Blog - Page 23 of 462 - Women of Rubies

In Inspiration March 24, 2024 By Esther Ijewere

Christine Schuler Deschryver: Transforming Lives and Breaking Barriers in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Christine Schuler Deschryver’s journey started in Bukavu, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, where she has always called home. However, tragedy struck in 1998 when her best friend was brutally murdered. This event marked a turning point in Christine’s life, propelling her towards a mission to empower the women of Congo and put an end to the scourge of ‘sexual terrorism.

Leading Transformative Initiatives

As the Co-Founder and Director of the City of Joy and Director of V-Day Congo, Christine plays a pivotal role in driving change on the ground in the DRC. She oversees the City of Joy, a transformational leadership community for women survivors of violence in Bukavu. Since its inception in 2011, the City of Joy has empowered over 2000 women, providing them with healing, skills training, and a platform for leadership.

An Internationally Recognized Activist Christine’s advocacy has earned her international recognition, including being named one of The Guardian’s Women of the Year for 2011.

Empowering Survivors, Transforming Lives

The impact of the City of Joy is profound. Women who graduate from the program emerge as forces of energy and determination. They become entrepreneurs, leaders, advocates, and educators, reclaiming their dignity and agency in the face of adversity. Through initiatives like the V-World Farm, Christine and her team are creating sustainable opportunities for survivors to thrive.

TED Talk: Christine Schuler Deschryver’s Powerful Message of Empowerment

TED recently released a compelling TED Talk featuring Christine Schuler Deschryver. In her enlightening presentation titled “Turning Pain into Power,” Christine delves into the challenges faced by women in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the transformative impact of the City of Joy, a leadership center for survivors of sexual violence.

Christine passionately discusses how rape is often used as a weapon in the ongoing conflict over the Congo’s abundant mineral resources. She sheds light on the harrowing experiences of women in the region and the pervasive cycle of victimization they endure.

Despite the adversity, Christine shares a message of hope and empowerment. She highlights the vital role of the City of Joy in helping survivors reclaim their agency and rebuild their lives. Through healing, skills training, and community support, women graduate from the program as empowered leaders, breaking free from the chains of trauma and stigma.

Christine’s TED Talk serves as a powerful call to action, urging global audiences to stand in solidarity with Congolese women and support initiatives that promote healing, justice, and empowerment. Her inspiring words resonate deeply, sparking conversations and driving positive change in communities worldwide.

Christine Schuler Deschryver

A Voice for Change on the Global Stage

Christine’s advocacy extends far beyond the borders of the DRC. Recognized as an internationally renowned human rights activist, she has been honored as one of The Guardian’s Women of the Year for her tireless efforts. Through documentaries, speaking engagements, and her role as Vice President of Panzi Foundation DRC, Christine continues to amplify the voices of Congolese women and drive forward the fight for justice and equality.

In Inspiration March 24, 2024 By Esther Ijewere

Oluwatoyin Ogunade: Master of Ceremonies Extraordinaire

Meet Oluwatoyin Ogunade, affectionately known as Emcee Teewhy, a Nigerian-Canadian powerhouse in the world of hosting and event management. With nearly a decade of experience, Emcee Teewhy has established herself as a multi-award-winning mistress of ceremonies, leaving an indelible mark on every event she graces.

A Decade of Excellence

With her rich background in hosting a diverse range of events, Emcee Teewhy brings a wealth of expertise to the table. From corporate galas radiating professionalism to intimate religious ceremonies, she has mastered the art of creating unforgettable moments for her clients.

Passion and Dedication

What sets Emcee Teewhy apart is her unwavering passion for her craft. With each event she hosts, she infuses genuine warmth, enthusiasm, and professionalism, ensuring that every occasion is a resounding success. Whether she’s captivating a corporate audience with her storytelling or fostering a sense of community at a wedding celebration, Emcee Teewhy’s dedication to excellence shines through.

Making Every Moment Count

In a world where events are a cornerstone of celebration and connection, Emcee Teewhy stands as a beacon of excellence. Her commitment to bringing joy and elegance to every occasion is unparalleled, making her an indispensable asset to any event.

The Voice of Distinction

As the voice behind numerous events, Emcee Teewhy’s eloquence and charm captivate audiences, leaving a lasting impression. With her unparalleled professionalism and dedication to excellence, she continues to elevate every event she graces, ensuring that each moment is truly unforgettable.

Connect with Emcee Teewhy:

Instagram

Phone: +1(506) 233- 6430

Email: emceeteewhyinternational@gmail.com

Website: ww.emceeteewhy.com

In Inspiration March 1, 2024 By Women of Rubies

Damilola Ajibade: Empowering Newcomers Through Storytelling

Damilola Ajibade embarked on a life-changing journey to Canada as a Permanent Resident. Her professional background as a Channel and Business Development Manager in the ICT industry equipped her with valuable skills and insights. However, upon settling in Canada, Damilola noticed a significant gap in knowledge and understanding about immigrants in her new community.

Bridging the Gap Through Storytelling

Motivated by a desire to bridge this gap, Damilola delved into storytelling, recognizing its power to amplify voices and foster understanding. Through insightful interviews, she set out to showcase the inspiring journeys of new immigrants in New Brunswick and beyond. Her commitment and passion for storytelling eventually led to the creation of her television show, “The Journey Amplified,” which aired on Rogers TV.

Supporting Entrepreneurial Success

In addition to her television endeavors, Damilola actively engaged in public service, where she played a pivotal role in aiding new entrepreneurs. Her day-to-day involvement in guiding entrepreneurs through the essential information needed for their business success further demonstrated her dedication to supporting the immigrant community.

Recognition and Impact

Damilola’s impactful contributions did not go unnoticed. In 2023, she was honored as one of Canada’s Top 100 Black Women to Watch, a testament to her role as a beacon of support for the immigrant community and a catalyst for entrepreneurial success. This recognition celebrated her commitment to bridging gaps, inspiring change, and empowering others.

In Career Gems March 4, 2024 By Women of Rubies

Nike Kay-Okunubi: Redefining African Fashion With Global Appeal

Nike Kay-Okunubi, the visionary force behind NIKI KAY, has reshaped the landscape of African-inspired fashion through her unique blend of tradition and modernity. Since its inception in 2013 in Nigeria, and later registration in Canada in 2020, NIKI KAY has emerged as a symbol of elegance and refinement, captivating audiences worldwide. Nike’s journey is a testament to her dedication to quality, her cultural roots, and her commitment to empowering both her customers and fellow entrepreneurs.

Evolution into Ready-to-Wear

Transitioning from its roots as a bespoke clothing brand, NIKI KAY has evolved into a sought-after Ready-to-Wear label under Nike’s adept leadership. With a background in Business Management and Finance, Nike has applied her expertise to propel NIKI KAY’s growth, understanding market demands and customer preferences with precision. Each NIKI KAY piece is a masterpiece, meticulously crafted to embody the essence of African heritage while embracing contemporary fashion trends. From intricate Ankara prints to minimalist silhouettes, every garment reflects Nike’s dedication to merging tradition with modernity, offering women globally a taste of African elegance.

Empowering Small Businesses

Beyond her success, Nike is deeply committed to uplifting small businesses within the fashion industry. Leveraging her expertise in business development and marketing, she provides invaluable support to entrepreneurs, helping them navigate the complexities of the industry and achieve sustainable growth. Nike’s dedication extends beyond financial assistance; she actively collaborates with artisans and suppliers across Africa, fostering ethical and transparent partnerships that prioritize fair trade practices and community empowerment. Through NIKI KAY, Nike not only celebrates African culture but also advocates for the preservation of traditional craftsmanship and the empowerment of local communities.

Nike Kay-Okunubi’s journey with NIKI KAY is a testament to the transformative power of fashion as a tool for cultural expression and economic empowerment. With her innovative approach and unwavering commitment to quality and ethics, Nike continues to redefine the narrative surrounding African fashion, inspiring women to embrace their heritage with pride and confidence. As NIKI KAY continues to flourish, it serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring entrepreneurs and a celebration of African creativity and resilience.

To learn more about Nike’s work, visit her website: https://nikikay.com/

Instagram: @nikikayclothing

Facebook: Niki Kay

In Interviews&profile September 11, 2024 By Women of Rubies

Erica Effah: Content Marketing Expert Redefining Business Growth

Erica Effah is a seasoned professional based in Toronto, with expertise spanning over 7 years in marketing and operations within the Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) and Business-to-Business (B2B) technology sectors. In today’s dynamic digital landscape, the role of content marketing has become more critical than ever in driving business success.

A Journey of Evolution

Erica’s journey into the world of content marketing is marked by a trajectory of evolution and innovation. Beginning as a digital creator, she cultivated her skills in crafting engaging content and building online communities. However, her passion for creativity and storytelling soon intersected with her corporate aspirations, leading her to explore avenues where she could leverage her talents to drive tangible business outcomes.

Bridging Creativity with Corporate Expertise

Transitioning into roles as a Marketing and Business Development Executive and Operations Team Lead, Erica brought her unique blend of creativity and strategic acumen to the forefront. Here, she played pivotal roles in devising and implementing content marketing strategies that not only captured audience attention but also propelled organizational growth. From B2B SaaS startups to global supply chain companies, Erica’s impact was felt across diverse sectors, where her initiatives contributed to navigating the complexities of scaling businesses from seed stage to securing Series A funding.

Driving Growth Through Innovation

At the heart of Erica’s approach lies a commitment to innovation and data-driven decision-making. By harnessing the power of analytics and leveraging insights to inform content strategy, she has consistently delivered measurable results. Whether it’s optimizing legacy facilities or spearheading organic marketing efforts, Erica’s ability to drive growth through innovation has positioned her as a trusted leader in the content marketing space.

A Vision for Business Transformation

As the founder of Erica Tiwaa Agency, Erica is on a mission to redefine how businesses approach content marketing. With a focus on efficiency, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by early to mid-stage businesses, she aims to empower organizations to unlock their full potential in the digital realm. Through her expertise, Erica is paving the way for businesses to navigate the complexities of today’s digital landscape with confidence and clarity.

In Career Gems February 29, 2024 By Women of Rubies

Katrice Justice: Empowering Lives Through Financial Literacy

Katrice Bent is a young entrepreneur and the visionary behind Katrice Justice. She is on a mission to empower individuals to take charge of their financial futures. Establishing her business in December 2022, Katrice is driven by a commitment to deliver accessible and trustworthy financial education to people from all walks of life. Her fervent dedication to helping others attain financial freedom has propelled her to build a thriving personal finance brand that has already left a significant mark.

A Vision for Empowerment

She established Katrice Justice with a mission to provide accessible and reliable financial education to individuals from all backgrounds. Her journey began at the age of 12 when she sold Avon products alongside her mother. By 14, she ventured into entrepreneurship once again, starting her own photography business. In 2017, her dedication and hard work were recognized when she received a youth entrepreneurship award from the Jamaican Ottawa Community Association.

Building a Thriving Brand

Today, Katrice operates primarily online, leveraging platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram under the handle @KatriceJustice. Her website, katricejustice.com, serves as a central hub for all her offerings and resources. Through a comprehensive range of services, including digital content, speaking engagements, educational resources, and personalized guidance, Katrice empowers individuals to achieve their financial goals and live their best lives.

Making an Impact

With her unique blend of creativity, analytical thinking, and strategic planning, Katrice has successfully grown her brand and reached a wider audience than ever before. Her commitment to excellence and passion for empowering others to attain financial independence drive her forward. As she looks to the future, Katrice is excited to continue expanding her brand and making a positive impact on the lives of countless individuals.

Katrice Bent’s journey is a testament to the power of entrepreneurship and the importance of financial education in today’s world. Through Katrice Justice, she is not only changing lives but also inspiring others to take control of their financial futures and pursue their dreams.

In Interviews&profile February 27, 2024 By Esther Ijewere

Gloria Onyinye Odiadi: Philanthropic Trailblazer Creating Impact Globally

Across the globe, there are individuals whose passion for service transcends boundaries, leaving a lasting impact on the lives they touch. Gloria Onyinye Odiadi is one such extraordinary individual whose dedication and altruism have become synonymous with positive change within her community.

Championing Change Through WODTLF

At the heart of Gloria’s mission lies her nonprofit organization, the Women of Distinction Touching Lives Foundation (WODTLF). Through WODTLF, Gloria has spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at assisting and supporting families, youths, and vulnerable individuals, both locally and internationally. Serving as the founder and active president of WODTLF chapters in both Nigeria and Canada, Gloria collaborates with a group of like-minded women to inspire, empower, and uplift fellow women in their pursuit of realizing their dreams.

A Leader in Philanthropy and Business

Gloria’s leadership extends beyond the realm of philanthropy. With a diverse skill set and an unwavering commitment to excellence, she is recognized as a proficient leader, strategist, goal achiever, and team player. As an entrepreneur, Gloria has successfully established her own fashion company, Prettyfits Collection Concept, in Nigeria, and later expanded her ventures to include Glodworld Ventures in Canada.

A Journey of Continuous Growth and Learning

However, Gloria’s journey towards success has not been solely defined by her professional achievements. Her educational path reflects a commitment to continuous growth and development. Having obtained her BSc degree in Business Administration from the University of Lagos, Nigeria, in 2002, Gloria has pursued various educational opportunities in Canada, acquiring certifications and training in fields such as office professionalism, dietary aide support, healthcare, financial advisory, and human resources management.

A Supportive Family Foundation

Throughout her journey, Gloria has been supported by her husband, Leonard Odiadi, a compassionate and encouraging partner. Together, they are blessed with three wonderful sons: Meshack, Michael, and Marvin.

Exemplifying Dedication and Impact

Gloria’s unwavering dedication to serving others, coupled with her relentless pursuit of personal and professional growth, exemplifies her outstanding character and commitment to making a positive impact in the world. Her story serves as a testament to the transformative power of passion, resilience, and service, inspiring others to follow in her footsteps and create meaningful change in their own communities.

In Editor's Choice March 4, 2024 By Women of Rubies

Tope Mark-Odigie, Katrice Justice, Nike Kay-Okunubi, Chekwube Uchea, Others To Speak At Women Of Rubies Media Visibility Bootcamp 3.0 On April 6th And 7th

Women of Rubies, a renowned platform dedicated to celebrating and empowering women, is excited to unveil the lineup of distinguished speakers for its highly anticipated Media Visibility BootCamp 3.0. Scheduled for April 6th and 7th, this transformative event promises invaluable insights to all attendees.

Among the esteemed speakers for the BootCamp are; TV Host and Wealth Creation Coach, Tope Mark-Odigie; Financial Educator, Katrice Justice; Fashion Creative Director, Nike Kay-Okunubi, and Career and Transition Coach; Chekwube Uchea, among other industry experts. Each speaker brings expertise in media visibility, offering strategies to elevate personal and professional brands.

Joining them are six additional speakers, including Damilola Ajibade, founder of The Journey Amplified, Fola Adegoke, founder of Winfinite Consulting, Chiddie Anyasodo, Relationship Coach, Dr. Kelechi Okoro, Health Influencer and Medical Doctor, Checkwube Uchea, Career and transition coach, Ruth Aliu, Founder of Techity Consulting, and Erica Tiwaa, digital marketer and content creator.

The two-day event will feature insightful sessions and fireside chats conducted via Zoom, covering personal branding, storytelling, and leveraging digital platforms. Early bird tickets are available until March 14th, with Rubies Collective members receiving an extra 15 percent off. Membership details can be found at womenofrubies.com/RubiesCommunity

“We are thrilled to bring together such an exceptional lineup of speakers for our Media Visibility BootCamp 3.0,” says Esther Ijewere, Founder of Women of Rubies. “Our goal is to empower women with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in today’s media-driven world. With the expertise and guidance of our speakers, attendees will leave feeling inspired, informed, and ready to take their visibility to new heights.”

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from industry leaders and connect with like-minded professionals at the Women of Rubies Media Visibility BootCamp 3.0. Register now to secure your spot and embark on a journey toward greater visibility and impact.

Read about MVBC 1.0 here and the second edition here

Subscribe and watch MVBC videos on our YouTube channel here

Grab your MVBC 3 ticket here

For enquiries; email – mediabootcamp@womenofrubies.com

In Career Gems March 4, 2024 By Esther Ijewere

Women of Rubies Sip and Network Event Celebrates Female Leadership and Success

The Women of Rubies Sip and Network event held on February 25th, 2024, at the prestigious Naijajollof Downtown Toronto Event Center, was met with resounding success. The event brought together a diverse group of remarkable business owners from across Ontario for an evening of inspiration, networking, and empowerment.

The event featured esteemed speakers including Nkechi Ahanor-Wilson, Funmi Ayowole, and Chichi Okichie, who captivated the audience with their insights and expertise. Funmi Ayowole, as the first speaker, delved into the importance of emotional wellness for women, the significance of maintaining a healthy routine, and the practice of mindfulness in daily life. Chichi Okichie shared invaluable insights on the underutilized potential of Facebook for business owners, emphasizing its role in enhancing media visibility and brand recognition.

Nkechi Ahanor-Wilson, the founder of the successful hair brand Cacosa Hair, shared her journey of transforming pain into passion and profit, highlighting the importance of setting healthy boundaries as business owners to foster growth and prevent exploitation.

The event also featured an enlightening interview conducted by Esther Ijewere, the founder of Women of Rubies, with Beauty Obasuyi, the founder of Naijajollof and a real estate expert. Beauty shared the inspiration behind her business, which began in 2018 and has since expanded to six locations across Canada. She also revealed the motivations behind her Guinness World Record attempt for the longest cooking hours, which lasted for an impressive 18 days.

Attendees had the opportunity to engage in networking sessions, facilitating connections and knowledge sharing among participants. Nike Kay -Okunubi expressed her newfound understanding of the importance of boundaries and intentionality in networking, while Julia Biebem of Grandieu Event felt inspired by Nkechi’s session and aims to apply the lessons learned to enhance her business endeavours. Angela Ikogho of Wraptuckmore stressed the significance of assertiveness and the ability to say no in navigating business challenges.

The event, expertly compered by Blessing Timidi Digha, a community development advocate and content creator, was attended by notable business owners and entrepreneurs who left feeling empowered and motivated to pursue their goals.

Esther Ijewere, the convener of the event, expressed her delight at the overwhelming success of the inaugural live event in Canada, affirming the Sip and Network movement’s commitment to empowering women to embrace their uniqueness. She looks forward to future events that promise to be impactful and value-driven.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact: event@womenofrubies.com

To learn more about our activities, join our Rubies Collective Community; womenofrubies.com/Rubiescommunity

To be one of the first to receive news about our next event, join our mailing list here

Elevate your media presence and enhance your brand visibility by registering for the Women of Rubies Media Visibility BootCamp 3.0. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to gain valuable insights and strategies from industry experts. Grab your earlybird ticket to our Media Visibility Bootcamp here

See more photos from the event below;

In Career Gems March 1, 2024 By Women of Rubies

Women of Rubies & Momentswithbren Vision Board Masterclass Recap

In collaboration with Moments with Bren, Women of Rubies recently hosted an invigorating IGS (Ignite, Goals, Success) Live session facilitated by Esther Ijewere and Brenda Okorogba. This transformative class delved into the power of visualization through the creation of vision boards, aimed at helping participants identify core values, set SMART goals, and take actionable steps towards their aspirations.

Clarifying Core Values and Intentions

At the heart of the session was the exploration of core values and intentions. Participants were encouraged to reflect on the guiding principles that shape their decisions and actions. Whether it’s integrity, creativity, compassion, or service, clarifying these values provided a solid foundation for aligning goals with personal beliefs.

Crafting SMART Goals

With values as a compass, participants were guided in crafting SMART goals – Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This strategic approach ensured that goals were not only meaningful but also actionable and realistic. By setting clear objectives, participants were empowered to take deliberate steps toward their desired outcomes.

Creating Vision Boards

A highlight of the session was the hands-on activity of creating vision boards. Through a collage of images, words, and symbols, participants visualized their aspirations and dreams. From career milestones to personal growth, each element on the vision board served as a powerful reminder of the future they aim to manifest.

Daily Intentions and Reflection

As part of the ongoing journey towards their goals, participants were encouraged to set daily intentions and reflect on their actions. By consciously embodying their intentions and evaluating their progress each day, individuals gained valuable insights into their behaviours and habits, paving the way for continuous growth and self-awareness.

Embracing Creativity and Sharing Goals

Throughout the class, creativity flowed freely as participants expressed their visions through art and storytelling. The act of sharing vision boards and goals with the group fostered a sense of community and support, inspiring each other to reach greater heights.

Participant Reviews:

“Justina Oguntona’s Review: I absolutely loved it! The class opened my eyes to a lot of things, starting from uncovering my intentions and creating values that align with my intended goals. It provided me with the opportunity for self-reflection, which is essential for personal growth. Additionally, I appreciated learning about the spirit of discernment, enabling me to distinguish between vision builders and vision killers. Overall, it was a truly enriching experience!”

“Helen’s Reflection: The class was truly an eye-opener for me. It has inspired me to be more deliberate in achieving my goals this year. The insights gained from uncovering my intentions, aligning values with goals, and fostering self-reflection have equipped me with the clarity and determination needed to pursue my aspirations with purpose. I am grateful for this empowering experience!”

“Funmi’s Takeaway: The class emphasized the importance of giving ourselves grace and being kind to ourselves, even as we strive to achieve our goals. This lesson resonated deeply with me, reminding me of the significance of self-care and compassion on the journey towards success. By embracing this mindset, I feel empowered to pursue my aspirations with a balanced approach, nurturing both my ambitions and well-being. It’s a powerful reminder that self-love and growth go hand in hand.”

“Ejiro Osakede’s Goal Setting Reflection: One of my key goals this year is to set intentions, make impact, and influence society positively. This class has been instrumental in helping me clarify this goal and chart a path towards its realization. By learning the importance of intentionality and reflecting on the impact I aim to make, I feel empowered to take deliberate actions that align with my values and vision for societal change. I am excited to embark on this journey of purpose and contribution, knowing that each step I take brings me closer to making a meaningful difference in the world.”

The Women of Rubies IGS Vision Board Class was a powerful reminder of the importance of visualizing one’s dreams and taking intentional action towards them. By clarifying core values, setting SMART goals, and creating vision boards, participants embarked on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.

As we move forward, let us continue to embody our values, pursue our goals with determination, and support each other on our paths to success

Presentation slides from the class will be sent to registrants and our Rubies Collective Community members.

Click here to join the community and receive updated information about our activities.