self development

In Inspiration August 19, 2023 By Esther Ijewere

Nikki Porcher Paves The Way For Black Women Business Owners Through Buy From A Black Woman

Nikki Porcher is a visionary leader. As the dedicated founder of the nonprofit entity Buy From A Black Woman, she has wholeheartedly embraced the role of advocate for Black Women Business Owners. Infused with an unyielding dedication to empowerment, education, and inspiration, Nikki spearheads a movement that’s reshaping the contours of entrepreneurship and bolstering consumer support.

Empowerment Beyond Words

Buy From A Black Woman is not just an organization; it’s a movement that amplifies the voices and endeavors of Black Women in business. Nikki’s mission is clear: to bring attention to the need for tangible support and recognition for Black Women entrepreneurs. She understands that advocacy must extend beyond mere statements, and through her actions, she’s proving that Black Women deserve nothing less than meaningful empowerment.

Equipping for Success

Nikki and her organization are arming Black Women entrepreneurs with the essential tools and resources required to thrive in the world of business. With a focus on education, Buy From A Black Woman has played a pivotal role in driving over $2.7 million in revenue for Black Women Founders in the past year alone. This achievement highlights not only the potential within this community but also the transformation that can occur when support and opportunity intersect.

The organization offers a diverse array of resources, including educational programs, funding opportunities, and a comprehensive online directory that facilitates the discovery of Black Women-Owned Businesses. Moreover, Buy From A Black Woman boasts one of the largest and most dynamic communities of Black Women Business Owners both in the United States and across the globe.

A Journey Rooted in Service

Nikki Porcher’s journey to her current role is marked by her dedication to service. As a veteran and former public school teacher, she brings a unique blend of skills and experiences to her work. The challenges she navigated in these environments have shaped her approach to creating a more equitable world for Black Women. Her passion and commitment are evident in every facet of Buy From A Black Woman’s initiatives.

A Trailblazer and Inspiring Force

Nikki’s list of accomplishments is impressive and impactful. She has forged partnerships with major players such as H&M and Goldman Sachs, leveraging these collaborations to empower Black Women entrepreneurs on a larger scale. Over 600 founders have benefitted from her guidance in boosting their online visibility, positioning them for success in the digital era. Moreover, Nikki’s innovation shines through in her creation of one of the pioneering platforms dedicated to Black Woman-Owned Businesses – her groundbreaking online directory.

However, what sets Nikki apart is not just her impressive track record, but her unwavering spirit and ability to inspire others. Her dedication to her mission and her community has ignited a fire that fuels positive change and growth.

A Multifaceted Force for Change

Beyond her role as the founder of Buy From A Black Woman, Nikki Porcher wears many hats. She is a sought-after Business Consultant, DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) Trainer, and Speaker. Her expertise extends beyond the organization, making her a valuable voice in various spheres where her insights are driving change and awareness.

Discover More

If Nikki Porcher’s story has captivated you, and if the mission of Buy From A Black Woman resonates with your values, you can learn more about Nikki and her journey at ablackwomanwebsite.com. To delve deeper into the impactful work of Buy From A Black Woman, visit buyfromablackwoman.org. By supporting this movement, you become part of a transformative force that’s reshaping the narrative of entrepreneurship and empowerment for Black Women across the world.

In Inspiration April 5, 2023 By Esther Ijewere

Funmi Ayowole Is Providing Mental Health Support For Canadians Through ‘The Soul Clinic’

Funmi Fatona-Ayowole Is Providing Mental Health Support For Canadians Through ‘The Soul Clinic. Her personal mission is to be an ever-growing, trustworthy being expressing love and wisdom, contributing to healing the world, and leaving a legacy of impact, health, and wealth for the next generation.

Funmi is an emotional health and wellness coach, speaker, counsellor, project manager, execution specialist and team lead. Through her work of coaching, counselling and team building, Funmi deploys her relational gifts of natural empathy and disciplined connectedness to help unlock the potentials of people and visions.

Funmi’s personal mission is to be an ever-growing, trustworthy being expressing love and wisdom, contributing to healing the world and leaving a legacy of impact, health and wealth for the next generation.

She is the Founder at TheVirtualSoulClinic – a tech-driven non-profit organization democratising a listening ear by connecting trained volunteer coaches with people in the community who require mental health support via virtual, high quality safe spaces.

This non-profit provides mental health first aid – first with an evidence-based QuickScan to diagnose the client’s mental and emotional health status and then a 15-minute call with a support coach that listens non-judgementally, helps untangle mind webs and invites the client to take initial steps in the direction of the healing journey.

These services (diagnostic survey, results, support call and post-call recommendations) are all free of charge. Beneficiaries include but are not limited to new (and not so new) immigrants settling into Canada and young leaders that identify as people of color from all walks of life.

TheVirtualSoulClinic is on a quest to expand its network of support coaches, equip them via continuous training and mentoring, improve the platform’s user experience and increase its reach. Please learn about ways to support us at bit.ly/GiveTVSC

Funmi runs TheSoulClinic (a private coaching practice), delivering individual and group coaching programmes and content, helping clients build their soul strength – leading to increased mental and emotional independence, clarity, and resilience. She speaks and facilitates group healing sessions.

As a certified project management and marketing communication professional with over 15 years of experience providing client, event, brand, and project leadership in the marketplace, Funmi currently works with The Garden – a renowned Independent Agency in Toronto, as a Project Lead for a myriad of brands and clients.

She is married and is a supermom of 2, aiming to thrive with family first. Sundays are her best days, filled with fellowship, fun and food!

TVSC Website – www.thevirtualsoulclinic.com

TVSC Facebook – www.facebook.com/TheSoulClinicOnline

TVSC Instagram – www.instagram.com/TheSoulClinicOnline

Personal Instagram – www.instagram.com/funmiayowole

Personal Website – www.thefunmiayowole.com

Personal LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/funmifatona

We celebrate you Amazon!

In Inspiration July 29, 2023 By Esther Ijewere

Chichi Uchendu: Empowering Women Through Financial Literacy And Digital Marketing Expertise

Chichi Uchendu is a dynamic Social Entrepreneur, Digital Marketing Consultant and passionate advocate for financial literacy. As the founder of “SixFigureMom,” she dedicates herself to empowering women with the essential principles of financial literacy, firmly believing that every woman deserves the knowledge and skills to take control of her financial future.

In her role as a Digital Marketing Consultant and Team Lead at Dynamics Virtual Assistant (Dvirtualassistant), Chichi assists businesses in harnessing the immense potential of online platforms. She firmly believes that a strong online presence is the key to effectively reaching and engaging target audiences. Through her business, she has successfully supported over 10,000 global businesses and trained more than 25,000 students on leveraging the Internet to grow and thrive financially.

Chichi’s impact extends even further as the Founder of LearnifyAfrica, an ed-tech company with a mission to empower women and youths through tech and digital marketing. With her diverse expertise, Chichi continues to drive positive change and uplift communities through education and financial empowerment. In this interview with Esther Ijewere, she shares her inspiring story and her passion for teaching mums financial literacy.

Childhood Influence

As a mum, reflecting on my childhood, I can see how it has significantly influenced and prepared me for the role I have now as a social entrepreneur. My childhood experiences taught me resilience and adaptability. I faced various challenges and setbacks along the way, but these experiences taught me to stay determined and find innovative solutions to overcome obstacles. They have equipped me with the tools, mindset, and determination to pursue my passions, support my family and create a positive impact in my community and beyond.

The inspiration behind SixFigureMom, Learnify Africa and Dynamics Virtual Assistant

The idea to start Dynamics Virtual Assistant agency originated from a confluence of two key factors: my existing skills and the need for an additional source of income. As you may know, I have always been passionate about technology, problem-solving and organizing tasks efficiently.

However, despite possessing these valuable skills, I found myself unsure of how to monetize them effectively. The traditional job market was limited in terms of flexible opportunities, and I craved a way to leverage my abilities while maintaining a work-life balance. I knew there had to be a way to use my skills to create value for others and, in turn, generate income for myself.

During my research, I stumbled upon the concept of virtual assistants and the growing demand for remote support services. The rest they say is history. I was inspired to start SixFigureMom during the COVID-19 pandemic to help women work and earn remotely. The SixFigureMom community empowers women to know that in this era you don’t have to choose between raising a family and your career; you can do both successfully.

Dynamics Virtual Assistant, the parent company of LearnifyAfrica, is a female-focused ed-tech platform that utilizes technology and community building to educate and empower women in digital skills, mainstream media and financial literacy.

Since our inception, we have empowered over 10,000 women across the globe through training, education and job-skill matching. We also assist organisations, digital creators and business owners with their digital marketing needs such as managing their social engagement and creating a profitable social footprint. Our mission is to increase access to employability and promote education and gender equality.

How the journey has been since she started her platforms

The journey has been rewarding and challenging at the same time. The testimonials I got from Sixfigurenation make me keep pushing, knowing that women can earn a decent living with the phones in their hands. The challenging aspect of it – building a client base from scratch, navigating the intricacies of running a business and managing a team of remote assistants – has presented its share of hurdles. However, witnessing the positive impact our services have had on our clients’ lives and businesses has been incredibly gratifying.

Challenges

I have encountered different challenges one of them being time zone differences and remote communication. Some clients prefer people from their countries but I had to build trust by ensuring we over-deliver on our promises thereby making us retain over 85 percent of clients.

How my work has inspired other women around me

My work has served as a source of inspiration for the women around me in several ways. Empowering Women to LeveraTheireir Skills: My journey has shown other women that they can leverage their skills and passions to create meaningful and profitable ventures.

Promoting Work-Life Balance: As a virtual assistant agency, we prioritize remote work and flexible hours. Encouraging Skill Development: Through ongoing training and upskilling programmes, I have emphasized the importance of continuous learning and personal growth.

Supporting Women-Owned Businesses: Beyond my agency, I have actively supported and collaborated with other women-owned businesses. This networking and partnership have fostered a sense of solidarity and collective growth among women entrepreneurs.

Providing Role Models: Representation matters. As a female founder in the technology and business domain, I have become a role model for aspiring women entrepreneurs and professionals. My achievements have shown them that they too can succeed and make a significant impact in their chosen fields.

Other projects and activities

As a mum, I am deeply committed to my role as a parent and ensuring the well-being and happiness of my children. Apart from running my agency and the Edtech Academy, I am involved in several other projects and activities that align with my passions and values such as community engagement and continuous learning.

Work-life balance routine

As a wife and mum of three, maintaining a healthy work-life balance is of utmost importance to me. Juggling the responsibilities of running a business and caring for my children requires careful planning, organization and setting clear boundaries. Here’s an overview of my work-life balance routine:
Outsourcing Non-Core Tasks: To lighten my workload, I delegate non-core tasks.

Structured Family Time: Family time is a non-negotiable part of my routine. I set aside specific hours during the day when I engage in activities with my children, such as helping with schoolwork, playing games or going on outings. Designated Work Hours: I establish specific work hours during the day when I can focus solely on business-related tasks.

Three women who inspire her and why

Oprah Winfrey’s journey from humble beginnings to global success serves as a reminder that no dream is too big to achieve with determination, hard work and resilience.

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, through her books and speeches, challenges societal norms and promotes the idea of being unapologetically oneself. Chimamanda’s fearlessness in tackling difficult subjects inspires me to use my voice to advocate for change and to be unafraid of challenging prevailing narratives.

Lupit Nyong’o inspires me to embrace my unique strengths and advocate for causes that are close to my heart.

Advice to mums who still don’t know they can make money while working from home

Believe in yourself and your potential. Working from home offers incredible opportunities to balance your personal and professional life while earning income. Your skills, talents and experiences are valuable assets that can be monetized in various ways. Take the leap of faith, explore the possibilities and discover the vast array of remote work options available to you.

Women with a passion to earn money but lack support

Supporting women who have the motivation to earn more income but lack adequate support is crucial for empowering them to achieve their goals and improve their financial independence. We can offer assistance and create a supportive environment for such women through Financial Literacy and Skill Development by providing access to workshops, training programs or online resources that focus on financial literacy and skill development.

Being a Woman of Rubies

As a woman, I believe I embody the qualities that make me a “Woman of Rubies.” Here’s how I relate to those characteristics: Empowerment: Empowering women has always been a priority for me.

Advocacy: I use my platform to raise awareness about important issues and encourage others to take action for positive change. blindness: I believe in the power of kindness and compassion. Through my journey as an entrepreneur, a mum and a woman, I strive to be a “Woman of Rubies” by embodying these qualities and using my experiences and achievements to create positive change and empowerment for those around me.

One thing I wish to change in society

One thing I hope to change in society is to create more support for women’s entrepreneurship by providing more access to resources, funding and training for women entrepreneurs.

In Career Gems August 4, 2023 By Women of Rubies

7 Things Empowered Women Do Differently In Relationships

In today’s dynamic world, empowered women are rewriting the script when it comes to relationships. They embrace their strength and independence, while also fostering healthy and meaningful connections with their partners. These empowered women possess a unique set of qualities that set them apart in their relationships, creating a positive impact on both their personal growth and the dynamics of their partnerships.

Let’s explore seven empowering traits that make a significant difference in how these remarkable women navigate their romantic journeys.

1) They put self-care first

Empowered women are empowered because they know how to look after themselves.

Of course, they also pour love and care into their relationships, but one mistake they don’t make is sacrificing themselves in the process. Just as the common advice dished out on airlines states: “Put your own oxygen mask on before helping others”…These women know that to show up for the people in their lives, they need to be healthy themselves first.

2) They share the responsibilities equally

I’d consider myself an empowered woman. My mom, on the other hand, isn’t. She’s from another generation and culture – women voicing their wants and needs was unheard of.

So, in her marriage, she does all the domestic work as well as holds down a job. Over the years, her resentment towards my dad became obvious. It’s not that he won’t help her, it’s that she doesn’t have the confidence to ask.

In my relationship?

We both work, so we both split the responsibilities and chores equally!

This way neither of us feels resentment toward the other. We actually get things done quicker so we have more free time to enjoy life.

This was a requirement of mine when we moved in together and man, it’s been a game-changer!

3) They’re financially independent

Empowered women know that to be self-reliant and independent, they need to have their own source of income.

That’s not to look down on women who don’t work or stay-at-home moms.

Empowered women know when to take a break and lean on their partners too.

But ultimately, they know that having their own money means the freedom to do what they want, without having to ask someone else every time they want to do something!

4) They Praise their partner’s success

Another thing empowered women do differently in relationships is big up their partner’s successes.

They don’t feel resentful, jealous, or threatened.

In fact, they will do everything in their power to support and uplift the men in their lives!

Why is this so?

Well, empowered women feel secure within themselves. And when you feel confident in your own abilities, you don’t fear the success of others.

So, when it comes to their partner taking on a new job or being promoted, they’re all for it!

5) They Make Decisions Together

I know of relationships where the woman calls all the shots. I also know of relationships where the man is totally in control.

Neither of these scenarios is healthy though, and empowered women know this!

That’s why they cultivate relationships where both feel heard and valued. Where both people can put their ideas forward in a safe space, free from ridicule or judgment.

And it’s not rocket science…

When both make decisions together, their bond and respect levels increase tenfold! It’s a sign of teamwork and partnership.

6) They continuously learn and grow

Ever heard the expression, “This is just the way I am. Like it or lump it.”

You’ll probably never hear an empowered woman utter this line.

Because they never stop working on themselves. Perfection isn’t a word in their dictionary.

These women value self-development and rather than accept their flaws and expect everyone around them to do the same, they actively work to be better people.

But here’s the catch:

They expect the same from their partners. They don’t want a man who stays stuck in his bad habits, they want someone they can grow with.

7) They maintain a strong support network

Have you noticed how some friends get into a relationship and seem to fall off the face of the earth?

Well, these friends aren’t the empowered women in your life, that’s for sure!

That’s because empowered women keep their social circles strong, no matter how loved up they are with their men.

In Career Gems May 22, 2023 By Women of Rubies

5 Tips for Building a Strong Support System After Relocating to Canada

Building a strong support system is crucial for anyone who has relocated to a new country, such as Canada. Moving to a foreign land can be an exciting yet daunting experience, and having a solid support network can significantly contribute to a successful transition. Whether you are a newcomer, an immigrant, or an international student, navigating the complexities of a new environment becomes easier when you have a robust support system.

This blog will explore five valuable tips for building a strong support system after relocating to Canada. These tips will help you establish meaningful connections, find a sense of belonging, and create a support network that will positively impact your journey in your new home.

Importance of Having a Strong Support System for a Successful Transition

Transitioning to a new country can be an exhilarating adventure but comes with its share of challenges. A strong support system becomes paramount to ensuring a successful transition during this adjustment period. A support system consists of individuals who provide emotional, practical, and social support, offering a sense of belonging and stability in unfamiliar surroundings.

The importance of having a strong support system cannot be overstated. It not only helps mitigate loneliness and isolation but also provides guidance, encouragement, and a sense of community that can help overcome obstacles, adapts to the Canadian culture, and build a fulfilling life.

From providing valuable advice and insights to offering a shoulder to lean on, a strong support system becomes a cornerstone of resilience and growth, allowing individuals to thrive in their new environment.

1. Tap into Community Resources

Building a strong support system is essential for a successful transition when relocating to Canada. One effective way to do this is by tapping into the wealth of community resources available. These resources are valuable as newcomers connect with others and access various programs and services. In their new lives in Canada, newcomers can find support, guidance, and a sense of belonging through these resources.

2. Join Social and Professional Networks

Another critical step in building a strong support system after relocating to Canada is to join social and professional networks. These networks provide valuable opportunities to meet like-minded individuals, make new friends, and establish professional connections. Professional networks can include associations, networking events, and online platforms, while social networks can include local community groups.

Participating in these networks, newcomers can expand their social circles, gain valuable insights, and potentially find employment opportunities. It’s a great way to connect with individuals with similar interests and experiences, fostering community and support during the transition.

3. Engage in Language and Cultural Programs

After relocating to Canada, engaging in language and cultural programs effectively builds a strong support system. Language programs like language courses or conversation groups provide opportunities to improve language skills and connect with fellow language learners. These programs often create a supportive and inclusive environment where newcomers can practice their language skills and develop friendships.

Additionally, cultural programs and events offer a chance to explore and celebrate the diverse cultures in Canada. Cultural associations, community centers, and local festivals organize various activities, workshops, and performances that showcase different traditions and customs. Participating in these programs allows newcomers to learn more about Canadian culture and provides opportunities to meet individuals with shared cultural backgrounds and experiences.

4. Attend Local Events and Activities

Attending local events and activities is a fantastic way to build a strong support system after relocating to Canada. Communities across the country host various events, such as festivals, concerts, art exhibits, sports games, and community gatherings. These events provide opportunities to immerse oneself in the local culture, meet new people, and form connections with fellow residents.

By actively participating in local events and activities, newcomers can discover common interests, engage in conversations, and develop friendships with individuals with similar hobbies or passions. It’s a chance to expand social networks, feel a sense of belonging, and create lasting connections within the community.

To learn about local events and activities, newcomers can check community bulletin boards, local newspapers, social media groups, or online event directories. By attending and actively participating in these events, newcomers can enrich their experience in Canada and foster a strong support system that can provide guidance, companionship, and a sense of belonging during the transition.

5. Seek Support from Newcomer Settlement Services

Seeking support from newcomer settlement services is crucial in building a strong support system after relocating to Canada. These services are specifically designed to assist newcomers in their transition and provide valuable resources, information, and support.

Newcomer settlement services offer various programs and support, including language classes, employment assistance, housing support, cultural orientation, and access to community resources. These services are often provided by dedicated organizations, settlement agencies, or government-funded programs that specialize in supporting newcomers.

By reaching out to newcomer settlement services, individuals can benefit from expert guidance, connect with newcomers facing similar challenges, and access resources tailored to their needs. These services can provide invaluable assistance in navigating the Canadian system, understanding local customs and culture, and overcoming any obstacles or barriers that may arise during the transition.

Newcomer settlement services can be found throughout Canada, including community centers, immigrant-serving organizations, and online platforms. Researching and reaching out to these services early in the relocation process is recommended to maximize available support and ensure a smoother transition into Canadian society.

Building a strong support system after relocating to Canada is crucial for a successful transition. By tapping into community resources, joining networks, engaging in language and cultural programs, attending local events, and seeking support from newcomer settlement services, newcomers can establish connections, gain insights, and navigate the challenges of adapting to a new country. A strong support system provides emotional support, practical guidance, and access to resources, facilitating a smoother transition and enhancing the overall experience in Canada.

In Career Gems July 21, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Debola Deji-Kurunmi, Chioma Ifeanyi-Eze, Gusi Tobby, Others Set To Speak At Growth Accelerator Conference

Fii Stephen, a leading entrepreneur and visionary, is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated Growth Accelerator Conference, set to take place on the 19th of August 2023 at Pistis Hub, Maryland, Ikeja in Lagos State. This transformative conference aims to bring together industry pioneers, aspiring entrepreneurs, and business enthusiasts to unlock the secrets of exponential growth and foster innovation in the corporate landscape.

The Speakers

A group of distinguished speakers, including Debola Deji-Kuunmi, Chioma Ifeanyi-Eze, Gusi Tobby, Tolu Michaels, Mabel Okpaefi, Grace Ihejiamaizu, and several other prominent experts, have been confirmed to speak at the upcoming Growth Accelerator Conference. This highly anticipated event aims to bring together entrepreneurs, visionaries, and business enthusiasts to share insights, strategies, and innovative ideas for propelling business growth and success.

The Growth Accelerator Conference is curated to provide attendees with invaluable insights, actionable strategies, and unparalleled networking opportunities. Fii Stephen has curated a diverse lineup of influential speakers, accomplished entrepreneurs, and thought leaders, who will share their expertise and real-world experiences to empower the participants.

Key Highlights from the Growth Accelerator Conference;

Inspiring Keynote Speakers: The conference boasts an impressive lineup of dynamic keynote speakers, including Fii Stephen himself, who will share their extraordinary journeys, challenges, and successes, leaving attendees with practical strategies for business, career, and personal growth.

Expert-led Workshops: Attendees will have the unique opportunity to engage in interactive workshops led by industry experts. These sessions will delve deep into critical topics such as growth hacking, digital marketing, financial strategies, and disruptive innovation.

Networking Opportunities: The Growth Accelerator Conference provides a conducive environment for meaningful networking. Participants will have the chance to connect with like-minded individuals, potential investors, mentors, and partners, fostering collaboration and long-term business relationships.

Startup Showcase: As a proponent of entrepreneurship, Stephen Fii has dedicated a segment of the conference to spotlight promising startups and innovative ventures. This showcase will offer startups a platform to pitch their ideas to a discerning audience and potential investors.

Panel Discussions: Engaging panel discussions featuring industry experts will explore the latest trends, emerging technologies, and strategies for sustainable growth and scalability.

Stephen Fii is excited to welcome attendees from various industries, including technology, finance, healthcare, e-commerce, and more, for this immersive experience. Participants will gain the tools and knowledge needed to navigate the challenges of today’s business landscape successfully.

According to Stephen, Growth does not just happen. It takes access to a higher level of relevant information and a required level of consistent execution. This is what the Growth conference gives you access to.

You can get a ticket to the conference here: www.growthaccelerator.africa

In Career Gems July 19, 2023 By Esther Ijewere

5 Proven Steps To Improve Your Career Development

Do you find yourself longing for more growth and opportunities in your career? If you’re feeling stuck and want to take your professional journey to the next level, now is the perfect time to make a change. By putting in the effort and following these five steps, you can fuel your career development and increase your chances of landing that well-deserved promotion.

Set Small, Regular Goals

To improve your career prospects, start by setting small, achievable goals. Use a planner, notebook, or virtual calendar to stay organized and track your progress. By consistently setting and reaching these goals, you’ll build momentum and document your valuable experiences.

Seek Feedback

As you gain experience in your industry, don’t hesitate to ask for feedback from your managers and colleagues. Constructive criticism can be immensely helpful in understanding your strengths and areas for improvement. Consider performance reviews as opportunities to initiate professional dialogues with your manager, asking direct questions on how you can enhance your performance and contribute more effectively.

Network and Build Relationships

Networking is a powerful tool for maintaining engagement within your industry and connecting with influential individuals. Reach out to co-workers or professionals through check-in emails or establish a strong presence on social media platforms. Building meaningful relationships can help you stand out and establish yourself as a respected professional in your field.

Utilize Educational Resources

Many companies offer valuable educational resources to employees. Take advantage of these opportunities to expand your skill set and gain new knowledge. Management training, workshops, or seminars can significantly contribute to advancing your career prospects. If you’re considering a different career path, exploring internships can be a transformative learning experience.

Embrace Challenges

Advancing your career requires dedication and motivation. Push yourself beyond your comfort zone by exploring new skills and ideas that may seem daunting at first. For instance, if public speaking is not your strong suit, consider enrolling in a public speaking class to hone your communication abilities. As you accumulate new skills, remember to update your resume to highlight your growth and capabilities, making you stand out to future employers.

In conclusion, taking your career to new heights is within your reach. By setting regular goals, seeking feedback, nurturing your professional network, utilizing available resources, and embracing challenges, you’ll be well on your way to unlocking the full potential of your career. Remember, success doesn’t happen overnight, but with perseverance and dedication, you can transform your professional journey and pave the way for a rewarding and fulfilling future.

In Career Gems July 19, 2023 By Women of Rubies

How To Network: 5 Easy Networking Tips

Knowing how to network successfully can help you tap into a hidden job market and present your skills and experience to potential employers. More than half of jobs are filled through networking contacts and more employers are turning to social media tools for help with hiring.

Using network referrals to get a job can lead to 6% higher annual income and most networkers stay in their jobs for two times longer than direct job searchers.

Benefits of Networking

Whatever your reason for diving into the world of networking, the benefits can be huge. 96% of employees at Adobe feel that networking strengthens their creativity. The benefits of a strong network extend beyond work, as having a strong social network may lead to fewer symptoms of dementia and other diseases.

More than half of people get word-of-mouth referrals from networking contacts. It has always been a tool for job seekers but today, it’s a skill that can help many other professionals advance their careers.

Scientists use networking to help secure research grants. Contractors and construction workers network to find new contracts.

Business leaders network with their employees to build relationships, foster creativity, and get to know each other outside the office. Artists and musicians use networking strategies to build followers and get discovered.

Building Your Network

Professionals can develop casual contact networks by participating community service organizations or the Chambers of Commerce. These networks are a great place to discuss local business and legislation and meet people from other professions. Casual contact networks can improve your business’ reputation in the local community and increase the likelihood that contacts will patronize your business.

Strong contact networks are more focused on sharing referrals within a small group of professionals. This is where developing a strong, long-term relationship is key to successful networking. Contacts made through the Business Network International (BNI) have resulted in 9.8 million referrals worldwide.

Networking can also be a tool to learn and share ideas with other professionals within your industry. Professionals can attend events and meetups to get to know other professionals and make connections. Professional conferences are a great opportunity to network while learning new skills and solutions for your business.

Now that you know why networking is so important, here are some tips that can help you learn how to network successfully:

Personalize Your Profile

Whatever social media platform you’re using, personalizing your profile is key to standing out from the crowd. On LinkedIn, including at least 5 skills on your profile can create 17 times more views. Take the time to fill out everything in your profile and write summaries that show some personality and style.

2. Keep Updating

Once your profile is filled out, you have to keep it up to date. Regularly updated profiles get more views and more searches. Keep updating your profile, writing posts, and changing your profile picture.

3. Stay Professional

When networking on social media, always be polite and courteous. You might even want to create separate accounts to keep your personal life away from your professional life. However, don’t focus only on business. It’s important to build relationships by asking others about their lives and not just work.

4. Use Photos

Social media is driven by pictures and professional networking sites are no different. Profiles with photos get 21 times more views.

Other users form an impression of you in only 1/10th of a second. So, pick your photos carefully.

5. Move Offline

Networking is about building relationships and it’s always best to do that face-to-face. When you make a contact online, follow up in person or at least with a phone call. Always make the effort to keep in touch with contacts. Few strong relationships are better than a lot of mere acquaintances.

Tips & Tricks for Networking In Person

Have your business cards ready to go.
Listen to others and see what help you can offer them.
Share promotions from other companies and ask them to share yours.
Meet outside the office for a better opportunity to get to know co-workers and other professionals.

In Career Gems July 8, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Women of Rubies Supports The Chinaza Favour Writing Challenge

The Chinaza Favour Writing Challenge is an esteemed literary competition celebrating creativity in the realms of Fiction, Non-Fiction, and Poetry.

This annual challenge, established in 2021, aims to provide a platform for creative writers in the genres of Fiction, Non-Fiction, and Poetry, celebrating their exceptional talents and promoting their works. By exploring diverse themes each year, the challenge encourages writers to express themselves authentically, reaching new audiences and propelling their writing careers forward.

In this edition, Chinaza Favour is collaborating with Worital, one of Africa’s publishing companies to make the challenge even bigger and better as Worital recognizes the profound influence of literature in shaping and transforming destinies.

Challenge details

Writers of all genres are invited to explore the theme “The Phoenix: A Tale of Reinvention and Rebirth” and showcase their literary prowess in captivating narratives, insightful essays, and heartfelt verses.

Word count: 400-500 words
The challenge welcomes all aspiring writers, offering a unique opportunity to craft compelling and concise pieces that capture the essence of the theme while leaving a lasting impact on readers.

To enter, participants are to submit their entries in two parts: Social Media Submission and Website Submission.

Social Media Submission

For social media submission, participants are encouraged to post their entry on their public Facebook or Instagram accounts, tagging Chinaza Favour (on Facebook) or @thechinazafavour (on Instagram) and Worital (on both platforms), and using the designated hashtags: #ChinazaFavourWorital, #ThePhoenixChallenge, and #ChinazaFavoursWritingChallenge.

For Website Submission, participants need to follow the same social media instructions and then visit www.worital.com/cfwc2023 to complete the submission form. They are required to provide their details and include the link to their social media entry, as well as an attachment of a doc or docx file of their piece.

Timeline: Submissions open on the 17th of July and ends on the 24th of July, 2023.
Winners will be announced in the first week of September, 2023, and their outstanding achievements will be showcased in various media outlets, including a feature in a national newspaper.

Recognition and Prizes

The recognition and prizes for this year’s challenge are truly remarkable.
Each winner from the Fiction, Non-Fiction, and Poetry categories will be awarded a publishing deal worth 500,000 Naira with Worital, an esteemed publishing house. In addition to this, winners will receive a beautifully customized plaque of honor, shipped to their address, with winners outside Nigeria covering the shipping cost. Furthermore, winners will be presented with cash prizes not yet disclosed at the moment.

The top 20 submissions from each category will be curated into a captivating ebook, titled “The Phoenix Chronicles,” which will be published on Worital’s innovative book app, BookPlaze. Contributors will receive full credit for their work, providing them with valuable exposure to a wider audience.

To join The Chinaza Favour Writing Challenge and unleash your literary brilliance, visit www.worital.com/cfwc2023. For inquiries, please contact Idowu at +234 701 095 9874.

Our sponsors: Sabistation, Cerca Africa, Fuel my hustle, BookPlaze, TRleadershiphub, Women of Rubies

In self development July 6, 2023 By Esther Ijewere

Mmesoma Ejikeme: Navigating The Impact Of The Jamb Saga with A Focus On Mental Wellbeing

The recent Jamb saga involving Mmesoma Ejikeme has sparked a deep sense of empathy within me. It is crucial that we acknowledge the potential consequences this situation may have on her mental and emotional wellbeing, not only in the present but also in shaping her future. The power of public humiliation should not be underestimated, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that Mmesoma receives the support she needs during this challenging time.

The Long-lasting Effects

As Mmesoma grows up, we must recognize the genuine concern that she might become detached from society, losing trust in others and struggling to form meaningful connections. The fear of seeking help, stemming from the fear of judgment and stigma, adds another layer of complexity to her situation. It is essential that we create an environment where she feels safe and supported.

The Role of Support and Therapy

In the wake of this saga, I sincerely hope that the organizations and individuals offering her scholarships also consider providing support for therapy. By prioritizing her psychological healing, we can help Mmesoma navigate the emotional aftermath and empower her to build a resilient future. Therapy can provide her with the tools to process and cope with the challenges she may face, fostering her emotional well-being.

Empathy and Fair Resolution

It is also crucial that, regardless of the outcome, Mmesoma is met with empathy to reduce the dehumanization and impact of this saga. Dear Professor Oloyede, as a key figure in this matter, we implore you to use your office to treat this situation with sensitivity and care. Let us remember that Mmesoma is a young girl who has been a high performer all her life. As you fulfill your responsibilities, please consider the profound impact your decisions may have on Mmesoma’s life and future. Together, we can work towards a fair resolution that upholds her dignity and recognizes her potential.

In times like these, it is crucial that we stand together to support individuals like Mmesoma, who have been thrust into the public eye due to unfortunate circumstances. Let us rally behind her, advocating for the prioritization of her mental wellbeing and fostering an environment of empathy and understanding. By doing so, we can help Mmesoma overcome the challenges she faces and empower her to embrace a future filled with possibilities.