In Interviews&profile May 16, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Ugonne Ann Okonkwo: How Motherhood Disrupted My life: A Story Of Faith, Vision, And Abortion

I could see him. His tiny nose, mouth, eyes, and teeny-weeny forehead. That’s a living, breathing human inside of me. He was just five months old and I could see him clearly with this 3D scan. They told me he’ll be handsome and tall. I laughed amidst my drying tears. We went back to the doctor’s office to discuss the details of the scan. And that was where they broke the news to me.

“We found something unusual in his lungs. They may be cysts. We are not sure but it could be dangerous. Let’s watch it for a few weeks but consider aborting this baby if it’s something serious,” the doctor said.

That word, ‘abortion’, rang like a bell in my head. I wasn’t sure I heard the Mandarin-speaking nurse so I said, “Shenme?” (Meaning ‘what’ in Mandarin). My precious doctor, without any hesitation, went ahead to explain the whole thing again and asked me if I was sure I wanted to keep this baby. My lips said, “Yes, of course”, but in my mind, I was screaming, “Bia, are you people normal at all? I just saw my baby’s face for the first time and here you are asking silly questions.”

He’s not even a fetus anymore. Why on earth would I want to abort my baby at this point? She obviously couldn’t read my mind as she went ahead to suggest that I talked over the whole situation with my husband before making any decisions. I was confused. My “confuse“ was also confused because this was a woman so reluctant about motherhood that it took her 5 years, Yes, 5 years after getting married to get pregnant. Believe it or not, the Fear of Motherhood is real.

The Fear of motherhood

I grew up in a typical middle-class Igbo family in the Eastern part of Nigeria. I loved Enugu. I still do. The serene, peaceful, family-friendly ‘come-and-retire-here’ vibe of the city was enchanting. No hustling, bustling, and annoying traffic like in the big cities. The people were mostly traders or civil servants working for the government like my mom. My mom was a teacher and she taught pretty much all her life.

I love teachers. I remember mimicking my mom a lot as a child but as I grew up, I had no desire to be like my mom. I truly love my mom but I didn’t exactly want her life. I wanted something more and I felt like the realities and demands of raising children stole her dreams and ambitions. I looked and I could see traces of this narrative all around me.

Aunties, cousins, neighbors, and friends. It’s as if the journey into motherhood was full of sacrifice and compromise and that scared the hell out of me. It looked like the moment you start having children, that’s the end—it’s over. You have to spend the rest of your life raising them primarily. I know people have different notions and even fears but this was it for me. I was the scared motherhood would lead me to oblivion and so I stalled and masked my fears with the fact that my husband had daunting school work as a medical student and he had to finish medical school first. The truth is that motherhood is not a pause on your dreams. There’s no experience like becoming a mother. It is a door opener, a destiny elevator, a purpose propeller, a mind shifter, and a pathfinder. For me, becoming a mother opened up my life.

Despite all the drama that came with birthing my first child, Zite arrived safely into this world in July, 2019. Because of the complications of having him, I spent 18 months in maternity leave. It was a disruption that i didn’t know i needed until it happened. I got the opportunity to truly step back, evaluate my life and figure out what I truly wanted. That was the season I stepped into life as a visionary woman. I started a YouTube channel, wrote a book and launched it (currently working on my second book), hosted webinars and bootcamps, started a podcast, coached young women and mothers, volunteered, and worked on amazing projects with some of my mentors. Motherhood became my trigger and a game changer.

I’m sharing my story to remind a woman out here that motherhood is a miracle. Instead of thinking of this season of your life as a bad disruption, start to look at it as an enormous opportunity. Motherhood is an opportunity to practice a run-through of a deeply spiritual reality. It’s like a dress rehearsal to fulfilling purpose in grand style.

On this special mothers day, I want you to see motherhood with new eyes and be enamored by its sheer brilliance. Celebrate every kind of mother – the working mom, the stay-at-home mom, the single mom, the diaspora mom, the mom in business, the nursing mom, the career mom, the surrogate mom, the professional mom, the spiritual mom, and the waiting mom. Take some time to celebrate yourself as a mother today.

Happy Mother’s Day!

My Bio

Ugonne Ann Okonkwo is a Nigerian-born writer, educator, coach, and the author of the book,

“The Birthing: How to partner with God for your children, your vision and your Nation”

In less than 18 months after having her first child, Ugonne went from a slow, confused, and overwhelmed mother to a multidimensional visionary woman who is birthing and launching different expressions of her vision as the Lord enables her.

She is on a mission to raise visionary mothers- young women who are partnering with God to birth his vision and purpose for their lives per season.

Ugonne is the creator of the “Ugonne Ann” YouTube channel and the host of the birthing visions podcast, a show dedicated to helping visionaries find and birth their God-given visions.

When she’s not writing, speaking, or teaching, Ugonne enjoys reading a thought-provoking book and catching up on a Nigerian web series. She lives with the love of her life, Dr, Isaac and their sons Zite and Nate, in Shenyang, China where she teaches English as a second language to the most adorable Chinese preschoolers.

You can connect with her through her website- www.ugonneann.com or find her on Instagram and Twitter at @ugonneann

In Interviews&profile May 15, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Celebrating Nkechi Ahanor Wilson’s Remarkable Mothers Award

We celebrate the remarkable achievement of Nkechi Ahanor Wilson, who was recently awarded the Excellence Service Award at the Remarkable Mothers Award (RMA) Gala 2023. In this post, we will highlight her work in empowering women and her achievements in the business world that led to this recognition. Join us as we celebrate Nkechi Ahanor Wilson’s outstanding contributions to society.

Meet Nkechi Ahanor Wilson

The Remarkable Mothers Award Gala 2023 honored Nkechi Ahanor Wilson as an excellent service award recipient. This well-deserved recognition and impressive business achievements are due to her commitment to empowering women and promoting gender equality.

As the founder of Shoreline Pacific International, Nkechi has demonstrated her exceptional leadership skills and expertise in business consulting. Her company has assisted numerous businesses in expanding their operations, improving their strategies, and achieving their goals. However, Nkechi’s contributions extend beyond the corporate sphere, as she has been committed to empowering women through various initiatives.

Nkechi Ahanor Wilson’s work in empowering women

Nkechi mentors several women in business, helping them navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship and providing them with guidance and support. And has been actively empowering women in her community and beyond. Her philanthropic work has also promoted education and economic empowerment for women in underserved communities.

As a business consultant, Nkechi has helped numerous women entrepreneurs and professionals succeed in their careers. She has also been actively involved in women’s organizations and events, mentoring and advocating for women’s rights. She has worked tirelessly to support and uplift women, providing them the tools and resources to succeed personally and professionally.

In addition to her work in business consulting, Nkechi has also been involved in various initiatives to empower women. She has organized and participated in events that allow women to connect, share their experiences, and learn from each other.

Overall, Nkechi’s dedication to empowering women has significantly impacted the lives of many, and she continues to inspire women everywhere.

Remarkable Mothers Award recognition

The Remarkable Mothers Award is a prestigious recognition that celebrates women who have made significant contributions to their communities and excelled in their work fields while balancing motherhood. The award recognizes mothers dedicated to making a positive impact in the world while also being outstanding mothers.

Nkechi Ahanor Wilson is a force to be reckoned with, and her dedication to empowering women everywhere has earned her the remarkable mothers award. This recognition is well-deserved, as Nkechi has worked tirelessly to create a safe space for women to connect, learn, and grow.

Receiving the Excellence Service Award at the Remarkable Mothers Award Gala is evidence of Nkechi Ahanor Wilson’s hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence. Her passion for making a difference in the world while balancing her roles as a mother and business owner makes her a remarkable mother deserving this recognition.

Nkechi Ahanor Wilson’s achievements in business and women’s empowerment are genuinely remarkable. Her dedication to supporting and uplifting women in her community and beyond is inspiring. Her success as the owner of Shoreline Pacific International is a testament to her hard work and expertise in business consulting.

We congratulate Nkechi Ahanor Wilson on this well-deserved award and wish her continued success in all her endeavors. Her achievements inspire other women, especially mothers, to pursue their dreams and positively impact their communities and industries.

In Interviews&profile May 15, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Bukola Ajilore: A Trailblazer In The Canadian Business Sector and Beyond

Bukola Ajilore is a Canadian businesswoman using her God-given talent and platforms to encourage other women to dare to be different. Popularly known as “Unstoppable Bukola”, she is a passionate Christian leader, successful businesswoman, and franchise owner based in Canada.

The “Agege Bread” Franchise Owner

Bukola owns the franchise of Grey Matlock Bakery in Ottawa. A Canadian-based business established in 2018 by Adewale Rabiu. The bakery provides a home away from home taste in Canada for all African Caribbean in Ontario, this provides the opportunity to enjoy quality, fresh and home taste traditional Agege bread and birthday cakes at an affordable price.

The Christian Leader and Women’s Advocate

Bukola Ajilore is a passionate Christian leader with a focus on women’s ministry and relationships. She has served several congregations in Canada, Nigeria and Ghana for over 20 years, empowering youth and women to reach their goals in ministry, homes and careers.

Billionaires Partners

Her passion for prayer, marriage and relationships lead her to found Billionaires Partners- a women online prayer platform gathering women across North America weekly to pray over their homes, ministries and careers.

Grey Matlock Bakery — Bukola Ajilore | Founder- Wivesgist

Bukola Ajilore’s Wivesgist

A certified relationship and marriage counsellor, she is also the convener of Wivesgist– a leading wisdom hub for wives and wives-to-be. They hold spiritual re-awakening women monthly events bringing together women across the globe to share wisdom nuggets for their homes, ministries and careers.

Personal life

Unstoppable Bukola is married to her best friend Rotimi and they live with their two teenage daughters in Ottawa, Canada

Bukola’s Advice For Young Couples

They should allow God to lead them and not be led by pressure from anyone or anything. They should know their partner and be ready to be teachable. They should understand that marriage is a journey and not a sprint. Every season has its lesson. They should also surround themselves with the right people and listen to them.

They should learn from people (mistakes and success stories) and be prayerful because marriage is spiritual. They should be ready to leave their father and mother (the familiar) and cleave to their spouse. They should be discerning and allow God. They should also be friends.

In Interviews&profile May 16, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Hilda Baci Is Set To Break New Guinness World Record With Cook-a-Thon

Hilda Baci: The Nigerian Chef on a Mission to Break Records

In the world of culinary accomplishments, there are chefs who push the boundaries and set new standards. Hilda Baci, a 27-year-old Nigerian TV producer, actress, and head cook at FoodbyHilda, is one such trailblazer. With her sights set on breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon, Hilda is on a mission to make history.

The cook-a-thon kicked off on May 11 and will continue until May 14, featuring a captivating live-streamed show on various social media channels. During this extraordinary event, Hilda plans to showcase her culinary prowess by preparing over 250 recipes, captivating viewers with her culinary skills and creativity.

For Hilda, the journey to this cook-a-thon started five years ago. It has been one of her biggest aspirations, and she is overjoyed to have taken the bold step to embark on this remarkable adventure. The preparations for this marathon have been meticulous, both physically and mentally, as she geared up to take on this formidable challenge.

Beyond breaking a record, Hilda sees this cook-a-thon as an opportunity to share positive stories from Africa through the meals she creates. Each dish will carry with it a taste of the rich heritage, diverse cultures, and vibrant flavors that the continent has to offer. Through her culinary expertise, Hilda aims to showcase the beauty and creativity that emerge from African kitchens, providing a platform to promote the region’s culinary talent.

Hilda also hopes that her record-breaking attempt will inspire and empower young people around the world. With the right platform and support, she believes that young individuals can exhibit remarkable strength and achieve extraordinary feats. By challenging herself and pursuing her dreams, Hilda sets an example for others to follow their passions and push beyond perceived limitations.

The current Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon is held by Lata Tondon, who spent an impressive 87 hours, 45 minutes, and 00 seconds cooking in Rewa, India, in 2019. Hilda is determined to surpass this record, showcasing her dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to her craft.

The cook-a-thon will take place at Amore Garden, located in Lekki, Lagos, Nigeria. As the event unfolds, guests will have the opportunity to witness Hilda’s culinary prowess firsthand and partake in various side attractions. The atmosphere promises to be electric, with an air of excitement and anticipation permeating throughout the venue.

Hilda Baci is not just a chef; she is a visionary, a trailblazer, and an inspiration to all. Her journey to break the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon represents more than a culinary feat. It symbolizes the endless possibilities that lie within each of us when we dare to dream big and push beyond our limits.

Join Hilda on this exhilarating adventure as she strives to make history, redefine culinary boundaries, and share the rich tapestry of African cuisine with the world. Show your support for this remarkable young chef, and let us witness the power of passion, determination, and the indomitable spirit of Hilda Baci as she leaves an indelible mark on the culinary world.

Reaching out to Guinness

The Guinness World Records website is open to anyone from any country; there’s even a section for kids. After Nowe got on board, we went back to the website, filled out the form and submitted it for approval. I applied a couple of times before they approved because it’s similar to applying for a job or school admission; acceptance isn’t automatic.

They eventually emailed us the guidelines and set up my dashboard. After my cook-a-Thon, I’ll have to send them video evidence. Their team will assess and then update my dashboard to say I’d either broken the record or failed.

The recipes for the cook-a-thon

I’ll prepare about 80 recipes, but they’ll be repetitive. I could make Jollof six times in 24 hours. 80% of the recipes will be Nigerian cuisine. I’ll be making many different types of soups, porridge, rice and pasta. It’ll be a public event that people can RSVP to attend and eat as much as they can.

Hilda Baci’s love for cooking

It’s something I’ve always enjoyed doing. The first meal I ever cooked myself was Jollof spaghetti when I was in Primary Four. It was so nice, my mum asked me to make it again. But I goofed. I was seven years old, and it was too much pressure.

Cooking was never my ambition, but it followed me. I’ve always been the best cook in any space. I made the best-fried rice in my Home Economics class in senior secondary school. And in university, my schoolmates would pay me to cook, then take the food to their boyfriends, pretending they made it themselves.

Venue of the cook-a-thon

If you are in Lagos, kindly go to “The Amore Gardens” where the event is taking place to cheer her on! There is also free food!

Update: Hilda won the cook-a-thon by cooking for 100 hours and 45mins

Source: Zikoko and Bellanaija

In Editor's Choice June 1, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Pamela Anoliefo: Highly Sought-After Scrum Master Trainer & Founder Of Redluxe Consulting

Pamela Anoliefo immigrated with her family to Canada 5 years ago with a burning passion to effect positive change and prove herself. With over fifteen years of experience as a result–oriented Release Train Engineer, Scrum Master and Project Manager with significant expertise working with Waterfall, Hybrid, Agile and Scaled Agile teams, aiding transformation within organizations transitioning from traditional Project Management to Agile, coaching and mentoring newly transitioned Scrum teams. She has a successful track record of executing diverse Fintech, Retail, and Financial Services Industries project portfolios.

Redluxe Consulting

She is the founder and lead trainer at Redluxe Consulting, a full-service training company specializing in Scrum Master training. Redluxe training programs are designed to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and tools they need to become proficient Scrum Masters, Product Owners, or team members and leaders within their organizations.

Pamela is committed to creating a community of Agile practitioners who share a passion for collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning and are committed to positively impacting the world.

Her training programs target immigrants who are new to Canada, requiring training and mentorship to relaunch their careers in Canada. Considering her struggles to land a technology role when she first moved, Pamela provides tailored services to her students using her lived experiences as an immigrant.

Throughout her career Pamela has been a very active volunteer in her community, she was elected to the university council as one of forty councillors at Queen’s University Kingston, Ontario.

The council serves as both an advisory and ambassadorial body to the University as a whole and is responsible for the election of the Chancellor. In addition to having her training company, Pamela has provided free professional training to hundreds of new immigrants to help them land technology roles, and achieve career success and empowerment. Most recently, during international women’s Day in 2023, she ran a campaign to award a free 6-week scrum training mentorship and one-year job coaching to a lucky female immigrant who just moved to Canada.

Watch: How To Start a Career In Scrum- Pamela Anoliefo

Pamela continues to be passionate about raising the next generation of technology leaders while promoting workplace inclusion and diversity while fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning.

Speaking on the inspiration behind her Redluxe Consulting, the highly sought-after trainer had this to say;

“Most immigrants move to Canada and struggle to find meaningful work that matches their skill sets, therefore seeing this gap, I began to mentor and coach newcomers to Canada to help them land roles in Scrum and Business Analysis. And the more I worked with them, the more I saw how much difference it made in their confidence level and also their ability to land jobs.

Given this success, a lot of my previous mentors and friends urged me to consider starting my consulting firm to extend the impact and scope of my services to empower more people to get into technology even with no prior experience.

As a trainer and coach, I know that empowering people with the necessary skills to start a new career goes a long way in empowering them financially, which in turn makes a difference in their families and the economy as a whole”

Speaking further on what she loves about her job, the Scrum Master said; “As a Scrum Master and Release Train Engineer, I am a servant leader, which means I help other people succeed and this brings me satisfaction seeing how high performing my teams are and the cool products they launch that address customers’ needs or solve a customer’s pain point.

Most importantly, my role provides work-life balance, it is a high-paying technology role and so it checks all the boxes.”

Pamela Anoliefo | Lead Trainer- Redluxe Consulting

Pamela hopes her sector will get more BIPOC agile professionals into the role, as there is still a gap in the number of people of colour represented in the agile project management field.’

Connect with Pamela

Phone number: +16472196489

Email: info@redluxeconsulting.com

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/redluxeconsulting

In Inspiration May 11, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Women in Finance: A Spotlight on Tokunboh Ishmael’s Career Journey

Introduction

Women in finance are a force to be reckoned with, breaking through barriers and shattering glass ceilings in an industry long dominated by men. One such woman is Tokunboh Ishmael, a trailblazer in finance with a career spanning over two decades.

Ishmael has made a name for herself in private equity, investment banking, and economic development and is recognized as one of the most influential women in Africa’s financial sector. In this article, we will look closer at Ishmael’s impressive career journey, highlighting her accomplishments, challenges, and insights that can inspire and empower women in finance and beyond.

Early Life and Education

Tokunboh Ishmael was born in Lagos, Nigeria, in 1968. She attended the prestigious Queen’s College, Lagos, for her secondary education and later studied economics at the London School of Economics (LSE). After completing her undergraduate degree, Ishmael earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Harvard Business School in 1994. Her education at these highly regarded institutions gave her a strong foundation for her future career in finance and investment.

First steps In finance: Internships and entry-level positions

After completing her education, Tokunboh Ishmael took her first steps into finance through internships and entry-level positions. She began her career as an investment banker at Salomon Brothers in New York and later worked as a consultant at McKinsey & Company in London.

Milestones

The rise to prominence of Tokunboh Ishmael in the finance industry has been nothing short of remarkable. With a career spanning several decades, Ishmael has amassed an impressive list of achievements and milestones that have cemented her reputation as a leading figure in finance.

One of her key achievements was leading the team that advised on selling a Nigerian oil block for $1.3 billion, one of the most significant transactions in Africa at the time. Additionally, she co-founded Alitheia Identity, a private equity fund focused on investing in women-owned or led businesses in Africa.

Through her innovative ideas and dedication, Ishmael has become a prominent figure in the finance industry and a role model for aspiring women in business. From her early beginnings as an intern and entry-level employee to her current position as a highly respected venture capitalist, Ishmael’s journey has been marked by hard work, determination, and a passion for excellence.

Challenges

Tokunboh Ishmael faced several challenges as a woman in finance, particularly in a field that has historically been male-dominated. Women in finance have often faced biases and discrimination in the workplace, including unequal pay and limited opportunities for advancement.

Additionally, they often lack support and mentorship, making breaking through the industry’s proverbial “glass ceiling” difficult. Despite these challenges, Tokunboh Ishmael persevered and blazed a trail for other women in finance, using her experiences to inspire and empower others.

Here are some challenges that women in finance may face:

Gender bias and discrimination in the Workplace
Lack of female role models and mentors
Difficulty balancing work and family responsibilities
Unequal pay and opportunities for career advancement compared to male colleagues
Stereotypes and assumptions about women’s abilities in finance
Fewer networking opportunities compared to male colleagues
Lack of diversity in leadership positions within the finance industry
Pressure to conform to male-dominated workplace culture.

Philanthropic Ventures: Giving back to the community

Tokunboh Ishmael knows the importance of philanthropy to impact society positively, and she is an excellent example. Through various philanthropic endeavors, she has given back to the community. Her work in this area is a testament to her dedication to improving the world.

Furthermore, throughout her career, Tokunboh Ishmael has been involved in various philanthropic ventures, including supporting education, health, and entrepreneurship initiatives. Ishmael has also been active in promoting gender equality and empowering women in finance through mentorship programs and speaking engagements. Her commitment to making a positive impact on society serves as an inspiration to many.

Future goals and plans and career development

As a highly accomplished professional in the finance industry, Tokunboh Ishmael continues to strive for excellence and has set her sights on future career goals. She has expressed her desire to increase women’s financial representation and mentor the next generation of leaders. Tokunboh has also mentioned her interest in pursuing more board roles and investing in technology-driven businesses.

In addition to her career aspirations, Tokunboh is passionate about positively impacting the world. She plans to continue her philanthropic ventures and use her platform to empower women and youth through education and entrepreneurship.

With her drive, experience, and dedication, there is no doubt that Tokunboh Ishmael will continue to make significant contributions to the finance industry and beyond.

Advice for aspiring women in finance

As a successful woman in finance, Tokunboh Ishmael has gained valuable experience and insights throughout her career. She is a true trailblazer who has overcome challenges and achieved remarkable success in her field. Here are some lessons learned and advice from Tokunboh that can inspire and guide aspiring women in finance:

Believe in Yourself: One of the most critical lessons Tokunboh has learned is to believe in yourself and your abilities. Self-confidence is essential to success in any career, but it is vital in finance, where women are still underrepresented.
Persevere Through Challenges: Tokunboh has faced many challenges in her career, but she did not let them discourage her. Instead, she persevered and used each challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow.
Find Mentors and Role Models: Mentors and role models are crucial for career development. They can provide valuable guidance, advice, and support, especially for women in finance who may face unique challenges.
Be Open to New Opportunities: Tokunboh advises aspiring women in finance to be open to new opportunities and experiences. You never know where a unique opportunity may lead or what you may learn from it.
Give Back to the Community: Tokunboh believes in the importance of giving back to the community, and she has been involved in various philanthropic ventures throughout her career. Aspiring women in finance can also find ways to use their skills and expertise to impact the world positively.

Tokunboh Ishmael’s career journey is a shining example for women in finance. Her valuable lessons and advice can inspire and guide aspiring women to achieve success in this dynamic and rewarding field.

Tokunboh Ishmael’s Impact

Tokunboh Ishmael’s Impact on the Finance Industry in Africa is a topic that highlights the contributions and achievements of Tokunboh Ishmael in shaping the finance industry on the African continent. From her early career in finance to her rise to prominence, Tokunboh has left an indelible mark on the industry through her dedication to creating investment opportunities and supporting entrepreneurship.

Her impact has been felt in various sectors, including private equity, venture capital, and impact investing. Tokunboh Ishmael played several roles in transforming the finance industry in Africa. She co-founded and served as the Managing Director of Alitheia Capital, a leading private equity fund focused on investing in high-growth businesses that empower women and their communities.

Additionally, she served on the boards of several financial institutions and organizations, including the Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority and the African Venture Capital Association. Through her leadership and dedication, Ishmael has significantly impacted the finance industry in Africa.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Tokunboh Ishmael is an accomplished woman in finance who has significantly impacted Africa’s finance industry. From her early beginnings in finance to rising to prominence and giving back to the community through philanthropic ventures, she has faced and overcome numerous challenges.

Her advice and lessons learned offer valuable insight for aspiring women in finance, and her career continues to inspire and transform the industry. With her visionary leadership and impressive track record, Ishmael will remain a prominent figure in the finance world for years.

In Interviews&profile May 29, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Meet Canada’s Total Mom Pitch Top 100 Semi-finalists Mom Entrepreneurs

The award-winning initiative, Canada’s Total Mom Pitch presented by TD, has selected the top 100 semi-finalists of its entrepreneurship program. Celebrating its fifth year, Total Mom Inc. provides invaluable support to Canadian women entrepreneurs through the power of education and community.

The selected semi-finalists will participate in a three-week business program introducing mom entrepreneurs to industry experts. During this time, these women will gain insights into how to expand their businesses and strengthen their business pitch.

Total Mom Inc is a professional community network helping ambitious women-owned founders grow their businesses while juggling motherhood. The semi-finalists are business owners from coast to coast who have been diligent in establishing their brand. They represent a variety of industries including food and beverage, fitness, health and wellness, beauty, children and family products and services.

The top five finalists will be selected and invited to pitch their business live at the Canadian Women Entrepreneur Industry Gala (CWEgala) on May 30, 2023, in front of leading companies, executive judges, media and influencers. The prizes include non-dilutive funding, business services, and more to be announced.

“We are at the heart of the small business communities across Canada serving busy parents and women-led businesses, making growing their business just a bit easier so they can truly focus on what fuels their fire and the families they are growing”, said Anna Sinclair, CEO and Founder of Total Mom Inc. “Our goal is to create a powerful, educated and strategic community to prepare mom entrepreneurs for the future”.

Total Mom partners with some of North America’s biggest companies to help busy moms access education, connections and funding. This year, Total Mom is proud to partner with TD, Bell, huumans, Vista, Henry Brooks LLP, Trainual, North Road Digital, UPS and the Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub (WEKH).

This year’s executive judges include:

Krystal Van Westerop – National Manager, Women in Enterprise, TD
Devorah Lithwick – Senior Vice President and Chief Brand Officer, Bell
Paula Festas – Chief Executive Officer, huumans
Natasha Walji – Managing Director, Google Customer Solutions (Canada)
Andrea Henry – Co-founder and Business Law Partner, Henry Brooks LLP
Stephanie Palasti – Partner and Vice President of Client Solutions, The Influence Agency
Tanya Hayles – Founder, Black Moms Connection
Julie Cole – Co-Founder, Mabel’s Labels
Jenn Harper – Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Cheekbone Beauty
Dr. Wendy Cukier – Founder & Academic Director of the Diversity Institute, Academic Director of the Women Entrepreneurship Hub, and Research Lead of the Future Skills Centre

“Owning a business and being a mom of two myself, I understand how difficult it is to balance work and family life. I also know how important it is to have a strong support system and to have others believe in you”, expressed Stephanie Palasti, Partner and Vice President of Client Solutions at The Influence Agency. “It’s an honour to be on this panel with other moms supporting and encouraging each other to go after their dreams”.

After five years of the Total Mom Pitch, this is the best year for women entrepreneurs to grow their business. This opportunity is allowing moms across Canada to be recognized in-person at a 250+ gala with industry champions. For more information, visit www.totalmompitch.ca.

About the Total Mom Inc.

Total Mom Inc. is a professional community network helping ambitious women founders start and grow their businesses while juggling motherhood. Established in 2017, Founder & CEO Anna Sinclair started Total Mom Inc. after discovering a need for more valuable support offered to busy moms like her. Total Mom Inc. is a 100 percent women-owned company helping women across Canada access education and connections to break down barriers and build a profitable, sustainable business. Total Mom is the fastest-growing professional community of mom entrepreneurs, serving over 20,000 moms and growing. It does so through its award-winning programs and partnerships with North America’s largest brands. For more information, visit www.totalmom.ca

About Canada’s Total Mom Pitch

Canada’s Total Mom Pitch is an award-winning entrepreneurship, business pitch and awards program produced by Total Mom Inc. that aims to support women to start and grow profitable and sustainable businesses. It empowers real women with an ambitious vision to overcome the barriers they face as modern moms in today’s unpredictable economy.

The grant and awards program helps Canadian women who are growing their businesses and raising families to access entrepreneurship support, new opportunities and funding as well as education, mentorship and community support. Currently, in its fifth year, Canada’s Total Mom Pitch is Canada’s largest small business pitch grant and awards program for mom entrepreneurs.

The judges are comprised of some of Canada’s most successful women executives from major brands, as well as influential coaches. The program helps applicants see potential gaps in their start-up businesses, giving them an advantage in their business journeys. Total Mom Pitch partners with companies supporting equality, diversity and inclusion. It does so through recognition, awards, scholarships, and partnership opportunities for business growth. For more information, visit www.totalmompitch.ca

In Interviews&profile May 8, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Tomilola Majekodunmi Is Driving Financial Inclusion In Africa With Bankly

Tomilola Majekodunmi is a visionary entrepreneur and co-founder of Bankly, a fintech platform that is driving financial inclusion in Africa.

With the aim of providing access to financial services for all, Bankly is making it possible for people to make payments, save, withdraw, and transfer money to other people, particularly in locations where physical banks are difficult to access.

In Africa, traditional banking systems can be a challenge to access, particularly for those living in rural areas or low-income communities. This is where Bankly comes in, offering financial services to those who need them most. By leveraging the power of fintech, Bankly is helping to bridge the gap between the unbanked and the financial system, driving financial inclusion and improving the lives of millions of people in Africa.

Bankly’s platform is designed to be user-friendly, accessible, and secure. Users can open an account quickly and easily, using their mobile phones, and start accessing financial services immediately. The platform is built on modern, secure technology, ensuring that users’ transactions are safe and their personal data is protected.

One of the key ways that Bankly is driving financial inclusion in Africa is through its agent network. Bankly agents are entrepreneurs who operate small businesses in their communities, acting as intermediaries between Bankly and its users. These agents are trained to provide financial services to their customers, including deposits, withdrawals, and money transfers. By working with agents, Bankly is able to extend its reach and provide financial services to more people in remote and underserved areas.

Another way that Bankly is driving financial inclusion in Africa is through its focus on savings. Bankly offers a variety of savings products, including group savings and savings plans, that help people save for their future. By promoting a culture of saving, Bankly is helping to build financial resilience and security for its users.

In addition to its core financial services, Bankly also offers value-added services, such as bill payments, airtime purchases, and loan applications. These services make it easier for people to manage their finances and access the resources they need to improve their lives.

Tomilola Majekodunmi’s work with Bankly is making a significant impact on financial inclusion in Africa. Through its innovative fintech solutions, Bankly is helping to bring more people into the financial system, improving their access to financial services, and promoting economic growth and development across the continent. With Tomilola’s leadership, Bankly is poised to continue its growth and expand its reach, making a positive difference in the lives of millions of people in Africa.

In Interviews&profile May 4, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Meet Adeboye Joy Oluwatoyin, Feminist and Founder Of Resilient Girl Initiative

Nigerian women are breaking boundaries, and making a difference in the world. Adeboye Joy Oluwatoyin is one of them. She is a 21-year-old feminist who has made significant contributions to Nigeria’s humanitarian and youth engagement sectors. With over five years of experience in these fields, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership through volunteering with various NGOs and her social impact campaign projects.

Career

Throughout her career, Oluwatoyin has worked with several organizations, including the Female and More African Social Impact Fellowship, LEAP Africa, Women’s Advocate and Documentation Centre, BAOBAB, Inclusive Social Welfare and Empowerment foundation, and Nigerian Child Protection Trust. Her dedication to improving the lives of women and girls led her to found the Resilient Girl Initiative, an NGO focused on empowering young girls and women.

Oluwatoyin’s partnership and engagements have helped minors, sexual abuse victims, widows, and school children in Nigeria, she has also impacted her immediate school environment through webinars that raise awareness about sexual abuse and sex trafficking.

Other activities

Aside from her humanitarian work, she possesses impeccable storytelling skills, which have been instrumental in creating a documentary on sexual abuse, her passion for volunteering, hospitality, and humanitarian activities is evident in her numerous contributions to her community and beyond.

Oluwatoyin is a young and passionate feminist who has made remarkable strides in the humanitarian and youth engagement sectors in Nigeria. Her leadership, dedication, and impact have inspired many and continue to make a difference in the lives of those she encounters.

In Interviews&profile May 3, 2023 By Women of Rubies

The Rise of Damilola Ogunbiyi: A Trailblazer for Women in Renewable Energy

Meet Damilola

Damilola Ogunbiyi was born in 1975 in Nigeria. She grew up in Ibadan and was raised by her mother, a schoolteacher. Ogunbiyi completed her secondary education at the International School, Ibadan, before proceeding to the University of Ilorin, where she studied Electrical and Electronics Engineering.

Her leadership and advocacy have helped bring sustainable energy to rural communities in Nigeria and beyond. Her work to promote women in STEM and energy has inspired countless others to follow in her footsteps. In this article, we will explore the rise of Damilola Ogunbiyi and the impact she has made in renewable energy.

Early Life And Education Of Damilola Ogunbiyi

In 1975, Damilola Ogunbiyi was born in Nigeria and raised in Ibadan by her mother. Before enrolling at the University of Ilorin, Ogunbiyi attended the International School, Ibadan, where she studied Electrical and Electronics Engineering.

She later obtained a Master’s degree in Public Administration from the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. Her educational background in engineering and public administration laid the foundation for her career in the energy sector.

The Rise Of Damilola Ogunbiyi’s Energy Sector

In addition to driving sustainable development and expanding access to clean, reliable energy in Africa, Damilola Ogunbiyi is also a trailblazer in that field. With extraordinary leadership, innovation, and passion, her rise to prominence in energy access has been remarkable.

Ogunbiyi has held several positions, including being the CEO of the Nigerian Rural Electrification Agency, UN Special Representative for Sustainable Energy for All, and Manager of the Nigerian Rural Electrification Agency.

She has contributed significantly to promoting renewable energy, carbon reductions, and gender equality in the energy sector through her leadership. She continues to inspire and motivate young energy leaders to pursue their dreams.

Impact At The Nigerian Rural Electrification Agency

As CEO of the Nigerian Rural Electrification Agency, Damilola Ogunbiyi made significant contributions to the energy sector, driving initiatives to increase energy access in rural communities across Nigeria.

Her leadership, dedication, and innovative approach characterized her impact at the agency to implement sustainable energy solutions.

Over 1000 rural electrification projects have been developed due to Ogunbiyi’s work, affecting millions of lives and businesses. In the energy sector, her legacy continues to inspire others. The Rise of Damilola Ogunbiyi showcases her unwavering commitment to ensuring Nigeria and beyond access to clean, affordable energy.

Role As UN Special Representative for Sustainable Energy

During her UN Special Representative role for Sustainable Energy, Damilola Ogunbiyi helped drive global efforts toward achieving sustainable energy. As a result of her appointment in 2019, she immediately seized the opportunity to promote renewable and affordable energy solutions.

Through her tenure, Ogunbiyi developed and implemented policies and programs to expand access to sustainable energy in underserved communities in collaboration with governments, international organizations, and other stakeholders. She helped raise awareness of sustainable energy and mobilized resources to support initiatives in countries across Africa and beyond.

The Rise of Damilola Ogunbiyi as the UN Special Representative for Sustainable Energy expands her visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to promoting sustainable development.

ADVOCATING FOR WOMEN IN STEM AND ENERGY

As a champion for gender equality, Damilola Ogunbiyi has strongly advocated for women’s participation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields and the energy sector. Through her leadership positions, Ogunbiyi has worked tirelessly to promote gender diversity and inclusion in the industry and has actively encouraged women to pursue careers in STEM-related fields.

She believes empowering women and girls is crucial to achieving sustainable development and ending poverty. She has made it a priority to create opportunities for women in the energy sector.

At the 2018 Africa Energy Forum, Ogunbiyi won the Global Fairness Award and Women’s Economic Empowerment Award for her advocacy efforts. The inspirational work of her is an inspiration to female STEM and energy leaders and reinforces the importance of promoting gender equality.

Recognition And Awards For Damilola Ogunbiyi Work

Damilola Ogunbiyi’s impressive achievements in the energy sector have not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by her numerous awards and accolades. Several international organizations, including the United Nations, the World Economic Forum, and the African Development Bank, have recognized her work.

Ogunbiyi has been named one of Fortune’s 50 Greatest World Leaders and honored with the African Power, Energy & Water Industry Award for outstanding contribution to the sector. In addition, she was recognized as one of the 100 most influential Africans by New African Magazine in 2019.

For Sustainable Energy Under Ogunbiyi’s Leadership

Under Damilola Ogunbiyi’s leadership, the future of sustainable energy in Africa looks promising. Ogunbiyi has been a strong advocate for expanding access to clean energy sources and has worked to promote the adoption of renewable energy technologies across the continent.

Through her leadership roles at the Nigerian Rural Electrification Agency and the Sustainable Energy for All Initiative, she has implemented innovative programs and initiatives to increase energy access in rural communities, promote clean energy solutions, and foster sustainable development.

Ogunbiyi has also been instrumental in promoting private sector investment in the energy sector, creating opportunities for local entrepreneurs and businesses, and driving economic growth. Her vision for sustainable energy in Africa emphasizes the importance of community engagement and empowerment and the need for a collaborative, multi-stakeholder approach to achieve sustainable development goals.

Under Ogunbiyi’s leadership, sustainable energy is set to drive development and progress in Africa.

Conclusion

As a trailblazer for women in renewable energy, Damilola Ogunbiyi has achieved remarkable success in the energy sector.

Also, she has contributed to the Nigerian Rural Electrification Agency and Sustainable Energy for All Initiative by providing sustainable energy. In her vision of sustainable energy for Africa, Ogunbiyi’s leadership will undoubtedly shape its future.

Aspiring leaders can learn valuable lessons from Ogunbiyi’s journey, including the importance of education, perseverance, and advocating for marginalized communities. Ogunbiyi’s work has shown that positive change in the energy sector is possible with determination and a commitment to sustainability.