Helen Williams, a Nigerian woman of exceptional creativity and dedication, has recently etched her name in the prestigious Guinness World Records. Her remarkable achievement involves the crafting of the longest hand-made wig ever recorded, measuring an astounding 1,152 feet and 5 inches (351.28 meters). This extraordinary creation stands as a true testament to Helen’s unwavering passion, unparalleled skill, and sheer determination in pushing the boundaries of artistic expression and hair craftsmanship.
The journey to this Guinness World Record was no small undertaking. Helen invested an incredible two million naira (£2,000: $2,500) and dedicated 11 days to meticulously craft the record-breaking wig. The sheer magnitude of the project is staggering—1,000 bundles of hair, 12 cans of hair spray, 35 tubes of hair glue, and a whopping 6,250 hair clips went into bringing this exceptional piece to life.
Expressing her excitement, Helen shared, “This achievement is one of the best things that has ever happened to me. I still cannot believe it.” Despite her eight years of experience in wig making, she admitted that the process was far from easy. “I felt exhausted during the process,” she confessed. However, with the unwavering support of friends and family, Helen persevered, maintaining her focus to avoid letting anyone down. And the result? The longest hand-made wig in the world!
After completing this extraordinary hairpiece, Helen faced a new challenge—finding a suitable location to lay it out and measure it accurately. On the 7th of July, she chose a highway connecting Lagos and Abeokuta to unveil her masterpiece. Guinness World Records officially confirmed this incredible record, making it official and solidifying Helen’s place in history.
Now, the fantastic wig proudly adorns Helen’s office, inviting everyone to come and admire her remarkable achievement. Beyond being a personal triumph, Helen’s record-breaking wig stands as a symbol of African excellence and creativity. Her accomplishment is not just a Guinness World Record; it’s a cultural milestone, showcasing the talent and ingenuity present in Nigeria.
As we celebrate Helen Williams and her exceptional creativity, we are reminded that dedication, passion, and a touch of daring can lead to extraordinary achievements. Her story inspires us to dream big, push boundaries, and, quite literally, reach new lengths in our pursuits. Congratulations to Helen Williams, a Guinness World Record holder whose innovative spirit has left an indelible mark on the world of hair artistry.
In the spirit of International Men’s Day, I implore men to be allies in the fight against domestic violence. Today, as I share my experience as a survivor, it’s a call for men to do better and become safe spaces for women. If you see something, say something. It’s time for us all to break the silence.
In recent days, I bravely shared my journey as a survivor of domestic violence through videos on my Instagram and TikTok, using Keke Palmer’s situation as a poignant case study.
The responses I received served as a stark reminder of why so many women with voices choose to remain silent in the face of such harrowing situations. It’s a struggle that echoes with individuals like Cassie, who endured years of silence before bravely filing a heart-wrenching 35-page lawsuit against her abuser, known as “Mr. Love.”
After enduring humiliation and many challenges that could have compromised my character, I found the strength to speak up. For many years, I pushed back my pain as a survivor, focusing resolutely on my purpose. However, in the last three years, my body has been going through emotional re-healing to prevent my mental health from hanging on a thread.
The unfortunate reality is that countless women wear brave faces while trapped in abusive situations, often paralyzed by the fear of judgment and societal labelling. Every day, we encounter women in our lives or through social media, completely unaware of the battles they face behind closed doors.
When survivors find the courage to share their stories, judgments can inadvertently empower the abusers, perpetuating victimization and allowing them to escape accountability for their crimes. It’s disheartening to witness how society, while encouraging survivors to seek support, often turns around and stigmatizes them for doing just that.
Reflecting on my own experiences, I recognize that without a strong heart and a supportive network, the stigma I encountered could have broken me. At times, I find myself wondering if I’m made of steel, considering the resilience needed to navigate through such challenges.
The societal re-traumatization of domestic violence victims is a painful reality, highlighting the need for increased awareness and understanding. It is crucial to remember that survivors are not defined by their past but are individuals with strength, courage, and the ability to rebuild their lives.
As I share this featured photo, it’s a reminder to fellow survivors: Don’t let society rob you of your joy. Keep smiling, keep living your best life. In the spirit of positivity, let’s refrain from pity party comments – instead, send some food my way and share uplifting words.
Nuggets on Supporting Domestic Violence Survivors:
Believe and Validate: Acknowledge the survivor’s experience and believe their story.
Offer a Listening Ear: Sometimes, survivors simply need someone to listen without judgment.
Respect Boundaries: Allow survivors to share at their own pace; don’t pressure them to reveal more than they are comfortable with.
Provide Resources: Share information on local support services and helplines.
Educate Yourself: Learn about the signs of abuse and understand the complexities involved.
Be Patient: Healing is a process, and survivors may need time to rebuild their lives.
Citing Keke Palmer‘s example, where she courageously shared her story, let’s amplify the voices of survivors and create a supportive environment. Light always shines through the darkness.
Ruth Gbagbi, a name synonymous with excellence in Ivory Coast’s taekwondo, has etched an indelible mark on the sport’s legacy. Her journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, marked by triumphs on the Olympic stage, the clinching of a world title, and unwavering contributions to the sport she passionately loves. Gbagbi’s distinctive fighting style, highlighted by her formidable “jump reverse turning kick,” not only earned her accolades but also garnered admiration from the global taekwondo community.
Gbagbi’s Abilities: A Palette of Techniques
Philippe Bouedo, a highly experienced taekwondo fighter, coach, and official, served as World Taekwondo’s technical delegate at the Tokyo 2020 Games. He praised Ruth’s abilities, stating, “Ruth is very powerful and very creative. She has a full palette of techniques.” Despite Gbagbi modestly describing herself as “a fighter,” her actions on the mat reveal a fearless approach to competition.
Olympic Triumph in Rio
Gbagbi’s Olympic journey began in Rio 2016, where she secured her first bronze medal on the same night her compatriot, Cheick Sallah Cissé, clinched gold. Her victory over Azerbaijan’s Farida Azizova in the women’s 67-kilogram category showcased her prowess and determination.
World Champion in 2017
The following year, Gbagbi elevated her status by claiming the World Taekwondo title in Muju, South Korea. In the final, she defeated Iran’s Kimia Alizadeh Zenoorin with a convincing score of 19-9. Philippe Bouedo celebrated her dynamic style, stating, “She is the perfect aspect of taekwondo – we want to show people how exciting the game is. She has no limits.”
Early Beginnings and Continued Success
Gbagbi’s journey in taekwondo commenced at the age of eight. Inspired by her penchant for street fighting, her mother wisely suggested she try taekwondo. The decision proved to be life-changing, as Gbagbi has since become a world champion, validating her mother’s advice. In Tokyo 2020, she added another Olympic medal to her collection, securing a 12-8 victory over Brazil’s Milena Titoneli.
UNESCO Ambassador for the Culture of Peace
In 2021, Ruth Gbagbi was honored by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as an ambassador for the culture of peace. This recognition highlighted her exceptional contribution to promoting peace and unity through her achievements in taekwondo. Gbagbi expressed her gratitude, considering it an “honor.”
Ongoing Success in 2022
Gbagbi’s success shows no signs of slowing down. In September 2022, she clinched the women’s under-67kg gold at the Paris World Taekwondo Grand Prix. Her victory against the emerging South Korean athlete Min-Seo Nam marked her fourth Grand Prix gold in her illustrious career.
The Pursuit of Gold in Paris 2024
While Gbagbi is celebrated as a national heroine, one medal has eluded her – Olympic gold. Unsatisfied with her two bronze medals from Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020, she has set her sights on the Paris 2024 Olympics. Her determination is unwavering as she declares, “I will give my all to go to Paris 2024 and win gold.”
Ruth Gbagbi continues to be a source of inspiration for aspiring taekwondo athletes worldwide. Her remarkable talent, relentless spirit, and commitment to the sport make her a true trailblazer, leaving an enduring legacy in Ivory Coast’s taekwondo history. As she embarks on the journey towards Paris 2024, the world eagerly awaits to witness the next chapter in the remarkable career of this taekwondo icon.
Toun Okewale Sonaiya, a name synonymous with empowermentand change, has emerged as a powerful advocate in a world where women’s voices are often underrepresented. As the Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Women Radio 91.7 FM, Nigeria’s only radio station dedicated to women and their families, Toun has committed her career to the noble cause of amplifying women’s voices and championing their concerns.
Toun’s journey to becoming a prominent figure in the fields of journalismand women’s empowerment is nothing short of remarkable. Her unwavering dedication to advancing gender equity and putting an end to violence against women and girls has rightfully earned her a place as one of the most influential women in journalism in Africa.
A Trailblazer in Women’s Media
Toun’s brainchild, Women Radio 91.7 FM, stands as a testament to her commitment to providing a platform for women’s stories, concerns, and achievements. This unique radio station has become a beacon of hope, empowering women to speak up, share their experiences, and connect with one another.
Recognized for Her Impact
Toun Okewale Sonaiya’s influence reaches far beyond the airwaves. Her tireless efforts and dedication to nation-building have not gone unnoticed. She was inducted into the Nigerian Women Hall of Fame, a well-deserved honor for her significant contributions to her country.
Advocacy for Change
Toun is not just a broadcaster; she is a relentless advocate for change. Her advocacy extends to advocating for more women decision-makers in both government and the private sector. She understands the importance of women’s representation in positions of power and leadership.
Additionally, Toun is a staunch supporter of economic empowerment for women. She recognizes the pivotal role that financial independence plays in women’s lives, empowering them to achieve their dreams and contribute to their communities.
A Vision for a Better Future
Toun Okewale Sonaiya’s work is a testament to her unwavering belief in the power of women to drive positive change in society. Through her advocacy, she envisions a future where women’s voices are heard, their contributions are celebrated, and gender equity is not just a dream but a reality.
As we celebrate Toun’s incredible journey and the impact she has had on the lives of countless women, we are reminded that change is possible when individuals with a passion for progress take action. Toun’s story is an inspiration to all who believe in the power of women to transform the world.
Toun Okewale Sonaiya is not just a broadcaster; she is a force of nature, a visionary, and a champion of women’s rights. Her story is a testament to what can be achieved when one person dares to stand up and make a difference.
In her footsteps, may we all find the strength and determination to advocate for the change we wish to see in the world. Toun’s work is a reminder that our voices matter, and together, we can create a brighter, more equitable future for all.
A woman who can multitask successfully has mastered her craft and knows how to navigate her chosen career path. Nora Agbakhamen is not just a woman who wears many hats, she has recorded success everywhere she uses her skillset.
She is one of the most influential Nigerians on LinkedIn who is making the motherland proud. Nora helps businesses get seen and paid through content and storytelling. With over 10 years of experience as a content creator and writer, Nora Agbakhamen knows how to help brands increase their credibility, visibility, and profitability.
Nora Agbakhamen
A graduate of Mass Communication from the University of Maiduguri, she holds a certificate in Persuasive writing and Public Speaking from Harvard University (HarvardX), a certificate in Investigative Journalism from BBC MacArthur Foundation, and several certifications in storytelling.
In this interview with Esther Ijewere, Nora shares her inspiring journey and her passion for storytelling and branding.
Nora Agbakhamen’s Childhood Influence
As a little girl growing up in North-Eastern Nigeria, I loved to listen to beautiful narratives, and my dad was a powerhouse of tribal lore. While my mum believed in instant corporal punishment, my dad had a unique and memorable way of instilling discipline. He would tell us stories from the Bible about people who acted up and the high price they paid.
He would also share accounts of those whose conduct was above reproach and the beautiful rewards they earned. That profoundly affected me, and those stories played a significant role in molding me.
So, very early, I learned that the best way to impart moral instruction is through storytelling because you remember the lessons long after they cease to be told.
Why I Pitched My Tent In Content Creation and Media Sector
Almost every adult had a transistor radio in the North where I grew up. My dad had one, and most evenings, I’d sit with him while he listened to the news.
This piqued my interest in journalism, and I became intentional in watching the news. I particularly loved listening to Eugenia Abu, Ruth Benamaisia-Opia, Fatima Abass Hassan, and Hauwa Baba-Ahmed on NTA news those days. So when it was time to go to the university, my choice of Mass Communication was a no-brainer.
For content creation, I’ve always loved to educate and share value. Back in my university days, my classmates would come together and ask that I summarize our notes for them before exams. I would explain what we’d been taught but use relatable examples to help the point stick.
They lived for those moments, and it was a privilege to see how those explanations helped all of us ace our exams. The more I taught, the more the points stuck with me.
So I took the same love for teaching into the storytelling aspect of content creation. I went into it with the one aim of serving. I wanted to share whatever knowledge I had with my audience.
Nora Agbakhamen’s Journey So Far
When I started as a brand storyteller on LinkedIn in October of last year, I had 90 followers. One year later, I’ve built an over 100,000-strong community who come together to enrich each other by consuming my content and sharing heartfelt comments, tips, and suggestions for the benefit of others.
Challenges
You know LinkedIn is a global platform. I’ve had folks send me private messages with a dose of racism. I’ve also had people drop comments like “this is not Facebook.” This is LinkedIn, where you share your career wins. Were it not for the overwhelmingly positive feedback I got from others on the platform, who knows if I’d have thrown in the towel by now?
Thankfully, I persevered, and today I can tell you that among my clients are Bank executives, Architects, Accountants, Founders, CEOs, etc. I work with them to increase their reputation in their various fields so they can become more visible and profitable. It’s a win-win for us, and I shudder to think that there was a time I gave up.
How My Work Has Inspired Other Women Around Me
I’ve mentored women, particularly undergraduates on LinkedIn, and the regular thank-you emails I get from these ladies are like the icing on the cake. I’ve had female undergraduates email me to say they started content as a side hustle because of the daily tips I drop on LinkedIn. That, for me, is the ultimate reward.
Other Projects And Activities
I am currently running a 7-Day Personal Branding Email Challenge for entrepreneurs and 9-5 workers on LinkedIn. Many are busy folks with little time to listen to or read long courses but want to build a sparkling brand online. So I created these daily email challenges to help them lay the foundation for a rock-solid brand so that they can become visible, trusted, and profitable.
Every day, for one week, they receive emails explaining a brand-building activity. Then I give them tiny tasks they can do immediately to increase their reputation on LinkedIn.
I’ve also worked as a brand influencer with local and international brands on LinkedIn. I do my due diligence before recommending any brand to my community. So any brand I feature on my page is vetted.
I’m also coaching ambitious women who want to monetize their knowledge on LinkedIn. This coaching is a 1:1 tailored for each client. So once every week, I go on a Zoom call with them. We review our wins and work on further steps to take them closer to their goals.
How I Became A Top LinkedIn Influencer and Marketable Brand
My watchword has always been to deliver top-notch service. I didn’t start content creation with profit as the drive. I was happy to share what I’d learned over the years with my community. I stayed consistent and built a niche around storytelling. Those who loved what they were learning tagged others to my page, and before long, I had a reputation as a “brand storyteller,” and my following grew exponentially.
3 women Who Inspire Me and Why
My mum (now late) Rose Ubek – taught me early on the value of service and hard work. She never believed in giving you fish because she was one to teach you where and how to get the best fish.
Amanda Cryer – This woman is a compassionate Social Impact influencer on LinkedIn who looks for ways to support other women’s businesses.
Every other woman who lives a life of service – Women who mentor other women and hold their hands so that we can shatter glass ceilings together.
To Ambitious Women Constantly Judged By Society
Don’t listen to people who want to pull you back. To every woman out there, there’s nothing more inspiring than a woman who knows what she wants and dares to pursue it. So get up, take back your power and lead your tribe.
To Women Who Can’t Market Their Brands And Business Properly
Firstly, if you’re not on LinkedIn, you’re missing out on an incredible opportunity to market your brand. LinkedIn boasts over 850 million members in more than 200 countries and territories worldwide. So whether or not you have a job or business, you have an incredible opportunity to place yourself at the front and center and attract the opportunities you crave.
For other creators out there, please don’t just sell your offers. Instead, share values your readers can run with and use to better themselves. Take a genuine interest in your followers; sometimes, it takes a good word of motivation to help someone be the best version of them. Pay attention to that young lady that reaches out to you via private message to ask for tips, suggestions, and recommendations.
Being a Woman of Rubies
My God-given desire is to see other women thrive both personally and professionally. If every woman lives a life of service together, we will succeed and leave no one behind.
To a Young Person On The Verge of Giving Up
Please don’t give up. We, your sisters, love you and can’t wait to see you thrive.
My Work-life Balance Routine
I’ve implemented systems and processes that help me maintain a work-life balance. For example, even on lazy days, I have planned my content to auto-post at a particular hour, so my audience is not starved. This helps me have time for my family and loved ones.
WorkTorch, the only career discovery platform for the service economy workforce, raised $2.2 million in a seed round led by Tenzing Capital, Tech Crunch reports. Previously known as QuickHire, sisters and founders Deborah Gladney and Angela Muhwezi-Hall’s new focus since raising more funds is not only more recruiting but also retention, as proved by the name change
“Finding the right talent is just half the battle,” Gladney said. “Where companies are really being hit the hardest is losing people faster than they’re coming in the door.” Wanting to make more of an impact, they considered their recruiting efforts fruitless since businesses weren’t doing anything to keep their new employees. “We started leaning into what was happening to people post-hire and have started to focus on career development and talent retention tools,” Gladney continued. “So our new name is WorkTorch. We want to be a guiding light to a better career, a better workforce.”
Less than two years old, WorkTorch has a roster of more than 40,000 people actively looking for a job with 1000 scheduled interviews monthly. To continue to shift the company towards retention, users can now track their career development and connect with other users; employers now have access to new retention tools based on regional trends.
Despite things like “quiet quitting” or “The Great Resignation,” HR platforms are still on VCs radars, pouring $1.4 billion into the industry at the top of 2022 with HR startups raising a total of 12.3 billion last year. Based in Kansas, Gladney and Muhwezi-Hall are the first Black women to raise more than $1M in the Midwest. But according to Muhwezi-Hall, this time was harder than the last time they raised funding. “People would give soft commitments, perform extensive due diligence, and then back out, saying they actually never wanted to get into HR.” According to Forbes, Black founders were receiving less than 1% of VC funding; in 2021, they received 1.2%.
Deborah Gladney and Angela Muhwezi-Hall – Founders of WorkTorch
“It was very odd,” Muhwezi-Hall said. “A lot of these individuals have social media presences that are focused on diversity and inclusion. We were excited to meet with them. But when push came to shove, it was like any other — probably even worse than the VCs that just wouldn’t respond to our emails because they strung us along and wasted so much of our time.”
However, despite the obstacles, they were able to secure top investors such as Bloomberg Beta, MATH Venture Partners, Ruthless for Good Fund and Graham & Walker, which will allow them to expand to Chicago, Denver, Atlanta, and Dallas.
“Employers need better tools and capabilities to meet the needs of their workforce, and service-industry professionals thrive when offered opportunities to develop and grow their careers,” Josh Oeding, the founder of Tenzing Capital, told TechCrunch. “WorkTorch has figured out how to deliver value to employers, and professionals and the market is responding.”
Leslie Feinzaig, the founder of Graham & Walker, added, “I was deeply impressed by Deborah and Angela and had one of those magical first meetings where I immediately know I want to invest,” she told TechCrunch. “It was striking to me that this team deeply understands and respects the service workers, in a way that is rare in startup pitches. And this translates to metrics that are undeniable and unheard of for a startup at this stage.”
“WorkTorch is empowering people to pursue whatever they are passionate about. And then we come alongside them to help them get there,” Gladney said. This sister-duo is shifting the workforce. Looking at the economic downturn of the pandemic, we’re happy to hear that the relationship between employees and employers is changing. Not only is WorkTorch helping people snag interviews, but they’re also helping them grow professionally.
Lisa Ogbole is not just a devout Christian; she is a passionate advocate, a visionary, and a source of inspiration for countless individuals. As the founder of the Imani Foundation and the Executive Director of Melodia Homecare in Ontario, she has dedicated her life to making a profound impact on the lives of those in need.
A Mission to Make a Difference
Lisa’s journey as an Executive Director and former IT professional has been nothing short of remarkable. She wears many hats – a role model, a mentor, a coach, a serial entrepreneur, and a humanitarian. Her unwavering focus is on improving the lives of women and their families.
From Darkness to Light: A Personal Journey
Lisa’s steadfast commitment to helping victims of domestic violence is deeply personal. She is a survivor herself, having endured eight years in an abusive relationship. During those difficult times, she may have lost pieces of herself, but she never lost her determination to help others. Her dream to support women experiencing gender-based violence became a reality in 2019 when she founded the Imani Foundation.
Imani’s Place: A Haven of Hope
One of the most significant achievements of Lisa’s journey is the creation of Imani’s Place, a safe haven for domestic violence and human trafficking survivors. It’s more than just a transitional home; it’s a beacon of hope and a symbol of resilience. What sets Imani’s Place apart is that it’s the first black-led transitional home supporting the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community in Canada.
Since its inception, Imani’s Place has extended a helping hand to over 300 women. It provides shelter, counseling services, assistance with job searches, free groceries, free transportation, clothing, and support in finding permanent housing. For these survivors, it’s a place where they can rebuild their lives, free from fear and judgment.
Recognitions and Awards
Lisa Ogbole’s extraordinary work hasn’t gone unnoticed. In 2022, she was nominated and awarded the prestigious CIBWE100 Black Women to Watch in Canada. This recognition speaks volumes about her impact and influence in the community.
In 2023, she received the Community Advocate Award at the International Women Summit organized by Canada Vendors. This award highlights her tireless advocacy and dedication to making the world a better place, one person at a time.
A Legacy of Empowerment
Lisa Ogbole’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and compassion. Her personal experiences have fueled her drive to be a beacon of hope for others. Through the Imani Foundation and Imani’s Place, she has provided a lifeline for those in need. Her work not only transforms lives but also sets an example for others to follow in the fight against domestic violence and human trafficking. Lisa’s story is a reminder that in the face of adversity, we can emerge stronger and make a lasting impact on the world.
Picture a world where innovative property development and investment flourish, a landscape transformed by the vision and determination of extraordinary women. Their stories are a testament to resilience, vision, and an unwavering commitment to changing the skylines of Nigeria. In this captivating journey through the lives and careers of Nigerian women in real estate, we explore the indomitable spirit of visionaries who have redefined the landscape, broken barriers and left an indelible mark on the property sector.
From architectural masterpieces to groundbreaking investments, from strategic planning to advocacy, their influence knows no bounds. Step into the world of these trailblazers and be prepared to be inspired, captivated, and moved by their extraordinary achievements. These women are redefining real estate in Nigeria, and their stories are exceptional.
Top Nigerian Women in Real Estate
Olajumoke Adenowo: Architectural Excellence
Olajumoke Adenowo is among the fantastic women in real estate. She is a prominent Nigerian architect and real estate developer known for her innovative architectural designs and impactful contributions to the real estate industry. After graduating from university, Adenowo embarked on a remarkable career journey, beginning as an Assistant Architect at Towry Coker Associates. She then honed her skills as an architect in Lagos, working with Femi Majekodunmi Associates. At 23, she even played a pivotal role in the prestigious Federal Ministry of Finance project in Abuja.
In 1994, at 25, Olajumoke Adenowo took a momentous step by founding her boutique architecture and interior design firm, AD Consulting. Since its inception, AD Consulting has been at the forefront of designing and constructing over 114 projects. These encompass a broad spectrum of developments, including institutional buildings, office complexes, mixed-use developments, auditoria, private residences, healthcare facilities, industrial campuses, and master plans. Her clients include national and multinational corporations, such as Coca-Cola, L’Oreal, Access Bank plc, and Guaranty Trust Bank.
Through her groundbreaking architectural work and commitment to pushing the boundaries of creativity and excellence, Olajumoke Adenowo has earned numerous awards and accolades. Her exceptional contributions have left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s architecture and real estate field, making her a guru among her fellow women in real estate.
Dr. Mrs Jane Onwumere: Real Estate and Advocacy
Dr. Jane Onwumere, aka “Mama Africa,” exemplifies women’s progress in real estate. With a background in creative thinking, business acumen, and network marketing expertise, she’s been a game-changer in the Nigerian real estate landscape. Dr. Onwumere’s innovative strategies have not only revolutionized the real estate industry within Nigeria but have also had a significant impact on the broader Sub-Saharan African and African real estate markets.
She co-founded PWAN Group with her husband and helped make it one of the world’s most successful real estate companies. Her journey from humble beginnings to becoming a highly admired real estate executive inspires aspiring women in real estate. It reflects a powerful message – with unwavering determination and hard work, women can rise to the pinnacle of their careers in traditionally male-dominated fields. Dr. Onwumere’s influence extends to human resource development, training and empowering thousands of real estate marketers, entrepreneurs, and professionals. She stands as a beacon of empowerment and innovation in the real estate industry, redefining what women in real estate can achieve.
Ruth Obih-Obuah: The Real Estate Strategist
Ruth Obih-Obuah is a multifaceted professional with a diverse educational background and a remarkable career in real estate. She holds an LLB degree from Imo State University and subsequently completed her legal education at the Nigerian Law School. Building on her legal foundation, Ruth expanded her knowledge with studies at the BPP Law School in London, UK. Her dedication to continuous learning led her to attain a certificate in entrepreneurial management from the Pan-Atlantic University. In addition, she further honed her expertise with real estate management training from Harvard Business School. She delved into the intricacies of commercial real estate analysis and investment through courses at the MIT School of Architecture and Planning in Boston.
In 2007, Ruth established 3Invest, a real estate company on a mission to rejuvenate the industry. By 2011, she brought a digital transformation, launching an online portal and a groundbreaking radio show to empower women. In 2012, she unveiled “Real Estate Unite,” the continent’s most significant yearly assembly of real estate leaders in Lagos.
Her passion for proptech culminated in establishing the Real Estate Investor Network (REIN) in 2013. Ruth Obih-Obuah is a trailblazing figure in the real estate industry. In 2015, she introduced Lagos CoWork, Africa’s first timeshare coworking space, reflecting her innovative approach. She’s dedicated to empowering women and driving industry growth and innovation.
Chukwunonso Onny-Ezeh: The Lady Realtor
Chukwunonso Onny-Ezeh, or “Nonso,” has had a diverse career in law, banking, finance, non-profit work, and real estate. She’s the CEO of Assist-2-Sell Properties Limited, a top-notch real estate company specializing in property sales, leases, management, and advice. She earned a law degree from the University of Nigeria in 1999, was called to the Nigerian Bar the same year, and began practising law.
Assist-2-Sell Properties Ltd. won the 2011 British Airways on Business Opportunity Grant Award under her leadership. It’s also certified as a women-owned business by WEConnect, which is fantastic! But Nonso’s not just a successful businesswoman; she’s also a kind-hearted philanthropist. She created “Lady Realtors,” a platform dedicated to training and empowering women in the real estate field. Thanks to her ongoing support, over 1,500 women have received valuable training from this forum.
Nonso believes strongly in self-improvement and mentorship, and she’s part of various organizations, including WIMBIZ, the Cherie Blair Foundation for Women, and the Fortune 500 U.S. State Department Global Mentorship program. She’s even a mentor for the Youth Enterprise with Innovation in Nigeria (YouWiN) program. Apart from her professional achievements, Nonso is a member of esteemed clubs, like the Ikoyi Club 1938 and VGC Club. She’s an alumna of the prestigious Lagos Business School and is currently enrolled in the Chief Executive Program. Nonso’s expertise and leadership have made her a sought-after consultant and speaker in the real estate industry.
Nigerian women in real estate have redefined the landscape. From architecture to investment and development, they’ve left an indelible mark. Their stories inspire innovation and the belief that real estate or the business world is unlimited. They’ve shattered ceilings and constructed new horizons. Let them inspire us to redefine our landscapes, personally and professionally, in the dynamic world of real estate and beyond.
Mayowa (Ogundele) Adegoke is a trailblazerin the dynamic world of media and empowerment. In an industry where some individuals stand out as beacons of excellence, Mayowa has left an indelible mark by connecting with diverse audiences and telling stories that resonate across borders.
Early Days in Lagos
Mayowa (Ogundele) Adegoke’s journey in the media industry traces back to her early days in Lagos, Nigeria. As a young and passionate television presenter, she stepped into the spotlight with charisma, eloquence, and an unwavering dedication to her craft. It didn’t take long for her to become a household name in the Nigerian media landscape.
As the presenter of the daily showbiz program, “Entertainment News,” Mayowa covered a wide array of engaging content. Her role involved reporting on breaking stories, conducting interviews, attending fashion shows, music concerts, movie premieres, and more. She was the face of entertainment news, bringing the latest and most exciting happenings to the audience.
A Versatile Senior Presenter and Reporter
As her career advanced, Mayowa (Ogundele) Adegoke took on the role of a senior presenter/reporter, broadening her horizons and exploring various beats. Her reporting spanned across different domains, both within the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and internationally. From technology to fashion, entertainment to lifestyle, and business to global events, she delved deep into the stories that resonated with the Nigerian diaspora worldwide.
Her role was not limited by geographical borders. Mayowa’s reporting extended to events and narratives happening around the world, keeping her audience informed and engaged.
Empowering Through “Road to Success Seminar
While Mayowa’s professional journey in the media was thriving, her passion for empowering others led her to establish the “Road to Success Seminar.” This platform is a testament to her commitment to self-development, career building, and business growth. It is a hub for professionals and entrepreneurs in the UAE seeking to unlock their full potential.
Through the seminar, Mayowa (Ogundele) Adegoke imparts essential skills that include public speaking, media coaching, and conference organization. The objective is clear: to help individuals excel in their respective fields, maximize their potential, and succeed in their careers and businesses.
A Visionary of Impact
Mayowa Adegoke’s relentless pursuit of excellence, her passion for storytelling, and her unwavering dedication to empowering others have solidified her position as a leading journalist and media personality in the UAE. Her journey continues to inspire and make an indelible mark in the media industry.
As Mayowa (Ogundele) Adegoke forges ahead in her career, she exemplifies a visionary of impact, urging others to chase their dreams and make a meaningful difference in the world.
In an ever-evolving media landscape, Mayowa (Ogundele) Adegoke remains a trailblazer, setting an example of excellence and empowerment for the generations to come. Her story is a testament to the power of dedication, passion, and the profound impact one individual can make in the world of media and beyond.
We are thrilled to announce that Esther Ijewerehas been recognized and celebrated as one of Canada’s Top 100 Black Women to Watch by CIBWE(Celebrating and Inspiring Black Women Everywhere) Canada. This prestigious award is a testament to Esther’s exceptional contributions in her field, her dedication to community empowerment,public relations, and the various fieldsthat have earned her this prestigious accolade.
Esther Ijewere, a celebrated multi-award-winningmedia personality, entrepreneur and ardent women’s advocate, has used her influential Women of Rubies platform to shine a spotlight on over 5,000 remarkable women worldwide. Her tireless efforts in amplifying women’s voices and championing gender equality through her NGO, Rubies Ink Initiative for Women and Children have made a substantial impact on society.
The awards ceremony, held in Mississauga on the 28th of October, was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including the iconic Jean Augustine,Charmaine Williams, Minister of Women’s Social and Economic Opportunity, and the esteemed Senator Amina Gerba.The visionary behind the CIBWE awards, Rose Cathy Handy,founded the platform to celebrate and inspire the remarkable achievements and contributions of Black women.
Esther Ijewere’s Acceptance Statement:
Esther Ijewere expressed her profound gratitude for the honor, saying, “I am deeply humbled and honored to receive the Canada’s Top 100 Black Women to Watch Award from CIBWE. It is a privilege to be recognized among such a distinguished group of inspiring women. This award is a testament to the collective efforts we make to create a better world. I am committed to continuing my work in uplifting and empowering women, and I am dedicated to the cause of gender equality. This award further fuels my passion for positive change, and I am excited about the opportunities ahead.”
About Women of Rubies
Esther’s profound work with Women of Rubies, a platform dedicated to showcasing and uplifting women from all walks of life, is emblematic of her unwavering commitment to positive change. With an unshakable belief in the power of women’s stories to drive positive change, Esther has curated numerous impactful events, including the Media Visibility Bootcamp, aimed at equipping women with the tools they need to amplify their voices and broaden their impact. Women of Rubies stands as a beacon of inspiration, fostering a community where women’s achievements and aspirations are celebrated, and their voices heard.
For media inquiries or further information, please contact; admin@womenofrubies.com
See more photos from the event;
Esther Ijewere with Funmilayo Odeniyi
Esther Ijewere (L), Latoya Mullings ( C) and Funmilayo Odeniyi (R)
From Left: Pamela Anoliefo, FOla Adegoke, Esther Ijewere and Sheila AkpotaEsther Ijewere and Angela Ikogho
