Women of Rubies, Author at Women of Rubies

In Interviews&profile October 30, 2025 By Women of Rubies

How Abiodun Alabi Uses AI Strategy to Drive Social Impact Across Africa

Abiodun Alabi is a Project Manager and AI Strategist passionate about using technology to drive social impact, empower women, and humanize work. With over a decade of experience spanning Human Resources, community development, and digital transformation, she designs inclusive, practical solutions that make technology work for everyone.

As Executive Director of Motherhood NG Initiative, she leads community-centered innovations that advance women’s and children’s well-being. Her Google Calendar Immunisation Initiative creatively repurposes a simple digital tool to help mothers and birth attendants set child vaccination reminders improving immunisation rates in underserved communities.

She is also the creator of Ms. Flow, an AI-powered WhatsApp bot providing menstrual education to teenage girls across Nigeria, bridging menstrual health gaps through accessible technology.

Beyond social innovation, Abiodun is the founder of Feat Business Consult, where she helps businesses and HR professionals adopt AI responsibly through initiatives like the HR Automation Bootcamp and AI for HER Webinar, equipping women with the digital confidence to thrive in the future of work. She also co-founded My Work Check 360, an HR tech platform for transparent employee–employer reviews.

A member of global networks including Google Women Techmakers, WomenTech Network, and Women in AI, Abiodun advocates for ethical AI adoption and digital inclusion. Her work is anchored in a simple belief, when technology meets empathy, innovation becomes truly transformative.

Inspiration Behind the Transition from Human Resources into AI Strategy and Social Innovation

About fifteen years ago, when I started my career as an HR/Admin Officer, I was sent for a one-week training with our IT consultant. My role included updating the company’s website and managing its Facebook page, quite new at the time. During that training, the IT consultant told me, “See technology as a tool to solve business problems and make Google your best friend.” That statement changed how I viewed technology forever.

Later, as a Project and HR Manager in an IT company, I worked on digital products designed to solve real business challenges. Those experiences helped me see the deeper potential of technology — not just for efficiency, but for empowerment.

After over a decade in HR, I realized that while organizations were advancing with tech, many professionals, especially women, were being left behind. I wanted to change that. So, I began using AI not just to optimize workflows, but to create inclusion and opportunity.

Today, I combine my HR background with AI strategy to design simple, human-centered tools that make work more meaningful and technology more accessible for all.

When Technology Became a Tool for Impact and Inclusion

The turning point came during my work in maternal and child health outreach. I noticed that most challenges, from missed immunizations to poor menstrual education , weren’t due to lack of care, but lack of access. Technology, I realized, could bridge that access gap.

It wasn’t about sophistication; it was about simplicity and scale. That realization shaped my mission to use technology that meets people where they are, whether that’s through a simple WhatsApp bot or a Google tool and turn it into a bridge for empowerment.

The Story Behind the Google Calendar Immunisation Initiative

The idea came during one of our community outreaches at a health center, when a new mother missed her child’s vaccine appointment simply because she forgot the date. I thought, if we use Google Calendar to manage meetings, why not use it to save lives?

We repurposed the tool to help mothers and birth attendants schedule and track immunizations for free, even on basic smartphones.

The most rewarding part has been seeing uneducated women proudly say, “I set my baby’s vaccine reminder on my phone,” and watching how empowering it feels for birth attendants to transfer knowledge to every pregnant woman they attend to. It’s proof that impact doesn’t always require complex innovation , just human insight and empathy.

Bridging the Menstrual Knowledge Gap Through Ms. Flow

Ms. Flow was born from countless conversations with teenage girls I met during various outreach programs of Teenage Well Project. Many lacked access to accurate menstrual information and a safe space to ask questions without shame. I realized that while menstrual education is essential, cultural taboos and limited digital access made it difficult for many girls to get the right information.

Instead of building a complex app, I wanted something simple, accessible, and familiar, so I chose WhatsApp. Almost every family has it, even when they don’t have advanced technology.

AI made it scalable and personal. Using natural language processing, Ms. Flow engages girls in friendly, judgment-free conversations, offering guidance 24/7. It’s like giving every girl her own digital big sister — informed, kind, and always available.

Today, Ms. Flow is more than a chatbot; it’s a movement bridging the menstrual knowledge gap and empowering teenage girls to understand their bodies with confidence and dignity.

Balancing Technology with Empathy

For me, empathy is the foundation of innovation. Every solution starts with a human story, not a code. Before building anything, I ask, “What problem are we solving, and for whom?” Then technology becomes the tool, not the driver.

I also believe in building tech like onboarding a new employee, it must understand the culture, ethics, and purpose of the role it’s created for. That’s how we make AI not just smart, but responsible.

Helping Women Build Digital Confidence

I help women move from fear to familiarity when it comes to technology. At Motherhood NG Initiative and Feat Business Consult, we create safe learning spaces where women can explore digital tools without judgment or pressure.

Through initiatives like the HR Automation Bootcamp and AI for HER Webinar, we break down complex AI and digital concepts into simple, relatable steps that anyone can understand even those with no prior tech experience.

In March 2024, I also built a career chatbot to support entry-level job seekers and women transitioning into tech roles, helping them navigate the job market with confidence.

Once women experience how AI can simplify their work or business automating tasks, saving time, and unlocking new opportunities their confidence grows naturally.

My message is simple: you don’t have to code to belong in tech; you just have to start. Confidence doesn’t come before action, it grows with every small digital win.

Misconceptions Women Have About AI

In my interaction with women in my community and friends, I observed that the biggest misconception is that AI is only for techies and coders, people who can build robots or write code. But the truth is, AI is for thinkers, creators, and problem-solvers and women are naturally all three.

You don’t have to start big or be an expert. Begin with the tools you already use; let AI help you automate repetitive tasks, organize your calendar, draft content, or analyze customer feedback. These small wins quickly build confidence.

AI isn’t here to replace you; it’s here to enhance you. Once women see that AI can save them time and give them room to focus on creativity, strategy, or family, the fear fades. Confidence grows not from perfection but from participation — just start exploring, one tool at a time.

The Impact of “AI for HER” and the HR Automation Bootcamp

AI for HER started as more than a training. it was an empowerment movement launched to celebrate International Women’s Day 2025. Over 100 women registered, eager to learn how AI could simplify their work and open new doors. It’s been incredible watching participants rewrite their digital stories.

The HR Automation Bootcamp, on the other hand, is a hands-on, project-based learning experience. Participants don’t just learn concepts; they build real projects that solve HR challenges in their workplaces. It’s practical, relatable, and deeply empowering.

The transformation I see goes beyond skills, it’s about mindset. They stop saying, “I’m not tech-savvy,” and start saying, “I can do this.” That shift in confidence is where real impact begins. When women realize they can shape technology, not just use it, everything changes.

How African Businesses Can Integrate AI Responsibly

African businesses can start by treating every AI tool like a new employee onboard it intentionally. Help it understand the organization’s job roles, culture, and vision. AI should amplify, not replace, human value.

We also need to invest in AI literacy for people, alongside deploying tools. The best AI strategy will always be people-first, rooted in understanding local needs, languages, and cultural nuances.

At the end of the day, trust in AI isn’t built by code; it’s built by people. When employees understand and engage with these tools, AI becomes a partner in progress, not a threat to humanity.

The Future of Work and AI Adoption in Africa

What excites me most is the possibility that AI can unlock opportunities for millions of Africans, especially women, to work, earn, and learn without borders. It’s already redefining what productivity, flexibility, and access look like. From virtual assistants to AI tutors, we’re seeing technology level the playing field in ways we never imagined.

My only concern is the digital divide, and that many may be left behind if we don’t invest in digital literacy and responsible adoption. AI shouldn’t be something done to people; it should be something built with people in mind.

That’s why I’m passionate about building awareness, inclusion, and confidence, so Africans, especially women, don’t just consume AI but also help shape it.

What Makes Her a Woman of Rubies

Purpose is my compass, and resilience is my rhythm. I’ve demonstrated that impact doesn’t always come from having much but from doing much with what you have.

I shine by staying rooted in service, empowering women, using AI for good, and ensuring technology speaks the language of humanity.

Staying Rooted in Purpose in a Rapidly Evolving Field

I stay rooted by remembering why I started ,to make tech a bridge, not a barrier. Every innovation I build must answer one question: “Does it make life better for someone or solve a business problem?” That’s my anchor, even as technology evolves.

Purpose keeps me grounded; learning keeps me relevant.

Women Who Inspire Abiodun Alabi

Ibukun Awosika inspires me with her trailblazing leadership and the grace with which she carries global influence. She reminds me that faith and excellence can coexist beautifully.

Melinda Gates embodies what it means to lead with innovation and empathy, using technology and philanthropy to solve real-world problems and uplift women globally.

Funke Opeke stands out for her boldness in building the digital infrastructure that connects millions of Africans. Her courage proves that women can build and lead in spaces once considered impossible.

Each of these women reminds me that leadership is not about power, it’s about service, purpose, and impact.

Legacy for Future Generations of Women in Tech and Innovation

I want to be remembered as the woman who made technology less intimidating and more inclusive, especially for women who thought they couldn’t belong.

My legacy is to prove that you can be both tech-driven and human-hearted , that innovation can wear a smile, not just a code.

Her Message to Young Women Intimidated by Technology

Technology is not a monster; it’s a mirror. It reflects how boldly you choose to learn and lead.

Start small, stay curious, and remember, every great innovator once googled “how to start.” You belong in this digital age; own it with confidence and grace.

In Career Gems October 30, 2025 By Women of Rubies

Urmi Hossain: Empowering Women Through Finance, Storytelling

In a world where women are constantly redefining what leadership means, Urmi Hossain stands out as a woman who truly wears many hats. A finance professional, author, speaker, blogger, and podcast host, Urmi’s journey reflects the power of resilience, self-discovery, and purpose-driven growth.

Currently based in Canada, Urmi works in the financial services industry and holds two of the most respected designations in global finance , CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) and CAIA (Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst). Her path in finance is not just about numbers, but about breaking barriers and empowering more women to pursue careers in the male-dominated world of finance.

A Voice for Identity and Belonging

Urmi’s debut book, Discovering Your Identity: A Rebirth from Interracial Struggle, offers a deeply personal look into her journey as a third-culture kid , avigating identity, culture, and belonging. Through her words, she invites readers to embrace their unique stories and see difference not as a barrier, but as a bridge to empathy and understanding.

Her storytelling continues through her acclaimed podcast, Stories Beyond Borders, where she explores themes of identity, migration, and what “home” really means. By amplifying diverse voices, Urmi fosters important conversations about inclusion and representation in an increasingly interconnected world.

Championing Women’s Empowerment and Leadership

Beyond her professional achievements, Urmi is passionate about women’s empowerment and personal growth. She serves as Co-Chair of Women in Leadership’s Montreal Chapter, where she advocates for mentorship, education, and equal opportunities for women in the workplace.

Her commitment to leadership is also evident in her role as an active Toastmasters member since 2019, where she has served as both VP of Education and Club President. Through public speaking, she continues to inspire others to find their voices, build confidence, and lead with authenticity.

A Lifelong Learner and Role Model

For Urmi, growth is a lifelong journey. Whether she’s boxing, running, or diving into a new book, she embodies the spirit of continuous learning and balance. Her life is a reminder that women can thrive in multiple spaces — combining intellect, empathy, and passion to create meaningful impact.

As Urmi prepares to share her expertise at the upcoming Media Visibility Bootcamp Cohort 5, her story continues to inspire women to show up boldly, speak their truth, and embrace their full potential.

In Inspiration October 31, 2025 By Women of Rubies

How Oluwanifemi “Niffy” Fagbohun Is Empowering Women Through Beauty, Business, Leadership

Oluwanifemi “Niffy” Fagbohun is a multi-award-winning entrepreneur, five-time bestselling author, and internationally trained Chemical and Polymer Engineer. With two decades of cross-industry experience, she has built a remarkable career that blends innovation, beauty, and empowerment. Her journey reflects the power of passion and purpose in driving transformation for women around the world.

Building a Community of 17,000 Entrepreneurs

As the Founder and Director of Montreal Vendors, Niffy leads a thriving network of more than 17,000 entrepreneurs in Quebec. Through this platform, she champions visibility, economic access, and cultural inclusion for small businesses and creatives. Her leadership has positioned Montreal Vendors as one of Canada’s most dynamic ecosystems for diverse entrepreneurs.

Redefining Beauty Through Safe and Sustainable Practices

Niffy is also the visionary behind Niffy Signature, a vegan, cruelty-free beauty brand that prioritizes health, safety, and sustainability. Through her work, she has empowered over 15,000 women globally by providing education, training, and access to safe beauty products. Her dedication to ethical entrepreneurship extends to the Niffy Wellness Foundation, a nonprofit advancing beauty health, mentorship, and wellness education for women and girls in underserved communities.

Global Recognition and Impact

Niffy’s groundbreaking work has been featured in major media outlets such as CityNews Montreal, Ticker News Australia, and The Guardian Nigeria. Her contributions to entrepreneurship and women’s empowerment have earned her numerous awards, including the Canadian Choice Awards (2024 & 2025) for Health and Beauty, Top 100 Black Women of Excellence to Watch in Canada (2023), and the Global Entrepreneurs Award (2025).

Leadership, Mentorship, and Global Advocacy

Beyond her businesses, Niffy serves on leadership teams with Playmas Montreal, CDNBCA, Gemstar School of Excellence, and Black Engineers of Canada. As a proud member of the Forbes Women Network, she uses her platform to mentor women and advocate for inclusivity in leadership.

A dynamic international speaker, she has delivered presentations across Canada, Nigeria, the U.S., the U.K., and Australia, inspiring audiences with her message of confidence, purpose, and wellness.

Confidence and Purpose

Through her foundation, bestselling book Your Beauty Police, and global advocacy, Niffy continues to create safer, more inclusive spaces for women and girls. Her life’s work embodies the essence of empowerment — proving that beauty, business, and leadership can all coexist when rooted in purpose and integrity.

In Career Gems October 17, 2025 By Women of Rubies

Sola Oluwole: Empowering Entrepreneurs Through Inclusive Finance and Leadership

Sola Oluwole is a development finance specialist and advocate for inclusive entrepreneurship. With over 15 years of experience, she helps diverse founders, especially women, access finance, mentorship, and growth opportunities.

A Visionary for Inclusive Growth

Sola Oluwole is a seasoned development finance specialist, business consultant, and advocate for inclusive entrepreneurship. With a career spanning over 15 years, she has worked with countless entrepreneurs to grow their businesses by facilitating access to financing, strategic advice, and networks that foster sustainable success.

Driving Impact Through Inclusive Entrepreneurship

As a former Regional Manager for Inclusive Entrepreneurship at the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC), Sola played a key role in connecting diverse entrepreneurs ,particularly women and minority founders with the resources, programs, and networks needed to thrive. Her work focused on breaking down barriers to business growth and promoting equity in entrepreneurship.

Championing Women Entrepreneurs Globally

Sola’s passion for empowering women entrepreneurs has guided much of her work. She co-leads 3G Action, an organization dedicated to helping underserved founders , including women, Black, and Indigenous entrepreneurs access funding, mentorship, and training. Her commitment to creating equitable ecosystems continues to shape conversations around inclusive business practices in Canada and beyond.

A Legacy of Service and Leadership

Outside of her professional achievements, Sola volunteers with local and international organizations committed to helping women and girls reach their full potential. In 2012, she founded a women’s capacity development organization that supports personal growth and leadership across several countries.

Education and Credentials

A certified Project Management Professional (PMP), Sola holds an MSc in International Development from the University of Manchester. Her blend of academic excellence and real-world impact positions her as a transformative leader dedicated to fostering inclusion, leadership, and empowerment in the business ecosystem.

In Editor's Choice November 11, 2025 By Women of Rubies

From Visibility to Leadership: Meet the Speakers for Media Visibility Bootcamp Cohort 5

The 5th edition of the Media Visibility Bootcamp, themed “From Visibility to Leadership: Turning Influence into Impact,” brings together a powerful lineup of women leaders, storytellers, and changemakers who are helping women elevate their voices and transform their visibility into lasting influence.

Hosted by Women of Rubies, the global empowerment platform founded by Esther Ijewere, this cohort continues the mission of equipping women with the tools to amplify their message, leverage media strategically, and build influence rooted in authenticity and impact.

Here’s a look at the inspiring voices shaping this year’s conversations:

Esther Ijewere |Media & Communications Strategist | Founder, Women of Rubies

A Canadian-based media and communications specialist, author, and advocate for women’s and children’s rights, Esther Ijewere is a columnist for The Guardian and CEO of Women of Rubies, an organization dedicated to empowering and celebrating women from diverse backgrounds. Through her advocacy and storytelling, she continues to help women across the world gain visibility and influence.

Andrea Carter | CEO, Andrea Carter Consulting | Forbes Council Member

A pioneering organizational scientist and DEIB strategist, Andrea Carter is the creator of the Belonging First Methodology™, the first validated tool for measuring organizational belonging. She has impacted over 100,000 employees globally, reshaping how leaders and companies approach inclusion and performance.

Sola Oluwole | Development Specialist | Co-Founder & Director, 3G Action Consulting

With over 18 years of experience spanning four continents, Sola Oluwole co-leads 3G Action, a platform helping underserved founders, particularly women and Black entrepreneurs access finance, training, and business growth resources.

Urmi Hossain | Finance Professional & Author

A CFA and CAIA Charterholder, Urmi Hossain blends her expertise in finance with her passion for women’s empowerment. She is the author of Discovering Your Identity and hosts the Stories Beyond Borders podcast, amplifying diverse stories around culture, identity, and belonging.

Chinwe Bode-Akinwande | Head of Sponsorships, Partnerships, Events and Collaboration, FirstBank. Founder, CBA Foundation

Chinwe Bode-Akinwande is a humanitarian, social impact leader, and corporate executive passionate about purpose-driven leadership. She serves as Head, Sponsorships & Partnerships at First Bank of Nigeria Limited, where she drives brand visibility and social impact initiatives. Chinwe is also the Founder of the Chinwe Bode-Akinwande (CBA) Foundation, a non-profit supporting widows and their children through empowerment, education, and advocacy. Her work blends compassion with corporate excellence, transforming lives and communities.

Tope Mark-Odigie (TMO) | Media Personality & Wealth Coach

As CEO of REB360 and co-host of Your View on TVC, Tope Mark-Odigie empowers women through financial literacy, real estate investment, and entrepreneurship. Her Game of Money conferences and bestselling book Transform continue to inspire individuals to build purposeful and abundant lives.

Adejisola Atiba (Lady ABHA) | Leadership Coach & Community Builder

With over 30 years of experience in banking and leadership, including nearly two decades with one of Canada’s Big 5 banks, Lady ABHA has transitioned from corporate success to community impact. As a TEDx speaker, author, and Founder of the Council of Nigerian Professionals, she continues to redefine purpose-driven leadership and inclusion.

Faith Oloruntoba | Tech & AI Expert

A Nigerian-Canadian entrepreneur bridging luxury travel and digital innovation, Faith Oloruntoba leads Ivory Luxe Journeys and a thriving women’s travel community. She empowers women to explore boldly while integrating technology into lifestyle and business experiences.

Omoshalewa Onayemi |Lawyer, Entrepreneur & Media Personality

A tri-jurisdictional lawyer and founder of Naijapreneur Canada, Omoshalewa Onayemi champions Nigerian businesses in Canada through entrepreneurship and storytelling. She also leads Klothier’s Zone by Shally, an Afrocentric fashion and lifestyle brand inspiring cultural pride.

Tobore Anne Emorhokpor | Women’s Advocate & Career Coach

A dedicated advocate and founder of NWIU and The Nigerian Child Protection Trust, Tobore Anne supports over 18,000 women through empowerment and financial inclusion. Her initiatives, Mich Rich Meg and Money Makers Alliance, focus on digital and financial literacy.

Oluwanifemi Fagbohun |Business Development Strategist | Founder, Montreal Vendors

Oluwanifemi “Niffy” Fagbohun is a multi-award-winning entrepreneur, five-time bestselling author, and global beauty and wellness expert. As Founder and Director of Montreal Vendors, she empowers over 17,000 entrepreneurs through visibility, inclusion, and growth. Through Niffy Signature and Niffy Wellness Foundation, she champions safe beauty, wellness education, and women’s empowerment worldwide. Featured in CityNews Montreal, Ticker News Australia, and The Guardian

Jessica Campbell |Award-Winning Brand Strategist | Founder PO3 Agency

Jessica Campbell is an award-winning entrepreneur, educator, and creative director based in Los Angeles. As CEO of PO3 Agency, she leads innovative branding and marketing campaigns across the sports and entertainment industries, working with Grammy-winning artists, athletes, and global brands. She has produced high-impact campaigns for platforms like ESPN and UBS Financial, generating billions of impressions. A recognized voice in media and leadership, Jessica continues to redefine storytelling, brand influence, and digital engagement worldwide.

About the Media Visibility Bootcamp

Since its inception in 2023, the Media Visibility Bootcamp has trained and empowered over 600 women across the world to gain visibility, media confidence, and thought leadership. This 5th edition expands its focus to digital storytelling, AI-driven media strategy, and authentic leadership development, with sessions designed to provide practical tools and global connection.

Stay tuned for more details, speaker spotlights, and registration information via www.womenofrubies.com and @womenofrubies on social media.

In Uncategorized October 9, 2025 By Women of Rubies

HE Fatima Maada Bio to Headline the First-Ever Sierra Leone–Canada Trade & Investment Summit & Cultural Show

Canada will play host to a historic event this fall as leaders, investors, and entrepreneurs gather for the First-Ever Sierra Leone–Canada Trade & Investment Summit & Cultural Show, scheduled for September 18–20, 2025.

This three-day landmark summit aims to strengthen bilateral ties by showcasing trade, investment, and partnership opportunities across key sectors in Sierra Leone, while also celebrating the nation’s vibrant culture.

Distinguished Speakers and Leaders

The event will feature Her Excellency Fatima Maada Bio, May-Marie Duwai-Sowa, Maryam Muritala, Hon. Alpha Sesay, and Hon. Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, alongside senior Sierra Leonean government officials, Canadian policymakers, business leaders, and diaspora community members. Their participation underscores the importance of building strong economic and cultural bridges between the two nations.

What to Expect

Attendees can look forward to:

Keynote Speeches: Insightful presentations from Sierra Leone’s First Lady, ministers, and Canadian officials.
Sector-Focused Plenaries & Panels: Covering trade, agriculture, technology, food security, and investment opportunities.
Cultural Showcases: A vibrant display of Sierra Leonean music, fashion, and cuisine.
Business Exhibitions & Networking: Opportunities for investors, entrepreneurs, and diaspora leaders to connect and collaborate.

Why This Summit Matters

Sierra Leone is fast emerging as a hub of opportunity, with rich natural resources, a growing entrepreneurial ecosystem, and untapped sectors ready for investment. This summit offers a unique platform for Canadians, the Sierra Leonean diaspora, and global partners to explore sustainable partnerships that drive growth and development.

Event Details

📅 Date: September 18–20, 2025
📍 Location: Toronto, Canada
🎟️ Register Here: slcainvestmentforum.eventbrite.com
🌐 More Info: bettehsalone.com

In Interviews&profile September 13, 2025 By Women of Rubies

Maryam Muritala Named Among Top 20 Digital Marketers in Canada 2025

In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, marketing is no longer just about selling products, it’s about creating opportunities, building communities, and driving meaningful growth. One woman who embodies this transformation is Maryam Muritala, a visionary entrepreneur and the founder of Canada Vendors, who has been recognized as one of the Top 20 Digital Marketers in Canada 2025.

This recognition highlights her groundbreaking work in helping small businesses, especially immigrant and women-led enterprises, thrive in Canada’s competitive marketplace.

Who is Maryam Muritala?

Maryam Muritala is a Foreign Trained Legal Professional, entrepreneur, and digital strategist with a passion for empowering underrepresented entrepreneurs. In 2019, she launched Canada Vendors, a thriving digital platform designed to spotlight small businesses and give them access to education, marketing, and visibility tools that drive sustainable growth.

Her journey into entrepreneurship stems from her belief that commerce has the power to transform lives. Over the years, she has helped hundreds of vendors gain exposure, increase revenue, and build strong, recognizable brands in Canada and globally.

Top 20 Digital Marketers in Canada 2025 Recognition

The Top 20 Digital Marketers in Canada 2025 list celebrates innovators shaping the future of marketing with bold strategies, measurable impact, and creative excellence.

Being named on this list places Muritala among the leading minds who are not only driving results but also transforming industries. Her unique approach combines legal expertise, community building, and digital innovation, setting her apart as both a strategist and a changemaker.

“Digital marketing is more than promotion, it’s about building bridges, creating opportunities, and giving entrepreneurs the tools they need to thrive,” Muritala explains.

Previous Awards and Recognition

This latest honor adds to Muritala’s growing list of achievements, including:

CIBWE Top Black 100 Women to Watch in Canada Awards (2022)
Brampton Citizen Awards – Inspirational Category (2022)

These accolades reflect her influence not only as a digital marketer but also as a leader dedicated to inclusive economic development.

Impact on Small Business and Immigrant Entrepreneurship

Through Canada Vendors, Muritala has become a beacon for immigrant and women entrepreneurs navigating Canada’s competitive business landscape. She mentors founders, speaks at industry events, and partners with organizations to amplify diversity and inclusion in entrepreneurship.

Her platform acts as a lifeline for small businesses seeking to connect with broader markets, while her advocacy ensures no entrepreneur feels left behind.

Looking Ahead

As digital marketing continues to evolve, Muritala’s vision remains clear: empowering businesses through visibility, strategy, and community support. Her recognition as one of Canada’s Top 20 Digital Marketers is not just a personal milestone, it’s a win for every small business owner who dares to dream big.

In self development September 2, 2025 By Women of Rubies

Vaughan Welcomes House of Silny Décor & Elegante Fashion

Vaughan, Ontario is about to welcome a new standard of style, sophistication, and creativity with the grand opening of House of Silny Décor and Elegante Fashion Vaughan. This dynamic launch merges world-class interior décor with curated fashion offerings, creating a unique destination for design enthusiasts and fashion lovers alike.

About House of Silny Décor

Founded by visionary entrepreneur Olaitan Majaro, House of Silny Décor has quickly become a trusted name in interior décor and event styling in Ontario. Since moving to Canada in 2010, Olaitan has combined her creative expertise, cultural influences, and attention to detail to craft bespoke designs that transform spaces into timeless experiences.

Established: Inspired in 2013, formally incorporated in 2017
Specialties: Event décor, home interiors, office interiors, bespoke décor solutions
Recognition: Recipient of the 2024 Business Excellence Award by Canada Vendors and Pacaati

House of Silny Décor offers a balance of modern sophistication and traditional charm, making it a go-to for clients seeking unique décor solutions and professional event styling in Vaughan and across Ontario.

Elegante Fashion Vaughan: A Premier Fashion Destination

Sharing the same location is Elegante Fashion Vaughan, a boutique designed to celebrate style, individuality, and refined living. The store offers a carefully curated selection of apparel and accessories that blend timeless elegance with contemporary fashion trends.

Focus: Sophisticated everyday wear and statement pieces for special occasions
Experience: Personalized luxury shopping tailored to individual tastes
Lifestyle Brand: Promotes confidence, creativity, and refined living through fashion

By co-locating with House of Silny Décor, Elegante Fashion Vaughan creates a unique lifestyle destination where interior design and fashion intersect, offering a complete elegance experience for visitors.

Grand Launch Event – September 2, 2025

The flagship showroom launch on September 2, 2025, in Vaughan, Ontario, promises to be a celebration of creativity, style, and innovation. Guests can explore bespoke interior décor solutions, enjoy curated fashion selections, and be inspired by Olaitan Majaro’s vision for elevating both design and lifestyle.

Whether you’re looking for professional event styling, home décor transformation, or luxury fashion pieces, the House of Silny Décor and Elegante Fashion Vaughan launch is the place to experience elegance, innovation, and personalized service in Ontario.

📍 Location: Vaughan, Ontario
🗓 Launch Date: September 2nd, 2025

In Inspiration August 19, 2025 By Women of Rubies

Esther Ijewere Hosts AWA Niagara Festival 2025 in Niagara Falls Meta Description:

The scenic City Hall grounds of Niagara Falls, Ontario, came alive on August 16th and 17th, 2025, as the AWA Niagara Festival 2025 unfolded in a vibrant two-day celebration. Hosted by Esther Ijewere, an award-winning Media Strategist, Social Impact Advocate, and founder of Women of Rubies, the festival drew more than 6,000 attendees for an unforgettable cultural experience.

Esther Ijewere as Host

Serving as host, Esther Ijewere guided the audience through dynamic performances, workshops, and cultural showcases. Known for her dedication to amplifying voices and fostering inclusivity, Esther reflected on her role, saying:

“It was truly an honor to host the AWA Niagara Festival. I loved experiencing the incredible bands from across Canada and discovering new music and cultures. AWA did a phenomenal job curating this festival, and I’m proud to have been part of a celebration that fosters joy, learning, and togetherness.”

Festival Highlights

The festival, organized by African Women Acting (AWA), offered a wide range of cultural experiences:

Curated Craft Exhibition – Featuring local artisans and unique creations.
Global Cuisine – Food vendors serving authentic African flavors alongside international dishes.
Community Booths – Local businesses, sponsors, and organizations showcasing their work.
Inclusive Atmosphere – A family-friendly, multicultural space open to all ages and backgrounds.

AWA’s Mission

Sonia Aimy, Executive Director of AWA, emphasized the deeper impact of the festival:

“This festival is not just a celebration, it’s a platform for empowerment, creativity, and unity. We are proud to bring together artists, communities, and leaders to spotlight the talents of Black women and their counterparts, and to build bridges across cultures.”

Building Bridges Through Culture

With live performances, artisan showcases, and global cuisine, the AWA Niagara Festival 2025 cemented its place as one of the region’s most anticipated multicultural events. It also underscored Esther Ijewere’s growing presence as a host, cultural advocate, and community leader.

In Career Gems July 15, 2025 By Women of Rubies

What’s In and What’s Out: Personal Branding Trends Women Should Know in 2025

In a world driven by digital visibility and connection, personal branding is more than just a buzzword, it’s how women share their stories, build influence, and create impact. As 2025 unfolds, the rules of personal branding are shifting. Authenticity, strategy, and storytelling are leading the way, while performative content and over-curation are fading fast.

Whether you’re a founder, thought leader, creative, or advocate, here’s what’s in and what’s out when it comes to personal branding trends for women in 2025.

What’s IN: Personal Branding Done Right

1. Authenticity Over Aesthetic

More women are ditching the “perfect” feed for content that feels real and relatable. Authenticity builds trust—and audiences are paying attention to how aligned your words and actions are.

Tip: Show your behind-the-scenes moments, lessons learned, or even a vulnerable truth. People connect with you, not your polish.

2. Storytelling as Strategy

In 2025, facts don’t win hearts, stories do. Women who share their journey, values, and mission through intentional storytelling build deeper connections and attract aligned opportunities.

Tip: Use your origin story, turning points, or client success stories to position yourself as both relatable and credible.

3. Voice-First Platforms Are Rising

With the rise of podcasts, audio content, and even LinkedIn Audio, women are finding new ways to be heard—literally.

Tip: Start that podcast, share short audio insights, or host live discussions. Let people hear your passion and expertise.

4. Micro-Communities > Mass Following

A shift is happening: niche audiences are more valuable than vanity metrics. Curated, engaged communities offer better visibility, deeper loyalty, and more aligned collaborations.

🔥 Tip: Focus on serving rather than selling. Whether it’s a newsletter or a private group, nurture your tribe.

5. Values-Driven PR and Visibility

PR isn’t just about being seen—it’s about what you’re seen for. In 2025, values-aligned media exposure is key. Women are owning their narratives and choosing platforms that reflect their purpose.

Tip: Pitch stories that align with your mission, not just your milestones.

❌ What’s OUT: Outdated Personal Branding Habits

1. Curated Perfection

Heavily filtered photos, overproduced videos, and “highlight reels only” content are losing relevance. People crave connection, not comparison.

2. Generic Messaging

“Helping you live your best life” won’t cut it anymore. If your brand statement sounds like everyone else’s, it’s time for a refresh.

3. Content Without Strategy

Random posting = random results. In 2025, intentional content planning aligned with your goals is a must.

4. Hustle Culture Bragging

The old “booked and busy” narrative is giving way to balanced, values-led success. Women want to be fulfilled, not just tired and visible.

5. Silent Expertise

Having expertise but no digital presence is now a liability. Women are learning to use visibility as a tool, not vanity.

Your Brand Is a Living Story

Your personal brand is more than a bio or color palette, it’s how people feel when they interact with you. As trends evolve, the one thing that stays timeless is alignment. When your message, mission, and media presence work together, you not only stand out, you lead with purpose.

In 2025, visibility isn’t about showing off. It’s about showing up authentically and intentionally.

Ready to Elevate Your Brand?

Women of Rubies offers storytelling platforms, visibility support, and media features to help you amplify your voice. Get Featured or Join the Rubies Collective to start building your digital legacy today.

Women of Rubies