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Esther Ijewere

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Khamica Bingham is a Canadian Olympic sprinter who specializes in the 100 metres and has represented Team Canada at the highest levels of international competition. From the Olympic Games to the World Championships, Bingham has established herself as one of Canada’s premier track and field athletes.

Born on June 15, 1994, in North York, Ontario, Khamica Bingham’s journey to becoming a Canadian Olympic sprinter did not begin on the track. She was originally a national-level gymnast before transitioning into sprinting during high school due to the financial burden gymnastics placed on her family. That shift would ultimately shape her legacy in Canadian athletics.

Khamica Bingham’s Early Career and Breakthrough

Khamica Bingham’s speed became evident early in her track and field career. In 2012, she competed in the 100 metres at the IAAF World Junior Championships, finishing fourth and signaling her arrival as one of Canada’s rising sprint talents.

Her development accelerated as she became a key member of Canada’s women’s 4×100 metre relay team. Alongside Kimberly Hyacinthe, Crystal Emmanuel, and Shai-Anne Davis, Bingham helped set a national record, strengthening Canada’s position in global women’s sprinting.

As a Black Canadian athlete, her presence on international relay teams also expanded representation at the highest levels of track and field.

Khamica Bingham at the Olympic Games

In July 2016, Khamica Bingham was officially named to Canada’s Olympic team, achieving one of the most significant milestones in any athlete’s career. Representing Team Canada at the Olympic Games placed her among the elite 100 metre sprinters in the world.

She later competed at the 2020 Summer Olympics, further solidifying her reputation as a consistent and high-performing Canadian Olympic sprinter.

Competing at the Olympic Games, Pan American Games, Commonwealth Games, and World Championships demonstrates not only speed but longevity and resilience in an intensely competitive sport.

From Gymnastics to 100 Metres Specialist

Khamica Bingham’s transition from gymnastics to track and field is a defining part of her story. Switching sports at a young age required rebuilding her athletic identity, retraining her body, and developing elite sprint technique.

Her success illustrates adaptability and determination, qualities essential for sustained performance in professional athletics.

For many young athletes, particularly those navigating financial or structural barriers, her story proves that a change in direction does not mean a loss of potential.

Khamica Bingham
Photo: Khamica Bingham (Instagraam)

Representation and Black Excellence in Canadian Sport

As a Black Canadian Olympian, Khamica Bingham represents visibility and excellence in women’s sport. Track and field has long been a space where Black athletes have made global impact, and Bingham continues that tradition within Team Canada.

Her achievements contribute to Canada’s growing legacy in women’s sprinting and inspire the next generation of athletes who aspire to compete at the Olympic level.

Beyond medals and race times, her career symbolizes perseverance, discipline, and national pride.

Khamica Bingham’s Legacy in Motion

Today, Khamica Bingham remains recognized as one of Canada’s top 100 metre runners. Her participation in multiple Olympic cycles and international competitions reflects both elite performance and enduring commitment to her craft.

From a young gymnast in Ontario to an Olympic sprinter competing on the world stage, Khamica Bingham’s journey is one of transformation, speed, and impact.

She is not just running races — she is building legacy in Canadian track and field.

FAQ: Khamica Bingham

What event does Khamica Bingham compete in?
She specializes in the 100 metres and also competes in the women’s 4×100 metre relay.

Has Khamica Bingham competed in the Olympics?
Yes. She represented Canada at the 2016 Olympic Games and the 2020 Summer Olympics.

Where is Khamica Bingham from?
She was born in North York, Ontario, Canada.

Nigerian‑Canadian computer scientist Dr. Rita Orji has been appointed as one of 40 global experts to the inaugural United Nations Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence. This landmark panel, the first of its kind, is tasked with providing independent scientific assessments on how AI is shaping societies, economies, and daily life around the world.

Dr. Orji was selected from a highly competitive pool of over 2,600 applicants from more than 140 countries. She is the only Nigerian and one of just two Canadians on the panel, marking a significant milestone for global representation in AI governance.

Leading Research in Human-Centred AI

Dr. Orji is a Professor of Computer Science at Dalhousie University and directs the Persuasive Computing Lab. Her work focuses on designing AI and digital technologies that are human-centered, ethical, and equitable. She develops systems that encourage behavior change and improve well-being, bridging technology and human behavior in innovative ways. Her research spans human-computer interaction, adaptive systems, persuasive technology, and digital interventions that have practical applications in health, education, and social impact.

Recognition and Achievements

Over the course of her career, Dr. Orji has authored hundreds of peer-reviewed publications and received millions of dollars in competitive research funding. She has been recognized among the world’s top two percent of scientists and has received prestigious awards, including Canada’s Arthur B. McDonald Fellowship for early-career research excellence. She has also been named one of Canada’s Most Powerful Women in STEM and recognized among the Top African Women in STEM, reflecting her influence both nationally and internationally.

Her pioneering research has consistently highlighted the importance of equity, diversity, and inclusion in technology. By designing AI systems that prioritize access and ethical engagement, Dr. Orji has established herself as a leader in shaping not just technological innovation but the social impact of AI globally.

Impact Beyond Academia

In addition to her research, Dr. Orji co-founded TechForward Impact, a platform dedicated to advancing ethical and inclusive AI. The initiative cultivates talent pipelines for underrepresented communities, promotes global collaboration on AI safety, and provides mentorship and education for the next generation of technology leaders. Through her work, she ensures that AI development benefits all communities equitably and responsibly.

Her appointment to the United Nations panel underscores her role as a leading voice in AI governance. As part of this global advisory body, Dr. Orji will provide evidence-based guidance to policymakers, advocate for inclusive technological development, and help shape international strategies for AI deployment that prioritize human rights, safety, and societal well-being.

Shaping the Future of AI

Dr. Rita Orji’s appointment is a milestone not only for her career but also for representation in science and technology. Her work exemplifies the potential of AI to transform lives responsibly while emphasizing fairness and inclusivity. As artificial intelligence continues to influence every aspect of human life, voices like Dr. Orji’s are essential in ensuring that technological progress is both innovative and equitable.

With her extensive research, global impact, and dedication to mentoring the next generation, Dr. Orji stands at the forefront of the international AI conversation, helping to ensure that advancements in technology create meaningful opportunities for people worldwide.

In 2026, history was made at Montreal City Hall as Dr. Oluwanifemi “Niffy” Fagbohun signed the Canadian Historic Golden Book as a laureate during Mois de l’Histoire des Noirs (Black History Month). Recognized alongside the Mayor of Montreal and directors of the Round Table for Black History Month, she became the first Nigerian in Montreal, Quebec, to receive this prestigious honor, cementing her place in history while celebrating Black excellence and cultural legacy.

This recognition is a testament to Dr. Fagbohun’s decades-long dedication to empowering women, uplifting entrepreneurs, and championing inclusive communities. She is a multi-award-winning entrepreneur, bestselling author, internationally trained Chemical and Polymer Engineer, brand strategist, and dynamic speaker. Over the past 20 years, she has blended innovation, beauty, and social impact to create safe spaces where women can thrive in business and wellness. Through her work, she has empowered over 15,000 individuals globally and leads a worldwide community of more than 40,000 beauty enthusiasts.

As the Founder of Montreal Vendors, a business growth hub, Dr. Fagbohun supports over 17,000 entrepreneurs across Canada, providing visibility, strategic growth opportunities, and advocacy for inclusion. Through her vegan and cruelty-free beauty brand, Niffy Signature, and her Niffy Wellness Foundation (@niffywellnessfoundation), she redefines beauty through health, sustainability, and empowerment.

Her work has earned her a place among the Forbes Universal Women Network, leadership boards, and global mentorship programs, including the Gemstar Circle of Excellence Scholarship Program for Black youth in Montreal. Featured internationally by media outlets like CityNews Montreal, Ticker News Australia, and The Guardian, Dr. Fagbohun continues to shape global conversations around leadership, cultural pride, and entrepreneurship.

A Historic Recognition at Montreal City Hall

In 2026, history was made as Dr. Fagbohun signed the Canadian Historic Golden Book as a laureate during Mois de l’Histoire des Noirs (Black History Month) at Montreal City Hall. Recognized alongside the Mayor of Montreal and directors of the Round Table for Black History Month, this milestone marks both a personal achievement and a collective victory for representation, excellence, and community impact.

A First for Nigerian Representation in Quebec

In the 35-year history of Montreal’s Black History Month, which honors 12 laureates annually, Dr. Fagbohun became the first Nigerian in Montreal, Quebec, to receive this prestigious recognition. Her accomplishment underscores the power of representation and highlights the importance of visibility in shaping inclusive narratives.

Empowering Through Entrepreneurship and Leadership

Dr. Fagbohun’s work extends far beyond personal achievements. As the Founder and Director of Montreal Vendors, she provides Canadian entrepreneurs with visibility, mentorship, and strategic growth opportunities. Through Niffy Signature, she promotes safe and informed beauty practices globally, while her Niffy Wellness Foundation serves girls aged 10 and above, as well as women across Montreal, focusing on wellness education, confidence-building, and empowerment initiatives.

Her influence spans public speaking, authorship, mentorship, and cultural advocacy. Proudly rooted in her Ijebu heritage, she champions cultural relevance while shaping global conversations around leadership, representation, and diversity.

A Global Voice and Community Champion

Dr. Fagbohun’s work has been featured by CityNews Montreal, Ticker News Australia, and The Guardian, among others. Her recognition as a 2026 Black History Month Laureate affirms her dedication to empowering women, supporting entrepreneurs, and elevating Black excellence across Canada and beyond. She also serves as a Doctoral Fellow at the Global Institute of Leadership and Development and mentors young people, including Black youth in Montreal, through the Gemstar Circle of Excellence Scholarship Program.

Nifemi Fagbohun Laureate

Celebrating Black Excellence and Cultural Legacy

Black History Month is a time to reflect on resilience, celebrate achievements, and recommit to building equity for future generations. For Dr. Fagbohun, this recognition is not just personal, it is a testament to community-driven leadership, cultural pride, and the transformative power of consistent effort.

This milestone is dedicated to the supporters, collaborators, mentees, and global audiences who believe in her vision. It is a celebration of collective advancement, cultural representation, and the enduring impact of Black excellence in Canada and worldwide.

Looking Ahead

As we honor the 2026 laureates of Mois de l’Histoire des Noirs, Dr. Oluwanifemi “Niffy” Fagbohun’s journey serves as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us that entrepreneurship, wellness, and community impact can coexist to create lasting change. Her story continues to inspire a new generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers committed to leaving a mark on the world.

Congratulations to Dr. Oluwanifemi “Niffy” Fagbohun on this historic achievement.

In a business landscape where access to capital remains one of the biggest barriers for underrepresented founders, leaders like Hosna R. Kadary are changing the narrative.

With over 20 years of experience in financial services, Hosna serves as the National Market Leader for Zero Barriers to Business at BMO, where she leads initiatives designed to expand financial access, mentorship, and opportunity for entrepreneurs across Canada. Her work is rooted in one powerful belief: economic empowerment is foundational to true inclusion.

Leading Zero Barriers to Business at BMO

At BMO, Hosna leads the national strategy for Zero Barriers to Business, a program focused on removing structural obstacles that prevent women, racialized founders, and underrepresented entrepreneurs from accessing capital and scaling their ventures.

Her leadership goes beyond traditional banking. It integrates financial literacy, mentorship, community partnerships, and ecosystem collaboration to create real pathways for sustainable business growth.

Through her work, countless founders have gained access to the tools, capital, and networks required to move from idea to scale.

A Recognized Leader in Financial Empowerment

Hosna is a recipient of the Woman of Merit Award, recognized for her commitment to equity, inclusion, and economic empowerment. She is widely respected for her visionary leadership in financial advocacy and mentorship.

Her influence extends beyond the financial sector. She serves on the Advisory Council of the Niffy Wellness Foundation, where she champions economic confidence and financial literacy for girls and women. Her approach recognizes that wellness is multidimensional and that economic independence plays a critical role in long-term stability and dignity.

Championing Access to Capital for Women and Racialized Entrepreneurs

Access to funding remains one of the most significant challenges for women founders and racialized business owners in Canada. Hosna’s work directly addresses this gap.

By building bridges between financial institutions and communities, she helps create opportunities that are not only inclusive but sustainable. Her leadership ensures that entrepreneurs are not just given capital, but also education, mentorship, and ecosystem support.

This systems-level approach aligns closely with the mission of Women of Rubies to amplify women’s stories and provide strategic visibility platforms that help founders grow.

Building a Future Without Barriers

Hosna’s career reflects a broader shift in how financial institutions engage with underrepresented entrepreneurs. By centering equity and opportunity, she is helping redefine what inclusive banking and financial leadership look like in Canada. Her work demonstrates that when systems evolve, communities rise.

Many women are doing powerful, impactful work, building businesses, leading organizations, creating change, yet remain unseen, not because the work isn’t good enough, but because the story isn’t landing clearly.

Pitching your story is not about bragging or exaggerating. It’s about communicating your impact in a way people understand, remember, and want to support.

If you’ve ever struggled to explain what you do, felt nervous reaching out to media or partners, or wondered why opportunities pass you by, this guide is for you.

How to Pitch Your Story

What Does It Mean to Pitch Your Story?

A pitch is a short, clear explanation of:

  • Who you are

  • What you do

  • Who you serve

  • Why your work matters

It can be used for:

  • Media opportunities

  • Panels and speaking engagements

  • Funding and grants

  • Partnerships and collaborations

  • Visibility platforms and features

A strong pitch helps others quickly understand your value, without confusion or oversharing.

Why Many Women Struggle With Pitching

Women often:

  • Over-explain instead of clarifying

  • Focus on credentials instead of impact

  • Minimize achievements to avoid sounding “too much”

  • Assume people already understand their work

The result? Missed opportunities, weak visibility, and stories that get overlooked.

Pitching is not about shrinking yourself. It’s about owning your work with intention.

The 5 Key Elements of a Strong Story Pitch

How to pitc

1. Start With Clarity, Not Background

Avoid long introductions about how you started.
Instead, lead with what you do now and why it matters.

Example:
“I help women-led businesses position their work for media visibility and growth.”

2. Define the Problem You Solve

People connect faster when they understand the problem.

Ask yourself:

  • What challenge does my audience face?

  • What gap does my work address?

This gives your story relevance.

3. Highlight Impact, Not Just Activity

Don’t just say what you do, say what changes because of it.

Instead of:
“I run workshops for women entrepreneurs.”

Say:
“I help women entrepreneurs gain the clarity and confidence needed to attract funding and visibility.”

4. Keep It Human and Relatable

Your story should feel grounded, not rehearsed.

You don’t need perfect language; you need authenticity and intention.

5. End With Purpose

Every pitch should have a direction:

  • An invitation to learn more

  • A call to collaborate

  • A reason to follow up

Never end your pitch without a clear next step.

How Long Should Your Pitch Be?

  • Written pitch: 150–250 words

  • Video pitch: 1–2 minutes

  • Live pitch: 60–120 seconds

Shorter is often stronger; clarity beats complexity.

Common Pitching Mistakes to Avoid

  • Trying to impress instead of connecting

  • Using too much jargon

  • Listing every role you’ve ever had

  • Apologizing for your work

  • Assuming people already “get it”

Your story deserves intention and structure.

Why Pitching Matters More Than Ever

In today’s digital world, visibility is currency.

Media platforms, funders, and collaborators are not just looking for ideas — they’re looking for clear, confident storytellers who can articulate impact.

If you can pitch your story well, you open doors.

Media Pitch Challenge

Pitch Your Story with Impact: Join the Media Pitch Challenge

Many women are doing powerful, impactful work, building businesses, leading organizations, creating change, yet remain unseen. Not because the work isn’t good enough, but because the story isn’t landing clearly.

Pitching your story is not about bragging or exaggerating. It’s about communicating your impact in a way people understand, remember, and want to support.

If you’ve ever struggled to explain what you do, felt nervous reaching out to media or partners, or wondered why opportunities pass you by, our Media Pitch Challenge is designed to guide you from preparation to exposure. This initiative gives women founders and creators the tools, feedback, and platform to craft a pitch that opens doors to media features, partnerships, funding, and visibility opportunities.

Through this challenge, you’ll:

  • Learn to communicate your value clearly and confidently

  • Connect your story to audiences that matter

  • Practice pitching in a supportive environment

  • Gain direct access to media, decision-makers, and collaborators

Your story deserves to be heard. The Media Pitch Challenge is your opportunity to step into visibility and ensure your work is seen, recognized, and celebrated.

Learn more and register for the Media Pitch Challenge →

Storytelling shapes memory, culture, and power. When Black stories are told with care, context, and intention, they become tools for preservation, resistance, and transformation. Few voices in Canadian media embody this responsibility as thoughtfully and consistently as Amanda Parris.

Amanda Parris is an award-winning Canadian broadcaster, writer, playwright, and cultural curator whose work has helped reshape how Black stories are told and received across Canada. Through journalism, television, theatre, and documentary storytelling, she has created space for Black voices to be heard without dilution or compromise.

A Career Rooted in Culture and Curiosity

Amanda is an arts reporter and producer with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC). Over the years, she has hosted and contributed to several CBC platforms, including The Filmmakers, Exhibitionists, From the Vaults, and the CBC Music radio series Marvin’s Room. Her work spans television, radio, digital media, and live cultural conversations, positioning her as one of the most respected cultural commentators in the country.

She also writes Black Light, a weekly column for CBC Arts that explores Black creativity, identity, and cultural expression with depth and insight. In 2016, she co-hosted the Polaris Music Prize ceremony alongside Tom Power, further cementing her role as a trusted voice within Canada’s arts and music landscape.

Storytelling Beyond the Screen

Amanda’s impact extends far beyond broadcasting. In 2017, her debut theatrical play, Other Side of the Game, was staged by Toronto’s Obsidian Theatre and Cahoots Theatre. The play offered a deeply nuanced exploration of Black womanhood, ambition, and identity. After being published in book form, it went on to win the Governor General’s Award for English-language drama in 2019.

Her work continued to evolve across mediums. Other Side of the Game was later adapted into a three-part release for the theatre podcast PlayME in 2021, expanding its reach to new audiences.

Another notable work, The Death News, written by Amanda and directed by the late Charles Officer, is a filmed stage monodrama set in a near-future where premature Black death is treated as inevitable. Commissioned as part of 21 Black Futures, an anthology series for CBC Gem, the piece responds to the question of what the future of Blackness looks like. Inspired by radio death announcements in Grenada, Amanda envisioned the work as a form of resistance to mainstream media’s failure to tell nuanced and humane Black stories.

Education, Advocacy, and Cultural Leadership

Before joining CBC, Amanda co-founded Lost Lyrics alongside Natasha Daniels, an arts education initiative that used theatre, poetry, dance, music, and film to engage youth at risk of dropping out of school. This early work reflects a consistent thread throughout her career: storytelling as a tool for empowerment and social change.

In 2022, Amanda was recognized with the Academy of Canadian Cinema and Television’s Changemaker Award, alongside Kathleen Newman-Bremang and Kayla Grey. She has also received multiple accolades for her work, including recognition for Best Writing in a Web Program for The Death News.

That same commitment to innovation continued with projects such as Revenge of the Black Best Friend, a comedy web series she created in 2022, and the launch of For the Culture with Amanda Parris in 2024. The documentary series profiles pressing issues within Black culture, continuing her mission to center Black voices with honesty and care.

Honouring Her Impact This Black History Month

Women of Rubies celebrates Amanda Parris for her unwavering commitment to authentic storytelling and cultural preservation. Her work reminds us that representation is not just about visibility, but about intention, integrity, and truth.

By centering Black stories across platforms and generations, Amanda Parris continues to redefine what it means to tell stories that matter, stories that endure, and stories that truly belong to the people they represent.

Securing media features can be a game-changer for individuals or businesses looking to boost their visibility and credibility. Crafting a compelling pitch is the first step toward grabbing the attention of journalists and editors. In this guide, we’ll explore the strategies and best practices for effectively pitching for media features.

Know Your Target Media Outlets

Understanding the media outlets you’re targeting is essential. Research their focus, audience, and the types of features they typically run. Tailor your pitch to align with the publication’s tone, style, and content preferences.

Craft a Captivating Subject Line

The subject line of your pitch is the gateway to getting noticed. Craft a concise, intriguing subject line that encapsulates the essence of your story. Make it clear why your feature is newsworthy or resonates with their readership.

Research and Personalize

Address the journalist or editor by name and reference their previous work or recent articles. Show that you’ve done your homework and understand their interests. A personalized pitch demonstrates your genuine interest in their platform.

Start with a Compelling Hook

Open your pitch with a strong hook that immediately engages the recipient. Clearly state the unique angle or story your feature offers and why it matters. Journalists are drawn to pitches that promise a fresh perspective or highlight a compelling narrative.

Clearly Outline the Value

Explain why your feature is valuable to their audience. Clearly articulate the benefits and relevance of your story. Whether it provides insights, addresses a current trend, or offers a unique perspective, emphasize what makes your feature stand out.

Showcase Your Expertise

Highlight your credentials or the unique insights you bring to the table. Journalists are more likely to feature stories from credible sources. If applicable, share any notable achievements, awards, or relevant experience that adds weight to your pitch.

Keep it Concise and Focused

Journalists receive numerous pitches daily, so keep yours concise and focused. Provide a brief yet comprehensive overview of your feature, emphasizing key points without overwhelming the reader. Make it easy for them to grasp the essence of your story quickly.

Include Supporting Materials

Enhance your pitch with supporting materials that add depth to your story. Include high-quality images, relevant statistics, or links to additional resources. Ensure all materials align with the publication’s guidelines and contribute to the overall appeal of your feature.

Below are two example pitches for Esther Ijewere and Oprah Winfrey that can serve as helpful guides:

Pitch for Esther Ijewere, Founder of Women of Rubies:

Subject: Empowering Women Globally: A Story of Resilience and Impact

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I hope this message finds you well. My name is [XXX], and I am reaching out to you on behalf of Women of Rubies, a dynamic organization founded by the inspirational Esther Ijewere.

Esther’s journey and the incredible work of Women of Rubies are a testament to resilience, empowerment, and the unwavering commitment to uplift women worldwide. With impactful initiatives ranging from education and media to advocacy for women’s rights, Women of Rubies is at the forefront of creating positive change.

I would love to offer you the opportunity to feature Esther Ijewere and Women of Rubies in [Publication Name]. Esther’s story, combined with the organization’s achievements, aligns seamlessly with [Publication Name]’s commitment to highlighting stories of empowerment and social impact.

Here are a few key points we can explore in the feature:

  • Esther Ijewere’s inspiring journey and vision behind Women of Rubies.
  • Notable initiatives and projects undertaken by Women of Rubies.
  • Impactful stories of women whose lives have been transformed through the organization’s efforts.

I believe this feature would resonate strongly with your readership and contribute to the ongoing dialogue on empowerment and social change. If you are interested, I am happy to provide more information, schedule an interview, or supply additional materials.

Thank you for considering this pitch, and I look forward to the possibility of collaborating on this impactful feature.

Best regards, [Your Full Name] [Your Contact Information]


The art of pitching

Trailblazing Philanthropy: Unveiling Oprah Winfrey’s Impactful Initiatives

Pitch for Oprah Winfrey:

Subject: Trailblazing Philanthropy: Unveiling Oprah Winfrey’s Impactful Initiatives

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I hope this message finds you in good health. My name is [XXX], and I am reaching out to you with a compelling story that I believe aligns seamlessly with [Publication Name]’s commitment to showcasing influential figures making a positive impact.

Oprah Winfrey, a global icon and trailblazer in media and philanthropy, continues to inspire millions with her unwavering dedication to creating positive change. I am eager to propose a feature that delves into Oprah’s philanthropic endeavors, shedding light on the transformative initiatives that have made a profound impact on communities worldwide.

Key points we can explore in this feature include:

  • Oprah Winfrey’s journey from media mogul to influential philanthropist.
  • Insightful details on Oprah’s notable philanthropic initiatives and organizations.
  • Personal stories of individuals whose lives have been positively influenced by Oprah’s philanthropy.

I believe a feature on Oprah Winfrey’s philanthropic legacy would be of great interest to [Publication Name]’s audience, adding a unique and impactful narrative to your esteemed publication.

If this proposal aligns with your editorial vision, I am happy to provide additional information, arrange an interview, or share supporting materials.

Thank you for considering this pitch, and I look forward to the possibility of collaborating on this compelling feature.

Best regards, [Your Full Name] [Your Contact Information]

Conclusion

Pitching for media features requires a strategic approach and a deep understanding of your target publications. By crafting personalized, attention-grabbing pitches and clearly showcasing the value of your story, you increase the likelihood of securing media features that can significantly impact your visibility and credibility. Remember, each pitch is an opportunity to tell a compelling story and make a lasting impression on the media landscape. Good luck!

Grab our free PR guide E-book here for enhanced visibility!

Free PR Guidebook

In today’s fast-paced world, showing up isn’t just about being visible; it’s about being seen with intention. Whether you are a manager guiding teams, a professional building your online presence, or an entrepreneur navigating opportunities, intentional presence is the skill that shapes credibility, influence, and leadership impact. It ensures that the energy, voice, and authority you bring to every interaction align with your values and goals, so you are remembered for what matters most.

Women doing impactful work

What is Intentional Presence?

Intentional presence is the conscious practice of how you show up, choosing alignment over reaction.

  • For managers: It’s about setting the tone in meetings, guiding teams, and leading with confidence and authenticity.

  • For public-facing professionals: It’s about communicating clearly and consistently across platforms, projecting credibility, and engaging intentionally with your audience.

Presence is not about being the loudest or most visible voice. It’s about being clear, grounded, and purposeful, even in moments of quiet.

Why Unintentional Presence Can Undermine Influence

Many women are encouraged to “be seen” without first clarifying how they want to be perceived. Visibility without intention can lead to:

  • Mixed messages about your values or authority

  • Overcommitment and burnout

  • Being remembered for busyness rather than impact

Intentional presence acts as a filter, helping you decide which opportunities, interactions, and platforms deserve your energy,  and which do not.

The Three Pillars of Intentional Presence

1. Clarity

Identify what you want to be known for. Understand your values, goals, and the legacy you want to leave. Without clarity, presence becomes reactive and inconsistent.

2. Consistency

Credibility grows when your actions, communication, and decisions consistently reflect your values over time. Consistency builds trust and reinforces influence.

3. Connection

Influence is relational. Presence is strongest when people leave interactions feeling seen, respected, and understood. Connection amplifies credibility more than visibility alone.

Applying Intentional Presence in Real Life

For Managers and Leaders:

  • Prepare for key meetings and team interactions

  • Lead with authority without overexplaining

  • Set boundaries to protect focus and energy

  • Align actions with your team’s needs and your strategic goals

For Public-Facing Professionals:

  • Post and engage on social media with clarity and purpose

  • Build a consistent online identity aligned with your values

  • Pause before saying yes to every opportunity, and choose visibility intentionally

  • Use storytelling to strengthen influence and credibility

A Weekly Reflection Tool

Regardless of your role, a simple weekly check-in helps build intentional presence:

  1. Where did I feel most aligned this week?

  2. Where did I feel drained or reactive?

  3. Which actions reinforced my credibility and influence?

  4. What one intentional adjustment can I make next week?

Small, consistent reflection compounds into measurable confidence and influence.

Presence Evolves With Your Leadership Season

Intentional presence is not static. Your leadership style, visibility, and energy investment will shift with roles, responsibilities, and life seasons.

  • Some weeks call for visibility and assertiveness

  • Other times, influence comes from quiet, strategic action

Recognizing and adjusting to these shifts is part of the skill of intentional presence.

The Takeaway

Intentional presence is not about doing more, being louder, or constantly visible. It’s about showing up with purpose, clarity, and authenticity, whether you are leading a team, building an online profile, or navigating professional opportunities.

Presence is not accidental.
Credibility is not automatic.
Influence is built, one intentional choice at a time.

Esther ijewere_Media Visibility Bootcamp 2025

Author Bio

Esther Ijewere is an award-winning facilitator, media strategist, and founder of Women of Rubies, a platform dedicated to amplifying women’s voices and leadership. She supports women in developing intentional presence, visibility with purpose, and leadership credibility.

In an era where visibility, trust, and narrative control define brand success, Cynthia Mwangi stands out as a force shaping how stories are told, received, and sustained across Africa’s media landscape.

A multifaceted PR, Marketing, and Communications expert, Cynthia brings nearly two decades of experience spanning broadcast journalism, digital marketing, inbound strategy, and high-impact communications. Her career reflects not only longevity, but evolution, adapting with intention as media, audiences, and platforms continue to shift.

Leading Brand Strategy in Broadcast Media

Cynthia currently serves as Brand Manager at Hot 96 and Deputy Radio Digital Manager at Royal Media Services Ltd, Kenya’s leading media house. In this role, she operates at the intersection of content, operations, revenue, and digital growth.

Her responsibilities include overseeing programming and station operations, driving revenue generation, and leading the development and execution of station-specific digital and social media strategies. Through her leadership, Cynthia ensures brand consistency, relevance, and audience engagement across both traditional broadcast and digital platforms.

Her work reflects a deep understanding that modern media success is no longer siloed,it requires cohesion between on-air storytelling, online engagement, and measurable business outcomes.

Cynthia Mwangi

Building Brands With Intention Through Cyn Communications

Beyond broadcast, Cynthia is the founder of Cyn Communications, a strategic communications firm dedicated to elevating brand reputation and driving meaningful engagement.

Through her consultancy, she partners with organizations, public figures, and institutions to design and execute innovative communications strategies that align visibility with purpose. Her expertise spans:

  • Media relations and brand positioning

  • Political campaign communications management

  • Crisis communications and reputation management

  • Social media strategy and execution

What sets Cynthia apart is her ability to navigate both traditional and digital channels, using each strategically to amplify reach while maintaining message integrity.

Recognition Rooted in Impact

In 2024, Cynthia Mwangi was recognized as one of the Top Women in PR by the Public Relations Society of Kenya (PRSK), an acknowledgment that reflects not just professional excellence, but her influence in shaping ethical, effective, and future-forward communications.

Her work demonstrates that strong storytelling is not about noise, but about clarity, strategy, and trust.

A Woman of Rubies

As a Woman of Rubies, Cynthia Mwangi represents leadership grounded in expertise, adaptability, and service. Her career is a reminder that communications is not just about visibility, it’s about shaping narratives that move industries, influence public perception, and create lasting impact.

Through media, strategy, and mentorship, Cynthia continues to redefine what it means to lead with purpose in an ever-evolving communications landscape.

Sherley Joseph is a Canadian podcaster, media producer, and community builder whose work has helped shape the landscape of Black Canadian storytelling for more than a decade. Through audio, publishing, and community-led platforms, she has consistently centred culture, identity, and lived experience, creating space for voices that are too often overlooked.

With over 10 years of experience in audio storytelling and digital media, Sherley is best known as the creator and co-host of The Sherley and Clove Podcast. What began as a conversation-driven platform has grown into a cultural archive of more than 800 episodes, exploring everyday life, Black identity, creativity, and the nuances of lived experience through honest dialogue.

Building Black Canadian Creators

Over the past 3–4 years, Sherley has expanded her impact through Black Canadian Creators, a national media platform and community dedicated to spotlighting Black Canadian creatives, independent media, and cultural storytelling. The platform serves as both a visibility engine and a connector, linking creators to opportunities, resources, and pathways for sustainable growth.

Through publishing, podcasting, events, and strategic partnerships, Black Canadian Creators has become a trusted space where stories are amplified with intention, care, and cultural context. At its core is Sherley’s belief that creators deserve not only exposure, but ownership, agency, and longevity in their work.

Amplifying Northern Voices in Podcasting

Sherley is also the founder of BlkPodNews: Northern Voices, a platform committed to amplifying podcasting and independent audio storytelling across Canada. By highlighting creators and stories from across the country, BlkPodNews challenges dominant narratives and expands what Canadian media looks and sounds like.

Her work in audio storytelling extends into live spaces as well. Sherley serves as a co-organizer and curator of The Soundwave Summit, a national conference focused on podcasting, community building, and creative entrepreneurship. The summit brings together storytellers, producers, and media professionals to learn, connect, and build together.

Recognition and Impact

In 2024, Sherley was selected as one of 20 independent digital newsrooms for the CJF Digital Catalyst: Mentorship for Independent News, as part of the inaugural cohort of the CJF NextGen Creator-Journalists program. The recognition reflects her long-standing commitment to independent media, ethical storytelling, and community-centred journalism.

Black Canadian Creators

A Woman of Rubies

Sherley Joseph embodies what it means to be a Woman of Rubies, leading with consistency, care, and cultural clarity. Her work is rooted in community, driven by purpose, and sustained by a deep respect for the power of story. Through sound, platform-building, and collaboration, she continues to create spaces where Black Canadian voices are heard, valued, and preserved.

As media continues to evolve, Sherley remains committed to building ecosystems, not just platforms, where creators can thrive on their own terms.

Learn more about Sherley’s work on her website and Instagram page