Women of Rubies - Women of Rubies

In Inspiration March 30, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Meet Janet Isesele, Convener Of The Future Is Now Conference

Janet Isesele is a leading Brand Strategist, Author, Activational speaker, and Social Development practitioner with over four years of experience working with Children and Youth across Africa.

She is the Founder/Executive Director of Build A Child Initiative, a nonprofit organization with the mandate of building up the younger generation to become purpose-driven leaders through Education, Advocacy, and Charity.

She is the convener of The Future is Now Conference(TFIN), an annual convergence of
secondary school students from different schools to build them to break the status quo and become purpose-driven leaders to make a difference in society and change the African Narrative.

Janet Contributions to community development have been deservingly recognized, having being
named as one of the Next15 Annual publication projects; 15 most influential young people in Ekiti state. A graduate of Banking and Finance from Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma Edo state, She has
certifications in project management, Human resource management, and leadership from The
Guardian of the Nation International Leadership Center (GOTNI), Africa’s prestigious leadership
development hub.

Janet is also a fellow of The Platform Young Professionals Bootcamp for high-potential 20-25-year-olds inspiring innovation and driving transformation in Nigeria.

Janet is a God-fearing, people-driven, and passionate young lady who seeks to bring
out the best in people.

In Editor's Choice March 29, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Dr. Penelope Adinku: Ghana’s First Female Cardiothoracic Surgeon Named Best Cardiologist In Africa

Besides making history, Dr. Penelope Adinku has been shattering the glass ceiling that will shape the paradigms of young girls for generations.

In 2022, Dr. Penelope Adinku made history as the first-ever female cardiothoracic surgeon in Ghana. The young, gifted, and brilliant doctor continued to make history as she completed her first heart surgery successfully on a 6-Year-Old.

The amazing Doctor is yet in the news again, having been crowned as the 2022 Best Candidate in Cardiothoracic Surgery in West Africa. “Congratulations Dr. Penelope Adinku, Ghana’s first female Cardiothoracic Surgeon and a staff member of the National Cardiothoracic Centre, on being crowned the 2022 Best Candidate in Cardiothoracic Surgery in West Africa,” the official Korle Bu Teaching Hospital Twitter account wrote on their page.

This accomplishment paves the path for women in a quest to become cardiothoracic surgeons.

While challenges for women pursuing STEM programs could be daunting, Dr. Adinku has shown that it is possible.

“Dr. Penelope Adinku feels it has taken so long for Ghana to have its first female cardiothoracic surgeon because of the demanding nature of the specialty, which makes it difficult for women to balance work and family obligations,” Leading Ladies Africa wrote in their publication about the winner of the 2022 Best Candidate in Cardiothoracic Surgery in West Africa.

Source: African Leaders

In Inspiration March 27, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Toyin Ndidi Taiwo-Ojo: Attitude Of The Society Towards Gender-Based Violence Is A Big Challenge

The beauty of being a legal practitioner is understanding the plight of those you defend, and advocating for them. Not many Lawyers can multi-task and deliver successfully both ways, but Toyin Ndidi Taiwo-Ojo is breaking boundaries in her profession as a Lawyer and Human rights activist. She is not only “walking the talk”, but also lending her voice to the voiceless, vulnerable, and marginalized in society.

The amazing legal practitioner is also the founder of Stop The Abuse Against Children and Women Foundation, popularly called Stop the Abuse foundation. The seasoned negotiator and mediator bagged her law degree from the Obafemi Awolowo University, also known as the Great Ife. She has worked in various notable firms.

She was one-time welfare secretary of the NBA Ota, Ogun State branch, and is currently a member of the NBA national NHIS committee, she was also at one time the Personal Assistant of the wife of the Executive Governor, of Kogi state, a position she held until she resigned in 2017 to face her advocacy passion squarely. A human rights advocate, she sits on the board of some notable charities in the country and has a great passion for vulnerable children, women, and the environment.

She shares her inspiring journey, and tips on the right way to report cases of violence and abuse.

Childhood Influence

Growing up with a widowed grandmother in the village, it was all too easy to understand the hardship that women and children face especially in a deeply patriarchal society. Also, seeing my grandmother stand up for herself and persuade her kinsmen to sell land for her when it wasn’t the norm to do so prepared me for this future.

The inspiration behind Stop the Abuse Against Children and Women Foundation

I have always offered pro-bono legal services to indigent people but my vision became clearer in 2015 when a young boy of six years named Promise was stabbed by his mom with a broken bottle as a sort of punishment for allegedly “ defiling” a two years old girl. There and then, I knew I had to do something. Most parents were ignorant of acceptable methods of disciplining, kids were being subjected to the most ludicrous form of abuse in the name of punishment, being raped and maltreated, and sometimes needing rescue from even their parents!

Being a legal practitioner, and human rights advocate and managing it all

Honestly, it has been God but having a supportive husband has made the journey easy.

Impact of Stop the Abuse Foundation since Inception

Oh wow! Stop The Abused was registered in 2018 and has rescued over 30 young girls from physical and sexual abuse. We have also rescued women from domestic abuse. Our food drives and economic empowerment interventions have affected more than 5000 families and it is still counting. Stop The Abuse Foundation is also keen on advocacy and sensitization and more than 10, 000 persons have been affected through our grassroots mobilization. The far reach of our constant appearances both on TV, newspaper, radio, and social media on advocacy and sensitization cannot be overemphasized.

What the Government should do to support the GBV sector

I think the government should support critical stakeholders by providing Funds! A gender purse should be set up with critical stakeholders and philanthropists to run it just like CACOVID was set up during the covid crisis of 2020.

Most shelters run by private owners are poorly funded. As of now in Nigeria, the cost of justice for survivors is very high! Within Lagos alone to rescue a child, one must be thinking of spending between 40,000 to 50,000 naira at least from providing vehicles for arrest to logistics of investigations with the police. When the suspect is arrested, one also must provide the vehicle to court and a lot of other sundry things. Government should be deliberate and help to see that our laws are more robust in tandem with current realities. This brings us to the issue of access to justice delivery. Countless adjournment makes the victims oftentimes give up but if cases were treated speedily, it would encourage victims to seek redress in court.

Challenges of my work

The attitude of society towards gender-based violence is a big challenge. The culture of silence being encouraged by our people is one example, victims of gender-based violence are not “supposed” to speak up or talk less about fighting for justice especially when the perpetrator is a family member, their extended family believes that the victim speaking up will break the “unity” of the family. This brings us to victim blaming. The general belief that it must have been what the victim wore or did that seduce the rapist is another sociocultural challenge. Our people see anyone who fights for other women as an over Sabi, the challenges are too numerous

Other projects and activities

We currently apart from rescuing victims and offering legal, paralegal, and psychosocial interventions free of charge. We also do food drives and economic empowerment for widows. We are currently looking at building a transit shelter for children. We are also planning a skills acquisition center to help indigent women who are survivors of domestic violence to become economically empowered to fend for themselves and their children.

What do you enjoy most about your job? The thing I enjoy most is the smile I get from survivors after a rescue! The smile often carried the whole message of gratitude, hope, and relief. Knowing that you have made a difference in the life of someone who has given up hope is quite exhilarating.

3 women who inspire me and why

My grandmother Blackie Ekwutoziam Awana is my first role model, she taught me that women can be anything they want to be! From being widowed at an early stage and quite illiterate, she questioned the tradition of not selling land to women in her hometown even when the woman had the money. She is an unsung hero. Women all over the world striving for a better life, keep inspiring me to be a better version of myself.

To women in abusive marriages who are afraid to flee

The covenant of life is far greater than the covenant of marriage.

Steps to take to seek justice for cases of domestic violence and rape

For a rape victim, the first is to speak up, do not let anyone shut you up. Speak your truth. If it is a recent rape incident, do not clean yourself(vagina) up and if you must, clean up, use a white handkerchief, tie the handkerchief in a clean white nylon, then go the hospital before going to the police. Call a human rights organization. Better still, call the human rights organization first to give you moral support as you fight for justice.

Being a Woman of Rubies

Honestly, my joy is to see more women and children free from all these indignities.

In Inspiration March 27, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Esther Enewerome Odafe: Writing A Brilliant Book Involves A Lot Of Research

A notable Author once said; “There is no friend as loyal as a book”. Reading is like a voyage through time, the more that you read, the more things you will know. We can’t downplay the culture of reading, and authors who write and curate the contents we digest.

Award-winning Amazon bestselling author, Esther Enewerome Odafe is one of such authors promoting reading culture, and also helping professionals, entrepreneurs, organizations, and individuals fulfill their dreams of becoming published authors.

The famous writer has worked with local and international clients to birth top-notch quality books that reflect their personal or business brands with 0% plagiarism. Her passion for equipping individuals with the right knowledge and skill set for decent work and economic development in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 8) has led her to birth a Facebook community of passionate and talented individuals who want to earn from their skills and grow their businesses.

Esther was shortlisted for the 2018 African Writer’s Award- Flash fiction category and; the 2020 SME100 Nigeria 25Under25 Awards- Creative Writing & Content Creation category; and her book won the 2021 Bookney Book of the Year Award.

She is also the founder of The Midas Touch Literary Services and co-founder of Bookney. Her works have appeared in local and international magazines, blogs, and television programs including Writers Space Africa magazine, Freelancers magazine, and Patabah books blog

She shares her inspiring journey with Esther Ijewere in this exclusive and insightful interview.

Childhood Influence

Growing up, my parents would buy me storybooks to read, and I believe it was their way of helping me to cultivate a reading habit. The great thing about reading is that it sharpens your mind and makes you want to bring your imagination to life through writing. Today, as a ghostwriter, writing a brilliant book involves a lot of research, which has to do with intensive reading. So, yes, my childhood prepared me for what I do.

The inspiration behind Bookney and From Hobby To Career Africa

Bookney was founded by me and Precious Osikha in 2020. In 2019, we noticed many authors complained about intellectual property theft, people selling their books and making money off them. This was what prompted us to start a unique and safe platform for book reading and publishing with better incentives for both authors and readers. I started the Facebook group, From Hobby to Career Africa out of a passion for equipping individuals with the right knowledge and skill set for decent work and economic development in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 8). My goal is to help passionate and talented individuals who want to earn from their skills and grow their businesses.

The journey so far

It has been an interesting journey so far, but not without challenges. However, persistence and seeing the bigger picture of my dreams have kept me going.

Being an author, ghostwriter, editor, and managing all the hats I wear

For me, it all boils down to knowing what jobs to take and how to arrange my schedule. Anytime I feel pumped to work, I do all the ‘heavy-lifting’ jobs and reserve the more fun ones for when I am lethargic and need an energy boost.

The ripple effect of training 100 newbie writers

This is certainly one of the most fulfilling things I have done. Getting testimonials and seeing milestones from past students about how they have put the training to use either by working for companies or running their businesses makes me happy. Also, helping clients who never thought they could become authors write their books and become bestsellers is fulfilling.

Challenges of my work

The major challenge for me would be meeting several deadlines around the same time. As someone who wears many hats, jobs come in at different times with varying deadlines. Sometimes they are so close, that it becomes hectic meeting those deadlines.

3 women who inspire me and why

My mum is my number one inspiration because of how resilient she is. The next person would be Esther Ijewere for her doggedness in helping people notwithstanding the outcome. Last but not the least, I would say to myself because of how determined I am to achieve my dreams.

Nuggets on how to become a successful ghostwriter and editor

The first thing I would recommend is to love knowledge. Whichever way you want to gain knowledge about new things is up to you although, I would recommend reading wide as your best shot. Also, develop the habit of being meticulous if you are not because you need this trait to deliver excellent work. Finally, learn the act of marketing your services and closing sales because, without sales, you are just not in business.

Being a Woman of Rubies

I am a woman of rubies because I am valuable, strong, and giving. Every business venture I have started, every book I have written, has all been intending

Contact details;

Social media handles:

Instagram: @enewerome

Facebook: Esther Enewerome Odafe-Ohakah

Email: contact@estherenewerome.com

www.estherenewerome.com

In Editor's Choice March 25, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Adefunke Adewumi Sets New Record With All Female-Owned Estate

Adefunke Adewumi has been supporting indigent communities, providing shelter for homeless victims of domestic violence, and empowering widows and single mums across the nation through her non-governmental organization, Black Diamond Support Foundation (BDSF).

The inspiring women’s advocate recently set a new record with first of its kind all-female-owned real estate initiative, Queens Estate, under her UNMASKED-Her Truth platform.

Defunke’s passion for seeing both children and adults live to their full capabilities and for women to thrive birthed her UNMASKED – Her Truth event, which allows women to be free, and be themselves, without the fear of being judged or condemned.

The Alumni of the University of Ado-Ekiti and Master of Arts in International Relations and Strategic Studies from Benue State University is also the CEO of The Food Sense Shop, a business that sells a variety of African items across the world.

Defunke shares her inspiring story and her recent feat as a real estate investor, and how she is creating room for women to thrive in this interview with Esther Ijewere

Childhood Influence

My greatest inspiration was gotten from my late mother, Eyesorun Adewumi, she was a selfless philanthropist who cared for children, before she passed on to glory, a lot of women acquired properties under her guidance. My mum denied herself the luxury of life just to support total strangers who all later became her adopted family.

I grew up seeing my mum, coordinate meetings with female indigenes in the palace premises bi-monthly for mentorship and to ensure that they achieve great feats independently for a more comfortable future. My mum was extremely protective of me. She was my rock and a great provider for us. My dad used to be busy due to his work, he was a strict man, loving too, and a provider for the house, but my mum molded me to become who I am, through the deeds I see her do, and her lifestyle.

Black Diamonds Support Foundation

Black Diamonds Support Foundation was established to sustain and continue the legacy my late mum stopped, however, she limited her philanthropy gestures to her local community, we took a step further by extending our arms of love across the nation to impact the lives of the less privileged, especially, women, children, and elderly people. The foundation is divided into the following active departments, namely:

WATARA: Walk and Talk Against Rape and Abuse Project 5000 kids: Feeding indigent 5000 children during the festive period, Medical Outreach in Slums/Shanties, Medical Interventions/Emergencies, Project Pick A child Project Pad a GirlChild/ Education Sensitization and Support for Teenage pregnant mums/babies

We started small and now to the glory of God, we are established in 10 states where we function actively, and we hope to reach more states to help less privileged homes.

The inspiration behind Queens Estate

The Queens Estate is a great achievement for us, and I am beyond excited that it’s the First All Female-Owned Estate in Africa. It started as a joke and as the goal-getter that I am, I couldn’t let it die a joke.

I am pleased to announce that our Queens Estate in Epe, Lagos, is finally a reality, and I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the 88 women who have taken the bold decision to be part of this dream and vision. You are all amazing, and I am honored to have you stand by my side.

I must give a special shoutout to Dr. Ibrahim Adekunle Israel, CEO of EverMark Homes and Properties, he has been our knight in shining armor, supporting the vision of the Queens Estate project greatly. He has been instrumental in all the necessary documentation processes to secure the properties. He stood with us through thick and thin, and we are eternally grateful.

Unmaskedhertruth Initiative

Unmaskedhertruth was born out of my desire to see fellow women flourish and realize our full potential as women of color, and I am bursting with pride as I reflect on how far we’ve come.

At “Unmaskedhertruth,” we are committed to providing a haven where every woman can share their stories without fear of judgment. We understand that women innately crave a place where they can unmask and reveal their true selves without bias, and we’re proud to be in that place.

We are a sisterhood movement that provides support to women across all spheres of life: physically, emotionally, financially, spiritually, socially, and mentally. Our group is a haven of truth and passion, and we’re thrilled to have been changing lives since inception and challenging the status quo. Matricahy is as important as Patriarchy. We are women and we deserve the honor.

What and who inspires me to be better

The lifestyle of my late mother whom I grew up to know, giving and volunteering in her philanthropic causes inspires me. Children are also my greatest motivation, picking a homeless child inspires me, as seeing an indigent child doing well in school, seeing a sick indigent child being well.

Hoping that all children have equal access to quality education, free health care, and total well-being for them to achieve their potential without any hindrances.

Why I support vulnerable persons with food

Growing up with a mother whose whole life is about feeding every mouth that is needed, it’s inborn.

Nigeria has been ranked 103 out of 121 countries in the 2022 Global Hunger Index, a position that signifies the nation “has a level of hunger that is serious”. My goal is to ensure they and others get the lifesaving support they need.

With support from individuals and a few corporate donors through the Black Diamonds Support Foundation, we create sustainable means of nutrition by establishing and supporting families with raw food within our selected communities. We reach the majority in a front-line model in the following methods: School feeding, Community-based nutrition interventions, Skills acquisition, and Job placement for beneficiaries

My greatest reward

My greatest reward is Genuine Smiles, seeing people smile from the bottom of their hearts is my most priceless gift. I do not do what I do for personal, social, or material gains.

Challenges of being a business owner

As the CEO of an NGO, our forefront vision is making our world a much better place by helping to fight injustice, poverty, hunger, man’s inhumanity to man, environmental abuses, global health challenges, gender-based violence, and many more. To achieve all these and more, we need grants, and sourcing funds from donor organizations had been difficult.

Lack of funds: running a foundation doesn’t lie in accomplishing projects alone. After the success of a certain project, we would want to maintain contact with our beneficiaries and make sure that there is continuous progress. Apart from that, the foundation would also want to be able to help more individuals and communities depending on their needs. To do so, we need to constantly acquire funds. In some cases, NGOs become complacent and simply wait for donations or previous supporters to contact them.

Although Black Diamonds Support Foundation has been funded by myself, friends, and very few corporate organizations occasionally. Not having enough funds not only poses difficulties in accomplishing projects but also puts NGOs in difficult positions there are also many operational costs.

Lack of networking: NGOs working together to reach their goals will provide more efficient results from my perspective. However, a lot of NGOs also see it as a form of competition, and some see it as a means to hijack and sole acclamation of glory for personal interests.

As a Realtor, it is no doubt that shelter is one of the most basic human needs in life. It is in truth very essential. The shelter is universally regarded as the second most significant human need, after food of course. Having a good house to return to after the day’s work brings absolute comfort. There are a lot of challenges such as :

The Land Use Act: A lot of realtors do not take this factor seriously.

Lack of infrastructure: basic amenities such as good roads, drainage systems, etc.

Documentation process: The process of documentation and property registration takes too long.

High Cost of Building Materials: the high cost of building materials and how it affects property development cannot be overstated. Most building materials are imported leading to their high cost.

Shortcomings of Mortgage Institutions: there is a limited number of mortgage institutions in Nigeria compared to the rate overseas.

And so many more, though we are getting better by the year compared to a decade ago we can do better.

Queens Estate In 5 years

I hope that by then, my initiative would have provided affordable residential estates to over 5000 women across Nigeria states and globally.

In Career Gems March 22, 2023 By Women of Rubies

8 Inspiring Nigerian Women Making A difference In Canada

These women have been able to break the barrier that prevents black women from reaching the top of their careers. They have been celebrated for their accomplishments, and recognized for changing narratives and making room for other women to thrive through their various endeavors.

In celebration of International women’s month, we highlight these 8 Nigerian women who are making us proud In Canada.

Esther Ijewere

Esther is the founder of Women of Rubies, a newspaper columnist, author, public relations and media strategist, and women’s advocate. She uses her online platform as a storyteller to highlight the contributions of Nigerian-Canadian women across the country.

Her work as a community builder and activist has been instrumental in helping to bridge the gap between the Nigerian and Canadian communities, creating a sense of belonging and connection for those who have immigrated to Canada. As a gifted storyteller, Esther uses her storytelling skills to raise awareness about social issues and inspire others to take action.

Esther’s stories often focus on the experiences of women, particularly those of Nigerian-Canadian women, and the unique challenges they face as immigrants in Canada.

She also anchors a talk show_ “Get Talking with Esther” an online talk show aimed at helping individuals put their thoughts to words, promote positive living, and find their voices

She was recently recognized as of the 100 Most Influential Female Founders in Africa.

Inspiring Nigerian Women In Canada — Esther Ijewere-Founder-Women of Rubies

2. Chioma Ogamba

Chioma is one of the most sought-after Immigration consultants in Canada. She addresses Business Immigration, Student Visas, Residency by Investment, and Citizenship. The amazon is the founder of Kisha Immigration, a licensed immigration firm found in Alberta, Canada. Her brand was formed out of her drive for assisting people to look for greener pastures abroad and put smiles on people’s faces through their dream actualization.

Chioma is a first-class honors graduate of Applied Business Computing in the UK. She also schooled in four other countries: Canada, Nigeria, Malaysia, and the United Kingdom. She moved to Canada as a permanent resident and obtained certification in Information Technology, Immigration Consulting, and an MBA in Business Administration.

Immigration Consultant in Canada — Chioma Ogamba- CE0-KIsha Immigration

3. Eno Eka

Eno Eka is a business analyst and change manager based in Calgary, Alberta. She is an award-winning career coach and speaker who has been recognized for helping more than 20,000 professionals around the world kickstart their professional careers. She is a business analysis content developer and course instructor at the University of Manitoba. She is the CEO of Eny Consulting Inc and the Founder of Business Analysis School.

4. Adedoyin Omotara

Adedoyin is a life coach, business coach, speaker, women empowerment advocate, and beauty entrepreneur. Born in Uk to Nigerian parents, her passion to live a purposeful life made her abandon her thriving Corporate Engineering field and turn into a women’s empowerment advocate and beauty entrepreneur.

The inspirational icon founded her well-structured company Adoniaa Beauty which can stand the test of time after retirement by attending business courses and investing in business coaches.

Adedoyin extends the business knowledge gotten from running her own company to others and she has helped a lot of business owners start, structure, and grow their firms productively.

Inspiring Niigerian women in Canada — Adedoyin Omotara | Image: Sheleads

5. Beauty Darosa

Beauty Darosa is the owner of Naija Jollof, a Nigerian food counter located in Westwood Square Mall in Mississauga, and other locations across Canada. Naija Jollof is a business that serves Nigerian dishes. Their food counter was birthed with their goal to prepare Nigerian traditional food and street food that Nigerians in Canada can enjoy especially Jollof rice.

6. Moyosore Sadiq-Soneye

Moyosore Sadiq-Soneye is an accomplished and versatile professional, holding dual qualifications as a lawyer in both Nigeria and Canada. She has obtained a Master of Law degree from the University of Leicester in the United Kingdom and holds two diplomas in Paralegal Studies and Immigration Consultancy, asides from her LLB & BL.

In addition to her legal career, Moyosore is a writer, movie producer, and coach. She has produced three Indigenous Yoruba-language movies: Isipo, Ebi Mi Ni, and Asepamo, which are currently available on AfricaMagic (DSTV) and YouTube platforms.

7. Adekelu Ogunleye

Adekelu a.k.a Kelu is an entrepreneur who owns Kelu Cooks, a business firm that focuses on tantalizing Intercontinental and African meals. The serial entrepreneur also owns other businesses, called ‘international Obioma,’ and Kelz cleaning services because of her passion for cleaning and organization skills.

Adekelu has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Lagos, in literature. She obtained a diploma in developmental service work program from Cambrian College, Canada from which she was given the ‘Leadership Award,’ and ‘Building Momentum Award.’

The talented fashionista obtains a style consultant certification to take her potential to another level. Adekelu Ogunleye’s passion for humanity ignited her interest in social work.

Nigerian Women in Canada — Adekelu Ogunleye

8. Monisola Kusanu

Monisola is the founder and CEO of fast-growing Sugartowndesserts, a cakes and desserts catering brand that provides custom cakes, desserts & chocolate-covered treats for all occasions and celebrations.

The brand has since grown in leaps and bounds. Sugartowndesserts is known for its unique tastes, colorful designs, and Customer-centric offerings which stand them out from the pack.

Monisola has a BSc in Statistics from Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ogun State, Nigeria. Her statistical knowledge helps her to better understand her customers, optimize her production process, improve her product quality, and increase profitability. She is revered for her commitment to excellence, eye for detail, and innovative ideas.

See the first list of 16 Nigerian Women making us proud here.

In Career Gems March 21, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Meet Patience Masua,The 23-Year-Old Member of The Namibian Parliament

At 23 years old, Hon. Patience Masua is Namibia’s youngest Member of Parliament. She was appointed as a Member of Parliament by President Hage Geingob in April 2021 following Defence Minister Peter Vilho’s resignation, making her Namibia’s and one of Africa’s youngest MP.

With a history of serving as the Secretary-General of Namibia National Students Organization (NANSO) and as the Speaker of the University of Namibia (UNAM) Student Representative Council (SRC), Hon. Masua holds a Bachelor of Laws( LLB) from the University of Namibia ( UNAM) and previously served as the Head Girl of Delta Secondary School in Windhoek.

Apart from her work in politics, Patience is very passionate about empowering young people through education and currently serves as the Namibian Country Director of the Southern Africa Youth Forum (SAYOF).

Early life

Masua was born in Gobabis, Omaheke, on 7 January 1999 after which her family moved to Windhoek. She attended pre and primary school at Kleine Professor College. However, she finished primary school at Suiderhof Primary School and proceeded to complete her high school at Delta Secondary School Windhoek where she served as Deputy Head Girl in the Learners Representative Council.

Student politics and activism

Patience entered mainstream student politics and activism in university, primarily through her newspaper opinion pieces and then serving in the student union as Faculty Representative for the University of Namibia Faculty of Law. Later she ran for the position of Speaker of Student Parliament of the UNAM SRC and won it in 2019. Thereafter she served as Secretary-General for the Namibia National Students Organisation (NANSO). In 2022, Masua inspired women leaders at Women Leaders Expo in Dubai. She shared her story as a politician and lawyer, fighting for equality and justice in Namibia.

Community Work

In 2021, Masua founded the Patience Masua Foundation Africa (PMF Africa). PMF Africa was established with the mission to empower young Namibians in the areas of education, entrepreneurial development, capacity-building and research.

In Career Gems April 4, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Meet Monisola Bukola, The Highly Sought-After Canadian Baker Behind Sugartowndesserts

Nigerian women are breaking boundaries in Canada, and they are inspiring other women to do the same. Monisola Bukola is one of the most sought-after business owners in Canada.

She is the founder and CEO of fast-growing Sugartowndesserts, a cakes and desserts catering brand that provides custom cakes, desserts & chocolate-covered treats for all occasions and celebrations.

The brand has since grown in leaps and bounds. Sugartowndesserts is known for its unique tastes, colorful designs, and Customer-centric offerings which stand them out from the pack.

In 2023, she was named one of the “Top 22 Inspiring Women to Watch ” by Women of Rubies. She has also been invited to speak at various conferences and events about her experiences as an entrepreneur.

The inspiring damsel faced numerous challenges when starting her business, however, she persisted and was able to overcome these difficulties through hard work and willpower. This diligent damsel draws inspiration from everything around her. From movies to clothes, shoes, pictures, and lots more.

Monisola’s ultimate dream is to grow Sugartowndesserts, own her own bakery/dessert bar, and establish it as a leading cake & desserts catering brand across Canada. She is also looking to explore new business opportunities and give back to women who desire to impact society.

Childhood Influence

I grew up in a family of entrepreneurs. Business was a daily conversation in my family. While growing up I learned patience, resilience & relationship building which has prepared me for my entrepreneurial journey.

Inspiration behind Sugartowndesserts

I have a history of entrepreneurs in my family, which has been a major influence I must say. I also have an entrepreneurial spirit and a very strong desire to succeed.

The journey so far

The journey to starting a business can be rough and interesting, I mean the thought of being my boss is enough motivation for me to keep it going. Honestly, there have been ups and downs, struggles and failures, losses and gains, it’s all worthwhile I must say.

The pastry industry in Canada

It is a thriving industry with prospects. I have seen and met other bakers who are doing amazingly well because we are in a society where the system helps entrepreneurs to thrive.

My future goals for Sugartowndesserts

I am looking to have my bakery where I can serve cakes and desserts, a one-stop place for everything pastries where customers get value for their money and refer my business to others.

3 women who Inspire me and why

1)My mum for her inspirational teachings & advice

2) Oprah Winfrey for her compassion

3)Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala for her boldness

Challenges of being a business owner

Accessing funds & balancing business and family life. As a career woman, I try to balance every area of my life and ensure everything runs smoothly. I am also blessed to have a supportive partner who understands the challenges of my business, and steps in to help at all times.

Managing my role as a mom, wife, and business owner

I set daily goals and I don’t forget self-care. I have set a boundary between workspace & family time that works for me.

To young Canadian women who want to go into my line of business

Dream big, never stop improving yourself, be teachable, and never give up. The sky is comprehensive for everyone to fly. Soar and keep pushing.

Nuggets on how to build a successful business in Canada

If you want to be successful, surround yourself with business owners in your field and have a clear purpose for your unique selling point

In Inspiration March 14, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Omotoke Olugbode: I Want Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder To Have Access To Therapy

Omotoke Olugbode is an inclusive education advocate with over five years experience in education, community service, and advocating for children with disabilities.

She holds a Bachelor Degree in Education (Educational Foundation and Counseling) from Obafemi Awolowo University and a certificate in Youth Mental Health First Aid in USA. She is a Mandela Washington fellow and a 2020 LEAP Africa SIP Fellow.

She has spoken at International conferences including, The Concordia Summit at the Grand Hyatt, Voice of women at Wagner College. She also had an internship opportunity with the Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual Disability, Philadelphia, USA.

Omotoke believes education is the bedrock of everything and without it she would not have been able to achieve all she has. She is the Founder and CEO of The Autism Awareness Foundation and Theraconnect.

Childhood Influence

Growing up was a bit challenging, but I grew up in a family full of love; my parents are loving and amazing people,my mum is the disciplinarian while my dad condones me a lot; people often say it’s because we look alike. I never had all I wanted while growing up, but received love from my sisters all the time; we shared everything, and we confide in each other.

My upbringing definitely contributed to what I do now, I understand the pain of women with children with disabilities in rural communities having been born and raised in one at Oworonshoki community. My passion for setting up The Autism Awareness Foundation came from my personal experience too.

Inspiration Behind Autism Awareness Foundation (TAAF)

The Autism Awareness Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation that raises awareness about disability and inclusion of children with disability in the classroom and society while eradicating stigmatisation and marginalisation. We ensure children with disability, especially children on the autism spectrum disorder, get access to good and quality therapy for early intervention to function and get included in the school system as most children with disability are always denied access to inclusive and quality education.

The Foundation started in 2017 where we create awareness for children on the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). We have been involved in active teachers training and parental support group. Due to our work expansion and experience, we set up the social enterprise of THERACONNECT as physical connecting platform before thinking of the App. Currently, since May 2018, we have been involved in outsourcing over 50 therapists and special needs educators to parents, teachers and school.

Passion For Inclusive Education

I am a Teacher by profession, and I got into the teaching profession as a zeal I have for teaching, which was further influenced by my friend who had a disability during my secondary school days; I watched how she couldn’t get the adequate and efficient education during our school days. Teachers would rather not have her in their classroom and she most often does not come to school at all.

That experience made me developed a passion to become a teacher and a deep commitment for children living with disability so that I could be able to teach them in the classroom. After my University Education, I discovered that my teachers then could not teach my friend because they do not have the knowledge and skills to teach children with disabilities. The spark and motivation to start my social initiative came after reading an online article about a mother with a child with Autism, how people referred to her child as being possessed; this brought back memories of my experience in secondary school with my friend.

Other Projects And Activities

Apart from my NGO, The Autism Awareness Foundation, I am also an Innovator; THERACONNECT is online App where parents can connect with therapists without leaving their home, which saves them stress, money and time. I am a social entrepreneur, I currently run a social enterprise called The Sensory Place, which focuses on sensory materials, toys and montessori schools equipment for parents and schools owners while also consulting for schools on issues pertaining to inclusion in their classroom and connecting with therapists to schools and parents.

Achievements ‎As A Global Youth Figure

My achievement on inclusion has always come through my NGO; my impact has made over 100 parents access therapy for their children for early intervention, increase the awareness around autism spectrum disorder to over 5000 people in the community through our annual Walk Aware Autism and trained over 1000 teachers on skills needed to include children on the spectrum in their classroom both online and physical training with the advent of our online support for 30 parents as a form of continued training and counseling.

In all of this, my greatest achievement is when parents call me after their kids have been able to achieve a developmental milestone and when they get accepted in an inclusive school, the joy and smiles on parents at such moments always mean everything to me.

Challenges

Challenges are bound to happen, will happen and they still happen. One of the challenges I faced is the stigmatisation and marginalisation that comes with working with children with disability, which is a big problem of acceptance and inclusion. Another challenge is the myth associated with children with disability as a punishment from God.

As such, most parents in my community prefer to keep their children at home and lock them inside rather than bring them out for assessment and therapy, as most schools won’t accept them. Even when schools finally accept them, other parents in the school sometimes withdraw their children from the school, saying they don’t want their children to catch the disability.

Finally, I am faced with the challenge of lack of trained teachers to facilitate learning in the classroom. I have been able to overcome these challenges through training and holding meetings with school owners to explain that disabilities are not contagious and children benefit more when they learn in inclusive settings.

Women Who Inspire Me And Why

One of the women who inspire me is Clare Henshaw, she runs Girls Inspired Foundation. She has gone off to inspire many girls and yet with a humble and kind spirit; I am surely learning humility from her.

Another is Jasmine; Jasmine is a mother to a child on the autism spectrum disorder who I met in Philadelphia. Despite her position, she has constantly been reaching out to me on how to provide support for more mothers in Africa and especially Nigeria.

Lastly is my Mother, being a mother to four ladies without a boy child, I know we all know how the narrative would have been, but she has kept it all together and always there for us her children. She constantly teaches faith and trust in the most difficult time.

Advice To Young Women

I will tell them to explore all the opportunities they have at their disposal, aim for the sky and land among the moon, dare the impossible and to keep showing up for themselves. I will tell them that impossible is nothing and they are born to do great and amazing things. They should never underestimate themselves and to keep shattering limits and breaking new grounds.

In Inspiration March 14, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Blessing Okebe: How To Use Personal Branding To Turn Your Failure Into Opportunities

We often hear about the importance of showcasing our strength and accomplishment while building our personal brand but what about our mistake? What about the times when we failed, the times we wanted to give up or give in, Why don’t we share these moments as well?

The truth is most mistakes can be frustrating, embarrassing, and even painful, but they are also an integral part of life. We all make mistakes, in our businesses, careers and personal lives, and while they can be difficult to navigate, they can also present opportunities for growth for us and inspiration for others.

Contrary to what some people think, sharing your mistakes and past failures actually shows how strong you are. They show what you’ve been through and make your journey a source of motivation to everyone going through a rough patch. With your failures, people can easily connect with your brand and this makes you relatable which is the spice of every brand that desires to stand out.

Before you go sharing your mistakes, there are a couple of things you must know to protect yourself, inspire your audience and attract your desired opportunities.

They are:

Embrace Your Mistake

The first step in leveraging mistakes for your personal brand is to embrace them. Don’t beat yourself up about them but recognize that they are a natural part of the learning process and that they can be a source of valuable lessons. Believe that they are only in your past to push you forward. Accept them and embrace them by doing this, you demonstrate vulnerability and authenticity, which can help to build trust and connection with your audience.

Acknowledge The Lessons

The second step is to learn from your mistakes. This involves reflecting on what went wrong, what you could have done differently, and what you can do to prevent similar mistakes in the future. If they are mistakes in your business or career, recognize the cost of it and adopt a growth mindset approach to see how you can turn them into opportunities for improvement, which can help to build your brand as a resilient professional or entrepreneur who learns from the past and moves on.

Share The Lessons Not The Mistake

When you do the first two, this part becomes easier but must be done focusing on the outcome of your failure and not the failure itself.

Create content around the lessons you learned from that mistake or failure and how you are applying these lessons. If the application of these lessons have led to a win, use that to your advantage. This way you are not talking from a place of pity but of strength. You are using that mistake of yours to prevent others from making it, inspire people who have made it and teach them how to push through after making it.

The goal is to brand yourself based on what you learned from the failure – not the failure itself.

While sharing this you should focus on:

The investment you made (You can keep this as vague as possible)
What made you realize your business wasn’t ready for it
The lessons you learnt as a result
How your business recovered
How you knew your business was finally ready for the investment
Your progress so far
What this means for your business

This way, you are:

Being human and building an emotional connection with your audience through your mistakes
Inspiring other entrepreneurs and teaching them from your failure
Inspiring other people who may not be entrepreneurs but can learn from your failure
Showcasing your expertise through your progress
Promoting your business and positioning it for opportunities

Most importantly, it is coming from a place of strength and you don’t feel bad about your mistakes anymore because you’ve learnt from it and are now leveraging it to attract opportunities and connect with your audience. You are flipping the coin on failure and taking advantage of it.

In a world where perfection is often expected and mistakes are viewed as failures, it can be difficult to imagine how making mistakes can actually be a good thing. But with this article I have shown you that it is possible. I have shown you that by leveraging the power of personal branding, you can turn your failures to opportunities.

About the Author

Blessing Okebe is the game-changer for experienced professionals and entrepreneurs who want to stand out in crowded markets, attract high-level opportunities, and make a lasting impact. She does this by helping them amplify their work and voices while building thought leadership in their respective fields. Reach her via okebeblessingifegwu@gmail.com or @blessing.okebe