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How to Pitch Your Story
In Career Gems By

How to Pitch Your Story: A Practical Guide for Women Doing Impactful Work

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 →

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Amanda Parris
In Inspiration By

Amanda Parris Is Redefining Black Storytelling in Canada

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.

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The art of pitching
In Career Gems By

The Art of Pitching: A Comprehensive Guide To Securing Media Features

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

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Intentional Presence
In Career Gems By

Intentional Presence: Boost Credibility and Influence as a Leader or Professional

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.

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Cynthia Mwangi
In Inspiration By

Cynthia Mwangi Is Redefining Strategic Communications Across Media, Brands, Public Influence

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.

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Black Canadian Creators
In Inspiration By

Sherley Joseph: Building Space, Story for Black Canadian Creators

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

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Esther Ojo_Duura Fits
In Inspiration By

Esther Ojo Launches DUURA, Premium Medical Apparel Brand Redefining Performance in Healthcare

Esther Ojo, a Canada-based registered nurse, cultural entrepreneur, and community wellness advocate, has officially launched DUURA, a premium medical and professional apparel brand designed for individuals who spend long hours on their feet, working under pressure and constantly in motion.

Built at the intersection of design, technology, and function, DUURA was created to meet the real-world demands of healthcare professionals and performance-driven individuals who require more from what they wear, without compromising comfort, structure, or style.

At the core of the brand is Motion Engine™, DUURA’s proprietary performance system that guides how each garment is shaped, how fabrics stretch and recover, and how long-lasting comfort is maintained through extended shifts and high-demand environments. Every seam, fabric choice, and silhouette is intentional, engineered to support movement, confidence, and endurance.

“DUURA was born from my lived experience in healthcare,” says Ojo.
“I know what it feels like to work long, demanding shifts while constantly moving. I wanted to build apparel that truly supports the body, not just aesthetically, but functionally and sustainably.”

Unlike trend-driven fashion labels, DUURA is built on systems, not seasons. The brand focuses on longevity and performance, creating garments that adapt to stress, movement, and real-world use while maintaining structure over time.

Introducing DUURAFIT

DUURA’s flagship performance collection, DUURAFIT, is designed for high-demand environments where mobility, durability, and function are essential. Powered by the Motion Engine™ Performance System, the collection features ergonomic patterning, technical fabrics, and functional design details engineered to support full-range movement throughout long and demanding shifts.

The DUURAFIT collection is built to perform under pressure — without sacrificing comfort or form.

A Founder Rooted in Purpose and Community

Beyond her career in nursing, Esther Ojo is the founder of Teoafrocarib Market, a cultural store that celebrates African and Caribbean culinary traditions while serving as a hub of identity and belonging for immigrant communities. Her work consistently reflects a deep commitment to service, culture, and community empowerment.

“DUURA represents care in motion,” Ojo adds.
“It’s a reflection of my belief that the people who give so much of themselves deserve apparel that supports them at every step.”

A true Woman of Rubies, Esther Ojo continues to lead with compassion, excellence, and purpose. With the launch of DUURA, she introduces a new standard in performance apparel, one that honours the resilience and dedication of professionals who show up every day under pressure.

Learn more about Duura here

Follow Duura on Instagram here 

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Speakers of Media Visibility Bootcamp 2025
In Career Gems By

Highlights from the Women of Rubies Media Visibility Bootcamp 5.0 (Replay Available)

Women of Rubies has successfully concluded the fifth edition of its Media Visibility Bootcamp, a transformative two-day capacity-building programme designed to equip women with the tools, confidence, and influence needed to amplify their voices and lead with clarity. The highly anticipated event brought together industry experts, thought leaders, and purpose-driven women from around the world for deep learning on storytelling, visibility strategy, leadership, communication, and personal branding.

This year’s edition, themed “From Visibility to Leadership: Turning Influence into Impact,” opened with a keynote address from The Honourable Rechie Valdez, Canada’s Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State for Small Business and Tourism. In her message, the Minister congratulated Women of Rubies for “creating a platform that supports women and strengthens their leadership capacity.” She noted that programmes like the Media Visibility Bootcamp remain essential for empowering women to speak with confidence, shape their narratives, and access opportunities that foster long-term success.

She further emphasized that leadership is not only an individual pursuit but a collective responsibility, adding that “we must continue to build a world where every woman can thrive, be seen, and be heard.”

Rechie Valdez
The Honourable Minister of Women and Gender Equality; Rechie Valdez

Her words set a powerful tone for the weekend, laying the foundation for two days of rich insights, shared experiences, and actionable strategies. Day 1 featured presentations from communication  leadership experts including Andrea Carter, Chinwe Bode-Akinwande, and Tope Mark-Odigie, followed by a thought-provoking panel session with Urmi Hossain and Tobore Anne Emorhokpor. The discussions explored personal storytelling, emotional resilience, overcoming visibility fears, and how women can claim space in leadership and media.

Day 2 continued with equally high-impact sessions led by Sola Oluwole, Adejisola Adetiba (Lady ABHA), and Nifemi Fagbohun. The final panel brought together Omoshalewa Onayemi, Faith Oloruntoba, and Jessica Campbell, who examined visibility from the lenses of technology, global influence, and personal credibility. Speakers encouraged participants to show up with intention, embrace their uniqueness, and use visibility as a tool for expanding influence and unlocking opportunities.

Feedback by Faith Oloruntoba

In her reflection on the event, speaker Faith Oloruntoba described the Bootcamp as “an incredibly impactful experience,” emphasising the depth of engagement, vulnerability, and shared stories within the room. She noted that the Women of Rubies team “curated a meaningful, high-quality experience that not only empowers women to show up confidently but also reminds speakers why our voices matter.” She expressed her gratitude for being part of the programme and her willingness to support future editions.

Esther ijewere_Media Visibility Bootcamp 2025

Founder of Women of Rubies and convener of the Bootcamp, Esther Ijewere, also shared her thoughts, highlighting the significance of the cohort. She explained that this edition reinforced the truth that visibility is not merely about being seen but about leading with purpose, courage, and service. According to her, “This cohort reminded us that visibility is not about spotlight, it is about impact. The women who joined us showed extraordinary bravery, intentionality, and hunger to grow. Our mission remains to help women tell their stories boldly, lead confidently, and build platforms that will outlive us.”

The 2025 edition of the Bootcamp was supported by a network of media and community partners including Olorisupergal, Montreal Vendors, Naijapreneur Canada, Leading Ladies Connect, Teo Afrocarib Market Inc., and NaijaMarketDay, all contributing to the event’s wide reach and accessibility.

With hundreds of women trained across five cohorts, the Women of Rubies Media Visibility Bootcamp continues to strengthen its position as one of the leading visibility and leadership development programmes for women globally. The replay of this year’s edition is now available at womenofrubies.com/mvbc5 for those who wish to revisit the sessions or access the content for the first time.

Women of Rubies remains committed to amplifying women’s voices, bridging visibility gaps, and supporting women in leadership across diverse sectors.

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Funke Ernest-omarui
In Career Gems By

Funke Ernest-Omoruyi: Empowering Immigrants and Professionals to Build Wealth and Stay Cyber-Safe

Navigating life as a new immigrant or professional in a fast-paced digital world can be overwhelming ,especially when it comes to managing finances and staying protected online. But for Funke Ernest-Omoruyi, widely known as @funkefinancials, this challenge has become her purpose.

A Cybersecurity Professional, Certified Financial Educator, and CEO of Funke Financials, Funke is dedicated to helping people in Canada take control of their financial future while safeguarding their digital lives.

With over two decades of experience across banking, finance, IT, and cybersecurity, she brings a rare and powerful blend of expertise that addresses two major needs in today’s world: wealth building and digital security.

Championing Financial Literacy Through the Smart Wealth Accelerator

Funke is the visionary behind the Smart Wealth Accelerator, a rapidly growing financial literacy community designed especially for immigrants and professionals who want to understand money the right way.

Through classes, weekly tips, and support sessions, the platform provides:

  • Practical financial education

  • Guidance on saving, investing, and budgeting

  • Wealth-building strategies for new immigrants

  • Accountability and community support

Her mission is simple: to make financial knowledge accessible, actionable, and empowering.

Digital Business Owner Helping Women Earn With Ease

As a digital business owner, Funke teaches professionals how to earn online using simple automation systems, a powerful opportunity for anyone seeking additional income streams.

She also partners with a global beauty and wellness brand, helping women build confidence, embrace wellness, and create income through personal branding and community selling.

Her work shows that earning online doesn’t have to be complicated, it just requires the right guidance.

Where Finance Meets Cybersecurity

What truly sets Funke apart is how she combines cybersecurity with financial education.

She helps people:

  • Avoid online scams

  • Protect their data

  • Build secure digital habits

  • Understand the risks that affect their money and identity

In a world filled with digital threats, her expertise is both timely and essential.

A Proof That Financial Freedom Is Possible

Funke Ernest-Omoruyi is more than an educator — she is a living example of what’s possible with:

  • The right knowledge
  • The right tools
  • The right discipline

Through her platforms, she continues to empower thousands of people to pursue financial stability, protect their digital lives, and create wealth with confidence.

Her story is a reminder that financial freedom isn’t just a dream , it’s a strategy, a commitment, and a journey anyone can begin. Follow her on Instagram  here to learn more about her work.

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Jessica Campbell
In Career Gems By

Jessica Campbell: Award-Winning Entrepreneur Redefining Sports, Entertainment Branding

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

From Southern California to Global Strategy

Born and raised in Southern California, Jessica’s creative spark was ignited the moment she saw her first sports graphic on ESPN. That early exposure to storytelling through visuals fueled her journey from a young designer to a respected marketing strategist and creative director.

Her academic path took a defining turn at Pepperdine University, where she shifted from Business to Integrated Marketing & Communications, aligning her creativity with strategic thinking. During college, Jessica interned with the John R. Wooden Award, where she gained deep insight into sports marketing and event strategy, setting the foundation for her entrepreneurial vision.

The Birth of PO3 Agency

In 2021, Jessica launched PO3 Agency with just three clients. In less than two years, it grew into a full-scale digital marketing powerhouse serving over 100 clients across sports, music, and fashion.

Today, PO3 Agency helps athletes, creators, and companies build authentic digital identities that resonate far beyond the screen. Jessica’s leadership emphasizes strategy, culture, and purpose, ensuring every brand her team touches tells a story that connects emotionally and endures over time.

Defining a New Era of Brand Storytelling

Jessica’s approach to branding is both bold and human. She believes success lies in showing up online with intention, not just visibility. Through PO3 Agency, she guides her clients to discover who they are, what they stand for, and how to express that authentically.

For athletes and public figures, this means creating personal brands that transcend the spotlight and extend their impact. Jessica challenges her clients to reflect deeply, asking:

“Who are you beyond your sport? What makes you different? Why would a brand choose you?”

This strategic and introspective style has made PO3 Agency one of the most sought-after firms for creative storytelling in North America.

Empowering the Next Generation

Beyond her agency’s success, Jessica is deeply passionate about mentorship and education. She frequently speaks at universities, summits, and creative workshops, sharing lessons on leadership, media, and personal branding.

Through PO3’s internship programs, she provides opportunities for emerging professionals to gain real-world experience in marketing, strategy, and creative production. Her guiding philosophy is simple but profound:

“Don’t fake it till you make it, own it from the start.”

A Trailblazer Shaping Culture

Jessica Campbell’s journey is proof that vision, grit, and authenticity can redefine industries. She’s not just building brands, she’s shaping culture. By combining strategy, creativity, and storytelling, she continues to open doors for women and young creatives who dream of leaving their mark on the world.

Her story reminds us that success isn’t about waiting for permission; it’s about creating the runway yourself and inviting others to walk it with you.

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