble but ingenious venture: rubber stamps. What started as a niche offering quickly expanded into a multi-faceted business supplying everything from office supplies to printed materials. By the time his name became synonymous with the phrase, “If it exists, I’ll find it for you,” Charlie had already begun crafting his legacy, one connection at a time and, along the way, he defies every blueprint.

Known widely as The Global Connector—and affectionately dubbed The Godfather of Networking—his journey spans continents, industries, and generations of aspiring entrepreneurs.

Before he built business bridges across Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas, Charlie carved ice at breakneck speeds. As a national short track speed skating champion, his grit and focus were evident early on—traits that would later fuel an unrelenting entrepreneurial spirit. From selling rubber stamps to sourcing office supplies, from mastering industrial radiography to empowering start-ups in underserved sectors, Monson’s trajectory is as unconventional as it is inspiring.

Was business the only arena where Charlie thrived?

Off the sales floor and away from supplier negotiations, he chased speed on the ice. A natural athlete with a relentless drive, Charlie became one of South Africa’s top short track speed skaters. His defining moment came at the 1981 South African Festival Games, where he not only broke the national record in the 500m sprint but also secured silver in the 1000m and helped lead the relay team to gold in the 5000m. Awarded national colours, then known as the Springbok, for his achievements, Charlie cemented his place in the country’s sporting history.

But he didn’t stop at personal victory. Long after he left competition, Charlie remained deeply involved in the sport, serving as deputy national coach, executive committee member, and technical adviser within the South African Speed Skating Association. In 2001, he proudly represented South Africa at the ISU Global Club Development Seminar and Championships in Germany, once again earning national colours—this time, not for breaking records, but for building athletes.

For all his early business instincts, Charlie admits that his first 18 years in entrepreneurship were driven more by intuition than instruction. He learned the hard way—through missteps, missed opportunities, and a relentless trial-and-error approach that often left more bruises than breakthroughs. But everything changed when he attended his first business seminar.

What was the moment that redefined Charlie’s trajectory?

Surrounded by like-minded individuals and seasoned experts, Charlie experienced a shift—from hustling in isolation to learning in community. That single event sparked what would become a lifelong commitment to personal development. Over the next decade, he immersed himself in over 300 seminars, workshops, and networking events, absorbing insights on leadership, strategy, and growth. The more he learned, the clearer his mission became: to prevent others—especially young entrepreneurs and start-up founders—from repeating the same costly mistakes he had once made alone.

With knowledge came clarity—and with clarity, purpose. Charlie began to see beyond his own ventures and recognise a glaring gap in the entrepreneurial ecosystem: the lack of accessible guidance for young people, start-ups, and small businesses navigating their earliest, most fragile stages. Too often, potential was being lost not for lack of ambition, but for lack of support. And Charlie knew exactly how that felt.

Determined to be the kind of guide he never had, he began offering more than just products or services—he offered pathways. What started informally soon evolved into a full-blown mission: to help emerging entrepreneurs access the tools, mentorship, and networks necessary to build sustainable, profitable businesses. His approach was deeply personal, forged in experience and driven by a singular belief: that by nurturing businesses at their roots, we lay the foundation for tomorrow’s corporate leaders.

With a vast network spanning continents and industries, from petrochemicals to renewable energy, from agriculture to education, he became the bridge between great ideas and the people who could help realise them. As Charlie puts it, “Many can give you a contact—but few know how to nurture a relationship that builds something lasting.”

Today, with many decades of experience, more than 300 seminars under his belt, and a reputation for connecting the right people to the right opportunities, Charlie’s mission is simple but profound: to nurture the entrepreneurial ecosystem from the ground up—transforming today’s young dreamers into tomorrow’s business leaders.

In this exclusive conversation, ahead of his book being released, we take a close look into the mindset that transformed Charlie Monson into a man on a mission , exploring the setbacks, successes and unique vision of a man who turned struggle into possibility.

Charlie, your journey began with an unconventional path—from bookkeeping and mechanics to becoming a respected NDT technician. How did these early experiences shape your resilience and adaptability in business?

Charlie: Growing up in South Africa with limited choices and opportunities, I always felt the system was unfair. That experience shaped a mind-set in me: “Show me or teach me, and I’ll prove I can do it better.” I dropped out of school in Grade 9 because I had no real interest in the academic subjects. I skipped History, Biology, and Geography classes for about six months, spending that time in the woodworking room instead, I was always more technically inclined. But back then, technical high schools weren’t an option for people of color. I figured staying in school would only lead to failure in subjects I had no future in, so I left.

My first job was as a table hand in a shoe factory, snipping excess threads from stitched shoes. I saved enough from that to enrol in a bookkeeping course. It was designed for matriculates, so having only a Grade 9 education made it a tough adjustment at first, but I pushed through and finished in the top five with a B+ pass. I worked for a few years as a debtor’s clerk under a sharp-eyed accountant, Mr. Mohamed. Later, I took a job as a creditors’ clerk with Mr. Areff. After about two and a half years, I left. When I returned from a UK sporting trip to the world championships, where we were barred from competing en route, I started working as a salesman for a clothing company. Within a few years, I was managing distribution across the province and beyond.

Eventually, I left that role when apprenticeship programs finally opened up for people of color. I joined what was called a “Major Apprenticeship,” meant for those over 21. I earned the “Best Student in Motor Trade” award three years in a row and scored an average of 90% in my finals, with 99% in both Maths and Technical Drawing. But after qualifying, I realized the work had shifted, we weren’t fixing anything, just swapping out parts. I knew I wasn’t built to be a fitter. During my apprenticeship, I had been introduced to welding, so I enrolled in a course with the Institute of Welding. After finishing, I spent a couple of years taking on welding jobs and learning more about inspection and fabrication.

When the Mossgas refinery was under construction, the Dutch Government funded a training program for inspectors and NDT technicians. I grabbed the chance. Again, I was surrounded by matriculates with strong Math and Science backgrounds, but I finished in the top three. I was the only candidate shortlisted by all 22 companies and invited for second interviews. I eventually took a job with a drilling unit at a mining company. A few days in, I questioned my choice, I’d never even seen a drilling machine before, and suddenly I was responsible for managing downhole equipment for over 32 exploration rigs across the mining network, including three deep drilling rigs, totalling around 60 million rand. But my determination to learn paid off. Within six months, I’d adapted, and management acknowledged it in a production meeting. I’d pinpointed what was causing downhole breakages of drill pipe, something that didn’t sit well with some of the more seasoned foremen, some of whom had been in the field for over 25 years.

After being sabotaged by certain members of management and losing the chance to join a drill pipe inspection company in Texas, I decided to leave. I joined a company gearing up to work on Mossgas, which was at he refinery construction phase of the project. I was one of the first NDT technicians on the project, and once again, I stood out.

Throughout this journey, I’ve been lucky to be mentored by some of the best minds in the industries I entered. I believe they saw something in me.

These experiences, and my drive to constantly learn and grow, have made it easy for me to adapt. It’s something I apply to everything I take on.

You have worn many hats: entrepreneur, elite athlete, coach, and connector. What common thread ties all these roles together for you?

Charlie: The short answer to that question is my acknowledgement and passion to serve, empower, develop others and to add value in every way I can. My favourite quote that reminds and grounds me is “The vocation of every man and woman is to serve other people” – Leo Tolstoy.

Can you tell us more about the first spark of entrepreneurship in your life? What was it about selling rubber stamps that ignited your long-term business drive?

Charlie: As I was coming up, I was always selling something, whether it was apples, oranges, cool drinks, ice cream, or peanuts at local soccer games or just about any nearby event. It became a habit, a way to earn a little extra and keep some money in my pocket, and help out at home and also not to put strain on my parents to buy me clothes they could not really afford. Later, as I travelled across the country to work at power stations and refineries, some tucked away in remote areas, I’d spot what those places lacked, buy it in the city (Johannesburg), and resell it out there at a high profit margin.

When I left my role as an NDT technician, I started selling rubber stamps just to get by and replace my income. What I didn’t realize then was that I was learning how to spot needs and find ways to meet them. By building relationships with clients, the business naturally expanded, to stationery, business cards, letterheads, invoice books, office supplies, and eventually, almost everything else.

That steady growth is what sparked the drive to keep going.

“If it exists, I’ll find it for you” became your signature slogan. What does that phrase truly mean to you beyond business transactions?

Charlie: I’d say it means “If there’s any way I can help you, connect you with someone who can, or offer something of value, I’ll find a way to make it happen.”

You achieved national recognition in speed skating and later gave back as a coach and committee member. How did your athletic career influence your leadership style and personal discipline?

Charlie: My leadership style and discipline were deeply shaped by the support I had from coaches and teammates over the years. Looking back, Coach Norman Holwell, a former Olympian who introduced the sport to South Africa, played a major role in who I am today. He taught me the value of discipline, made sure I stuck to my training routines, and always held me accountable when I didn’t.

During our trip to the UK for the world championships (which we were ultimately barred from), Coach Norman insisted we continue with the journey. His goal was to take us around the country and introduce us to some of the clubs he had ties with. When we visited his old club, the Nottingham Speed Skating Club (which I became an honorary life member), I remember doing just three laps before he called me over and introduced me to Coach Pip. Coach Pip repeated the exact same instructions Coach Norman had always pushed me on, which I did not follow and which he had patience to instruct me every training session without getting angry or irritated, and in that moment, something clicked. I was genuinely scared at how fast I was going after doing exactly what I was advised to change. That experience changed everything for me. From then on, I followed every bit of guidance Coach Norman gave me. That moment shaped my discipline and gave me the drive to go after everything I’ve set my mind to.

It also influenced the way I lead. My style is about understanding where someone’s at, recognizing their strengths and weaknesses, and working with patience to help them grow, even if that means bringing in someone else to offer a fresh perspective.

You attended your first business seminar after nearly two decades in business. What was the single most eye-opening insight you took away from that first experience?

Charlie: The memory of that moment is still so vivid. I was overwhelmed, standing among seasoned entrepreneurs and high-profile figures like Stedman Graham, someone I’d only ever read about. Once I managed to settle my nerves, I reminded myself that in my business, I’ve spoken with people from all levels of industry. I just needed to treat everyone the same way I always had. I was accompanied by a very dear friend, Fred Merckel, who has recently passed on, May His Soul Rest in Eternal Peace. While we were listening to the speeches, he turned to me and said, “Charlie, these guys are doing exactly what you’re doing.” I didn’t fully grasp what he meant at the time, but a few months and a couple of events later, it finally clicked. Be yourself, and share what you know with others. That turned out to be one of the most eye-opening insights I’ve ever had.

With over 300 seminars and networking events under your belt, what have you learned about the true essence of connection in entrepreneurship?

Charlie: Through my own experience and observing the common myths around networking, I’ve come to understand what real connection in entrepreneurship looks like. The typical advice says you should be an extrovert, hand out as many business cards as possible, polish your elevator pitch, and focus on closing deals. But I found that this approach often ends up pushing people away. Over time, I developed what I call the G.I.V.E. model, which captures the true heart of building relationships. It starts with showing Genuine Interest in the people you meet. Then, Initiating Connection, taking the first step and not being afraid to approach someone. Value Adding, means offering something without expecting anything in return. And finally, Engaging Authentically, being yourself, not putting on a performance or trying to copy others. Following these principles has helped me build much deeper, more meaningful connections at networking events.

Many entrepreneurs—especially young and underserved ones—struggle with access and clarity. What are the most common mistakes you see them make, and how do you help them overcome these?

Charlie: It can be painful to witness the struggles entrepreneurs face, many of which I went through myself. But I only gained clarity when I began my own journey of personal development. That’s when I saw the mistakes I had been making, and how much I could learn from those with more experience and knowledge. I came to realize that, in chasing deals and new customers, many entrepreneurs miss a crucial step: that is in understanding the core components of running a business.

The biggest hurdle is often not having access to the right guidance or tools to help build something sustainable, most of which is what a small business cannot provide. That’s why I make it a point to attend as many networking events as I can and to speak at township gatherings. It gives me a chance to share my experiences and encourage others to seek out a coach or consultant, whether through me or by connecting them with someone with expertise who can support them in an area they need assistance. I’m also in the process of starting a Non-Profit Organisation focused on making these essential resources more accessible at a low cost, empowering small businesses to meet their needs and grow with confidence.

You’ve created meaningful networks across sectors as diverse as agriculture, real estate, technology, and social impact. How do you stay grounded and effective while navigating such broad terrain?

A: Because I’m passionate about helping others grow and adding real value, I always try to find ways I can be of service. Through my experiences engaging with so many industry leaders, and seeing how difficult it can be for people to break into any space, I make it a point to ask how I can help. Coach Mark Anthony Bates, “The Coach of Coaches,” said it best during an event in Johannesburg: “There’s a distinct difference between networking and connecting. Charlie speaks to people to find out what their needs are and who to connect with whom, so that people like myself don’t have to spend time meeting everyone just to figure out what it is you need or how I can help, Charlie already knows.” That recognition reminded me to stay grounded, always leading with humility.

“The Godfather of Networking” is a powerful title. In your words, what defines a powerful networker in today’s volatile, digital-first business world?

Charlie: I’m still humbled by the title, which was given to me by Coach Dana Van Hoose. For me, there’s not a huge difference between networking in person and digitally. I’ve built meaningful relationships across the globe, many with people I’ve never met face to face. One that stands out is with my late friend Philip Chan, who sadly passed away a few years ago. Philip opened doors for me that I still value deeply. People often chase the highest number of digital connections, but struggle to maintain real relationships. What truly makes a powerful networker is staying connected, commenting on posts, sharing thoughtful insights, or even sending a personal message now and then. That kind of engagement is what keeps relationships alive, no matter the platform.

You’ve built relationships in nearly every corner of the world. What’s your secret to building trust across cultures and continents?

Charlie: I apply the G.I.V.E. model while always being mindful and respectful of cultural differences. What’s seen as humorous in one culture might come across as offensive in another, so I take the time to understand those nuances. Asking the right questions, showing genuine interest, and embracing what makes each culture unique has helped me build trust with people from all walks of life. Even learning a few basic do’s and don’ts goes a long way, it shows that you care enough to connect on their terms.

From your unique perspective, what role does emotional intelligence play in brokering successful partnerships?

 Charlie: Emotional intelligence is often one of the hardest things to fully grasp in building strong partnerships. But showing genuine empathy and being aware of the other person’s mind-set, emotions, and perspective, that’s often the spark that makes a partnership work.

Tell us about a moment where you helped connect two people or entities that changed the trajectory of their business or lives.

 Charlie: There are so many moments like that, but one in particular stands out. Early in my networking journey, I met a talented young designer, and as we got to know each other, she shared that she was struggling to find a skilled seamstress who could bring her designs to life. At the same time, I knew a tailor in my network who was looking for something more fulfilling than just doing alterations. I introduced them, and they clicked immediately. To this day, they’re still working together, they’ve actually formed a partnership and are doing really well.

 You’ve said many people search for the right business partner or project without understanding what they actually need. How do you help people clarify their vision before they connect?

Charlie: I start by helping them assess what they truly need, then we dive deeper into why they need it and what value it brings to the connection they’re hoping to make. It’s about helping them define what an ideal partner looks like, what role that person would play, and just as importantly, what their own responsibilities would be in that partnership or project. Clarity is everything, it’s crucial to know exactly what you want out of any collaboration before you step into it.

What are the non-negotiables you look for when deciding to bring people together in your global network?

 Charlie: I don’t connect people just for the sake of it, there has to be a clearly defined value they can bring to each other. My tagline, “Committed to connecting Value 24/7,” isn’t just a phrase, it’s a standard I hold myself to, and that commitment is non-negotiable.

 Entrepreneurship is often portrayed as glamorous, but you emphasize foundational development. Why is starting from the ground up critical for long-term success?

 Charlie: I often share an analogy with aspiring entrepreneurs who are inspired by the success stories of people they admire. Just like a child starts in kindergarten, learning the basics of numeracy, communication, and literacy before progressing to primary school, then high school, and eventually tertiary education, the journey in business follows a similar path. You need to understand the fundamentals of running a business before aiming for the big wins. Too many people focus on the end result without recognizing the sacrifices, systems, and cultures those successful entrepreneurs had to build along the way, not to mention understanding their “why.” Entrepreneurship isn’t about instant success or gratification; it’s a journey of continuous growth from the ground up.

Your mission involves empowering the entrepreneurs of tomorrow. What gives you the most hope when working with young or emerging business leaders?

Charlie: What gives me the most hope is seeing the drive so many young people have to make a real impact, whether it’s contributing to the economy, creating solutions to tackle unemployment, or addressing broader socio-economic challenges. That kind of purpose-driven mind-set tells me they’re not just chasing success, they’re building something meaningful, and I truly believe they’ll succeed.

What lessons from your own failures do you feel most compelled to pass on to the next generation?

Charlie: My, my, my, I’ve made so many mistakes over the years that led to failure. From not defining clear responsibilities in partnerships, to skipping written agreements that outline how to handle conflict, to poor financial management. I’ve hired people who didn’t share the vision of the company, and I’ve overlooked important compliance with statutory requirements. Each of those missteps taught me something valuable, and I could honestly spend a whole day sharing the lessons I now feel deeply compelled to pass on to the next generation.

 How do you personally stay inspired, especially after 30+ years of navigating both triumphs and setbacks?

Charlie: What keeps me inspired after all these years is my willingness to keep learning and never give up. I stay grateful for every success and triumph, but I also take full ownership of my setbacks, seeing them as part of the learning curve that continues to shape me.

Finally, what legacy do you hope to leave—as The Global Connector, mentor, and visionary—for future entrepreneurs and global collaborators?

Charlie: If there’s one legacy I hope to leave, it’s that I helped others rise, by connecting people with purpose, sharing what I’ve learned, and creating spaces where entrepreneurs feel seen, supported, and equipped to grow. As The Global Connector, mentor, and visionary, I want to be remembered not just for building relationships across borders, but for making those relationships meaningful. I hope future entrepreneurs and collaborators remember that success is built on authenticity, service, and staying true to who you are, no matter where in the world you are.

From mining operations in Africa to real estate ventures in Eastern Europe, Charlie’s Rolodex is not just impressive—it’s strategic. Over the years, he has cultivated relationships with industry leaders in sectors as diverse as engineering, textile and apparel, renewable energy, legal services, agriculture, livestock, venture capital, education, branding, and social entrepreneurship. Whether brokering a deal between solar innovators in Australia and investors in the UAE, or aligning African agritech start-ups with European distributors, Charlie’s ability to match vision with opportunity is unparalleled.

Working alongside a cadre of elite consultants and advisors, he doesn’t simply introduce people—he engineers ecosystems. His collaborative, value-driven model ensures that every connection he facilitates isn’t just a name in a database, but a relationship designed for mutual success. With a footprint extending across Asia, North and South America, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, Charlie Monson has become the connective tissue for businesses looking to scale across borders and industries.

Now, with more than 30 years of entrepreneurial wisdom behind him, Charlie Monson remains as driven as ever—not by profit, but by purpose. His legacy is not built on empire, but on empowerment. Whether mentoring a teenager with a side hustle or advising C-suite executives on international expansion, Charlie approaches each connection with the same philosophy: add value, build trust, and never underestimate the power of relationships.

As “The Global Connector,” Charlie continues to serve as a bridge between possibility and progress. But he’s also a builder—of businesses, communities, and futures. His mission is ongoing: to equip the next generation with the mindset, tools, and network they need to succeed. And his message remains unwavering:

“If we invest in the ecosystem from the ground up, we’re not just launching businesses—we’re building the foundations for tomorrow’s global leaders.” It’s not just about making connections. For Charlie Monson, it’s about making them count.