Interviews&profile

In Editor's Choice March 8, 2023 By Women of Rubies

12 Black Canadian Pacesetters And Feminists Who Inspire Us

We recognize and celebrate the equality movement and trail-blazing Canadian women whose resilience, hard work, creativity, and sacrifices continue to set the pace for all women around the globe in honor of Black History Month.

1. Jean Augustine

The Honorable Jean Augustine became the first Black woman in a federal Cabinet as well as the first African Canadian woman appointed to Parliament. She was appointed Chair of the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Secretary of State, and went on a victorious campaign for legislation to acknowledge of Black History Month in Canada in February 2002.

She was re-elected to the new Cabinet as Minister of State in 2003. Also, she was elected Assistant Deputy Chair of Committees, ranking her as the first Black woman to be the Speaker’s Chair in the House of Commons in 2004.

Black Canadian Feminists — Honorable Jean Augustine

2. Zanana Akande

In 1990, Zanana became the first woman of color to be appointed as a member of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario, and the first woman from the African Diaspora to serve as a cabinet minister in Canada. Zanana Akande channeled her energy on community schemes like the Chair of Black Legal Action, a non-profit in Toronto, after leaving politics.

3. Angela James

Angela helped Canada win gold at four Women’s World Championships and was known as one of the top players in women’s hockey. In 2000, she quit her skates but embarked on coaching and later became second Black athlete to be enlisted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2010.

4. Emily Mills

Emily Mills dedicate her life to connecting Black Canadian women. In 2010, Mills launched her network ‘How She Hustles,’ a platform for black women to connect online and via organized events. She founded HERstory, a creative digital series turned CBC documentary starting over 150 women of color that attracted the attention of the prime minister and were awarded by the CBC’s President.

Canadian Feminists — Emily Mills | Image – Julia Park Photography

5. Dr. Wanda Thomas

In 2016, Dr. Wanda became the first Black Nova Scotian to be elected to the Senate. She is the first Black Canadian to have an academic term, emerging fill professor at Dalhousie University with a research centered on diversity and oppression. Dr. Wanda is the President and founding member of the Association of Black Social Workers. In 2005 she was given the Order of Canada and in 2014 the Order of Nova Scotia.

6. Portia White

Portia White became the first black Canadian singer to acquire International recognition at age 30. Despite the severe racism and inequality treatment she became the first Canadian to perform at New York City’s prestigious Town Hall in 1944 and thrived in the classical music space, a genre with a little number of Black people. Portia embarked on a world tour where she sang for Prince Philip and Queen Elizabeth.

Several scholarships were awarded to her name like the ‘Portia White Prize, awarded by the Nova Scotia Arts Council to an exceptional Nova Scotian in the arts.

Canadian Trailblazer — Late Portia White

7. Dr. Afua Cooper

Dr. Afua is an Associate Professor at Dalhousie University, with research centered and expertise in African Canadian Studies. Dr. Afua is acknowledged as a leading authority on the Black Diasporic experience in Canada. She created exhibitions on Black slavery and history. Between the 2018-2020 , she performed as Poet Laureate of the Halifax Regional Municipality. She has a local connection, as the SFU Ruth Wynn Woodward Endowed Chair, between 2008-2009.

Canadian Female Trailblazer — Afua Cooper

8. Kathleen Kay Livingstone

Kathleen Kay Livingstone made a life commitment to empowering and networking with women of color. In the 1940s Kay moved, from being one of Canada’s top Black actresses to emerging as a famous broadcaster, community organizer, and humanitarian. Kay put in the effort to see Black students obtain scholarships in the 1950s and after relocating to Toronto from Ontario, London she became part of a social network of Black middle-class women enjoying their best life but soon discovered a better purpose for the club so she changed the name to Canadian Negro Women’s Association for educating black youths and working for the welfare of the minorities.

Canadian female broadcaster — Kathleen Kay Livingstone

9. Mary Ann Shadd

Mary founded a racially integrated school and opened Provincial Freeman in 1853, an anti-slavery newspaper that highlighted the stories of leading Black people in Canada to promote settlement. She is the first Black woman to land a law degree in 1893 and the first woman to release a newspaper.

Black people who made history in Canada — Mary Ann Shadd

10. Viola Desmond

Viola is a pacesetter and beautician to young Black women. She is popularly known for declining to sit in the appointed Color section of a Nova Scotia movie theatre in 1946. Viola was charged with extorting the government for the one-cent difference in tax between the two tickets and was arrested. She disputed this charge but her conviction stood until 2010 when she was finally exonerated.

Black Canadian who made history — Viola Desmond

11. Rosemary Brown

Rosemary was a notable politician, social activist, and educator, who fought for gender and racial equality. Rosemary launched the British Columbia Association for the Advancement of Colored People in 1956, to assist people to obtain access to employment, housing, and legislation resources. She was the first Black woman appointed to political office in Canada in 1972.

After a few years, she advocated under ‘Brown is Beautiful’ and campaigned to be the leader of the NDP, winning second place. She was recognized as a recipient of a YWCA award in 1989.

12. Violet King

Violet King as a young girl had the dream of becoming a criminal lawyer which came with gender and racial opposition in the 1940s. In 1948, She enrolled in the University of Alberta and became the only Black female student in her class. When Violet graduated, she became the first Black person to graduate from law school and to be called to the bar in Alberta. With that accomplishment, she became the first Black female lawyer in Canadian history; Her dream came true.

Violet utilized her influence as a lawyer to fight for the less privileged, immigrants, and workplace rights for women. She worked for the Department of Immigration and Citizenship in Ottawa before proceeding to New York. She is the first woman named to a senior executive position with the YMCA.

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In Inspiration March 4, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Meet Remi Osifo,The Hospitality Consultant Behind Abuja City Tourist

Remi Osifo is the Lead Curator for Abuja City Tourist. With over 8 years managerial experience, she has navigated the media, management consulting and the hospitality sector. She is also a seasoned professional in Human Resources Management, local tourism promoter and brand storyteller.

She began Abuja City Tourist in 2018 as a means to change the mainstream media narrative of Nigeria and drive investment in the hospitality sector.

She has effectively done this using visual storytelling with Abuja as the focal point. This has grown and birthed an experience company for intending tourists known as ACT experience @act_experience.

In celebration of women’s month, we celebrate Remi for putting Nigeria on the map, and showing the beauty of Nigeria’s rich culture and heritage.

In Editor's Choice March 2, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Kechi Okwuchi: Plane Crash Survivor, Bullying Prevention Advocate, And Songwriter

Kechi Okwuchi is a Nigerian-born Texas based plane crash and burn survivor, a singer/songwriter, an author, an inspirational and TEDx keynote speaker and bullying prevention advocate. Kechi found her true voice after her accident — a plane crash that took the lives of 107 of 109 passengers in Nigeria in 2005.

Journey To Survival

Though the journey was difficult, a third degree burns over 65% of her body and arrived at the hospital with a 30% chance of survival, She spent four months in the ICU and then three more months at the hospital in what she calls her “patchwork era” because “they were just patching me together and keeping me alive,” and was sustained by her faith, family and music.

Early Days

She resumed high school in 2009 and then went on to University, where graduated Summa Cum Laude in 2015 with a Bachelor’s in Economics . She began to sing and perform at her church, at burn and trauma fundraisers, galas and at family events, sharing what she loved with those she wanted to inspire.

America’s Got talent

In Season 12 of the America Got Talent, she shared her story of surviving a plane crash that killed 107 out of 109 passengers, that music was an escape for her as she recovered from her injuries. Kechi sang “Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran, earning four “yes” votes, she made it to the Finals.

Becoming a finalist on America’s Got Talent was Kechi’s dream realized and on June 10th, 2018, she released her first single, “Don’t You Dare,” on all music platforms. She has since become a traveling artist, inspirational speaker and burn survivor advocate for multiple burn survivor organizations, including Shriners Burns Hospitals.

In 2019, she became a finalist on America’s Got Talent: The Champions through Simon Cowell’s “golden buzzer.” Kechi has now chosen to forge ahead on a path that allows her to explore both business and artistic opportunities.

Since then, she has become an active ambassador for multiple organizations such as WEMovement, Be Strong Global and the United Nations Foundation #TOGETHERBAND project, advocating for various global causes such as youth empowerment, bullying prevention advocacy, and sustainable living.

Kechi released her summer single ‘All the Time’ on May 2021, and a powerful duet ‘All My Love’ with The Texas Tenors. She is signed with Baker Publishing Group for the publication of her memoir titled ‘More Than My Scars’ in Spring, 2022. She hopes to use her voice and her story to ignite hope and courage all over the world within those that need it.

In Career Gems March 2, 2023 By Women of Rubies

True Daley Launches TRACIE APP In Toronto with Black To The Future Event

TRACIE (Tracking Racism and Collecting Information in Education) is an innovative tool to support Black students facing racist bullying.

The soft launch of the much awaited app was part of the Black To The Future event held during Black History Month in 3 different locations across Toronto, with funding support from the Ontario Trillium Foundation, and community support from the Delta Family Resource Centre.

Latoya Jane and Micheal Carlon at the TRACIE APP Launch – Toronto Library, Parkdale Branch – 14th of Feburary

Influencers, Latoya Jane and Micheal Carlon were key facilitators at the launch, as they shared their lived experiences with bullying, injustice and racism.

TRACIE is the brainchild of True Daley, a community organizer, advocate, educator and media personality . True is also a community worker and co-founder of the landmark D.I.V.A. (Diversity in Visual and Audio Arts) Program, where she provided media literacy and arts programming to BIPOC youth in high-needs communities between 2008-2011.

True’s work as a journalist has been featured in ByBlacks.com and CBC Parents. She has worked with youth in conflict with the law in Rexdale and the Jane and Finch neighborhoods for over a decade. She is also an award-winning creative in film, music, and technology.

Speaking on the inspiration behind the TRACIE app soft launch, here is what the multi-disciplinary advocate and visual storyteller had to say;

“The inspiration behind the soft launch is an opportunity to introduce children, youth, students and community members, to a new advocacy tool and to get some feedback about some of their experiences so that we can design the app in a way that is most effective for the experiences that they’re having and we can match their needs.

We also wanted some feedback on the interface, the features, and the possibility of being able to use this app in a practical sense.

We wanted to gain their confidence that it would be a positive and supportive tool for them. We also wanted to tap into the experiences and get those personal accounts; the breadth of experiences that children and youth are having and that adults are still healing from over generations from being in this education system and navigating it as a Black person.

THE TRACIE APP TEAM — TRACIE APP team at the third soft launch. Venue: Toronto Library , Albert Campbell branch, Scarborough. Image: Esther Ijewere

The soft launch was just our way to let people know that there is help on the way, that the app is being developed and that we are considering their needs, and utilizing this innovative tool to support our community and to start to really have impact in ways that the policies within the school boards have not.

Based on a series of events over decades within the school board and school boards across Canada, we’ve noticed that anything that’s been put in place has not been effective, but it’s all been just talk, and the harm has been continuing from generation to generation.

It was just announced that $100 million in funding from the federal government is going towards supporting Black youth with their mental health.

True Daley and Adi Yemane | Image: Esther Ijewere

Aside from typical family issues, I’m sure alot of the challenges are rooted in navigating and being educated in these racist settings. So as grassroots community advocate, I had to find a more practical, sustainable way to support families because I realized that those of us who are doing this work on the front lines can get burnt out really quickly, and that’s just counterproductive for everyone.”

The TRACIE App will be launched in 2024, but the TRACIE team will continue rolling out programmes to educate and sensitize the community periodically, and improving the app .To get involved and know more about the TRACIE app, head on to www.tracieapp.com, email: info@tracieapp.com and follow @tracieapp and @truedaley.

More photos from the soft launch

Recording Artist and Motivational Speaker; Latoya Jane

True Daley and Latoya Jane at the TRACIE Launch

In Career Gems March 4, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Top 8 Websites Women Can Use To Find Remote Jobs

2020 was proof that almost any job can be fulfilled from the comfort of one’s home. In fact, shutdown and lock-in orders left many people with no choice but to transform their homes into work offices and as folks attempt to get back to normalcy, many can’t see themselves commuting to an office five days out of the week anymore.

Additionally, people, especially those in the creative fields, are shifting away from the norm of working under one set company and opting to work across several entities as freelancers.

According to a report, before the pandemic, only 6% of employees worked remotely. Researchers anticipate the percentage to increase to 25% by the end of 2023.

Here is an official list of the best websites to find remote gigs whether you’re already on your freelance job journey or a pro in the space.

1. Upwork

If you’re looking to supplement your income, this website is great for finding short or long-term remote work. From creative writing to social media management, voice work, and beyond, this platform allows users to create a profile that showcases their skills and put their bid in to work with people who are currently seeking help for various projects.

2. Fiverr

Per their website, this company is the world’s largest marketplace for digital services and allows both buyers and sellers a chance to digitally streamline a transaction. This is the perfect site for any techies looking to provide their services to a client and vice versa.

3. Toptal

If you’re a freelance professional, this is the site for you. This company offers an application-based network to clients looking for top freelancers in roles that range from designers, software developers, finance experts, product managers and project managers.

4. Guru

For those with a knack for marketing, Guru is a great tool to pick up remote work to showcase your skills. Thanks to its user-friendly profile set-up and dozens of jobs that are shared daily, people can definitely expect to find great work for writing, designing, developing, and more.

5. Media Bistro

Whether you’re a newbie to the industry or a veteran in the game, this site offers an array of writing and editing positions, helping users to find their niche and to get paid while doing so. Not only can people go here to find jobs, but the website also offers various training and even tips for navigating the career journey.

6. Twine

With a commitment to diversity, this platform helps those from underserved communities find remote and freelance work, this site offers positions at more than 5,000 companies and roles range from writing, design, development, marketing, and more. And if that isn’t enough, the rates available on this site are extremely competitive meaning you can get your worth (plus tax).

7. Contently

Not only can you use this website to find a job, but it also serves as a place to share and build your portfolio as a creative. It offers freelance gigs with hundreds of the most successful startups and brands in the world.

8. Art Wanted

If you’re an artist looking for gigs to fuel the bigger picture, Art Wanted offers a space that allows creatives who excel in graphic design or digital illustration the opportunity to book roles that align with your artistic vision. In addition to that, this hub allows artists to share their work, giving others an opportunity. to purchase with them.

Worthy mention…..

Codeable

This one is for all the coders. If you’re a guru at WordPress, this website is a great starting point for all of your coding freelance and remote needs. They offer clients who are seeking WordPress theme plugins so it’s a great place to jumpstart your freelance coding journey.

Gigster

Another hot spot for the techies, this platform provides jobs that range from software designers, web designers as well as app designers. While they do have a screening process to get on the platform, one cool feature uses artificial intelligence to match freelancers with projects.

Source: Baucemag

In Inspiration March 1, 2023 By Esther Ijewere

Dr Nimi Ekere: The Family Physician Giving Hope To Victims Of Child Sexual Abuse

Dr. Nimi Stephanie Ekere is a Consultant Family Physician. She is a graduate of Medicine and Surgery from the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria. Nimi had her residency training at the Family Medicine Department of the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital where she later became the Chief Resident Physician handling clinical, academic and administrative duties.

She was also involved in the training and supervision of junior residents and did this effectively and efficiently.

Dr Nimi Ekere is a Fellow of the National Postgraduate Medical College of Family Physicians with interest in Adolescent Health. She currently works as a Consultant Family Physician at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital ( LASUTH).

Dr Ekere is also a Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants and a Certified Management Consultant. She is a Certified Management Specialist with distinction in Time Management from the London Graduate School.

Dr Ekere is a leading Child Advocate, Author, Speaker, Coach, Parenting Enthusiast, Teacher and Humanitarian. She has practised medicine in urban and rural areas for almost two decades and has endeared herself to her patients through her dedication to duties, empathy and love for people, especially children, adolescents, and the less privileged.

Nimi is the founder of Smileandshine Children’s Foundation, a non-profit organisation that is aimed at preventing Child Sexual Abuse, providing the needed help and support, as well as emergency care and treatment with adequate follow up and rehabilitation of victims (children).

In rural communities in Nigeria, Dr. Nimi’s campaign against child abuse has inspired social security and hope for many children with unbelievable realities. Her child advocacy has been featured multiple times on various mainstream media outlets, including the BBC.

Dr Nimi Ekere is an author of four best selling books that address the issue of Child Sexual Abuse with practical remedies. This collection of books teach children, pre-teenagers, teenagers and parents all they need to know about combating the menace. All four of her books are in different academic curricula of government-run primary and secondary schools in Nigeria.

One of her books is currently in use in the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), also known as Junior WAEC, in Rivers State.

Nimi is a strong proponent of effective and intentional parenting and convenes different programmes and conferences that promote child rights and protection. She has also featured in many panels and conferences across the globe.

She has organised numerous outreaches for children, vulnerable women and the elderly. She also has carried out numerous medical outreaches, free trainings for the less privileged, sometimes partnering other NGOs; local and international.

She is the convener of STRIVE CONFERENCE, an annual children conference that brings together children from public and private schools with the aim of teaching and empowering them to make better choices in all they do, to ultimately become better versions of themselves. The past edition had in attendance the first Lady of Lagos State, HE, Dr. Mrs. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu and a host of other dignitaries.

In Inspiration February 27, 2023 By Esther Ijewere

Captain Janet Days Is The First Black Commanding Officer Of The World’s Largest Naval Base

Captain Janet Days is now the first Black woman commanding officer in Naval Station Norfolk’s (NAVSTA) 106-year-history, 13NewsNow reports.

The Chicago native graduated Summa Cum Laude from Old Dominion University and was commissioned through Naval ROTC’s Enlisted Commissioning Program. Within her 24-year career, she’s taken numerous tours aboard: USS Simon Lake homeported at La Maddalena, Italy, USS Mahan, and USS Forrest Sherman. She’s also been deployed twice!

Her leadership hasn’t gone unnoticed; Days was awarded the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (7), Army Commendation Medal (2), Army Achievement Medal, and the Afghanistan Campaign Medal.

Few weeks ago, she was sworn in as NAVSTA’s 51st Commanding Officer, a role that is typically reserved for white men, making history as the first Black commanding officer of the world’s largest naval base, which is located in Norfolk, VA. This wasn’t the first time Days made history; in 2021, she was named the first Black woman Executive Officer at Naval Station Norfolk.

In her new role, she’ll be overseeing 6,200 acres, including 13 piers, an 8,000-foot airfield, 63 ships, two 188 aircrafts and 18 squadrons. A true trailblazer and an inspiration to us all, this is a beautiful way to end Black History Month.

Congratulations, Captain Days!

Source: Becauseofthem

In Career Gems February 25, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Bimbo Ademoye: The Nigerian Actress Taking The Industry By Storm

Bimbo Ademoye, is a renowned Nigerian actress, best known amongst her fans for her role in several blockbuster movies. Besides her acting prowess, Bimbo has continued to widen her fanbase through her bubbly personality and skits.

Here is a look at the renowned actress’s life, including details about her education, career, net worth, and relationship.

Bimbo Ademoye’s Education

Since the native Bimbo Ademoye state is Lagos, the actress began her elementary education at St. Margaret’s Primary School in Ikorodu, Lagos. She later enrolled in Mayflower Secondary School, located in Ikenne, Ogun State, for her secondary education. After completing her secondary school education, Bimbo was admitted into the prestigious Covenant University, Ota, where she pursued a degree in Business Administration.

Career

Bimbo began her acting career in 2017 when she started in a short film – ‘Where Talent Lies.’ The film was nominated at the Africa International Film Festival (AIFF) and she won an award.

In April 2018, Bimbo Ademoye featured alongside the famous Stella Damasus in the film Gone, a moment that she describes as having been quite inspirational in her life.

She also starred in the movie- ‘Backup Wife,’ which earned her a nomination as Best Lead Role for the Nigeria Entertainment Awards.

Her exceptional acting skills in ‘Personal Assistant,’ eventually won her the Best Supporting Actress award. Bimbo has has appeared in more than many films, portraying wide-ranging roles.

Relationship

Bimbo Ademoye has not announced being in any relationship but there are speculations that she is engaged to VJ Adams. A Nigerian video jockey, television presenter, entrepreneur, musician cum executive producer.

Net worth

Bimbo Ademoye allegedly has an estimated net worth of around $1.6 million.

Filmography

The films Bimbo starred in that you can check out from latest to former releases are:

Anikulapo _ 2022
Introducing the Kujus
Hustle
Ayinla
13 Letters (film)
Lies in between_2021
Breaded Life
Creepy Lives Here_2021
Nneka the Pretty Serpent_2020
Reach_2020
Dear Affy_2020
Sugar Rush
Special Package_ 2019
Reach_ 2019
Feels Like Heaven_ 2019
Light In The Dark_ 2019
Girlfriends_ 2019
The Family_ 2019
Kamsi_ 2018
Getting Over Him_ 2018
Light in the Dark_ 2018
Personal Assistant_ 2018
Desperate House girls
Gone_ 2018
My Wife & I_ 2017
This Is It_ 2016
Rofia Tailor Loran
Charmed
It’s About Your Husband
Diary of a Crazy Nigerian Woman
The Backup Wife
Last Days

Awards and Nominations

The hardworking and passionate actress has earned awards and nomination to her name. They include:

Best of Nollywood Awards in 2017
Best of Nollywood Awards in 2018
City People Movie Award in 2018
AMVCA in 2019
Best of Nollywood Awards in 2020
Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards in 2022

In Inspiration February 21, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Oluchi Madu: Exploring The Creative Side Of Children Builds Self-Confidence

Oluchi Madu is a talent development coach who helps people to discover, develop and monetize their creative abilities so they can function in their ruling domain. She is an efficient and highly organized professional with extensive experience in Human Resources Management.

She is also a public speaker who has authored four books to her name: Divine Asset, The Seed of Greatness, Every Challenge is a Message and Talent: The Money Magnet.

Drawing from her wealth of knowledge as a talent development coach, she founded Talent Maximization With Oluchi Madu, a platform where people are trained on how to discover, develop and maximize their creative abilities to reign in their ruling domain.

Oluchi is happily married with children and lives with her family in England.

She shares her story and the inspiration behind her book in this interview.

Who are you?

My name is Oluchi Madu, a Family Life Practitioner who majors in Talent Maximization.

How it began? Journey to writing

The Lighted Candle is an experience and research-based novel which I created from a challenging experience our daughter had with a school teacher when she was 4 years old. Her class teacher instructed a classmate to flog her because she could not assign a pronoun to a name written on the board.

The teacher went further to call her unprintable names and this experience got our daughter’s self-esteem and confidence badly battered. It got so bad that she developed an irreconcilable hatred for the English language and school in general.

We moved her to another school thinking that it was something a change in environment was going to rectify. Little did we know that it was going to be a long and stressful journey, started researching the things that can make her come back to her usual happy bubbly confident child, then in the course of the journey and discovered something very interesting, talking about the power of the creative abilities of children.

I discovered that a child that explores his creative abilities easily builds self-confidence knowing that there’s a particular thing that he’s very good at. Our daughter loves singing and playing musical instruments, so we got down to work to ensure that she explores her love and talent for music and that was the miracle she needed. She became that confident child we’ve ever known and started writing songs and stories.

She recently won a director’s award in her school – best in the English language here in England. I decided to share my result-proven findings with as many families as possible in form of a novel.

Where can we get the book?

The Lighted Candle is on Bookplaze and Amazon. Just a click on the link below will direct the buyer to the site to purchase https://oluchimadu.com/

Writing Process?

I documented our daughter’s recovery process from damaged self-esteem and my experience as a Talent Maximization Coach. It took me 6 years to write this book because I was studying, implementing, and recording all my findings, processes and results.

What’s the book about? And where it was published

The lighted candle is an experience and research-based child-self-training and parenting tool created in form of a novel. It is a documented process of how children battling with low self-esteem, peer pressure, academic challenges, and non-connection with parents, can build their self-esteem, enjoy a deep connection with their parents, excel academically using their creative abilities, develop and leverage social capital, and become great in life.

This book is needed by every growing child to learn how to jump every hurdle set by life and navigate to greatness. It is also a tool needed by parents, teachers and every child handler to understand children’s varying personalities and the best way to connect with them.

The lighted Candle introduces every child to his or her great personality. It teaches how to navigate through stages of childhood, grow and leverage social capital and attain greatness using creative abilities.
Every child is designed to be great if only he is shown his Lighted Candle and how to use it to illuminate his way and also lighten the paths of others. It was published in Nigeria by Worital Publishing Company.

Why should families read the book?

Reasons why every family should have The Lighted Candle;
1. The Lighted Candle introduces every child to their personalities and creative abilities.
2. It is a self-training tool. This means that with this book, a child can train himself on how to navigate through life challenges.
3. It is a tool that teaches children how to build self-esteem and become a person of positive influence.
4. The Lighted Candle is also a tool that teaches children how to build and leverage social capital to become great in life.
5. It teaches children empathy and emotional intelligence.
6. The Lighted Candle is a tool needed by every parent, teacher and child handler, to understand children’s personalities, how to connect with them and how to help them leverage their creative abilities to become who they are created to be.

Are you a first-time author? Otherwise, how did your other books fare?

The Lighted Candle is my 5th book, my 1st book is titled Divine Asset, 2nd – The Seed of Greatness, 3rd – Every Challenge is a Message and my 4th – Talent, The Money Magnet.
Which are all selling and making impacts.

What next now the book is written?

The purpose is to share the solution that I found with as many families as possible. So, we’re on a mission to ensure that The Lighted Candle get to as many families as possible.

Growing up

I was raised by the best parents anybody would want to have. My parents, especially my father, prepared me for greatness. I have always been a confident child who oozes great leadership qualities because my father inculcated those qualities in me. With these qualities, I find myself always picked by the spotlight wherever I go. So growing up, I was the head girl in my primary and secondary schools.

Favorite author?

My favourite author is Dr Myles Munroe of the blessed memory. Through his books, I found my path in life.

If in-charge of National matters

If I should find my way into the educational system of Nigeria, I will change a lot of things.
1. Our educational system will be reformed to be a platform where talents are refined.
2. Teaching jobs will no longer be for those who cannot get other jobs but for those who are qualified and are passionate about teaching as a career.

Sell yourself

If there is one thing I love about myself, it is my idea of success. I see myself successful when people that come in contact with me learn the things I have succeeded in.

I don’t like people around me suffering and begging for means of livelihood because God has given every human being on earth all we need to become wealthy and great.Talent is the seed of greatness but many people don’t seem to understand this.

So as a Talent Maximization Coach, I set up an academy called The Talent Maximization Academy where we teach people;

1. How to discover their talents and the audience their talents are meant for.
2. How to develop and refine their talents to be sellable.
3. How to monetize their talents and explore the business of their talents.
So this 2013, we have a goal of raising at least 1000 people who’ll record mind-blowing successes using their talents. So we crashed the tuition fee to accommodate as many people as possible who may have a problem with funds.

Sell your book

The Lighted Candle is my 5th book. My 1st book called Divine Asset is an inspirational book specifically designed for women. This book reveals the treasures and the influence women have that some do not know about. It teaches women how to discover and leverage these treasures to become great and live as the queens they are designed to be.

My 2nd book called The Seed of Greatness teaches about Talent, Vision and Purpose. It explains the relationship between Talent, Vision and Purpose. It reveals how people can create a lifetime vision from their talents and live a life of purpose.

3rd book, Every Challenge Is A Message just as the name goes explains why people should not see challenges as all negative.

It details how people can turn challenges into positivity, while the 4th book, Talent: The Money Magnet teaches how people can build transgenerational wealth with their talents.

My just-published book which is the 5th and is called The Lighted Candle.

1. The Lighted Candle introduces children to their personalities and creative abilities.
2. It is a self-training tool. This means that with this book, a child can train himself on how to navigate through life challenges.
3. It is a tool that teaches a child how to build healthy self-esteem and become a person of positive influence.
4. The Lighted Candle is also a tool that teaches children how to build and leverage social capital to become great in life.
5. It teaches children empathy, emotional intelligence kindness and compassion.
6. The Lighted Candle is a tool needed by every parent, teacher and child handler, to understand children’s personalities, how to connect with them and how to help them leverage their creative abilities to become who they are created to be.

**How did you get to know worital, your experience and what makes worital different.**

I actually stumbled on Worital on Emeka Nobis post and started studying them on Facebook. Working with Worital is one of the best things that has ever happened to me.

I’ve had an amazing experience with Worital to the extent that the business relationship will be a lifetime journey. I can go to bed with my two eyes comfortably closed knowing very well that I will get the best from them. The touch of excellence in all their works is simply captivating.

Team Worital works with authors to ensure that they record huge success as authors. They do not leave authors after publishing their books. They work with the authors to make sure that the books serve the purposes for which they are published. Fola is exceptionally designed for the vision of Worital.

On being a Woman of Rubies?

I see myself as a woman of Rubies because I am releasing the treasures in me to the world. Any willing mind that comes in contact with me will either succeed or succeed. I do not give up on willing minds. Like a proverbial woman in the good book who gave up her coins to look for a lost coin, I can give in my all to ensure that a willing mind succeeds.

Then I am so passionate about my family. My husband Charles Madu is my soulmate and my most favourite person in the world. Together we created a beautiful world for our beautiful children where the gifts of every family member find expression and we enjoy priceless bliss. We don’t joke with natural creative abilities because we understand that talent is the seed of greatness.

In Career Gems January 8, 2024 By Women of Rubies

1. Taaooma:

Maryam Apaokagi, popularly known as Taaooma is a content creator, actress, social media influencer, comedian, and cinematographer. She was born 28^th of February, 1999. She spent her childhood days in Namibia but later attended Kwara State University where she studied tourism and travel management.

Taaooma began her content creator journey in 2015 and came into spotlight in 2019 with funny skits centered on African parenting, mothers and ways in which they discipline their children incredibly with a slap. Taaooma is topping the rank of female content creators with 3.5 million followers on Facebook, 4.4 million Instagram followers and a whooping net worth of $65,000.

2. Kie Kie

Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori, popularly known as Kie Kie is a content creator, actress, TV personality, fashion icon, and model. She was born 20^th of June, 1990. She went to a private primary and secondary school in Ibadan then proceeded to Bowen University, Osun State where she studied mass communication and advanced to the London School of Business where she obtained a master’s degree in marketing.

Kie Kie started appearing in skits in 2019 and grew to fame over the years through consistency and dedication. She has 2M followers on Instagram and 1.2M Facebook followers and an estimated net worth of $800,000.

3. Bimbo Ademoye

Bimbo Ademoye is a popular actress and household name in the Nigerian movie industry .

Bimbo was born on the 4^th of February 1991 and attended St. Margaret’s Primary School, Ikorodu then Mayflower Secondary School in Ikenne and advanced to Covenant University in Ota, Ogun State where she studied business administration. Bimbo has 267k Facebook followers and 2.4 million Instagram Followers always on the lookout for her funny videos.

4. Maraji

Gloria O Bimbo Ademoye loruntobi, also known as Maraji was born on the 6^th of February, 1997 and is a native of Edo State. She completed her elementary and secondary school in Edo state and advanced to Covenant University where she studied International Relations.

Maraji began her content creation journey in 2015 by miming the songs of Nigerian musicians and they keep reposting her content that is how she accidentally became a celebrity. She was featured in falz and Yemi Alade’s music video. Maraji has a whooping 1.6 million Instagram followers and 66k Facebook followers always eager to watch her comedy skits and engrossing videos.

5. Dat Warri girl

Oluwatoyin Albert, popularly known as Dat Warri girl is a Nigerian dancer, actress, On-Air Personality (OAP), comedienne, and content creator. She was born on the 26^th of December from the Yoruba ethnic group but spent her early days in Warri, Delta state.

Dat Warri girl went to Delta State University, Abraka where she studied Theatre Arts. She has 686K Instagram followers and 677k Facebook followers.

Datwarrigirl-womenofrubies — DatWarrigirl

6. Kemz Mama

Kemi Ikuseedun, popularly known as Mummy Wa or Kemz Mama was born on September 26, 1996 in Orile, Iganmu, Lagos state. She attended Bell University, Ota ogun state where she earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting and bagged a master’s degree in management from University of Lagos State.

Mummy Wa is a qualified member of ICAN and a trained actress from Emem Isong’s Royal Arts Academy. She has 726k Facebook followers and 371K Instagram followers and her role as Mummy Wa in Mr Macroni’s comedy series brings smile to many.

Nigerian content creators — KemzMama aka Mummy wa

7. Flora222

Gabriel Omozele, popularly known as Flora222 is comedienne and actor who was born on the 2^nd of November. She is from Edo state and graduated from Ambrose Ali University where she offered Theatre and Media Art.

From an early age Flora loves being in front of the camera and that sparked her interest in content creation and after her tertiary education she went into acting full time and is doing well for herself. Flora222 has 631k Facebook followers and 310k Instagram followers.

Nigerian content creator — Mizgabbie-Flora222

8. Jessiekaey

Jessica Anagor, also known as Jessiekaey was born early 1990s and attended a boarding school for her basic education.

Jessiekaey began her content creation journey in 2019, and her comedy centered around African mothers and their relation to their daughters. She came into spotlight after releasing the skit about how course mates behave during exams; that video was reposted by Kraks TV and speedily gained traction, with numerous shares. She has 548K Facebook followers, 153k Instagram followers and an approximated net worth of $50,000.