Tennis is a lot like life. You have to prepare for the ball, focus, and position yourself just right to make the hit. As the great Roger Federer recently said in his commencement speech at Dartmouth, it’s all about grit and determination.
If tennis is like life, then a court is like a hub. It’s where the action happens, connections form, and we show what we’re made of. I’ve been thinking about what makes or breaks a hub. Of course, different goals need different ingredients, but let’s talk about tech hubs, especially the ones buzzing with innovation.
First off, we need the right people—those with the knowledge and skills. Universities are goldmines for this kind of talent and often serve as epicenters of fresh ideas and innovation. Sometimes, a hub benefits from a rich history that has put it on the map for years. Think of cities with ports; they naturally became business hubs. And let’s not forget capital—money flows to where the right conditions are. Established companies are also a way to bring in opportunities and leverage the hub’s potential.
But these ingredients alone don’t create a hub overnight. They also need the energy of multiculturalism, bringing in different perspectives that fuel innovation. A true hub needs a vibrant ecosystem, a community buzzing with people eager to make a difference, aiming for innovation, and ready to collaborate. It’s that special vibe in the air, the endless events, and the palpable sense of opportunity calling out to you.
What really makes a hub thrive, for me, is grit. It’s not enough to see the value of tech and innovation, or even to want it; you need people ready to fight for it daily, with total conviction and belief in their path. A hub is where your consistent efforts are recognized and valued, motivating you to keep pushing forward. As Federer shared with hundreds of Dartmouth students, you might see his warm-ups and think it’s a breeze, but behind the scenes, he trained relentlessly for years. It looks effortless because of the mastery he’s earned. It’s never about luck—it’s about being prepared to seize the opportunities that come your way.
At the end of the day, a hub can have all the capital, universities, and history, but what truly sets it apart is the determination to succeed. For me, Boston is the epitome of this spirit. Walking into the city feels like stepping into the heart of technological innovation—it never fails to give me goosebumps. Today I invite you to reflect on whether you have the grit needed to reach your dreams, and work towards your goals with the same tenacity that set Federer apart on the court.