A popular wealth creator once said: “When money realizes that it is in good hands, it wants to stay and multiply in those hands.” That’s what Vanessa Ideh Adekoya represents in her industry. She understands the power of merging financial Literacy with creativity. Vanessa has managed to turn YouTube into a lucrative business, and she is now teaching other women how to do it.

In April 2020 she joined Youtube and started creating content around trending topics, and in June 2021, the certified financial education instructor (CFEI) and former accountant decided to start from scratch and build a brand-new channel called, Launch To Wealth.

The platform has now evolved into a goldmine, making Vanessa one of the top black Youtubers in the world. In November 2021, she made $23,700 from her YouTube channel in just five months of launching it, and her subscribers increased significantly. The inspiring financial coach has turned her hobby into a career, and she is reaping the fruit of her labour, hard work and tenacity.

In this Interview with Esther Ijewere, she shares her passion for gender equity and how she is using her platform to teach women the importance of financial freedom.

Vanessa Ideh Interview with Women of Rubies
Vanessa Ideh

Childhood Influence

Yes, My childhood influenced me in a way. I can look back on my childhood and find patterns of creativity and expression through words.  At the same time, I have always been good with numbers so I knew that whatever I would do as an adult had to allow me to use those skills simultaneously.

Why I Pitched My Tent In the Financial Literacy Sector  

Making a mark in the world of Financial Literacy as a digital creator is me coming full circle with myself. For as long as I have known myself, I have been a confident speaker and creative thinker but growing up in an African household, I thought there was no way for me to express my natural talents and be financially stable at the same time. You were either a broke artist or an educated professional. So, I decided to be an educated professional and it doesn’t get more professional than being an Accountant.

However, after landing a job at one of the Big 4 accounting firms, I quickly realized that I would never feel fulfilled if I did not have room to be creative and to speak often as part of my job. That was when the search for an alternative path began. I had coffee chats with people who worked in Marketing, PR and other communication-heavy fields but it wasn’t until I found a brand called Clever Girl Finance that I felt like someone had created exactly what I wanted to create. I did further research and found that she is a Certified Financial Education Instructor so I became one too. The rest is history.

The Journey So Far

It’s been Amazing. On many days, I feel like I am living in a dream because I recognize how much of a privilege it is to show up as your full self, work in a field that you were naturally designed to work in and make a difference in the lives of many. I see it as God’s goodness and I never want to take God’s goodness for granted.

Challenges I Encounter In My Line Of Work

It depends on what room I am in. In some spaces, the challenge is explaining what exactly I do for a living. In other spaces, the challenge is finding the right people to join my team so we can move the vision forward. However, regardless of the challenges I face, I still find joy in doing what I do.

The Society and Its Support For Content Creators

It is a relatively new field and so people don’t understand it enough to appreciate it. It is only a matter of time, though. I see that changing in the future.

Vanessa Ideh - Founder of Launch To Wealth
Vanessa Ideh – Founder, Launch To Wealth

Other Projects and Activities

I am currently working on a project that would shed light on the creator economy. It is something I am so passionate about because it is the reason why I am able to do what I do in a sustainable way.

What I Enjoy Most About My Job

The level of impact that my work has. People literally pray for me every day because I expose them to opportunities that they otherwise would not be exposed to.

 3 Women Who Inspire Me And Why 

Bola Sokunbi, the CEO of Clever Girl Finance. I love the fact that she was bold enough to build a platform centered around women and money. Those are two subjects that get me fired up and as far as I’m concerned, she is a blueprint.

Tara Durotoye, the CEO of House of Tara. I love her love for life and for people. She wears many hats well and I think that is not easy for anyone to do.

Myleik Teele, the CEO of Curlbox. That’s a woman who believed she could and did. She built a social media community and then turned around to create an amazing company around the needs of the women in her community. That’s remarkable; in my humble opinion.

How I Use My Passion For Financial Literacy and Gender Equality To Create Room For Other Women in Our Industry

I actually have a closed community for black women in the financial literacy and media space. It’s one of my most recent projects and something I am very passionate about. I love to see women thrive and succeed.

One Thing I Wish To Change In The World

I would make room for more black women to thrive. We need more women at the table.

How To Empower Women In The Society

Teach them how money works. I don’t think women can be empowered if we aren’t financially empowered.

Being  A Woman of Rubies

My audacity. I think it takes a lot of courage to break away from a traditional path, tell yourself the truth about who you are and then find or create a path that allows you to show up as your best self. Many more people would do this too if they had the audacity so I would say audacity makes me unique.

To Young Women Trying To Navigate Their Path In Life

I will probably say 2 things:

Who you are is enough. Find where people like you get paid and go there

Give yourself options. You never want to be in a situation where you feel stuck so ensure you make decisions that open you up to multiple opportunities

Take a look at other related interviews we’ve had in the past:

Building wealth and getting clarity around your finances doesn’t have to be daunting or stressful. In fact, with the right practices instilled, it can be liberating.

If you want to be one of them, then read on to educate yourself about debt, value-based spending, the best saving habits, financial freedom, and the key components that lead to financial success. It won’t be easy to implement these new habits, but you certainly won’t regret it.

ONE- Pay Off Your Debts.

Not all debts are bad. Debt with a plan can actually be really good for acquiring assets. These are ‘good debts’ as they are spent on investments and assets that are valuable and can be liquidated in the long run.
‘Bad debts’ are those debts you use on consumption.

Read Also: I’m Passionate About Helping Women Gain Financial Freedom – Vanessa Ideh Shares Her Story

When you have a million naira personal income and you have a debt of 500 thousand naira that is due or will be due, it is advisable you pay off your debts first before you calculate how much you really own.

If you have more than one debt, pay off the one with the highest interest rates or the one with the highest balance first.

TWO – Determine Your Priorities.

When you prioritize debt, think about high interest versus low interest. You can build emergency funds simultaneously while paying off your debts because if you do not have an emergency fund, you may slip back into that debt if real emergency happens.

Being in debt is stressful so you will feel more compelled to rid yourself of that burden. High-interest debt steals from your wealth; values-based spending helps you get in alignment with building wealth, and an emergency fund protects your wealth so that you don’t slide back into high-interest debt.

THREE- Practice Value-Based Spending.

The first step is awareness – know what you’re spending.
Look back at the last three to six months of your spending and analyze how much you’re spending on your lifestyle.

It is easy to often assume that you are just paying for rent and food but our brains want to rationalize that we’re on our best behavior, so it doesn’t allow us to think about all of the subscription boxes.

Value-based spending is a lot easier than budgeting. Setting a budget can feel restrictive, like being on a diet.

You spend within your budget for a week and then you see that dress on Instagram and you click.

But if you have values, you will see that that instant gratification won’t be gratifying for long because it’s not aligned with our values. Once you determine three values that really matter to you, you’ll find that they can function as a filter. An example would be equity, family, and leverage (when you’re willing to spend money on things that help make life easier). Buying the shoes doesn’t align with any of those pillars, so it needs to be a preplanned choice.

FOUR – Open a High-Yield Savings Account.

Saving is the inverse of spending. Parkinson’s law states that work expands to fill the time available for its completion. Basically, any one thing can shrink or contract to the size of its container. In relation to money in a bank account, the reason you end up spending what you should be saving is that it’s right there, visible, in your checking account.
Open a high-yield savings account and automate transfers on a monthly basis. That recurring act will give you accessibility to only what you should be spending.

Consider investments as well, but make your research so you are investing in what you are knowledgeable about.

FIVE – Understand the Definition of Financial Freedom.

Financial freedom is an equation: enough passive income to outpace your expenses. When you have financial freedom in your life, work becomes an option instead of an obligation.
Financial freedom allows you to enjoy your wealth because time is no longer a finite resource.
When you go to work, even as an entrepreneur, you are trading time for money. But, if you can buy assets to create additional income, then you are trading money for assets that bring you more money.

If you get on this train and educate yourself, you will find that you don’t always have to rely on yourself and your body to make money. It takes a lot of time, effort, and sacrifice to get up every morning and go to work.

SIX – Instill the Key Components That Lead to Financial Independence

Six qualities that every wealthy woman should try to encompass:

  1. Planning: Determine your financial goals, write them down, and find an accountability partner. You can’t get what you want if you don’t plan for it. When it comes to money, you have to be goal-oriented.
  2. Frugality or Intentionality: Commit to saving more, spending less, and sticking to a plan. This formula leads to an ability to have a passive income because if you spend all of your money then there will be nothing left to invest it.
  3. Confidence: In order to gain financial confidence in managing your money and investing, you need financial education. We didn’t learn this in school. You have to go and find it, otherwise, you will stay in a state of stress. Inaction is terrible for your finances.
  4. Responsibility: Accept your role in financial outcomes and take action to make financial changes in your life.
  5. Focus: See your process through to completion one step at a time. Accountability is crucial.
  6. Social indifference: Don’t succumb to buying the latest thing as a means of feeling good. If you practice this, it will change your life. Women are the targets of consumerism. But, if you appreciate how you look and how you are inherent, you will save yourself a lot of time, money, and energy.

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I started Omaness Skinfood To​ Empower And​ Enrich The Lives Of Women- Ifeoma Adibe-Chukwuka

 

 

Adeola Adefemi stands as a shining example of unwavering dedication and remarkable achievement. As a public school teacher, Adeola has not only carved a niche for herself but has also become a beacon for the advancement of quality education and the establishment of safe and inclusive learning environments.Adeola Adefemi

A Journey Rooted in Commitment

Adeola commenced her educational journey in 2013, joining the Lagos State Ministry of Education. Over the years, she has tirelessly worked towards the advancement of collaborative education and the establishment of safe and inclusive learning spaces. Currently serving as the Principal Education Officer at Keke Senior High School in Lagos, Adeola has become a trailblazer in the field.

Global Recognition and Advocacy

Beyond national borders, Adeola’s impact is globally recognized. As a Fulbright fellow, Global Teacher Prize Ambassador, Global Partner Exchange fellow, and Distinguished Judge for The Royal Commonwealth Essay Competition, she advocates for quality education on an international scale. Her initiatives, including the Girls Allowed Hub, Every Child Counts Club, and the Secure Your Future Campaign, exemplify her commitment to empowering students globally.

Mentorship and Triumph

Adeola’s mentorship has been a driving force behind the triumphs of numerous students, who have excelled in over 150 local and international competitions. Her dedication to education has earned her prestigious accolades, including the JCI Outstanding Young Person in Nigeria Award, Best Teacher in Lagos and Nigeria Awards, and the coveted title of Best Teacher in Africa (African Union Continental Teachers Award). In 2021, she proudly joined the ranks of the Top 50 Teachers in the World by winning the Global Teacher Prize.

Adeola Adefemi

Literary Pursuits and Academic Contributions

Adeola’s influence extends beyond the classroom into academic discourse. She has presented papers at renowned conferences and summits, showcasing her depth of knowledge and commitment to advancing the field of education. Her passion for literature is evident through her extensive literary pursuits, including scriptwriting and creating over 50 plays and poems, one of which was performed during the Lagos at 50 celebrations.

Continuous Professional Growth

Adeola’s thirst for knowledge is insatiable. With over a hundred international certifications, she exemplifies a commitment to continuous professional growth and expertise in her field. Her dedication to staying abreast of the latest developments underscores her role as a trailblazer in the dynamic landscape of teaching and learning.

In Adeola Adefemi, we find not only a teacher but a visionary leader who has dedicated her career to shaping the future through education. As the Global Teacher Prize winner, her impact on education is not only transformative but also a testament to the power of dedication, resilience, and an unyielding belief in the potential of every student.

Navigating the dynamic landscape of personal and professional growth, the Women of Rubies Media Visibility BootCamp emerges as a powerful force for empowerment. The reverberations of enlightening sessions, expert guidance, and transformative conversations endure, and we’re thrilled to announce that the long-awaited BootCamp recording is now available!

What to Expect:

Relive the Insights: The recording encapsulates the essence of the empowering BootCamp, featuring expert insights from industry leaders; Sola Adesakin, Esther Ijewere, Mayowa Adegoke, Adeola Osideko and Funmi Ajala  on building a strong online presence, crafting a personal brand for leadership, shaping narratives, leveraging financial literacy, mastering public speaking, content creation, brand sustainability, and intentional visibility.

Diverse Perspectives: Join the Fireside Chats where Chinaza Favour, Wendy Nwajiufor, Azeezat Adejare, and Rinret Gofwan discuss content creation, building sustainable brands, and intentional visibility. Gain diverse perspectives to enhance your personal and professional journey.

Why Grab Your Copy:

  1. On-Demand Learning: Access the invaluable sessions at your convenience. Whether you missed a masterclass or want to revisit a favorite, the recording puts the knowledge in your hands.
  2. Practical Strategies: Each session is packed with actionable strategies that can immediately elevate your media visibility and professional impact.
  3. Diverse Insights: Benefit from a diverse range of topics and speakers, ensuring a holistic approach to your personal and professional development.
  4. Invest in Yourself: Your personal and professional growth is an investment. The Women of Rubies Media Visibility BootCamp recording is a valuable resource that continues to provide returns on your commitment to self-improvement.

How to Access

Visit our Selar page and unlock a treasure trove of knowledge and wisdom from industry experts. Your journey to enhanced media visibility and success starts with a click!

Don’t miss this opportunity to empower yourself. Grab your copy of the Women of Rubies Media Visibility BootCamp recording today and step into a future of limitless possibilities!

For further enquiries, reach out via info@womenofrubies.com

Grab our free PR guide E-book here for enhanced visibility!

Free PR Guidebook

In just four days, the entrepreneurial community of Canada will come together for a night of recognition, celebration, and inspiration at the prestigious Canada Vendors Entrepreneur Awards and End of Year Gala. This extraordinary event, founded by the visionary Maryam Muritala, promises an evening filled with glitz, glamour, and a collective celebration of entrepreneurial excellence.

Event Details:

  • Date: December 16th, 2023
  • Time: 6.30 PM EST
  • Location: Shahrayar Banquet Hall, 1150 Crestlawn Dr, Mississauga, ON L4W 1A6

The Canada Vendors Entrepreneur Awards aim to spotlight and honor the outstanding achievements of entrepreneurs who have demonstrated innovation, resilience, and a commitment to excellence in their respective fields. It is a platform that recognizes the tireless efforts and contributions of individuals who have played a pivotal role in shaping the business landscape in Canada.

Maryam Muritala, the driving force behind this initiative, believes in the power of acknowledging and celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit that fuels economic growth and community development. The awards ceremony will serve as a testament to the remarkable journey of these entrepreneurs, highlighting their impact and paving the way for future successes.

Canada Vendors Entrepreneur Awards

Get Ready to Celebrate: Entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and esteemed guests are invited to join this unparalleled celebration of success. The gala promises an enchanting evening featuring inspiring speeches, networking opportunities, and the presentation of prestigious awards recognizing excellence in various categories.

Don’t miss the chance to be a part of this momentous occasion. Secure your spot now and be prepared to witness the brilliance of Canada’s entrepreneurial community.

For media inquiries, sponsorships, or to RSVP, please email:  info@canadavendors.ca and visit canadavendors.ca

Grab your ticket here

 

Maryam Muritala is a foreign-trained lawyer whose expertise extends from Business and Technology to Copyright, Trademark Law, and Contract Management. As a seasoned Business Development Consultant, Maryam has successfully guided entrepreneurs across five continents, establishing herself as a driving force in the business world. In this exclusive interview with Esther Ijewere, Maryam shares her inspiring journey from Lagos, Nigeria, to becoming the founder of Canada Vendors and the visionary behind the renowned Brand Expo.

Childhood Influence

Born and raised in Lagos, Maryam’s entrepreneurial roots run deep, shaped by the influence of both her maternal and paternal grandparents. Inspired by her family’s commitment to service, Maryam’s journey into law was further fueled by her aunt’s encouragement. Her childhood laid the foundation for a life dedicated to building connections and providing opportunities.

Career Path

Called to the Nigerian Bar in 2008, Maryam initially delved into corporate law, working on diverse projects involving contract agreements. Her pivot to business development was a strategic move, opening doors to a realm where she could blend legal expertise with entrepreneurial vision.

Canada Vendors and Navigating Challenges

Witnessing the evolution of the digital marketing space post-COVID-19, Maryam founded Canada Vendors to empower businesses with structured online visibility. The challenges faced, from business registration hurdles to integrating digital marketing, prompted the Canada Vendors Team to host virtual info-session events, offering crucial support during the pandemic.

Brand Expo and its Purpose

Brand Expo, an annual business networking event initiated by Maryam, serves as a platform for businesses to showcase products, services, and brand image. More than a networking opportunity, the expo facilitates workshops, exhibitions, presentations, and networking events, fostering brand awareness, visibility, and valuable business connections.

The Entrepreneurial Journey

Against the backdrop of the pandemic’s impact on small businesses, Maryam launched ‘The Entrepreneurial Journey,’ a YouTube mini-series spotlighting the Canadian small business community. Emphasizing the benefits of technology integration and digital marketing, the series aimed to empower businesses with the tools for growth in the digital landscape.

Being a Woman of Rubies

For Maryam, being a Woman of Rubies means creating opportunities wherever she goes, wearing her crown proudly and tall. Her unique ability to seize opportunities aligns with the essence of resilience and strength that defines a Woman of Rubies.

Inspirational Figures

Michelle Obama, Ibukun Awosika, and Ruth Bader Ginsburg stand as women who inspire Maryam on her journey, reflecting values of leadership, empowerment, and advocacy.

Maryam Muitala, Esther Ijewere and others with Hon. Abike Dabiri during her visit to the City of Brampton

Nigerian Community in Canada

Maryam acknowledges the significant contributions of the Nigerian community to Canada‘s vibrant multicultural society. From business and politics to healthcare and technology, Nigerian trailblazers continue to positively impact various sectors, embodying the spirit of excellence in diverse communities.

Maryam Muritala’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of combining legal expertise with a passion for entrepreneurship. Her commitment to empowering others, evident in initiatives like Canada Vendors and Brand Expo, showcases the potential for positive change within the business landscape. As a Woman of Rubies, Maryam stands as an inspiration, embodying resilience, vision, and a dedication to creating opportunities in every endeavour.

Sola Adesakin’s story is one of transformation, dedication, and the power of personal experience. As a renowned finance coach, author, and mentor, she has made it her mission to simplify the complexities of money management and empower individuals to achieve their financial goals.

A Passion for Financial Empowerment

Sola Adesakin’s journey was inspired by her deep passion for helping people understand the “make-manage-multiply money” message. Her specialization lies in maximizing resources, guiding individuals to reach crucial financial milestones, and building true wealth through financial planning. Her dedication to this mission has earned her a well-deserved reputation as one of Nigeria’s most respected finance coaches.

From Financial Stress to Wealth

Throughout her career, Sola has played a pivotal role in helping both men and women bounce back from financial stress and debt, ultimately guiding them toward financial prosperity. Her expertise as an author, trained coach, and mentor has transformed countless lives, providing the knowledge and guidance needed to secure a more stable financial future.

A Portfolio of Recognition

Sola Adesakin’s remarkable contributions to the field of finance have not gone unnoticed. She was accepted into the Forbes Coaches Council, a testament to her expertise and influence in the financial industry. In 2020, she was recognized as one of Nigeria’s 100 Most Inspiring Women, showcasing the impact of her work on women’s empowerment. Additionally, she received the Women X Scholarship, a World Bank and Pan Atlantic University initiative supporting female entrepreneurs.

Educational Background and Certification

Sola’s journey into financial coaching and empowerment was fortified by her educational pursuits. She earned an HND from the Federal Polytechnic Ilaro in 2000 and later obtained a BSc degree from Oxford Brookes University in the United Kingdom in 2006. Her academic journey culminated in an MBA from the Edinburgh Business School in Scotland, making her well-equipped to guide others in their financial endeavors. Sola is also an Associate Member of the Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada (CGA CPA), a member of The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), and a Fellow of the Association of Chartered Accountants of the United Kingdom (ACCA).

A Vision Realized

Sola’s journey with finances, including debt and financial mismanagement, served as a driving force behind her commitment to teaching financial literacy to others. She recognized that formal education often falls short in equipping individuals with the knowledge needed to manage and multiply their money. After discovering a book that simplified money management, she adopted financial literacy, discipline, and budgeting, enabling her to save and earn seven-digit returns on her investments. Her journey taught her that personal responsibility is the key to breaking free from financial struggles.

An Author and Advocate

Sola Adesakin’s commitment to financial empowerment extends to her writing. She has authored eight books and numerous articles, sharing her insights and expertise on financial literacy with people of all ages and backgrounds. Her work has been featured in local and global publications, further expanding her influence.

Awards and Recognitions

Sola’s contributions to the field of finance have earned her several awards and recognitions, underscoring her impact:

  • Recipient of the Women X Scholarship, an initiative by the World Bank and Pan Atlantic University for female entrepreneurs.
  • Recognized as one of Nigeria’s 100 Most Inspiring Women in 2020 by The Guardian Nigeria News.
  • Acknowledged as one of the 100 Power Women of 2021 by the Power Woman Network.
  • Participant in the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs, a U.S. Government Initiative.
  • Listed in the Phenomity 40 List of 2021 on International Women’s Day.
  • Accepted into the Forbes Coaches Council.

Sola Adesakin’s journey is a testament to the power of personal experience, education, and determination. Her work in simplifying money management and empowering individuals to achieve their financial goals continues to make a profound impact, not only in Nigeria but also on a global scale. Sola’s story serves as an inspiring example of how one individual’s commitment to financial education can transform lives and open doors to greater financial empowerment.

The  Women of Rubies Media Visibility BootCamp 2.0  transcended digital boundaries, hosted on Zoom on the 9th and 10th of December, 2023. This groundbreaking event featured an impressive lineup of speakers and panellists who shared their expertise on personal branding, financial empowerment, media navigation, mental health, and more. This edition brought together industry leaders like Toun Okewale ( Co-founder, WFM917), thought experts, and dynamic speakers for two days of transformative learning.

Click this link to get your copy and unlock the secrets to enhancing your media visibility today.

Unlocking Key Insights:

Day 1 – Building the Foundation: The journey kicked off with Esther Ijewere’s profound insights into establishing a robust online presence, setting the stage for Adeola Osideko’s exploration of crafting a personal brand tailored for leadership in the digital era. Participants were captivated as these luminaries shared their wealth of knowledge and experience.

Day 2 – Diving into Expertise: The second day unfolded with a series of Fireside Chats that delved into diverse topics. Chinaza Favour, Wendy Nwajiufor, Azeezat Adejare, and Rinret Gofwan illuminated the audience with discussions on content creation, building sustainable brands, and intentional visibility.

Women of rubies fireside chat speakers

Additionally, the day featured expert masterclasses from Funmi Ajala, exploring the art of shaping narratives and driving change, Sola Adesakin, uncovering the power of leveraging financial literacy for enhanced media visibility, and Mayowa Adegoke, providing invaluable tips for mastering the vital skill of public speaking.

Media Bootcamp speakers

Why Acquiring the Recording is a Must:

  1. Expert Guidance: Access the insights of industry leaders and experts who have mastered the intricacies of online presence, personal branding, and strategic communication.
  2. Practical Strategies: Each session offers actionable strategies ready for immediate implementation, empowering participants to elevate their media visibility.
  3. Diverse Perspectives: Benefit from a diverse range of topics and speakers, ensuring a holistic approach to personal and professional development.
  4. Invest in Yourself: The Women of Rubies Media Visibility BootCamp recording is an enduring resource, offering continual returns on the commitment to personal and professional growth.

Participants expressed their satisfaction with the event, praising the diverse range of topics covered and the high-quality insights shared by the esteemed speakers. The Women of Rubies Media Visibility BootCamp left attendees equipped with actionable strategies to enhance their personal and professional lives.

Media Visibility Bootcamp 2.0 Media Visibility Bootcamp 2.0

As we reflect on the success of the second edition, the Women of Rubies team extends gratitude to all participants, speakers, and partners who contributed to making this event a beacon of empowerment. For further inquiries or to share your experience, please feel free to email us at info@womenofrubies.com.

Here’s to empowerment, success, and the unwavering pursuit of visibility!

Don’t Miss Out! Purchase the Recording on Selar Now!

Grab our free PR guide E-book here for enhanced visibility!

Free PR Guidebook

Omoshalewa Onayemi is a Tri-qualified lawyer licensed to practice in Alberta, Ontario and Nigeria.

She currently works at a global recruitment firm and handles all the commercial and legal operations of the business Canada-wide.

Apart from being a career woman, she is a serial entrepreneur, a blogger, and an influencer.

She channeled her passion for fashion and food into businesses. She established, @kz_by_shally, a one-stop hub for all things fashion and accessories.  Omoshalewa Onayemi also launched @the_yum_cuisine, a food blogging page where she also sells e-meal plans and e-recipes.

Meet the founder of Naijapreneur Canada
Canadian-based lawyer – Omoshalewa Onayemi T, Founder, Naijapreneur Canada

A mom to 2 princesses, she blogs about all things motherhood from bump to birth and beyond, on her page @mumsaffair_ng

Shally O” as she is fondly called by many, is also a community personality who dedicates her time to promoting and creating visibility for Nigerian businesses in Canada through her platform @naijapreneurcanada.

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Mignon Francois, a single mom of 7 turned her last $5 into a million-dollar cupcake business.

Mignon Francois struggled financially to support her family between 2005-2007 after a job offer for her former husband fell through. A neighbor knew her plight and penchant for baking and offered her an opportunity to turn her situation around. She put in a request for 600 cupcakes at $1 each.

The Plot-Twist For Mignon Francois

With just $5 to her name, Francois wasn’t sure how she would make it work, but she used her last bit of coin to purchase the ingredients, baking 60 cupcakes, and gaining a $60 profit that same day to buy the rest of what she needed. She launched The Cupcake Collection, selling custom cakes and cupcakes and growing her small business which now generates more than $1 million annually. 

Mignon Francois

Mignon Francois is proud of herself, her journey was not without its share of challenges. As a Black woman, one of the biggest obstacles Francois faced was funding. Instead of relying on banks and facing loan denials, overdraft fees, or credit card debt, Francois relied on an old envelope system trick. 

“I think a lot of times in my community, we often have been used to rejection from banks. Having my money in a bank account at that time, if I had messed up even a dollar, it would have caused me to get a bank overdraft, which would’ve cost me $30, and then that’s just a vicious cycle of snowballing in a negative way,” she said.

 Staying In Business

The entrepreneur used the system to designate her money via envelopes, categorizing her profit into an emergency fund, set a budget, and a debt snowball method to help reel her finances in. Today, the New Orleans native uses her story to help others. 

As a now successful entrepreneur, Francois has begun paying it forward, funding scholarships at Tennessee State University, and partnering with community organizers to support education and food insecurity efforts.

She also sits on the Pathways Women’s Business Center and Nashville Entrepreneur Center board and works with grassroots organization Corner to Corner to help other aspiring business owners. 

To learn more about Francois and the work she’s doing, visit The Cupcake Collection.

Congratulations Mignon!