Esther Ijewere

In Interviews&profile May 18, 2020 By Esther Ijewere

“Women have it a lot harder raising capital due to stereotypes, expectations”- Chioma Ikokwu

Chioma Ikokwu is a co-partner at The Good Hair Limited, an international premium hair extension brand with a clientele base that cuts across the globe, including the US, Russia, Sweden, Jamaica and the Middle East. She is also head honcho at Brass & Copper Lifestyle and Next by Good Hair. Popularly known as ‘Chioma Good Hair’, the tenacious serial entrepreneur has a first degree in Law from the University of Birmingham and a Masters in International and Environmental Law & International Commercial Arbitration from the University of London, UK, where she bagged a Distinction in both, and a 2.1 from the Nigerian Law School. Ikokwu’s passion for assisting female-owned start-ups with capital has led her to collaborating with The Women International (TWI) on the platform of her monthly ‘Fund My Start-up’ initiative. She speaks with The Guardian Woman on her vision to ensure that more female owned businesses get the assistance they need to thrive. Excepts!

What led you to fund start up businesses?
I started my company at the tender age of 18 and was lucky enough to have received startup capital from family (although not a lot) – this initial investment led to the empire that is being built today. On the other hand, I also mentor a lot of young women with bright ideas and have found their most pressing issue to be the lack of startup capital. In my bid to assist, I did some compound research and concluded that Nigeria is a really tough environment for budding entrepreneurs and doesn’t do enough to encourage its citizens. There is a huge lack in financial lending institutions, the bank interest rates are rather punitive and the infrastructural climate isn’t encouraging nor conducive. I have seen too many bright ideas waste away and so decided to do something about it in the little way I can. One morning, I spoke to a few friends and my business partners ( GoodHairLtd, Brass & Copper, TWI ) about it, they all bought into and encouraged the idea and that’s how the Fund my Startup Program was birthed.

Any specific reasons for females as your choice?
First of all I’m a woman so naturally I’m more biased towards women – That was a joke. But really, I’m very much about female empowerment. I’ve always supported and encouraged female enterprise and most of my mentees are female so I’m much more familiar with their struggles. I also believe that women have it a lot harder when it comes to raising capital due to the usual stereotypes and expectations of women. Some men also try to exploit their situation and thus we felt the urge to take on women first at least. In addition, one of my partners on this project (The Women International) is an organisation that assists in the personal development of women so funding female businesses was in line with their objectives.

What do you look out for when you choose winners monthly?
I usually narrow it down to value adding businesses. The ones that have thought and acted outside the box. Innovative yet realistic or necessary solutions to society’s problems. Although ultimately the sponsors make the final selections because I believe they should have the right to decide what businesses they want to impact financially.

How has running your personal business influenced your decision to fund other startups?
It has been the backbone of my decision because I can tell you categorically that if we had access to reasonable funding earlier on, we would’ve been a lot further than we are now. It is therefore imperative that we give the up and coming entrepreneurs the opportunity to flourish because who knows, we could be giving life to future multi million dollar / game changing businesses.

Do you consider funding key to the life of any business?
I think that funding is a necessary evil depending on the sort of business one decides to embark on. Some service based businesses might not require startup capital as it may depend solely on the person’s skill set. However most product based businesses will require some sort of capital to start no matter how little and if one doesn’t have the money or access to it, what happens to that idea?

What business nugget would you give to a startup?
I would advice any startup business to start small and grow organically. Most people these days want to fly before they can crawl and unfortunately, exposure to Social Media has led to a whopped sense of reality where people see a finished product or a 10-year journey and measure themselves against that business’ success and that isn’t a fair judgement on their own progress. It’s important to know that most successful businesses started from ground up and if you’re not ready to put in the time and work then greatness will remain distant. There’s something called the 10,000 hour rule which simply states that if you aren’t ready to put in at least 10,000 hours of your time into a particular vocation – you won’t be considered a master of it. I believe this is a metaphor for the need for patience and consistency in relation to success.
So yes – baby steps – reinvest some of your profit back into the business, grow your capital and watch that business bloom.

How can young business owners sit at the same table as you?
By staying focused, diligent and consistent. Don’t jump from business to business without giving any the appropriate time, energy and effort it deserves to reach its potential. Also keep your eyes on the prize and don’t get distracted by “competition” or nay sayers. There’s plenty of room for us all to win and if you’re focused, assiduous and resilient in your endeavors you too will sit and maybe one day head the table.

What lessons has running a business in Nigeria and as a female taught you?
Resilience. I’ve always been a strong woman but running a business in Nigeria has toughened me up to the point that I’m officially made of Stone. But then, I’m so much stronger than my experiences. Every single day presents a different and more difficult challenge which you must rise above and as a woman it’s even tougher because you have so much more to prove – from people doubting your capabilities to your integrity and so on. It’s been tough but I wouldn’t trade the experience for the world. I always say that if you can succeed in Nigeria, you can succeed anywhere else in the world.

As a lawyer and entrepreneur how do you marry both caps and still be at your best?
It’s certainly hard but thankfully I’ve been able to make it work. I think balance is key. Dedicating a reasonable amount of time to the things that are paramount to you. I mean I’m able to draw up Legal Contracts, train my employees, run GoodHair, Brass & Copper, the Good Hair Space and still glam up all in the same day so I like to think I’ve mastered the art of Balance or should I say multi tasking. I’ve also been blessed with amazing business partners and that has definitely made the ride worthwhile.

What advice do you have for young women struggling to find their voice and chase their passion?
I would advice every young woman to continue pushing harder – the end is closer than you think. We have and will continue to pave the way for you all so your ride hopefully will be easier. Do not attempt to give up, the sky is your starting point and we need you so keep going.

When you are not working, what will Chioma be doing?
Chioma will be eating, sleeping and bonding with family. I love to travel too and I’m getting into the habit of reading and cooking – my new found talent.

What is your philosophy of life?
Whatever is worth doing is worth doing well. This is the motto that I live by daily.

Source:Guardian

In self development May 18, 2020 By Esther Ijewere

#MondayMotivation: 4 Ways To Deal With Negative Vibes At Your Workplace

It’s important to point out that not all ‘bad’ feelings are bad. Sometimes, being angry, sad, unhappy, or stressed is a healthy and natural reaction; you should not go out of your way to suppress, ignore or bottle up your feelings. But if you experience these emotions on a frequent basis they can become chronic and even addictive. That is when healthy negativity turns into toxic negativity.

Here are four ways to deal with negativity at your workplace;

1. Stop Blaming and Start Learning

Next time something goes wrong, don’t point the finger of blame. You’ve probably heard the saying that whenever you point a finger at somebody, there are three fingers pointing back at you. Instead of blaming, first take a look at what you could have done differently to react to – or entirely avoid – the problem you’ve experienced. In most cases you will find there is always something you can do differently or better next time. Learn from your mistakes, adapt, and grow!

2. Stop Complaining and Take Ownership

Instead of complaining about a problem, do something about it. Does the guy in the next office constantly interrupt you? Are you not getting the recognition you deserve at work? Don’t complain to your friends or co-workers. If it bothers you enough to complain about it on a daily basis, then take action and make changes. Ask the guy to stop interrupting you or send you an email instead. Talk to your boss about a raise or a change of duties. Just do something. And if nothing works and you are still unhappy… maybe you have a much bigger decision to make.

Sometimes there is a fine line between complaining and simply communicating about a problem. A good general rule to go by is if you tell somebody about a problem more than once, you are complaining. Doing it daily will make it a chronic activity that is very poisonous to you and others around you.

3. Practice Random Acts of Kindness

One of the most effective negativity antidotes is to do kind things for others and feel the positive energy that comes with that. Next time you see a mom struggling with her baby trying to open a door, run over and open it for her. Help somebody carry something up the stairs. Pay for somebody’s parking meter or their lunch in the drive-thru. Leave a $20 bill in the bible in the hotel room. All of these simple little things can add up to you feeling really good about what you did. That positive energy can cut through the foulest of moods.

4. Build Positivity into your Organizational Culture

Make a positive, helpful and healthy attitude part of the mission, vision and values of your company. Hire people who light up the room when they walk in and bend over backwards to help others around them. Work with clients who love to do business and who are passionate about what they do. Work with vendors who care about their work as much as you care about yours. Make ethics a key ingredient of your cultural formula and enforce a strict moral code. Help others when in need and celebrate your victories loudly!

Negativity is weaker than you think

When you’re in a bad mood, it may seem that the dark cloud will never go away. But you’d be surprised how easily you can change your mind and mood if you put your heart into it. Try following a few of these tips (and share them with others!) over the next few weeks and see if the overall spirit and attitude of your workplace improves.

credit: www.nine10.ca

In self development May 18, 2020 By Esther Ijewere

Enitan Facos: 5 Money Beliefs Keeping You Poor

Chances are you have faulty beliefs about money, which keep you from coming into it. Here are 5 faulty beliefs you might have and what to do about it.

The first thing to get straight is this: Money serves you. You are it’s master and it is your faithful servant. Never get this the other way around. Money serves two purposes: It allows us to live comfortably. It is also a vehicle that lets us do good in this world. Let money serve you.

Money Isn’t Everything

Some people believe that money can’t buy happiness. They pretty much choose poverty over prosperity, thinking that happiness comes with scarcity. Yet, part of having an abundance mindset means the best of both worlds. After all, money is just an indicator of success. Poor and unsuccessful people have made it a habit to avoid doing things that improve their skills and this guarantees failure.

On the other hand, successful people have a habit of doing things that help them progressively realize their goals and dreams. While you may want to remain static, the truth is you either create or disintegrate.

2. You Lack Gratitude for the Money You Do Have

Just as we don’t know how to receive, when we do receive, we don’t know how to express gratitude. Start off simple and express gratitude, when you find a dime on your garage floor or a dollar bill in your laundry.

Gratitude is a re-framing of our minds, which opens us to receiving and expands our awareness to possibilities. Possibilities increase our chances of success.

3. You Don’t Know How to Receive

How many of us know how to ask for money or negotiate salaries? How many of us know our true worth in the value we can provide? I sure didn’t. I had helped my friend remove malware from her computer. It took me less than an hour, and she wanted to pay me for my time. Yet, because I didn’t know how to ask for money or the worth of the knowledge I possess, I stupidly refused the money. Luckily for me, my friend insisted. More importantly, she helped me realize that my knowledge and experience are not just for my employer. I can also help other people, and I should be bold enough to ask for money. After all, while it may have taken less than an hour to remove that malware, it’s taken me twenty years of constant study in front of the computer to build up that knowledge base and expertise.

4. You Have a Poor Self-Image

You can only grow as far as your self-image will allow. If you ever want to make six-figures at your next job, then you have to first believe you can. Your bad self image makes you believe that you are undeserving and a fraud. Mainly, it’s been poisoned by other people’s beliefs.

Once you believe you bring a unique value to this world that you alone can provide, you become aware that you deserve an abundance of happiness, health, and wealth. This accomplishment is something greater yet as it is an expansion of your awareness and true self-growth. Only when you are able to see yourself worthy and deserving of a six-figure salary, will your future employer see it too.

5. It Starts With You

One of the common threads running through the 7 false beliefs has to do with blame and your willingness to take responsibility for your current results. Unsuccessful people blame their circumstances or other people. On the contrary, successful people accept their circumstances and take the initiative to improve what they can. Even if the problems seem insurmountable, they start acting from where they can.

To bring more money and success into your life, first make a decision to throw out these faulty beliefs. Be willing to accept new beliefs that are conducive to your goals. When we start educating ourselves, we also start expanding our awareness to what’s possible.

In the end, the decision to come into an abundance of wealth and success has more to do with setting goals and growing, than it is about the money. As you embark on this journey, kindly remind yourself from time to time that goals aren’t about getting. They are about growing.

In Editor's Choice May 18, 2020 By Esther Ijewere

Esther Ijewere: 6 Effortless Ways To Show Love To Yourself

Living life is a constant work in progress for each person, but that doesn’t mean that you should get so caught up that you neglect showing yourself love. Break down the walls preventing you from self-love, and enrich your life. Here are 6 ways I have learnt to show myself love, you should try it too.

1. Tell Yourself What You Love About Yourself

Many times, we get caught up in everything around us that we forget to remind ourselves just how awesome we are. Our own disappointment, acceptance, patience, and love that we have for ourselves will always reflect what we show others.

2. Accept Imperfection

One of the most worthwhile things that we can do for ourselves is to give up on being perfect, and start the journey to become our true selves. The best part of that journey is to return to feeling peace within ourselves. This peace comes from training your mind to process life as it actually is, rather than what you think it should be.

3. Know That the Approval of Others Doesn’t Matter

Oftentimes people greatly value having the approval of others, even when it isn’t clear exactly what would gain their approval.You should instead focus on doing what is right for your own self, disregarding what others will think. You do not need anyone’s permission to be happy.

4. Bring Distance Between Yourself and Those Who Bring You Down

Worry less about the people in your life that are not worrying about you. You should surround yourself with those who inspire you, respect you, love you, and support you.

5. Make the Changes You Know Are Necessary

When you know that you want to see changes in your life, you will need to do things that you’ve never done before. Aim to stay away from the things that tear you down, and gravitate toward the things, activities and thoughts that fulfill you in the way that you want.

6. Let Go of Your Past Self

A part of life is that good people like you will sometimes make bad choices. Sure, past mistakes make up who you are today, but they do not define you. It is never too late to move on from them – dwelling will only lead to hurt.

“Esther is an activist, Writer, Columnist, Author and editor-in-chief & founder -Women of Rubies. She is passionate about issues that affect women and children.

Facebook: Esther Ijewere

Twitter & IG : @Estherijewere

LinkedIn: Esther Ijewere

Email: admin@womenofrubies.com

In Interviews&profile May 15, 2020 By Esther Ijewere

“Being A Woman In The Real Estate Sector Gives Me Joy”- Esther Raphael

One of the biggest investment opportunities globally is the Real estate sector, and It is always a delight to see women thriving in this sector. Esther Raphael is one of those women.

Esther is the founder & CEO of Green Bliss Smart Projects and Resources Limited, she helps build and invest in innovative tech products and businesses. One of her major contributions to Green Bliss Projects, is Green Bliss Apartments which provides luxury short-let apartments and finclif.com, an online innovative marketplace for individuals, businesses to register, sell and advertise their products and services to thousands of potential customers daily.

With over 10 years of work experience, Esther has served in different capacities in the corporate world. She has a sales career background of over 3 billion Naira sales deal portfolio mostly closed online.

She shares her inspiring story exclusively in this interview with Esther Ijewere, as a woman in the property management and investment sector, and how she was able to rise to the top.

Growing Up

I grew up with a different family in the Amukoko area of Lagos. Very unhealthy environment to raise kids as I still occasionally have episodes of the stench of the environment, but my then family taught me a lot of things, they introduced me to early reading and interest in books and also ensured I was very much involved in church activities. One of the best gifts they gifted me and also sending me to a very good private school. By the time I was leaving them as a teenager back to my biological family, I was what a lot of people called ‘ different’. I had a mind of my own, I could make and take decisions on my own and fend for myself. Coming from a nuclear but big family and losing dad to death at 11, it was every man to yourself. You are either taking care of yourself or nothing.

With the help of my grandpa, I started farming and got farming gigs(bush clearing, thinning, weeding, planting, bamboo farming, snail and poultry farming and so on), that was how I raised money to continue and finish secondary school.

Less than three years of starting this new life in my hometown, my grandpa died(one of my worst nights) because I lived alone with him and the rest of my family had moved to Lagos after the death of my dad. I lived alone after grandpa’s death and continued the farming business till I was certain it was time to move back to Lagos.

So, my experience in the farming business contributed in my hunger to own businesses. Seeing my age-mates work for me in my farm and I paid them, the joy in their faces was everything and I wanted to see more of that. All of those experiences prepared me greatly towards what I am doing today and will do tomorrow.

Inspiration behind Green Bliss Projects

Green Bliss Projects as an online innovative company was inspired majorly by my desire to create and add value to more people than within a cubicle and nine years in the corporate world convinced me the more that I was made for more. I remember one of my former bosses asking me who I’m I or who my father is after I closed the largest deal in the company.

After smiling at her, in my head, small girl big God … Lol

Journey since we started

We started out as a telecommunication equipment supply company majoring in bulk sales and customization of smart gadgets and accessories, then we diversified into e-commerce and now real estate/facility management,short-let apartments. All of these products and services we still offer but with more focus on the real estate; Short-let apartments, property management, facility management, investment offers and e-commerce. The journey has been painful, bitter, sweet, adventurous, fearful and daring but in all, I am focusing on the vision because that is often my motivation. There were days I trekked to my meeting venues and would quickly go into the visitor’s toilet to clean up, so the prospects does not see what they are not supposed to see …. hahahahahaha. I don’t know what you are thinking about . I trekked in the rain or more distances to save some money to continue hustling the following day. It was big time work. There were days I would skip meals or stay awake all night tweaking the website and the blog and making posts and changes on our social media pages till day break. I don’t think I bought any new cloth or accessories for almost 3 years because I was saving up.

I remember contracting the website to an IT firm that refused to build the site to the specification given. Chai, I spent money on website designers o.

One of the most painful things that happened to me then was losing our first website to hackers and paying salaries for almost 8 months without generating even 2% income. These salaries were largely paid from the savings I made while being a full time employee.

So, the journey before I started looked so easy. You know when you have that thought of ‘ being your own boss’ and that you will do better than your former bosses and then, you resign on the advise of all the motivational books and speakers you’ve been reading or listening to?

Wait…… They didn’t tell you about THE PROCESS. yes, most of them skip this part. There is ‘ THE PROCESS’ and when you are in this stage, you will make the decision of whether to continue or to stop. This stage will test you thoroughly to the point you begin to doubt yourself and lose friends.

Being a woman in the property management sector and balancing it all

For me, working in this industry and my personal life activities seem to be so much in sync that I barely notice the difference except of course when I have tons of mails to respond to and other technicalities that comes with the job especially on matters concerning safety, health and authenticity of documents. Most times, I’m just having fun and learning while working and visiting our locations.

Property Sector being favourable to women

Hmmmmmmmmmmmm, you know I won’t exactly say so. The property sector is capital intensive. Many women will definitely not want to venture into it at all. And because it is capital intensive, we have more men in the sector. But like a friend pointed out in a recent content she shared with me to work with her on, there are other ways women can come into the sector and that includes collaborating with companies like ours in property, facility and portfolio management deals, offering cleaning services and supplies.

Our Online Market Place

Finclif.com is an online marketplace created to empower local and international businesses with friendly technology and access to the online global marketplace and our mission is to become a global hub sensation and a choice marketplace for businesses and individuals to buy and sell almost anything, fostering economic growth and business opportunities with a click of button. At the moment we have over a 1400+ signups and over 40 vendors. We are still growing.

To every young woman out there who wants to go into property management

Property Management is not a business to just get into because you see others doing it or you have the resources. It must be something you are either passionate about or emotionally prepared to get into. And because it involves dealing with different individuals from different races, artisans, industrial machines and government bodies, emotional intelligence, constant cash in-flow, emotional stability and keen attention to details in people and the properties is important. So, ideally will be to stay under mentorship or do more collaborations, so you get to learn on the job or to spend the first one or two years spending some part of your capital learning.

Challenges as an Entrepreneur

Staffing . Hiring the right staff who does not dedicate more time on eye-service or hard-work than actual job delivery. Another challenge I experience is access to funds. You see, in the type of real estate niche we are in, it is almost impossible for us to lose money because of the vast options of A, B,C and D and the market demand is high, now the goal is to respond to at least 80% of the demands. Right now, we are meeting less than 20% of the requests we receive on a regular.

Also, knowing how tough it is to access loans in our financial institutions today, we came up with the Partnership Opportunity that allows individuals and companies to financially partner with us and make 5% monthly of what they invested.

Note; partners money is insured. Regardless of economic meltdown, partners still get paid and they can invest for a long as 3 months, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months and request for a payout anytime they want to.

Also, we have the Property Partners. These are property owners who for the interest of profitability and proper maintenance of their property/facility reach out to us, we renovate and structure these properties to become more profitable for the landlady or landlord.

3 Women who Inspire me and Why

Folorunsho Alakija – I often stay and wonder how she has managed to thrive so well in the industry dominated by men and her success in the real estate business too.

Ellen D’generes – you can see her have so much fun doing what generates so much income for her. she’s very comfortable in her skin and at 60+ still very fit and playful with loads of amazing close friends like Oprah winfrey and Michelle Obama, I definitely want to enjoy such amazing and supportive close circle. Ellen is so fun, humorous and very loving. With all the love she gives to people, family, employees? my goodness! it is so beautiful for me.

Mo Abudu, CEO of EbonyLife TV – This woman’s business prowess I admire so much. Every time I pass her nearly launched office in Victoria Island, Lagos, I can’t reveal the thoughts that roars in my head. I have some of her pictures on my vision board. There is a calmness in her that I find very powerful even as I say it. It is not common.

Being a woman of Rubies

Is that the Proverbs 31 woman? Hahahahahaha, sebi the bible said that my price/value is far above rubies? Every time the chips are down or up, I reach out to the divinity in me. And for me, it is still the MAKING of the woman whose price is far above rubies.

Carving a niche in the property sector

No particular reason, maybe because I like the sound and exchange of big big money or the joy I feel when I and my team are able to deliver what the client wants and they are happy or the joy of knowing that we would rather not engage than to give bad quality or probably, this vision of greatness that has remained inside of me, seeking manifestation.

I invested in a real estate company from Czesch when they shut down, it affected me badly because I had hoped that the earnings from the investment would keep me going for a long time before business starts booming. They shut down before they even started. I spent quality time studying their business model that they didn’t get to utilize. That spiked more of my interest in the Real Estate Industry

Our Covid-19 Relief Funds

I think it was largely inspired by some posts I saw on some of my team member’s Facebook walls. Some of them started panicking on the uncertainty of salary and their feeding during the lockdown as it was not yet salary payment dates, also, I saw lots and lots of people online panicking and worried about how they would survive the lockdown, so, with the support of some of my team members, we decided to do the cash giveaway. Before the giveaways, we paid ALL team members full salaries and went on to offer our own support to the general public . The numbers of people that showed interest in the giveaway was very alarming but then, it felt good reaching out to those we could.

In self development May 4, 2020 By Esther Ijewere

Book Review: Identity by Oluwatosin Arodudu | Review by Esther Ijewere

Life Coach and foremost Publisher; Oluwatosin Arodudu’s new book is fast becoming an Amazon best seller, because of the depth of the content as it reflects every area of humanity.

As humans, our identity is our passport to navigating through life, aligning with our purpose and having total control of our emotions.The book is an eye opener for me, the powerful highlight on the cover says; “Self Discovery, “Purpose” and Leadership”. Three elements of success everyone should possess.

As a human being, self discovery is the compass to living life truthfully. That much I learnt from this very informative book.

As a leader, having total control of your emotions is very important , especially your reaction to criticism, which could stem from a place of sincerity or jealousy. Your power of response is key and you need to be able to practice humility even if you don’t like it, like Tosin said in the book.

Your Identity is like a Chakra bracelet worn for clarity. Without an identity, you could end up becoming a floater in the world, beaming your light under people’s shadow, Tosin highlights this clearly in most of the chapters.

At a point, I had to put down the book, to do a quick personality dimension test on myself, I used my life as a mirror and Tosin’s strong message of confronting your personality and being truthful to “Self” as my compass, the result scared the wits out of me. I thought I had ticked every channel of my being from my one year Inter-personal communication certification programme, but here was I confronted by the truth of my imperfection, my human loopholes, my vulnerability and fear of failing and falling (F.OF)

The book which tells the story of Oluwatosin’s travails with mind entrapment, and takes you through her journey to Self Discovery, Purpose and Leadership, teaches valid lessons on coming out of a perpetual state of mental helplessness, and living a purposeful life.

It is a book for aspiring leaders and leaders going through turmoil as a result of their strong personality. It coaches leaders with strong personality on how to master, manage and weaponize their emotions to their own advantage, both as individuals and leaders in their sphere of influence.

I am glad to have bought copies,and even donated to couple of folks within my Network. I told my Mentee, don’t read to give me feedback, read to own your identity, I am sharing same message with you right now. Take charge with a leap of faith, and Grab a copy.

This is a book that will stand the test of time, because the world will always have leaders, and leaders will always be in positions of power, that reflects on our daily life.

Get your copy HERE on Amazon. If you live in Nigeria, copies of the book can be purchased HERE.

Send your feedback to admin@womenofrubies.com , I will love to know how the book impacted you.

About Esther

Esther is Gender Balanced Advocate, Writer, Columnist with Guardian Newspaper , convener of several development project, and founder of Women of Rubies

In self development May 2, 2020 By Esther Ijewere

Temi Olajide’s “Wifi Kids And Analog Parents” book Is a Must Have This Season

The global pandemic has changed almost everything in the world, from working, parenting, friendships and even relationships. Parents who had little time with their kids, are now full-time, round the clock parents.

Screen-time and playtime have increased and many parents are finding it hard to strike a balance between home-schooling and working-from-home life . Temi Olajide’s timely fast selling book; “Wifi kids and analog parent” is the solution to that dilemma.

A must have parent-kid book that addresses the changes in the dynamics of parenting in this age, and how to handle those changes. It provides the much-needed guide for raising children in the digital age. It is so all-encompassing and it highlights the pros and cons of the digital age, sex education for kids, understanding and communicating with children in the digital age, constructing boundaries, among other salient issues bordering on parenting in the digital age. We need to understand what our digital children really require us to allow them to thrive and navigate successfully in this age

According to Temi; “Wifi Kids and Analog parents” helps you adapt quickly to the new trend of the world , and give you clarity on how to balance your work time with your parenting duty, It is a book for all season but most importantly this new phase of uncertainty the world is experiencing.

Click here to order your copy, or buy for friends who need it https://paystack.com/pay/wifikidsanalogueparents

You can also order via her Instagram page Here

About Temi

She is a Certified Child Sleep / Potty Training Consultant and Child Psychologist. Temi is Nigeria’s first certified child sleep consultant, Founder and Lead Strategist at Mummyclinic Global Services, founded in December 2017. Her organisation hosts an online platform that provides strategies and result-driven solutions to the challenges of child-rearing.

In Editor's Choice May 2, 2020 By Esther Ijewere

I wish people will look at me with admiration, not pity,when I Introduce myself as a Teacher- Aramide Akintimehin

Education is improving the lives of others and leaving your world or community better than you found it. This is one of the major roles Teachers play, they affect eternity, and no one can determine where their influence stops. With the Global pandemic, Parents are beginning to see the value of these wonderful humans who not only teach our kids but influence them to be better.

Aramide Akintimehin is one of such souls, she is adding colour to the world by dedicating her life and time to teach primary school pupils.

She earns a living as a primary school teacher while running a free out-of-school children Initiative called; Talent Mine Academy. A journey she embarked on because of the poor quality of education in public schools.

In the course of imparting knowledge in children, Aramide also said she learns from them, and it has become a two-way learning curve.

The first-class degree holder in Economics is very passionate about her chosen career path, she shares her inspiring journey and the effect of Covid19 on Teachers and students in this mind blowing interview.

Childhood Preparation

Growing up as a child, I really loved to teach. I remember running home every day after school to arrange 7up bottles in my house like a classroom and I would literally start to teach them what my teacher had taught me in school for the day. At some points, I would arrange them for presentations and begin to sing and dance with them. As I progressed to secondary school and even higher institution, I explained difficult concepts to my classmates and even took mini-tutorials on Sundays, It has always been my dream to teach since I was 6 years old.

Being a Primary School Teacher

Fabulous! I am doing what I love and the level of joy and fulfillment I get from seeing my kids grow into responsible champs keeps me motivated always.

Talent Mine Academy

As a teacher, I went out of school one day during the break period and on my way out, I noticed some kids roaming the streets during school hours. I called two of them and we had a conversation because I really wanted to know why they weren’t in school at that time. They both stated that their parents did not have enough money to send them to school. This bothered me much because education has played a major role in my life and I see no reason why a child should be denied this life-changing experience.

This is the major reason why I started a free academy where out-of-school children and kids cannot afford quality education are equipped with basic literacy, numeracy, and digital skills. Also, we empower their parents economically with vocational and entrepreneurial skills so that they can sustain their families. We currently have 26 kids and I would with 20 amazing volunteers, and we hope to be established in 7 communities; impacting over 3000 kids by 2024.

Appreciation of Young Female Teachers in the Society

Hmmm! One day, I hope that when I introduce myself as a teacher, people will look at me with admiration and not with pity or as a failure.

The effect of Covid-19 on the educational sector and the role of Parents

I advise that this period, parents should rather impact their kids with the basic life skills they need to thrive in life. They should teach their kids simple courtesy, computer skills and so on. They should work on improving their thinking skills, creativity level, problem-solving skills and most importantly, they should leverage on this period to spend quality time and build a solid relationship with their kids.

Post Covid19 effect on Student

The severity of the school closure will affect kids in low-income communities the most because of the interrupted learning system and high economic costs of living they are currently facing. I’ve spoken to some of my kids during this period and they’ve stated how hard things are as their parents do not work anymore.

The lack of access to the internet and technological devices will prevent these kids from learning at the comfort of their homes like the privileged kids are doing at the moment. The closure can also influence the behavioral patterns of the kids as most of them are not exposed to the relatives and family members that constantly abuse them and influence them negatively. I can just imagine how Aliyat (one of my kids who her brother constantly calls a dullard) will feel about herself and academics when she resumes. Will that kind of child be open to the belief that she can solve difficult concepts with that mindset block?

Asides from the interruption in learning, these kids are also deprived of the growth and development in terms of social skills that they derive from being present in a school environment. Parents can never replace teachers in this case as they do not have the knowledge and expertise to be a competent teacher for their kids as they might not know the learning needs of the child.

However, being deprived of all these development factors the school offers, the students will be affected one way or the other after the resumption of schools.

Challenges as a Teacher & Social Entrepreneur

I see challenges as opportunities and learning curves so, at the moment, I really cannot recall any challenge I am currently facing in my work.

Other projects and activities

My next project is to provide Post-Covid-19 support to the parents and kids of Talent Mine Academy. We hope to restock their food items after this pandemic is over because, after the lockdown, they might not have any food items left as most of them had to stop working and might not have any money after the lockdown. I would have to fundraise to do this but I believe it is worth it because the initiative will support their families pending the period they recover fully from the economic impact of the pandemic.

To the Government and Education System

The Covid-19 didn’t affect the education system in some countries and even some schools right here in Nigeria were not too affected because they already had a pre-existing system/structure they could fall back to- technology. Before now, they had already leveraged technology to aid learning and support remote learning, so this was not really a big issue for them. However, there are currently no low-cost schools or public schools that are running at the moment because there is no system or structure to fall on during this period. I believe that all schools including public schools should focus on embracing technology and creating a system where remote learning can take place easily.

Technology is the future of education and the best part is that education is actually the future of any country. The education system should introduce more learning models to build the resilience of the education system against times like this. I believe that this cannot happen without the government investing more in the education system as against the less than 26 percent allotted to the sector.

Being a Woman of Rubies

Sometime last year, I studied the Rubies and I noticed that people pay millions of dollars just to acquire what looks enticing outside but they do not know the content inside that gemstone. The bible describes a Proverbs 31 woman as one worth more than rubies because she is virtuous and capable.

Being virtuous is an inner quality. The dictionary puts it as one who has high standards, character or values.

However, being capable is an external quality which means that you have the ability to do something. You have various skill sets and abilities. If you agree with me, one cannot have a skill set or know how to do something without learning it and you must be willing to learn something before you can actually devote time and resources to learning it. So when you find someone that is capable— one that knows how to do a lot of things (making hair, sewing, cooking, makeup and so on), that person has taken time to learn because he/she is willing. So it is willingness to learn that makes one capable.

The combination of being virtuous (inner glow) and capable (outer glow) is what makes me have more worth than rubies. I believe that I am a woman of so much character, values and standards and I am worth much more than my external view. I would rather glow from the inside out because, beyond beauty and appearance, good character truly makes you attractive. Though I am not perfect, my commitment to learn and be better at being me daily is beyond words and I am grateful to God for that spirit.

3 women who inspire me to be better

Funmilola Oluwalade

Ibukun Awosika

Grace Amoka

To young women who want to become Teachers

The only thing I have to say is that “Until the day you care less about money and the opinions/actions of people, you will never live the life God has called you to live”. You are really self-sabotaging yourself and the destinies tied to you. Become fearless and soar— The education sector needs you and trust me, it is a worthy profession. Now and always!

In self development April 25, 2020 By Esther Ijewere

Covid-19: Toyin Abraham, Tonto Dikeh, Foluke Daramola,Others Help Those in Need

Celebrities are vehicles of social change, and their impact is felt through their work and the value they add to the society. While Nigerians are getting agitated about the lock-down , some celebs are using their platforms to spread hope and love, to show that truly we are all in this together.

Here are some of the celebs who have been spreading Love and Light through their platforms since the beginning of the Lockdown

Toyin Abraham

Nigerian actress Toyin Abraham is doing her part to ensure that people have what to eat following the lockdown announcement .Toyin has donated foodstuff and other basic necessities to people across the country – The mother of one sent bags of rice, garri, hand sanitisers to her fans and those in need.

Tonto Dikeh

Nollywood actress, Tonto Dikeh has shared a great burden of God to humanity and she is really seeing it through. The actress is one of the independent donors to the economically vulnerable Nigerians as Coronavirus halts all activities in the country and keeps everyone at home!

She has continued her charitable act through her son’s foundation, King Andre Dikeh Foundation and this time, 2000 women and children were beneficiaries of the cooked and raw food shared as Covid relief.

Foluke Daramola

The beautiful Nollywood actress have been very supportive and shown compassion for Veterans who are in dire need amid the lockdown. From Cash to food donation, she alongside her team have been going round to support these veterans who are almost forgotten. Her Organisation has in no little way brought these men and women of the screen to our consciousness.

Kaffy

Celebrity dancer Kafayat Shafau is reaching out to the needy during this difficult times, through her “Add a Cup” initiative. The Guinness world record breaker dancer has given out food and hand sanitisers to several Nigerians across the Country

Toyin Lawani

The serial Entrepreneur and Fashion Designer have been very supportive during the lockdown. Toyin through her company fed 2000 people recently and also gave some cash to those in need, and continue to use her platform to advocate to help those in need get help

Damilola Adegbite

Tinsel Star and actress Damilola is another celebrity who has shown support towards those in need during the lockdown, especially Single Moms in Need. Prior to the pandemic, Damilola has been an ardent supporter of single moms, It is no surprise that she gave out cash and money to them during this Pandemic.

Tiwa Savage

Tiwa Savage, who in a recent live chat disclosed the humbling effect the virus has on her, also pledged her support for single moms in need. The Music star gave hope to some of her fans on the live chat and promised to suport more via her partnership with Oba Farms.

Written by: Esther Ijewere™© – Founder; Women of Rubies

Kindly like, Click the follow button , share and drop your comments. *winks*

Follow me on my social media accounts;

Instagram: Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/estherijewere

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/esther.ijewere

In Editor's Choice April 25, 2020 By Esther Ijewere

“I aspire to be a role model as an artist” – Fagbenro Christiana Boluwatife

Fagbenro Christiana Boluwatife, best known as Tife Chris, is a young creative studying Geology at Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye, Ogun State. She hails from Ado Odo-Ota, Ogun State. Tife started making art at a very early age of 5, but she developed deep interest at the age of 18 when she learnt how to draw using pencils and started using oil colours. Her passion for Art went deeper when she discovered the beauty in it and not just beauty, but also a way of expressing oneself. She’s a Christian, a lover of science and very active in sports in the likes of swimming and basketball. She shares her Art to the world through stage painting, writing, music and poetry, she is also an active volunteer and a member of few NGOs that aim at making positive impact to the lives of others. Tife reminds me of my years as an undergraduate, her passion and tenacity is unwithered and it’s very reflective in her work and ambience. She shares her journey with me in this exclusive Interview.

Childhood Preparation
MY childhood didn’t prepare me for what I do now, although it played a huge role due to the fact that I was very creative at that stage. I started painting and using watercolours at a very young age but I never for once saw myself doing what I’m doing today. I did those things for fun and never expected them to be a huge part of my life. Growing up was quite interesting and, as a normal child, I have both good and bad memories. I grew up in a strict and competitive environment where everyone had to meet certain standards. There was no one to share my thoughts or emotions with, so I learned to develop myself even when there was no one to talk to. This has made me active in few NGOs so I could give to the society what I couldn’t get. It wasn’t always easy and I got to learn from challenges.

My passion for Art
I wasn’t directly inspired to go into Art, truly, science has been my passion since childhood. I’ve always wanted to be a medical doctor, to help people, that’s where my passion came from. I loved to see people heal, get better. And I never for once thought of going into Art, so nothing could inspire me to venture down the world of Art.

I can only say God made a turn of events to make me see what I was completely oblivious to. At a stage in my life where science wasn’t responding, I was forced to look at the bright side of Art. And since then I’ve been falling deeper in love with Art, all dimensions of it.

My Artistic Journey
I thank God for the journey so far, it’s been wonderful, even though there have been lots of challenges especially due to the fact that I studies a different field from Art, finances as a student and the fact that I ultimately have to balance up my academics first before anything else. I’ve had experiences with lessons I know would be very useful even after I graduate.

Balancing School with Art
That dexterity has been a natural part of me, human beings are very dynamic and when we put our minds to something, no matter how diverse or colossal it may be, you’ll be done with it before you know it. Timing is also very important even though I find it hard sometimes to meet up within the appropriate time, going for lectures at the right time, going to church, creating time for art and writing, meeting up with basketball practice and guitar lessons, time to study, taking few hours to swim and sacrificing time for rehearsals. As long as I have a mental timetable and I try not to overwork myself while creating a compulsory time to rest, by God’s grace I’m able to do just fine.

My Aspiration
The first is to be a successful Artist. Let the world realise your talents can make you stand out. I would also love to travel the world and explore all forms of Art. I really have a lot to learn, I go on the internet and discover lots of amazing works from different artists. I would love to learn as many forms of Art as I can.

I also hope to own an Art firm with a gallery where everyone can be who they want to be and create ideas, use the beauty of Art to make people’s lives better, to make them heal.

Lastly, I aspire to be a role model as an artist, someone who inspires, an artist people can look up to. I want to be happy both in the outside world and with my family and home.

Three women who inspire me to be better and why
Ms. Esther Ijewere, convener of Women of Rubies, Ruby Girls, Rubies Ink and Walk Against Rape and Benita Nnarchortam, personal photographer /SA to the former governor of Ogun state and co-founder, Kuta Nigeria. And my mother, CEO k2cut fashion. These women have inspired me to be better no matter where you’re starting from, they’ve taught me to sacrifice and I’ve felt the love of a woman from them especially on the Ruby Girls page. I love people who break limits and create new ideas and Benita has really inspired me in that area.

Challenges of being an Artist
Time is my major challenge, meeting up with schedule is very hard and sometimes I have to cancel some events and I’m grateful to HRM, my friends because they help me when they can and cheer me to move on when I seem tired. Managing my craft and handling school has indeed been stressful and sometimes I realise I have just little time to myself.

Funding and equipment has also been a challenge, what’s the use of time without money? Getting school materials and Art materials too. Thank God for my parents, my sister and close friends and the fact that I get commissioned works to support myself with. Also, the environment where I’m based as a student doesn’t give enough exposure and insight into Art, they rarely appreciate Art and sometimes volunteering would be depreciated.

Being a Woman of Rubies
I believe I’m special in my own way. Everyone has that hidden talent in them that makes them stand out and unfolding these talents has made me realise I’m a Woman of Ruby. I can achieve whatever I put my mind to.

Dear Young Women,
It’s never too early to start trying, now is best. Don’t let your present state limit you. The only thing you should be afraid of is not to have a dream. If you have a vision, pursue it!

Connect with us