Women of Rubies
Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi
In Inspiration By

The Remarkable Journey of Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi

Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi is a distinguished feminist activist, gender and development specialist, policy advocate, and social sector expert. With decades of experience and numerous accolades to her name, she has been a formidable force in advancing women’s rights and social justice across Africa and beyond. Her journey from academia to global advocacy showcases her relentless dedication to gender equality and empowerment. Erelu Fayemi’s contributions have spanned across various sectors, from grassroots activism to high-level policy advocacy, making her a beacon of hope and a role model for countless women.

Academic Background and Professional Training

HE Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi holds a BA (1984) and MA (1988) in History from the University of Ife, Nigeria (now Obafemi Awolowo University). She also earned an MA in Gender and Society (1992) from Middlesex University, UK, and received a PhD (Honoris Causa) in Sociology from the Tai Solarin University of Education (2014).

Leadership in Women’s Development

From 1991-2001, Erelu Fayemi served as the Director of Akina Mama wa Afrika (AMwA), an international development organization for African women. During her tenure, she established the African Women’s Leadership Institute (AWLI), which has produced over 6,000 women leaders across Africa. She is also the co-founder of the African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF), the first Africa-wide grant-making foundation for women’s organizations, and served as the first Executive Director from 2001-2010.

Founding the African Women’s Development Fund

Erelu Fayemi co-founded the African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF) and served as its first CEO from 2001-2010. Under her leadership, AWDF supported thousands of women’s rights organizations in 42 African countries with millions of dollars in grants.

Current Roles and Initiatives

Currently, Erelu Fayemi is the CEO of Above Whispers Media Group, specializing in leadership development for women. She also runs an online community called Abovewhispers.com, where she lends her voice to issues affecting women and encourages them to rise above whispers, using their voices, resources, and positions where it matters. Recently, she established ‘The Wrapper Network’, an online mentoring and support program for young women. She served as a UN Women Nigeria Senior Advisor (2017-2018) and is a Visiting Senior Research Fellow at the Africa Leadership Center, King’s College, London.

Legislative Contributions in Ekiti State

When her husband, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, took office as Governor of Ekiti State from 2010 to 2014, Erelu Fayemi became actively involved in policy advocacy, grassroots empowerment, and social inclusion programs. She led campaigns to enact several critical laws, including the Gender-Based Violence Prohibition Law (2011, revised in 2019), the Equal Opportunities Bill (2013), the HIV Anti-Stigma Bill (2014), the Treatment, Care and Protection Bill for Sexually Abused Minors (2020), the Ekiti State Mental Health Law (2021), and the Ekiti State Gender Composition Law (2022). She chaired the Ekiti State GBV Management Committee and the Ekiti State AIDS Control Agency (2018 – 2022) and led the Nigeria Governors Wives Forum (NGWF) from 2020 to 2022.

Erelu Bisi Adeleye-
Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi

Literary Contributions

Erelu Fayemi is the author of several influential works, including ‘Speaking for Myself: Perspectives on Social, Political and Feminist Activism in Africa’ (2013), ‘Speaking above a Whisper’ (2013), an autobiography, ‘Loud Whispers’ (2017), and ‘Where is your Wrapper?’ (2020). She also co-edited ‘Voice, Power and Soul’ with Jessica Horn (2008), a compilation of images and stories of African Feminists. Her books “Tray of Locust Beans” and “Demand and Supply” delve into socio-political and cultural themes, advocating for gender equality and empowerment.

The Wrapper Network: Empowering Women During the COVID-19 Pandemic

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Erelu Bisi Fayemi initiated the “A Wrapper for Women Initiative,” providing hope and support to over 60,000 households in Ekiti. Inspired by a story of solidarity, this initiative symbolizes unity, protection, and care, encouraging women to support each other.

Encouragement to Young Women

Erelu encourages young women to be actively involved in politics and community affairs. She emphasizes the importance of persistence, self-awareness, and courage, urging women to raise their voices and demand action against issues like sexual violence.

Final Thoughts

Erelu Bisi Fayemi’s journey is a testament to resilience, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to gender equality. Her work continues to inspire and empower women globally, reminding us all of the power of solidarity and the importance of using our voices for change. Through her vast and varied efforts, Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi continues to champion gender equality, advocate for social justice, and empower women across Africa and beyond.

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Digital Operations for Business Owners
In Career Gems By

Why Business Owners Should Master Fundamental Digital Operations: A Crucial Guide

As a business owner, having knowledge of fundamental aspects such as CPanel details, payment management, security measures, and additional vital information is crucial to protect your business from potential threats and vulnerabilities. Let’s delve into why this knowledge is essential and how it can safeguard your business from harm.

Understanding CPanel Details: The Gateway to Your Digital Presence

Your website’s CPanel (Control Panel) is like the nerve center of your digital presence. It allows you to manage various aspects of your website, including files, databases, domains, and email accounts. Understanding how to access and navigate your CPanel is essential for making necessary updates, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring the smooth functioning of your website.

By familiarizing yourself with your CPanel details, you empower yourself to take control of your online presence. You can quickly address any technical issues that may arise, such as website downtime, security breaches, or email problems. Additionally, knowing your CPanel login credentials enables you to delegate tasks effectively if you have a team managing your website.

Managing Payments and Subscriptions: Securing Your Financial Assets

As a business owner, managing payments and subscriptions is critical to financial management. Whether it’s paying for web hosting services, software subscriptions, or digital marketing tools, keeping track of your financial transactions is essential for budgeting and accountability.

Read Also: How to Write an Effective NDA: Essential Elements for Confidentiality Agreements

Having knowledge of your payment methods, subscription details, and billing cycles allows you to monitor your expenses and detect any irregularities promptly. Unauthorized charges or unexpected fluctuations in subscription fees could indicate fraudulent activity or billing errors. By staying informed about your financial transactions, you can take immediate action to rectify any issues and prevent potential losses.

Enhancing Security Measures: Protecting Your Business from Threats

In today’s digital landscape, cybersecurity threats pose a significant risk to businesses of all sizes. From data breaches to malware attacks, cybercriminals are constantly looking for vulnerabilities to exploit. As a business owner, implementing robust security measures is essential to safeguard your sensitive information and protect your reputation.

Understanding basic security practices, such as creating strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and regularly updating software, can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to cyberattacks. Additionally, educating yourself and your team about common security threats and phishing scams can help prevent unauthorized access to your systems and data.

Additional Vital Information for Business Owners

In addition to the fundamental aspects mentioned above, there are other vital pieces of information that business owners should be aware of:

  1. Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Understanding the legal and regulatory requirements relevant to your industry is essential for ensuring compliance and avoiding legal issues. This includes aspects such as data protection laws, industry-specific regulations, and tax obligations.
  2. Backup and Disaster Recovery: Implementing robust backup and disaster recovery strategies is crucial for protecting your business’s data and minimizing downtime in the event of a disaster or cyberattack. Regularly backing up your data and testing your recovery procedures can help ensure business continuity.
  3. Customer Privacy and Data Protection: Safeguarding your customers’ personal information is paramount for building trust and maintaining reputation. Understanding data privacy laws and implementing measures to protect customer data from unauthorized access or disclosure is essential.

By equipping yourself with knowledge of these additional vital aspects, you can further fortify your business against potential risks and challenges, ensuring its long-term success and resilience.

Read Also: 6 Ways to Create a Business Budget and Ensure Financial Stability

Additionally, here are some software options that business owners can consider to enhance their digital operations:

  1. LastPass: A password manager that securely stores passwords and sensitive information.
  2. Google Analytics: A tool to track website traffic, user behavior, and other valuable insights.
  3. QuickBooks: Accounting software for managing finances, invoicing, and budgeting.
  4. Hootsuite: Social media management platform for scheduling posts, analyzing performance, and engaging with followers.
  5. Shopify: E-commerce platform for building online stores and managing sales.
  6. Trello: Project management tool for organizing tasks, collaborating with teams, and tracking progress.
  7. Slack: Communication platform for team messaging, file sharing, and collaboration.
  8. Canva: Graphic design tool for creating professional-looking visuals, social media posts, and marketing materials.
  9. WordPress: Content management system for building and managing websites, blogs, and online stores.
  10. Zoom: Video conferencing software for hosting virtual meetings, webinars, and online events.

These software options can streamline various aspects of business operations, from managing passwords and finances to enhancing online presence and communication.

Read Also: Top Tech Solutions for Website Maintenance, Marketing, and Data Protection

Conclusion

In conclusion, digital literacy is a vital skill for business owners in today’s digital age. By understanding fundamental aspects such as CPanel details, payment management, security measures, and additional vital information, you can protect your business from potential threats and vulnerabilities. Empower yourself with knowledge, stay vigilant, and take proactive steps to safeguard your business’s digital assets. With the right tools and awareness, you can navigate the digital landscape with confidence and resilience.

Don’t forget to grab your copy of our Leveraging Social Currency book for more insights on maximizing your online presence and growing your business!

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Olwaseyi Moejoh
In Interviews&profile By

Oluwaseyi Moejoh Becomes First African Woman Young Superhero for Earth

Oluwaseyi Moejoh, affectionately called Seyi, has come a long way from her days of picking up plastic bottles as a teenager. Almost 7 years ago, if someone had told her that she would one day make history as the first young African woman named a Young Superhero for Earth, it would have seemed far-fetched. But that was just the beginning of her remarkable journey.

A Call to Action

Oluwaseyi’s interest in tackling plastic pollution sparked when she was a 16-year-old high school student. She was disheartened by the rising pollution levels in her country and concerned about the lack of meaningful involvement of the next generation in finding solutions to the plastic pollution crisis.

Since then, with relentless passion, Seyi has spearheaded over 50 youth-led projects in the past six years to address plastic pollution and catalyze climate action in Nigeria and Africa. Through her nonprofit, U-recycle Initiative Africa, she has led initiatives such as deploying “talking” recycling bins in leading universities, developing a tech-enabled gamified learning platform about plastic pollution, and conducting climate education workshops in low-income schools across Nigeria.

A Testament to Youth Power

Seyi’s favorite quote, “Young people can change the world, give us a chance,” echoes her journey. At just 22, her story stands as a testament to the transformative power of youth when given an opportunity to shape a sustainable future. It’s also a clarion call to older generations to support young people in realizing their dreams of a greener, healthier planet.

Despite facing challenges due to her age, gender, and background, Seyi refused to be held back. She believes in the importance of intergenerational collaboration, understanding, and listening to the needs of the earth, the vulnerable, and the next generation.

Recognition and Acknowledgment

Last month, in Atlanta, United States, Oluwaseyi was honored with the 2024 Young SuperHero for Earth Award by the Captain Planet Foundation (CPF), the oldest and largest youth-focused environmental organization globally. This recognition places her among environmental visionaries like President Jimmy Carter, Dr. Jane Goodall, and Xiye Bastida. Additionally, she was named one of Leading Ladies Africa’s 100 Most Inspiring Women in Nigeria for 2024.

The CPF, an offshoot of the Captain Planet and the Planeteers animated series, aims to foster youth’s connection with nature and empower them to create change. Through various programs like Project Learning Garden and the Planeteer Alliance, CPF has impacted over 1.7 million K-12 youth globally, nurturing a generation of eco-conscious leaders.

Oluwaseyi Moejoh’s journey serves as an inspiration, reminding us of the power of youth to drive positive change and create a more sustainable future for all.

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Maria Frankis
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Maria Frankis Shines in ‘The Life Coach’ Film – A Canadian Cinematic Gem

Maria Frankis, a talented actor born and raised in Essex, UK, has been captivating audiences with her exceptional performances and dynamic presence. Her journey in the arts began early, studying acting, dancing, and singing, which laid a strong foundation for her career. In 2011, Maria made a significant move to Toronto, Canada, where her passion for acting continued to flourish, fueling her desire to create the most compelling on-screen characters.

Maria’s dedication and hard work have paid off remarkably. She recently landed a nationwide commercial, becoming the face of Aveeno, a testament to her growing influence in the industry. Moreover, her first Hallmark Christmas movie, “A Not So Royal Christmas,” released in December 2023, showcases her versatility and charm, adding a festive touch to her expanding portfolio.

Maria Frankis

Shining in “The Life Coach”

Maria’s latest role truly highlights her range and talent. She shines as Jennifer in “The Life Coach,” produced by Canadian media mogul Patricia Bebia Mawa and Broadframe Media. The film also stars Linda Osifo, Kosa Akaraiwe, Sylvain Plasse. Maria’s portrayal of Jennifer is a perfect blend of emotional depth and humor, reminding viewers to find light in the darkest moments. Through her character, Maria explores themes of love, healing, and community, sparking important conversations about life’s complexities and the strength of human connections.

In “The Life Coach,” Jennifer navigates personal challenges and triumphs, reflecting a relatable journey that resonates with many. Maria’s ability to blend emotional depth with humor makes her character incredibly engaging, drawing audiences into her world and leaving a lasting impact.

A Journey of Passion and Dedication

Maria Frankis’s rise in the acting world is inspiring, marked by her relentless pursuit of excellence and her ability to bring authenticity to every role. From her Essex roots to her thriving career in Toronto, Maria continues to build a legacy of compelling performances that entertain and provoke thought. Her journey is a testament to the power of passion and dedication in achieving one’s dreams.

Catch Maria’s Performance

Don’t miss Maria’s captivating performance in “The Life Coach.” Produced by Broadway Media, the film is set to become a significant contribution to Canadian cinema. Through her character, Maria not only entertains but also sparks meaningful discussions about love, resilience, and the power of community. Maria Frankis is undoubtedly a star on the rise, and her journey in Canada is one to watch closely.

Follow ‘The Life Coach Film’ on Facebook and Instagram

 

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Turning passion to profit
In Career Gems By

Transforming Passion into Profit: A Guide for Women Entrepreneurs

Many women across the globe are harnessing their passions and talents to create thriving businesses and pursue fulfilling careers. Every day, more women are turning their passion projects into profitable ventures that not only generate income but also drive economic growth and empowerment. This article explores how women can transform their passion projects into profitable careers, drawing on real-life examples and practical advice.

1. Identifying Your Passion

The first step in turning a passion project into a profitable career is identifying what you’re passionate about. Whether it’s fashion design, food entrepreneurship, or social activism, your passion should be the driving force behind your business venture. Take the time to reflect on your interests, skills, and values to identify a niche that aligns with your passions and has the potential for profitability.

2. Developing Your Skills and Expertise

Once you’ve identified your passion, invest in developing your skills and expertise in your chosen field. Take advantage of training programs, workshops, and online courses to acquire the knowledge and skills you need to succeed. Whether it’s learning new techniques in your craft or mastering business management principles, continuous learning and skill development are essential for building a successful career from your passion project.

3. Creating a Solid Business Plan

A solid business plan is essential for turning your passion project into a profitable career. Outline your business goals, target market, competitive analysis, and marketing strategy to guide your business growth and development. A well-thought-out business plan not only helps you clarify your vision but also serves as a roadmap for achieving your goals and securing financing if needed.

4. Building Your Brand

Building a strong brand is key to standing out in a competitive market and attracting customers to your passion project-turned-business. Define your brand identity, including your brand values, personality, and visual elements such as logo and packaging. Establishing a strong brand presence across your chosen social media channels, websites, and offline promotions helps to build brand awareness and loyalty among your target audience.

5. Leveraging Technology and Digital Tools

In today’s digital age, embracing digital tools and platforms that can help you showcase your products or services, manage your finances, and connect with customers online is crucial. Utilizing e-commerce platforms, social media, and digital marketing strategies can significantly expand your reach and enhance your business operations.

6. Seeking Mentorship and Networking Opportunities

Mentorship and networking are invaluable resources for women entrepreneurs looking to turn their passion projects into profitable careers. Connect with experienced mentors, industry experts, and fellow entrepreneurs who can offer guidance, advice, and support along your entrepreneurial journey. Joining networking groups, attending industry events, and participating in entrepreneurship programs can help you expand your network and access new opportunities for growth and collaboration.

With determination, creativity, and strategic planning, women can achieve success in their entrepreneurial pursuits and create a lasting impact in their communities and beyond. By transforming their passion projects into profitable careers, women are not only achieving personal fulfillment but also contributing to the broader economic and social landscape.

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In Career Gems By

How to Use Social Media for Media Coverage

Social media has become an indispensable tool for businesses and individuals seeking to amplify their message and capture the attention of journalists. With the right strategies, you can leverage social media platforms to extend your reach, engage with mediaprofessionals, and ultimately secure valuable media coverage. Here’s how you can use social media to boost your media presence effectively.

Why Social Media?

Social media platforms offer unparalleled opportunities to connect with a wide audience, including journalists and media outlets. These platformsallow you to share your news, updates, and stories directly with the public, increasing your visibility and impact. Moreover, social media enables real-time engagement, making it easier to build relationships with journalists and media professionals.

Amplify Your Message

To make the most of social media, you need to consistently share your news, updates, and stories. Regular posting helps keep your audience engaged and increases the likelihood that journalists will notice your content. Here are a few tips to amplify your message:

  1. Create Engaging Content: Share compelling stories, high-quality images, and videos that resonate with your audience.
  2. Post Regularly: Maintain a consistent posting schedule to keep your audience engaged and informed.
  3. Utilize Different Formats: Experiment with various content formats like live videos, stories, and polls to capture attention.

Tag Media Outlets

Tagging media outlets and journalists when sharing relevant content is crucial. This not only ensures that your posts reach the right people but also increases your chances of getting noticed. Here’s how you can effectively tag media outlets:

  1. Research Relevant Journalists: Identify journalists and media outlets that cover topics related to your industry or niche.
  2. Tag Appropriately: When you share news or updates, tag these journalists and outlets in your posts to alert them directly.
  3. Be Respectful: Ensure your content is relevant to their interests and beat, and avoid over-tagging to prevent spamming.

Engage with Journalists

Building relationships with journalists is essential for securing media coverage. Social media offers a direct line of communication, allowing you to engage with journalists in meaningful ways. Here are some strategies to engage effectively:

  1. Comment on Their Posts: Share thoughtful comments on journalists’ posts to show your interest in their work.
  2. Share Their Articles: Amplify their work by sharing it on your platforms, adding your insights or comments.
  3. Join Relevant Conversations: Participate in discussions on topics that journalists are interested in, positioning yourself as a knowledgeable source.

Use Hashtags Wisely

Hashtags are powerful tools for increasing the discoverability of your content. By using trending and industry-specific hashtags, you can make your posts more visible to journalists and media outlets. Here’s how to use hashtags effectively:

  1. Research Trending Hashtags: Keep an eye on popular hashtags in your industry and incorporate them into your posts.
  2. Create Branded Hashtags: Develop unique hashtags for your campaigns to build a cohesive brand narrative.
  3. Use a Mix: Combine trending, industry-specific, and branded hashtags to maximize your reach.

Track and Adjust

Monitoring the performance of your social media efforts is crucial for understanding what works and what doesn’t. Use analytics tools to track your engagement, reach, and overall impact. Based on this data, you can adjust your strategy to improve your chances of capturing media attention. Here are some key metrics to track:

  1. Engagement Rates: Measure likes, comments, shares, and interactions on your posts.
  2. Reach and Impressions: Track how many people see your content and how often it appears in their feeds.
  3. Follower Growth: Monitor the growth of your audience over time to ensure your reach is expanding

 

Get Madia Visibility Bootcamp Replay

To learn more about how to leverage social media for media coverage, grab a copy of the Women of Rubies Media Visibility Bootcamp recording on womenofrubies.com/mvbc3.

Conclusion

By leveraging social media effectively, you can significantly enhance your chances of securing media coverage. Start by sharing compelling content, tagging relevant media outlets, engaging with journalists, using hashtags wisely, and continuously tracking your performance. With these strategies, you can amplify your message, build valuable media relationships, and ultimately achieve greater visibility and recognition. Start tagging, engaging, and sharing today to make the most of your social media presence!

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Jibs Abitoye
In Interviews&profile By

Jibs Abitoye: Nigerian-Canadian Politician and Community Leader

Jibs Abitoye, a Nigerian-Canadian politician, is leading the charge for diversity and community engagement in Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta. As a second-term Councillor, Abitoye’s trailblazing achievements and unwavering commitment to inclusivity have made her a beacon of hope and progress in the city. Her journey, marked by trailblazing achievements and unwavering commitment to diversity, has positioned her as a beacon of hope and progress in the community.

Breaking Barriers

Jibs Abitoye’s election in 2017 was a landmark event. As the first Black woman to be elected in the province of Alberta since the 1970s, she shattered a decades-long barrier, bringing a fresh perspective and renewed vigor to the local government. Her groundbreaking role extends beyond just representation; it underscores the importance of inclusivity and the strength found in diversity.

Jibs Abitoye

Founding the Fort Black Society

Understanding the pivotal role of representation and support within communities of color, Jibs founded the Fort Black Society. This organization is more than just a community group; it is a testament to her dedication to fostering a more inclusive society where diversity is celebrated and valued. Through the Fort Black Society, Jibs has created a platform for dialogue, support, and empowerment for Black residents and other marginalized groups in Fort Saskatchewan.

Championing Key Initiatives

Since stepping into her role as Councillor, Jibs has been a tireless advocate for numerous initiatives that resonate deeply with the needs and aspirations of her constituents:

  • Diversity & Inclusion Policy: Jibs has been instrumental in developing and promoting policies that ensure every resident feels seen, heard, and valued. Her work has laid a strong foundation for a more inclusive community where diversity is woven into the fabric of the city’s identity.
  • Parental Leave for Elected Officials: Recognizing the challenges faced by elected officials who are also parents, Jibs championed the introduction of parental leave policies. This initiative supports work-life balance and encourages more young parents to consider public service without sacrificing their family responsibilities.
  • Environmental Sustainability: Jibs is a vocal advocate for environmental sustainability, pushing for policies that protect and preserve Fort Saskatchewan’s natural beauty for future generations. Her efforts include promoting green initiatives and sustainable practices within the community.
  • Fair Utility Bills: Addressing the practical concerns of residents, Jibs has worked diligently to ensure fair and transparent utility billing. Her efforts aim to ease the financial burden on families and ensure that utility services are both affordable and reliable.

A Versatile Leader

Jibs’ accomplishments extend far beyond her political career. She is an award-winning entrepreneur, a trained economist, a fashion designer, and a realtor. Her diverse skill set and professional experiences enrich her approach to governance and community service, allowing her to tackle issues from multiple perspectives.

Media Recognition and Personal Life

Her impactful work has not gone unnoticed. Jibs has been featured in major Canadian media outlets, highlighting her contributions and the positive changes she has spearheaded. Despite her numerous professional commitments, she remains deeply rooted in her personal life as a wife and mother of three. Balancing her roles with grace, Jibs also dedicates time to volunteer work, further exemplifying her commitment to service and community.

Jibs Abitoye

A Balanced and Impactful Life

Jibs Abitoye’s life and career embody the essence of a balanced and impactful existence. Through her pioneering efforts and dedicated service, she continues to inspire countless individuals within and beyond Fort Saskatchewan. Her story is a powerful reminder that with vision, dedication, and resilience, one can break barriers, foster inclusivity, and make meaningful contributions to society.

As Fort Saskatchewan looks to the future, the leadership and legacy of Jibs Abitoye stand as a testament to what is possible when diversity is embraced and every voice is given a platform.

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Biodun Stephen
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Biodun Stephen: A Trailblazing Filmmaker and Storyteller

Biodun Stephen is a distinguished Nigerian filmmaker and writer with a portfolio of notable and globally acclaimed films. As the founder of Shutterspeed Projects, a content production company established in 2014, she has been at the forefront of creating numerous entertaining and inspiring films and series that resonate with audiences worldwide.

A Decade of Storytelling

Over the past decade, Biodun Stephen has carved a niche for herself by crafting heartfelt, human-angle stories inspired by her personal experiences and environment. Her background in advertising copywriting and radio has significantly influenced her filmmaking career, instilling a deep understanding of the power of communication through visual storytelling. She firmly believes that film serves as a vehicle for entertainment, communication, and education.

Acclaimed Works and Recognitions

Since founding Shutterspeed Projects, Biodun Stephen has written, produced, and directed films that have earned nominations and awards within Nigeria, across Africa, and internationally. Her notable films include:

  • The Visit: Praised for its minimal yet insightful cast, story, and originality, it received two nominations at the 2016 Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards.
  • Picture Perfect: Received five nominations and won two awards at the 2017 Best of Nollywood Awards.
  • Breaded Life: Nominated for Best Film West Africa at the AMVCA 2021.
  • Tiwa’s Baggage: Earned her a nomination for Best Director at the 2018 City People Movie Awards.
  • Seven and a Half Dates: Recommended by Guardian as a must-see film.
  • Sista: An award-winning film that explores the struggles of single mothers.
  • Momiwa: Starring Uzor Arukwe and Blessing Obasi Nze.

Other popular films such as Ovy’s Voice, Ehis Bitters, and Looking for Baami topped Iroko Viewer’s Choice Awards in 2017, 2018, and 2019 respectively. Her exceptional work in screenwriting earned her the AMVCA award for Best Screenplay, and she has received international awards for Best Director for films like Last Days and Strangers.

Shutterspeed Projects

Under Biodun’s leadership, Shutterspeed Projects has become a prominent name in the film industry, with its productions featured on major platforms such as Mnet’s DStv, Amazon Prime, Netflix, and Iroko TV. The company continues to push the boundaries of storytelling, ensuring that its films reach a global audience.

Memorable Characters and Strong Narratives

One of Biodun Stephen’s indispensable approaches to storytelling is the creation of strong, memorable characters that resonate with audiences long after the viewing experience. Characters like “Jobe” in Picture Perfect, “Todowede” in Breaded Life, and “Ajinde” in Looking for Baami  ‘Sista’  and most recently, ‘Momiwa’ have become fan favorites, showcasing her talent for developing relatable and enduring personas.

Directorial Achievements

Beyond her writing and production prowess, Biodun has also directed several successful films, including:

  • Aki and Paw Paw
  • Introducing the Kujus

Her directorial style is marked by meticulous attention to production details and a commitment to bringing out the best in her cast, ensuring that every project she undertakes is of the highest quality.

Personal Life and Philosophy

Biodun Stephen was born in Lagos, Nigeria. Her passion for storytelling was evident from a young age, leading her to pursue a career in filmmaking. Her personal experiences and keen observations of her environment continue to fuel her creativity and dedication to the craft. She is a firm believer in the transformative power of film, using her platform to communicate, educate, and entertain.

Looking Ahead

Biodun Stephen remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of storytelling and filmmaking. With a vision to continually inspire and entertain, she aims to create more groundbreaking films that highlight African stories on a global stage. Her commitment to excellence and her innovative approach to filmmaking make her a formidable force in the industry.

For more about Biodun Stephen and her work, visit her social media platforms. Follow her journey as she continues to empower and inspire through the art of film.

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M.OM 3.0 Conference
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Sacredmotherhood Celebrates Exceptional Mothers at M.O.M. 3.0 Conference

A Sacredmotherhood is thrilled to announce the successful conclusion of the “Mom On Mission: Your Light Has Come, M.O.M. 3.0” Conference, held on Saturday, May 11, 2024, from 10 am to 1 pm at C Banquets, located at 300 City Centre Dr, 12th floor, Mississauga, ON L5B 3C1. This inspiring event brought together mothers from all walks of life to honor and celebrate their exceptional contributions to nurturing families and communities.

M.O.M. 3.0 Conference

The conference featured insightful workshops, inspirational keynotes, and moments of reflection and worship, led by esteemed speakers Oyin Isaac, founder of A Sacredmotherhood; Tolulope Adejumo, Dere Akindoju, Dammy Aromiwura, Ally Yao, Elmien de Wet, and Adeola Abiodun. Attendees engaged in thought-provoking discussions received uplifting messages and found opportunities for spiritual growth and empowerment.

M.O.M. 3.0 Conference

A highlight of the event was the presentation of the prestigious Shining Star Award, supported by Women of Rubies, to recognize a mother who exemplifies resilience, compassion, and dedication. We are delighted to announce that the winner of this year’s Shining Star Award is Taiwo Awojoodu.

Taiwo Awojoodu’s recognition as the Shining Star Award recipient includes extensive publicity over a three-month period, a feature on Women of Rubies’ blogpost, pinned to the Inspiration segment for two weeks, a pinned post of the feature on their social media pages for one week, event/product promotion on their Facebook page monthly for three months, and a live interview session with Women of Rubies’ founder Esther Ijewere on Facebook.

M.O.M. 3.0 Conference

“This partnership with Women of Rubies underscores our shared commitment to uplifting and honoring mothers,” says Oyin Isaac, founder of A Sacredmotherhood. “We believe that every mother deserves recognition for her selfless love and devotion.”

Esther Ijewere, founder of Women of Rubies, adds, “We are excited to collaborate with A Sacredmotherhood to celebrate the strength and resilience of mothers. The Shining Star Award is our way of honoring their invaluable contributions to society.”

M.O.M. 3.0 Conference

The M.O.M. 3.0 Conference successfully brought together mothers for a day of empowerment, reflection, and celebration, reinforcing the divine essence of motherhood and honoring the shining stars among us.

For further information or inquiries, please contact Oyin Isaac at 647-704-6804 or via Instagram: @_sacredmotherhood.

See more photos below;

M.O.M. 3.0 Conference

M.O.M. 3.0 ConferenceM.O.M. 3.0 Conference

 

M.O.M. 3.0 Conference

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Dr. Omotola Bamigbaiye
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Dr. Omotola Bamigbaiye: Inspiring Journey of Resilience and Reinvention

Omotola Bamigbaiye’s journey to success is anything but conventional. In a world where achievement often equates to flawlessness, her story stands out as a testament to resilience, determination, and the beauty found within imperfections. As a lecturer, entrepreneur, marketing expert, and now author, Omotola’s path exemplifies the power of embracing life’s twists and turns with grace and authenticity.

From Lecture Halls to Boardrooms: A Multifaceted Career

Omotola’s journey began in the lecture halls, where she shared her expertise as an adjunct lecturer at the University of Lagos Business School (ULBS) and a facilitator at Orange Academy. Armed with a Doctorate in Marketing, she seamlessly transitioned into the corporate world, leaving an indelible mark on the financial services and FMCG sectors.

As the Marketing Director, Sub Saharan Africa at pladis Global Limited, Omotola’s strategic vision and portfolio management skills have propelled her to the forefront of her industry. But beyond her corporate success, she remains committed to empowering others through education and mentorship.

Dr. Omotola Bamigbaiye

Crafting Compelling Narratives: The Power of Storytelling

In her latest endeavor, Omotola ventures into the world of literature with her book, “Imperfectly Awesome.” Adulting can be chaotic. But it can also be a hilarious and thrilling ride. From career expectations to motherhood, relationships, and the nagging whispers of imposter syndrome, there’s always something to grapple with. Written in an honest, relatable tone, I share my stories of becoming to help you love yourself, reinvent, and bloom—just the way you were designed to. The world may only play off-tune beats, but you can create your rhythm and dance to it gracefully . . . or however else you please.

Through candid storytelling, Omotola shares the highs and lows of her personal and professional journey, offering readers a glimpse into the transformative power of resilience and hope. Drawing from her own experiences, she explores themes of self-discovery, overcoming adversity, and finding beauty in imperfection. Her book serves as a roadmap for those navigating life’s uncertainties, encouraging readers to embrace their flaws and celebrate their unique journey.

Lessons in Resilience: Navigating Life’s Challenges

Omotola’s story is one of resilience in the face of adversity. From navigating boardrooms with a baby strapped to her back to battling imposter syndrome and career setbacks, she has weathered life’s storms with grace and determination. Through it all, she has learned valuable lessons about the importance of self-love, perseverance, and owning one’s narrative. Her journey serves as an inspiration to women everywhere, reminding them that success is not defined by perfection but by the courage to embrace imperfections and forge ahead despite the odds.

Embracing Life’s Messy, Beautiful Chaos

In a world obsessed with perfection, Omotola’s story is a refreshing reminder that life’s greatest lessons are often found in its messiest moments. Her journey is a testament to the transformative power of resilience, self-love, and unwavering determination. As she continues to inspire others through her work and her words, Omotola Bamigbaiye stands as a shining example of what it means to embrace imperfections and find beauty in life’s messy, beautiful chaos.

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