LID Publishing Acquires Becoming More, a Reflective New Leadership Book by Senior Public Service Leader Ayo Akande

LID Publishing Acquires Becoming More, a Reflective New Leadership Book by Senior Public Service Leader Ayo Akande

LONDON – LID Publishing is pleased to announce the acquisition of Becoming More: Leading with Clarity, Character and Quiet Impact, a reflective new leadership book by senior UK public service leader, mentor, speaker and community founder Ayo Akande.

Moving beyond traditional management frameworks, Becoming More offers an honest and deeply personal exploration of leadership, growth and contribution. Drawing on experiences spanning banking in Nigeria, community leadership and senior roles across the NHS and London government, Ayo shares reflections on navigating barriers, overcoming setbacks and discovering that leadership is ultimately about who we become and how we help others become more.

Written for professionals who have ever felt unseen, underestimated or overlooked, the book challenges the belief that influence belongs only to the loudest voices. Instead, it demonstrates how character, resilience, reflection and intentional human connection can create a lasting impact. Through real-life stories, practical lessons and reflective exercises, readers are encouraged to build confidence, embrace growth and make a meaningful contribution without compromising who they are.

“Leadership is not merely a set of skills we acquire or a title we achieve. It is an ongoing process of who we are becoming,” said Ayo Akande. “At its heart, Becoming More is a book about growth: how people become more than they once thought possible, and how leaders help others do the same. My hope is that readers will recognize the value of their own journey and the impact they can have on the people around them.”

Divided into four core sections – The Inner Work of Becoming; Leading People with Humanity; Visibility, Courage and Responsibility; and Becoming More – the book combines personal narrative with actionable weekly practices designed to develop character, strengthen communication and encourage human-centred leadership.

Martin Liu, Publisher at LID Publishing, commented: “Ayo Akande brings a deeply needed and authentic voice to the leadership landscape. Becoming More is a thoughtful, practical and highly relatable book that reminds us that leadership is not defined by title or status, but by character, self-reflection and the positive influence we have on others. We are delighted to be publishing it.”

Becoming More: Leading with Clarity, Character and Quiet Impact will be published by LID Publishing in February 2027.

About the Author

Ayodeji (Ayo) Akande began his career in banking in Nigeria before transitioning into senior leadership roles within the UK public sector. Over the course of his career, he has held leadership positions across London government and the NHS, leading major programmes focused on skills, employment, economic inclusion and public service improvement. He is a mentor, speaker and community leader who is passionate about leadership development, social mobility and helping people realize their potential. He is also the co-founder of Connect4Better (Cee4Bee), a registered charity focused on increasing social mobility by connecting people to the people, places, possibilities and opportunities that broaden horizons and expand access to opportunity. Ayo is committed to helping individuals, organizations and communities grow, thrive and become more.

About LID Publishing

LID Publishing is a leading international publisher specialising in business, leadership and personal development books. Through its global publishing platform, LID helps authors, thought leaders and organizations share transformative ideas with audiences around the world.

Media Contact

For all enquiries: Simon Wooldridge simon.wooldridge@lidbusinessmedia.com