In Inspiration January 23, 2026 By Women of Rubies

Ruth E. Carter Makes Oscar History as the Most-Nominated Black Woman Ever

The legendary costume designer has earned her fifth Academy Award nomination for Best Costume Design for her work on Ryan Coogler’s Sinners, officially making her the most-nominated Black woman in Oscar history across any category. With this milestone, Carter extends a legacy that has not only shaped cinema but also paved the way for future generations of Black creatives.

Before this year’s nomination, Carter was tied with Oscar-winning actress Viola Davis at four nominations. She now stands alongside Spike Lee and Morgan Freeman, each with five nominations, ranking among the most-recognized Black creatives in Oscar history. Only Quincy Jones (seven nominations) and Denzel Washington (nine nominations) stand ahead.

A Career Rooted in Cultural Storytelling

Ruth E. Carter is widely celebrated for her ability to use costume as storytelling, honoring history, culture, and identity through design. Her work has consistently elevated Black narratives on screen, most notably in Black Panther (2018), for which she became the first Black woman to win an Oscar for costume design. Her nomination for Sinners further solidifies her role as a cultural architect in film.

In this year’s Best Costume Design category, Carter joins an accomplished group of nominees including Deborah L. Scott (Avatar: Fire and Ash), Kate Hawley (Frankenstein), Malgosia Turzanska (Hamnet), and Miyako Belizzi (Marty Supreme).

Breaking Barriers and Earning Oscars

Carter’s work on Marvel’s Black Panther marked a watershed moment in cinema. The costumes were more than outfits, they were symbols of pride, power, and identity, rooted in Afrofuturism and rich African tradition. For this achievement, she became the first Black woman to win an Academy Award for Best Costume Design.

She repeated that historic win with Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, becoming the first Black woman to win multiple Oscars in any category, a distinction that cements her legacy while spotlighting how rarely Black designers have been recognized at Hollywood’s highest levels.

Now, with her fifth Oscar nomination — this time for her work on the period-rich Sinners, Carter has surpassed legendary actresses and creatives to hold the record for the most nominations of any Black woman in Oscar history.

Design Philosophy: Culture, Respect, and Visual Truth

Carter’s approach to costume design centers on truth and representation. For Sinners, set in the early 20th-century American South, she described her work as an act of cultural preservation, using clothing to protect and reflect the lived realities of Black working-class life rather than merely embellishing characters. This level of nuance and historical sensitivity has defined her career.

Her designs don’t just dress actors; they tell their stories. Whether it’s the vibrancy of African-inspired regalia or the layered texture of Depression-era clothing, each piece becomes a visual narrative that deepens audience engagement with the story.

More Than an Oscar Nominee: A Cultural Legacy

Beyond the Oscars, Carter’s contributions extend to education and inspiration. Her memoir, The Art of Ruth E. Carter, chronicles her creative journey and creative philosophy. Her work has been featured in traveling exhibitions exploring Afrofuturism in Costume Design, showcasing how cinematic costume can reflect identity and imagination.

She also serves on the Academy’s Board of Governors for the Costume Designers Branch, helping shape the future of the industry and championing greater diversity in storytelling.

Celebrating Legacy, Visibility, and Impact

Ruth E. Carter’s achievement is more than a personal milestone, it is a reminder of the power of sustained excellence and representation. Her work has not only shaped cinematic worlds but has also expanded what visibility looks like for Black women behind the scenes.

At Women of Rubies, we celebrate moments like these because they reflect the very essence of our mission: honoring women who break barriers, build legacies, and redefine what leadership and creativity look like on a global stage.

Ruth E. Carter’s legacy is still unfolding, and history is watching.

In Career Gems January 20, 2026 By Women of Rubies

Why So Many Women Doing Impactful Work Are Still Invisible

Too many women doing impactful, community-shaping work are still invisible.

Across industries, women founders, creatives, nonprofit leaders, and advocates are building powerful solutions, driving change, and serving their communities, yet their stories often go unseen and unheard. The issue is rarely a lack of talent, effort, or preparation. More often, it is a lack of access to visibility.

In today’s media-driven world, visibility determines whose work is recognized, funded, and supported. And for many women, especially Black women and women from underrepresented communities, that access remains limited.

Visibility Is the Difference Between Impact and Opportunity

Visibility is often treated as optional, something to pursue later, once the work is “bigger” or “more established.” In reality, visibility is a growth tool. It shapes perception, credibility, and opportunity.

When women doing impactful work gain visibility, they unlock:

Increased trust and legitimacy
Access to partnerships and funding
Opportunities for media coverage and speaking
Broader community reach and influence

Without visibility, even the most meaningful work can remain confined to small circles, limiting its ability to scale and create lasting change.

Why Women Doing Impactful Work Remain Invisible

The visibility gap is not accidental. Many women face systemic barriers that limit their exposure to media platforms, industry gatekeepers, and decision-makers.

Some of the most common challenges include:

Limited access to media and storytelling platforms
Lack of guidance on how to pitch their work effectively
Confidence gaps shaped by exclusion, not capability
Few spaces designed to amplify women’s voices intentionally

As a result, women are often encouraged to “keep building” without being shown how to position their stories in ways that attract attention, support, and opportunity.

Shifting the Narrative Through Visibility

Addressing invisibility requires more than encouragement, it requires structure, access, and intentional platforms. Women need spaces that help them clarify their stories, communicate their impact, and be seen by the right audiences.

This is where visibility initiatives play a critical role. When women are supported to articulate their work clearly and confidently, they are better positioned to claim space, attract support, and expand their reach.

Introducing the Media Pitch Challenge

In celebration of Black History Month, Women of Rubies is hosting the Media Pitch Challenge, a visibility-focused initiative created to spotlight women whose work deserves greater recognition.

The Media Pitch Challenge is designed to help women doing impactful work move from preparation to exposure. It is not about perfection or polished PR language. It is about clarity, confidence, and learning how to communicate your story in a way that resonates with media, audiences, and opportunities.

Participants receive guided support to refine their pitch and share their work within a curated visibility ecosystem.

What Participants Gain

Women who take part in the Media Pitch Challenge receive:

A Media Pitch Workbook to structure and strengthen their story
Access to a live group pitch coaching session led by visibility coaches
The opportunity to pitch before industry and media judges
A certificate of participation from Women of Rubies

One standout participant will receive a $2,500 Media Visibility Package, including featured content, interviews, social amplification, and strategic visibility support.

Who This Is For

The Media Pitch Challenge is open to women who are:

Founders and entrepreneurs
Creatives and storytellers
Nonprofit and NGO leaders
Advocates and community builders
Professionals with meaningful work to share

If you are doing impactful work and feel your story deserves to be seen more widely, this initiative was created with you in mind.

Why This Matters During Black History Month

Black History Month is a time to honor leadership, contribution, and excellence, not only from the past, but in the present. Spotlighting women doing impactful work today is part of continuing that legacy.

Visibility is not about attention for attention’s sake. It is about representation, access, and creating pathways for women’s work to be recognized and supported.

Step Into the Spotlight

The Media Pitch Challenge takes place on February 28, and participation is now open.

If you are ready to:

Clarify your story
Strengthen your visibility
Share your impact with confidence

You are invited to learn more and apply.

👉 Learn more and apply here: womenofrubies.com/mediapitch
📩 Questions: pitch@womenofrubies.com

Because impactful work deserves visibility, and your story deserves to be seen.

In Career Gems January 17, 2026 By Women of Rubies

How to Become a Member of the Women of Rubies Collective Community (RCC)

Visibility doesn’t happen by accident. For many women, it takes intention, the right support system, and a community that believes in their story as much as you do.

That’s exactly why we created the Women of Rubies Collective Community (RCC), a paid membership designed for women who want consistent visibility, media clarity, and real opportunities, not one-off features.

Why the Rubies Collective Community Exists

Over the years at Women of Rubies, we noticed a recurring question after spotlight features and bootcamps:

“What’s next?”

Women wanted more than a single feature. They wanted:

Ongoing visibility
Media positioning support
Strategy and accountability
Access to opportunities and collaborations

RCC was created to bridge that gap, a space where women don’t just get seen once, but are supported to show up confidently all year long.

What Is the Rubies Collective Community (RCC)?

The Rubies Collective Community is a year-long visibility and media support membership for women building brands, businesses, careers, and impact-driven initiatives.

It brings together women who are ready to:

Own their story
Position themselves for media and speaking opportunities
Build credibility and authority
Stay visible without burning out

This is not about chasing clout. It’s about intentional visibility that opens doors.

What You Get as an RCC Member

When you join RCC, you receive:

One guaranteed Google-optimized spotlight feature on Women of Rubies (live permanently)
One private 20-minute media clarity & strategy session with our team
Year-long media visibility support across our platforms and communities
25% discount on all Women of Rubies events and bootcamps
VIP access to select Women of Rubies and partner-led sessions
Access to the Rubies Resource Vault (media pitch templates, brand audit tools, replays, and resources)
Private WhatsApp & Telegram communities for high-level networking
Digital RCC Member Badge + welcome shoutout
Priority access to spotlight opportunities, collaborations, and campaigns

In short, you don’t walk this visibility journey alone.

Who the Rubies Collective Community Is For

RCC is for you if:

You’re tired of being excellent in silence
You want your work to be seen, shared, and respected
You’re building something meaningful and want the right audience to find you
You value strategy, community, and alignment over noise

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, creative, coach, nonprofit founder, or professional — your story deserves space.

How to Join the Rubies Collective Community

Joining RCC is simple:

Visit www.womenofrubies.com/rcc
Choose your Annual Membership
Complete your registration and payment
Receive your welcome email, intake form, and onboarding details
Begin your visibility journey with us

Once you’re in, we guide you every step of the way.

Why Now?

Opportunities don’t always come when we feel “ready.” They come when we decide to show up.

If 2026 is the year you stop hiding, stop shrinking, and start positioning yourself intentionally, RCC was built for you.

Your story matters.
Your voice matters.
And visibility, when done right, can change everything.

👉 Join the Rubies Collective Community today: www.womenofrubies.com/rcc

In Career Gems January 14, 2026 By Women of Rubies

Grants for Women Entrepreneurs in Canada: Funding Opportunities to Apply for in 2026

Access to funding remains one of the biggest challenges facing women entrepreneurs in Canada. While talent, innovation, and ambition are not in short supply, knowing where to find funding and how to apply strategically can make the difference between survival and sustainable growth. Many founders miss out not because their businesses lack potential, but because they’re unsure how to position their story, financials, and strategy in a way funders understand.

To support women navigating this process, Women of Rubies is hosting a Funding Masterclass focused on helping women entrepreneurs prepare for grants and other financial opportunities. The session will be facilitated by Sola Oluwole, an experienced entrepreneur and development finance specialist who has supported women founders in navigating funding readiness and access to capital.

As we step into 2026, several grants and funding opportunities for women-owned businesses are currently open or accepting rolling applications. Below is a curated list of funding options women entrepreneurs should explore, whether you’re just getting started or ready to scale.

Her Agenda Breakthrough Grant

The Her Agenda Breakthrough Grant is a $5,000 grant designed to support women entrepreneurs who are actively building and scaling their businesses.

Grant amount: $5,000
Who can apply: Women entrepreneurs with an existing business
Requirements: Applicants must be subscribed to the Her Agenda newsletter

This grant is ideal for founders who are beyond the idea stage and need funding to unlock their next phase of growth, whether for marketing, operations, or product development.

Amber Grant for Women (Rolling Monthly Grant)

The Amber Grant is one of the most accessible funding opportunities for women-owned businesses in Canada and the U.S.

Grant amount: $10,000 awarded every month
Additional opportunity: Monthly winners are eligible for a $50,000 annual grant
Who can apply: Women-owned businesses (minimum 50% ownership)
Deadline: Rolling — apply before the end of each month

Because this grant runs monthly, it’s a strong option for women entrepreneurs who may not be selected the first time but want to apply consistently throughout the year.

Visa “She’s Next” Grant Program

Visa’s She’s Next Grant Program supports women entrepreneurs with funding and mentorship. In Canada, the program is delivered in partnership with York University’s YSpace.

Grant amount: $10,000 CAD
Additional support: 4-month mentorship and business acceleration program

Eligibility includes:

Women-owned businesses (at least 50%)
Operating in Canada
Minimum revenue threshold applies

This program is well-suited for founders who want both capital and strategic guidance to strengthen their business in 2026.

Zensurance Small Business Grant

The Zensurance Small Business Grant is a $25,000 funding opportunity for Canadian small businesses, including women-led and women-owned ventures that are actively operating and registered in Canada (though applicants from Quebec, Yukon, Nunavut, and the Northwest Territories are generally excluded from eligibility). To participate, businesses must complete an online application, provide a brief explanation of how they would use the funds, and follow specific participation steps outlined by Zensurance. A shortlist of finalists is selected, and the grant winner will receive $25,000 in funding, with additional smaller grants awarded to runner-ups.

Grant amount: $25,000
Who can apply: Canadian small business owners (operating, registered, and with annual revenue within eligibility criteria)
What’s required: Complete application, compelling business story, and participation steps (such as following Zensurance’s social channels)
Status: Application currently open for the most recent cycle (with winner to be announced January 27, 2026)

This grant can be a significant boost for small business operations, marketing, equipment investments, or scaling initiatives, and is a great opportunity to share with your audience in addition to the women-focused funding options above.

Government of Canada Funding for Women Entrepreneurs

Through the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy (WES), the Government of Canada continues to invest in women-led businesses across the country. While not all opportunities are direct grants, funding streams include:

Non-repayable grants
Micro-loans and growth loans
Capacity-building and ecosystem programs
Sector-specific and regional funding opportunities

Application periods vary depending on the delivery organization, so founders are encouraged to check federal and regional partners regularly for new intakes.

These programs are particularly valuable for women entrepreneurs seeking long-term growth support, financial readiness, and credibility.

Preparing to Win Funding in 2026

Accessing funding is not only about finding the right opportunity, it’s about preparation. Understanding what funders look for, how to communicate your impact, and how to present your financial readiness can significantly improve your chances of success.

That’s why our Funding Masterclass is designed to help women entrepreneurs move from uncertainty to clarity, and from preparation to opportunity.

In self development January 24, 2026 By Women of Rubies

Access to Capital: How Women Entrepreneurs Can Position Themselves for Funding

The new year is here, a time to grow, scale, and position your business for opportunities that truly matter. One of the biggest challenges women entrepreneurs face is access to capital, whether it’s grants, loans, or investment. Knowing how to present your business, your story, and your strategy can make the difference between preparation and opportunity.

That’s why we’re thrilled to host a special masterclass with Sola Oluwole, an experienced entrepreneur, financial strategist, and women’s advocate, who will guide participants on how to position their businesses for funding and financial opportunities.

About the Facilitator

Sola Oluwole is a seasoned development finance specialist, business consultant, and advocate for inclusive entrepreneurship with over 15 years of experience supporting diverse founders across Canada and globally.

She previously served as Regional Manager for Inclusive Entrepreneurship at the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC), where she worked closely with women and minority entrepreneurs to improve access to financing, strategic guidance, and growth opportunities.

Sola is the Co-Founder and Business Consulting Director at 3G Action, an organization dedicated to helping underserved founders, particularly women, Black, and Indigenous entrepreneurs access funding, mentorship, and capacity-building resources. Through her work, she continues to champion equitable access to capital and sustainable business growth

What You’ll Learn

In this 1-hour masterclass, participants will gain practical, actionable strategies to:

Position their business for funding opportunities
Understand what funders look for beyond the idea
Avoid common mistakes women make when seeking capital
Take actionable steps to improve financial readiness

Exclusive Perks for Participants

Beyond the session itself, each participant will receive:

Three 30-minute one-on-one sessions with Sola Oluwole (valued at $350)
Business promotion opportunity, feature your brand on Women of Rubies platforms
Social media spotlight to amplify your business story
Price: $200
Limited to 20 participants, secure your spot now!

When & How

Date: January 21, 2026
Time: 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Virtual Session – registration via bit.ly/Fundingforwomen

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale your business, this masterclass is designed to give you clarity, confidence, and actionable strategies to secure the funding your business deserves.

Spots are limited, registration is open now. Don’t miss this opportunity to take your business to the next level.

In self development February 18, 2026 By Women of Rubies

Brenda Okorogba: Empowerment Champion Recognized with Order of Canada

Women of Rubies is proud to celebrate Brenda Okorogba, a distinguished member of our community, on her recent appointment as a Member of the Order of Canada, one of the country’s highest civilian honours.

The Order of Canada is the cornerstone of the Canadian Honours System. Presented by the governor general, it recognizes outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation. The Order of Canada (French: Ordre du Canada) is one of the highest civilian honors in Canada, established on July 1, 1967, during the centennial of Canadian Confederation. Brenda’s work across education, workforce development, youth leadership, women’s economic empowerment, and social impact exemplifies these values.

A Career Rooted in Empowerment and Access

Brenda Okorogba is the Founder of Momentswithbren Consulting and Learnwithbren Village. She is a multi-award-winning Learning Experience Designer, Social Impact Leader, and Resource Mobilization Strategist whose work spans education and workforce equity, international development, youth leadership, and cross-border community engagement.

Over the course of her career, Brenda has facilitated access to over $5 billion in funding across education, workforce development, international development, and social impact initiatives, unlocking capital for students, researchers, nonprofits, startups, institutions, and MSMEs. Her work bridges grassroots realities and global frameworks, translating evidence, lived experience, and community wisdom into action. She is widely recognized for her commitment to systems change, adaptive leadership, collaborative partnerships, and building pathways to shared prosperity across borders.

Learnwithbren Village: Learning With Purpose

Brenda’s work is rooted in building learning ecosystems that respond to real-world challenges while centering equity, dignity, and opportunity. Spanning education, workforce development, and social innovation, her initiatives support gender equity, poverty reduction and social impact by expanding access to education, strengthening employability pathways, and enabling sustainable livelihoods. Through collaboration with communities, nonprofits, institutions, funders, and policymakers, she co-creates solutions that are culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and outcomes-focused.

At the heart of Learnwithbren Village is a commitment to learning with purpose, connecting people to the right information, resources, and networks at the right time, and translating learning into tangible impact for individuals, organizations, and systems.

Global Impact, Local Roots

In partnership with Crossroads International, Brenda contributed to advancing the Government of Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy (FIAP) in Ghana, Eswatini, and Ethiopia. She led the design and development of gender-transformative programs and funding proposals addressing women’s economic empowerment, disability-inclusive education for children, sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), early childhood daycare facilities, and microfinance for smallholder women farmers. These efforts secured funding from Global Affairs Canada, BMZ (Germany), UN Women, AmplifyChange, IFAD, and the Australian Government, translating policy commitments into tangible outcomes for women, children, and marginalized communities.

Commitment Beyond the Workplace

Brenda serves on the boards of several Canadian non-profit and international development organizations, contributing across Human Resources, Fundraising, Governance, and Financial Audit & Risk (FAR) Committees. Her board service strengthens governance, financial oversight, policy strategy, and long-term organizational sustainability.

More recently, she was appointed as the only Nigerian-Canadian among five youth leaders to the inaugural WUSC Global Youth Advisory Council, where she provides strategic guidance to shape WUSC’s 2030 five-year framework. Her work supports education pathways and economic opportunity sectors for women and displaced youth, integrating youth perspectives across programs, policies, and partner operations in 31 countries across Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, and the Middle East.

She also serves as a Women in Communications and Technology (WCT) Champion, advancing national gender equity in tech by providing strategic guidance, evidence-informed recommendations, and actionable insights. Her contributions support initiatives that accelerate women’s leadership, career progression, and visibility across ICT and tech-enabled sectors, driving measurable progress toward closing the gender gap in Canada’s innovation economy.

Brenda Okorogba on Her Recognition

“I am still in disbelief as I share this incredible news: I have been appointed a Member of the Order of Canada by Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada,” Brenda shared.

“I arrived in Canada from Nigeria as a teenager to study at the University of Manitoba. From my first semester at the Fort Garry Campus, UofM nurtured my leadership, and I was honoured to receive the Emerging Leader Award. That support laid the foundation for my immigrant journey in Manitoba, one that has since taken me across communities, countries, and causes.”

“The Order of Canada recognizes outstanding achievement, dedication to community, and service to the nation, guided by the motto Desiderantes Meliorem Patriam (‘They desire a better country’). God bless Nigeria for giving me my identity, roots, and values. God bless Canada for refining that foundation through education and an environment that taught me responsibility, service, and the meaning of contributing to the common good.”

“I accept this honour with gratitude, reflection, and a renewed commitment to serve with integrity, compassion, and purpose.”

A Well-Deserved Honour

Brenda Okorogba’s appointment to the Order of Canada is a testament to a career defined by service, empowerment, and leadership. Women of Rubies is proud to celebrate a member of our community whose work continues to transform lives, strengthen systems, and expand opportunity across borders.

In Career Gems December 7, 2025 By Women of Rubies

How to Stay Safe Online: Digital Protection Tips Every Woman Should Know

Our personal lives, finances, and work all live online, digital safety has become essential, especially for women.

Cybercriminals are targeting women more frequently with:

identity theft
romance scams
investment scams
phishing emails
hacked social media accounts

The good news is that a few simple habits can protect your digital life.

1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Avoid using the same password everywhere.
Try a password manager to keep things easy and secure.

2. Turn On Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

This extra security step can block most hacking attempts.

3. Be Careful With Public Wi-Fi

Avoid accessing banking apps or typing passwords while on public networks.

4. Verify Before You Click

Scammers now use branded emails, fake websites, and social engineering.
Always double-check links and email senders.

5. Protect Your Social Media Privacy

Limit what you share publicly,especially:

full birthday
home location
travel plans
children’s details

6. Know the Latest Online Scams Targeting Women

In 2025, the top scams include:

“We noticed suspicious activity” bank messages
Fake investment platforms
Crypto coaching scams
Fake job offer emails
Instagram recovery scams

7. Keep Your Devices Updated

Old software = easy entry for hackers.

Digital safety is self-care.
Protecting your identity, finances, and information is essential in 2025, and every woman deserves to feel safer online—with the right tools and habits.

In Interviews&profile December 7, 2025 By Women of Rubies

Jessica Campbell Joins LA Living Magazine as Luxury Sports Editor

Women breaking barriers in media and sports continue to inspire the next generation, and Jessica Campbell is one of those dynamic leaders shaping the future. We’re thrilled to celebrate her latest milestone: her appointment as the new Luxury Sports Editor at LA Living Magazine, a platform where athletic excellence meets high-end lifestyle and culture.

Jessica is not just stepping into a role, she’s bringing a legacy of strategy, creativity, and visionary leadership that has transformed brands, empowered talent, and elevated storytelling across North America.

A Creative Force in Sports, Branding, and Entertainment

Based in Los Angeles, Jessica Campbell is an award-winning entrepreneur, educator, and creative director whose work spans sports, entertainment, and global branding.

As the CEO of PO3 Agency, she has led cultural-shifting campaigns that have appeared on major platforms such as:

ESPN
UBS Financial
Global music and entertainment brands
Elite athletes and high-profile creators

Her campaigns have generated billions of impressions, affirming her place as a powerful voice in modern storytelling and digital influence.

From Southern California Roots to Global Impact

Jessica’s journey began in Southern California, where her love for sports and visual storytelling was sparked by a simple moment—seeing her first sports graphic on ESPN.

This early curiosity evolved into a lifelong passion for brand identity and purposeful communication.

Her academic path took shape at Pepperdine University, where she transitioned from Business to Integrated Marketing & Communications, aligning her strategic mind with her creative brilliance.

Her internship with the John R. Wooden Award further grounded her in sports culture and event strategy, preparing her for the global impact she leads today.

Building PO3 Agency: Where Strategy Meets Culture

In 2021, Jessica launched PO3 Agency with just three clients.
Today, the agency has grown into a full-scale creative and digital marketing powerhouse, serving over 100 clients across:

Sports
Music
Fashion
Entertainment

Jessica’s leadership is rooted in purpose, storytelling, and authenticity. She believes that branding is more than aesthetics, it’s identity, connection, and culture.

Her approach challenges athletes and public figures to ask themselves:

“Who are you beyond your sport? What sets you apart? What story are you truly telling?”

Jessica Campbell PO3agency — Jessica Campbll, Award winning Brand Strategist and Founder, PO3 Agency

A Champion for the Next Generation of Creatives

Beyond her agency and editorial work, Jessica is deeply committed to mentorship and education.

She shares her expertise through:

University lectures
Creative workshops
Leadership panels
PO3 internship programs

Her philosophy, “Don’t fake it till you make it, own it from the start,” has become a guiding mantra for young professionals finding their voice in an increasingly competitive digital world.

Why Jessica Campbell’s New Editorial Role Matters

Jessica’s appointment as Luxury Sports Editor isn’t just an editorial shift, it represents the growing influence of women in sports media, creative leadership, and global branding.

Her voice brings depth, storytelling, and cultural intelligence to an industry rapidly evolving.

She represents:

Women redefining sports journalism
Creatives reshaping digital storytelling
Entrepreneurs pushing boundaries
Leaders who blend strategy with heart

Women of Rubies proudly celebrates her continued rise and the path she is paving for others.

A Trailblazer Creating Her Own Runway

Jessica Campbell’s journey is proof that success isn’t about waiting for permission, it’s about creating opportunities, building community, and leading with purpose.

As she steps into this exciting new chapter with LA Living Magazine, one thing is certain:

Jessica isn’t just reporting on sports culture, she’s shaping it.

In self development January 26, 2026 By Women of Rubies

How Abiodun Alabi Uses AI Strategy to Drive Social Impact Across Africa

Abiodun Alabi is a Project Manager and AI Strategist passionate about using technology to drive social impact, empower women, and humanize work. With over a decade of experience spanning Human Resources, community development, and digital transformation, she designs inclusive, practical solutions that make technology work for everyone.

As Executive Director of Motherhood NG Initiative, she leads community-centered innovations that advance women’s and children’s well-being. Her Google Calendar Immunisation Initiative creatively repurposes a simple digital tool to help mothers and birth attendants set child vaccination reminders improving immunisation rates in underserved communities.

She is also the creator of Ms. Flow, an AI-powered WhatsApp bot providing menstrual education to teenage girls across Nigeria, bridging menstrual health gaps through accessible technology.

Beyond social innovation, Abiodun is the founder of Feat Business Consult, where she helps businesses and HR professionals adopt AI responsibly through initiatives like the HR Automation Bootcamp and AI for HER Webinar, equipping women with the digital confidence to thrive in the future of work. She also co-founded My Work Check 360, an HR tech platform for transparent employee–employer reviews.

A member of global networks including Google Women Techmakers, WomenTech Network, and Women in AI, Abiodun advocates for ethical AI adoption and digital inclusion. Her work is anchored in a simple belief, when technology meets empathy, innovation becomes truly transformative.

Inspiration Behind the Transition from Human Resources into AI Strategy and Social Innovation

About fifteen years ago, when I started my career as an HR/Admin Officer, I was sent for a one-week training with our IT consultant. My role included updating the company’s website and managing its Facebook page, quite new at the time. During that training, the IT consultant told me, “See technology as a tool to solve business problems and make Google your best friend.” That statement changed how I viewed technology forever.

Later, as a Project and HR Manager in an IT company, I worked on digital products designed to solve real business challenges. Those experiences helped me see the deeper potential of technology — not just for efficiency, but for empowerment.

After over a decade in HR, I realized that while organizations were advancing with tech, many professionals, especially women, were being left behind. I wanted to change that. So, I began using AI not just to optimize workflows, but to create inclusion and opportunity.

Today, I combine my HR background with AI strategy to design simple, human-centered tools that make work more meaningful and technology more accessible for all.

When Technology Became a Tool for Impact and Inclusion

The turning point came during my work in maternal and child health outreach. I noticed that most challenges, from missed immunizations to poor menstrual education , weren’t due to lack of care, but lack of access. Technology, I realized, could bridge that access gap.

It wasn’t about sophistication; it was about simplicity and scale. That realization shaped my mission to use technology that meets people where they are, whether that’s through a simple WhatsApp bot or a Google tool and turn it into a bridge for empowerment.

The Story Behind the Google Calendar Immunisation Initiative

The idea came during one of our community outreaches at a health center, when a new mother missed her child’s vaccine appointment simply because she forgot the date. I thought, if we use Google Calendar to manage meetings, why not use it to save lives?

We repurposed the tool to help mothers and birth attendants schedule and track immunizations for free, even on basic smartphones.

The most rewarding part has been seeing uneducated women proudly say, “I set my baby’s vaccine reminder on my phone,” and watching how empowering it feels for birth attendants to transfer knowledge to every pregnant woman they attend to. It’s proof that impact doesn’t always require complex innovation , just human insight and empathy.

Bridging the Menstrual Knowledge Gap Through Ms. Flow

Ms. Flow was born from countless conversations with teenage girls I met during various outreach programs of Teenage Well Project. Many lacked access to accurate menstrual information and a safe space to ask questions without shame. I realized that while menstrual education is essential, cultural taboos and limited digital access made it difficult for many girls to get the right information.

Instead of building a complex app, I wanted something simple, accessible, and familiar, so I chose WhatsApp. Almost every family has it, even when they don’t have advanced technology.

AI made it scalable and personal. Using natural language processing, Ms. Flow engages girls in friendly, judgment-free conversations, offering guidance 24/7. It’s like giving every girl her own digital big sister — informed, kind, and always available.

Today, Ms. Flow is more than a chatbot; it’s a movement bridging the menstrual knowledge gap and empowering teenage girls to understand their bodies with confidence and dignity.

Balancing Technology with Empathy

For me, empathy is the foundation of innovation. Every solution starts with a human story, not a code. Before building anything, I ask, “What problem are we solving, and for whom?” Then technology becomes the tool, not the driver.

I also believe in building tech like onboarding a new employee, it must understand the culture, ethics, and purpose of the role it’s created for. That’s how we make AI not just smart, but responsible.

Helping Women Build Digital Confidence

I help women move from fear to familiarity when it comes to technology. At Motherhood NG Initiative and Feat Business Consult, we create safe learning spaces where women can explore digital tools without judgment or pressure.

Through initiatives like the HR Automation Bootcamp and AI for HER Webinar, we break down complex AI and digital concepts into simple, relatable steps that anyone can understand even those with no prior tech experience.

In March 2024, I also built a career chatbot to support entry-level job seekers and women transitioning into tech roles, helping them navigate the job market with confidence.

Once women experience how AI can simplify their work or business automating tasks, saving time, and unlocking new opportunities their confidence grows naturally.

My message is simple: you don’t have to code to belong in tech; you just have to start. Confidence doesn’t come before action, it grows with every small digital win.

Misconceptions Women Have About AI

In my interaction with women in my community and friends, I observed that the biggest misconception is that AI is only for techies and coders, people who can build robots or write code. But the truth is, AI is for thinkers, creators, and problem-solvers and women are naturally all three.

You don’t have to start big or be an expert. Begin with the tools you already use; let AI help you automate repetitive tasks, organize your calendar, draft content, or analyze customer feedback. These small wins quickly build confidence.

AI isn’t here to replace you; it’s here to enhance you. Once women see that AI can save them time and give them room to focus on creativity, strategy, or family, the fear fades. Confidence grows not from perfection but from participation — just start exploring, one tool at a time.

The Impact of “AI for HER” and the HR Automation Bootcamp

AI for HER started as more than a training. it was an empowerment movement launched to celebrate International Women’s Day 2025. Over 100 women registered, eager to learn how AI could simplify their work and open new doors. It’s been incredible watching participants rewrite their digital stories.

The HR Automation Bootcamp, on the other hand, is a hands-on, project-based learning experience. Participants don’t just learn concepts; they build real projects that solve HR challenges in their workplaces. It’s practical, relatable, and deeply empowering.

The transformation I see goes beyond skills, it’s about mindset. They stop saying, “I’m not tech-savvy,” and start saying, “I can do this.” That shift in confidence is where real impact begins. When women realize they can shape technology, not just use it, everything changes.

How African Businesses Can Integrate AI Responsibly

African businesses can start by treating every AI tool like a new employee onboard it intentionally. Help it understand the organization’s job roles, culture, and vision. AI should amplify, not replace, human value.

We also need to invest in AI literacy for people, alongside deploying tools. The best AI strategy will always be people-first, rooted in understanding local needs, languages, and cultural nuances.

At the end of the day, trust in AI isn’t built by code; it’s built by people. When employees understand and engage with these tools, AI becomes a partner in progress, not a threat to humanity.

The Future of Work and AI Adoption in Africa

What excites me most is the possibility that AI can unlock opportunities for millions of Africans, especially women, to work, earn, and learn without borders. It’s already redefining what productivity, flexibility, and access look like. From virtual assistants to AI tutors, we’re seeing technology level the playing field in ways we never imagined.

My only concern is the digital divide, and that many may be left behind if we don’t invest in digital literacy and responsible adoption. AI shouldn’t be something done to people; it should be something built with people in mind.

That’s why I’m passionate about building awareness, inclusion, and confidence, so Africans, especially women, don’t just consume AI but also help shape it.

What Makes Her a Woman of Rubies

Purpose is my compass, and resilience is my rhythm. I’ve demonstrated that impact doesn’t always come from having much but from doing much with what you have.

I shine by staying rooted in service, empowering women, using AI for good, and ensuring technology speaks the language of humanity.

Staying Rooted in Purpose in a Rapidly Evolving Field

I stay rooted by remembering why I started ,to make tech a bridge, not a barrier. Every innovation I build must answer one question: “Does it make life better for someone or solve a business problem?” That’s my anchor, even as technology evolves.

Purpose keeps me grounded; learning keeps me relevant.

Women Who Inspire Abiodun Alabi

Ibukun Awosika inspires me with her trailblazing leadership and the grace with which she carries global influence. She reminds me that faith and excellence can coexist beautifully.

Melinda Gates embodies what it means to lead with innovation and empathy, using technology and philanthropy to solve real-world problems and uplift women globally.

Funke Opeke stands out for her boldness in building the digital infrastructure that connects millions of Africans. Her courage proves that women can build and lead in spaces once considered impossible.

Each of these women reminds me that leadership is not about power, it’s about service, purpose, and impact.

Legacy for Future Generations of Women in Tech and Innovation

I want to be remembered as the woman who made technology less intimidating and more inclusive, especially for women who thought they couldn’t belong.

My legacy is to prove that you can be both tech-driven and human-hearted , that innovation can wear a smile, not just a code.

Her Message to Young Women Intimidated by Technology

Technology is not a monster; it’s a mirror. It reflects how boldly you choose to learn and lead.

Start small, stay curious, and remember, every great innovator once googled “how to start.” You belong in this digital age; own it with confidence and grace.

In Career Gems October 30, 2025 By Women of Rubies

Urmi Hossain: Empowering Women Through Finance, Storytelling

In a world where women are constantly redefining what leadership means, Urmi Hossain stands out as a woman who truly wears many hats. A finance professional, author, speaker, blogger, and podcast host, Urmi’s journey reflects the power of resilience, self-discovery, and purpose-driven growth.

Currently based in Canada, Urmi works in the financial services industry and holds two of the most respected designations in global finance , CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) and CAIA (Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst). Her path in finance is not just about numbers, but about breaking barriers and empowering more women to pursue careers in the male-dominated world of finance.

A Voice for Identity and Belonging

Urmi’s debut book, Discovering Your Identity: A Rebirth from Interracial Struggle, offers a deeply personal look into her journey as a third-culture kid , avigating identity, culture, and belonging. Through her words, she invites readers to embrace their unique stories and see difference not as a barrier, but as a bridge to empathy and understanding.

Her storytelling continues through her acclaimed podcast, Stories Beyond Borders, where she explores themes of identity, migration, and what “home” really means. By amplifying diverse voices, Urmi fosters important conversations about inclusion and representation in an increasingly interconnected world.

Championing Women’s Empowerment and Leadership

Beyond her professional achievements, Urmi is passionate about women’s empowerment and personal growth. She serves as Co-Chair of Women in Leadership’s Montreal Chapter, where she advocates for mentorship, education, and equal opportunities for women in the workplace.

Her commitment to leadership is also evident in her role as an active Toastmasters member since 2019, where she has served as both VP of Education and Club President. Through public speaking, she continues to inspire others to find their voices, build confidence, and lead with authenticity.

A Lifelong Learner and Role Model

For Urmi, growth is a lifelong journey. Whether she’s boxing, running, or diving into a new book, she embodies the spirit of continuous learning and balance. Her life is a reminder that women can thrive in multiple spaces — combining intellect, empathy, and passion to create meaningful impact.

As Urmi prepares to share her expertise at the upcoming Media Visibility Bootcamp Cohort 5, her story continues to inspire women to show up boldly, speak their truth, and embrace their full potential.

Women of Rubies