Tomilola Majekodunmi is a visionary entrepreneur and co-founder of Bankly, a fintech platform that is driving financial inclusion in Africa.
With the aim of providing access to financial services for all, Bankly is making it possible for people to make payments, save, withdraw, and transfer money to other people, particularly in locations where physical banks are difficult to access.
In Africa, traditional banking systems can be a challenge to access, particularly for those living in rural areas or low-income communities. This is where Bankly comes in, offering financial services to those who need them most. By leveraging the power of fintech, Bankly is helping to bridge the gap between the unbanked and the financial system, driving financial inclusion and improving the lives of millions of people in Africa.
Bankly’s platform is designed to be user-friendly, accessible, and secure. Users can open an account quickly and easily, using their mobile phones, and start accessing financial services immediately. The platform is built on modern, secure technology, ensuring that users’ transactions are safe and their personal data is protected.
One of the key ways that Bankly is driving financial inclusion in Africa is through its agent network. Bankly agents are entrepreneurs who operate small businesses in their communities, acting as intermediaries between Bankly and its users. These agents are trained to provide financial services to their customers, including deposits, withdrawals, and money transfers. By working with agents, Bankly is able to extend its reach and provide financial services to more people in remote and underserved areas.
Another way that Bankly is driving financial inclusion in Africa is through its focus on savings. Bankly offers a variety of savings products, including group savings and savings plans, that help people save for their future. By promoting a culture of saving, Bankly is helping to build financial resilience and security for its users.
In addition to its core financial services, Bankly also offers value-added services, such as bill payments, airtime purchases, and loan applications. These services make it easier for people to manage their finances and access the resources they need to improve their lives.
Tomilola Majekodunmi’s work with Bankly is making a significant impact on financial inclusion in Africa. Through its innovative fintech solutions, Bankly is helping to bring more people into the financial system, improving their access to financial services, and promoting economic growth and development across the continent. With Tomilola’s leadership, Bankly is poised to continue its growth and expand its reach, making a positive difference in the lives of millions of people in Africa.
Gift David is rising from the ashes of adversity and inspiring others to do so through her story. Her dream is to be one of the most celebrated female barbers in Nigeria. The 24-year-old part-time mass communication student is on a journey to make her life better and prove that women can thrive and succeed in male-dominated fields. From balancing school with her job to having to convince male customers she is good at her job, Gift’s story is what determination is all about. The Akwa-Ibom state-born female barber shares her inspiring story with Esther Ijewere in this interview.
Growing up
Growing up was fun for me… It was always a full house with different kinds of drama every day, as a child acting would have been an option for me (trouble-making character lol). Never thought and wouldn’t have believed, if I was told, that I’ll be a barber.
Being a Barber
I can’t say because it was not planned.. as at the time, I usually pass time in a barbershop, so I thought, it won’t be nice just sitting here without helping out. So I started helping out by washing a customer’s hair and applying aftershave. I started finding it interesting and wanted to do more, that was how it began.
Reception
The reception has been positive. I feel very proud of myself for not holding back and following my dream. I have been inspired through my work and talking to different people while I barb their hair. I will say the reception is 90 percent welcoming and encouraging.
Balancing school and work
Combining school and work is not easy, it can be extremely stressful and tiring but it’s worth it.. when I’m at work, it’s all about work but whenever it’s time for school and studying, it’s a very important time that I try to make sure every minute counts.. still pushing it.
Reward
The satisfying expression I get from clients and these words “nice one” “good job” “thank you” and “am sorry for looking down on you, thinking you will spoil my hair”.. inspired me and keeps me going against all odds.
My Inspiration
Young ladies out there reaching out to me, saying they would love to be like me, they want to learn how to cut hair and be a barber is the greatest reward for me.. so I am now someone others want to emulate??? WOW!!! It’s truly a good feeling to be looked up to and admired for doing what you enjoy.
Projects
It will be my joy to empower and support young women like myself who are interested in learning barbing skills. I look forward to also speaking at events to encourage more women and let them know If I can do it, they can too.
The harsh reality of Being a female barber
The harsh reality is that, no matter how good you are, there are people who will not take you seriously because of your gender. I have had customers who won’t allow me to touch their hair because I’m a woman and have had others
On giving up
There hasn’t been a time I felt like giving up. Sometimes it gets to me when people feel I don’t have the qualification to be a barber but the next minute, I am up and good, making sure I prove them wrong.
Being a Woman of Rubies
I am a woman of Rubies because I am a lady who is thriving hard to succeed in a male-dominated profession and is doing very well at it. For your platform to even recognize me?? Am on the right track.
Advice to women who want to go into the “Barbing” business
It’s fun.. every business or profession has its ups and down, but if you can survive through the discouragement and gender discrimination, together we all will earn our place in this barbering profession.
Nigerian women are breaking boundaries, and making a difference in the world. Adeboye Joy Oluwatoyin is one of them. She is a 21-year-old feminist who has made significant contributions to Nigeria’s humanitarian and youth engagement sectors. With over five years of experience in these fields, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership through volunteering with various NGOs and her social impact campaign projects.
Career
Throughout her career, Oluwatoyin has worked with several organizations, including the Female and More African Social Impact Fellowship, LEAP Africa, Women’s Advocate and Documentation Centre, BAOBAB, Inclusive Social Welfare and Empowerment foundation, and Nigerian Child Protection Trust. Her dedication to improving the lives of women and girls led her to found the Resilient Girl Initiative, an NGO focused on empowering young girls and women.
Oluwatoyin’s partnership and engagements have helped minors, sexual abuse victims, widows, and school children in Nigeria, she has also impacted her immediate school environment through webinars that raise awareness about sexual abuse and sex trafficking.
Other activities
Aside from her humanitarian work, she possesses impeccable storytelling skills, which have been instrumental in creating a documentary on sexual abuse, her passion for volunteering, hospitality, and humanitarian activities is evident in her numerous contributions to her community and beyond.
Oluwatoyin is a young and passionate feminist who has made remarkable strides in the humanitarian and youth engagement sectors in Nigeria. Her leadership, dedication, and impact have inspired many and continue to make a difference in the lives of those she encounters.
Damilola Ogunbiyi was born in 1975 in Nigeria. She grew up in Ibadan and was raised by her mother, a schoolteacher. Ogunbiyi completed her secondary education at the International School, Ibadan, before proceeding to the University of Ilorin, where she studied Electrical and Electronics Engineering.
Her leadership and advocacy have helped bring sustainable energy to rural communities in Nigeria and beyond. Her work to promote women in STEM and energy has inspired countless others to follow in her footsteps. In this article, we will explore the rise of Damilola Ogunbiyi and the impact she has made in renewable energy.
Early Life And Education Of Damilola Ogunbiyi
In 1975, Damilola Ogunbiyi was born in Nigeria and raised in Ibadan by her mother. Before enrolling at the University of Ilorin, Ogunbiyi attended the International School, Ibadan, where she studied Electrical and Electronics Engineering.
She later obtained a Master’s degree in Public Administration from the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. Her educational background in engineering and public administration laid the foundation for her career in the energy sector.
The Rise Of Damilola Ogunbiyi’s Energy Sector
In addition to driving sustainable development and expanding access to clean, reliable energy in Africa, Damilola Ogunbiyi is also a trailblazer in that field. With extraordinary leadership, innovation, and passion, her rise to prominence in energy access has been remarkable.
Ogunbiyi has held several positions, including being the CEO of the Nigerian Rural Electrification Agency, UN Special Representative for Sustainable Energy for All, and Manager of the Nigerian Rural Electrification Agency.
She has contributed significantly to promoting renewable energy, carbon reductions, and gender equality in the energy sector through her leadership. She continues to inspire and motivate young energy leaders to pursue their dreams.
Impact At The Nigerian Rural Electrification Agency
As CEO of the Nigerian Rural Electrification Agency, Damilola Ogunbiyi made significant contributions to the energy sector, driving initiatives to increase energy access in rural communities across Nigeria.
Her leadership, dedication, and innovative approach characterized her impact at the agency to implement sustainable energy solutions.
Over 1000 rural electrification projects have been developed due to Ogunbiyi’s work, affecting millions of lives and businesses. In the energy sector, her legacy continues to inspire others. The Rise of Damilola Ogunbiyi showcases her unwavering commitment to ensuring Nigeria and beyond access to clean, affordable energy.
Role As UN Special Representative for Sustainable Energy
During her UN Special Representative role for Sustainable Energy, Damilola Ogunbiyi helped drive global efforts toward achieving sustainable energy. As a result of her appointment in 2019, she immediately seized the opportunity to promote renewable and affordable energy solutions.
Through her tenure, Ogunbiyi developed and implemented policies and programs to expand access to sustainable energy in underserved communities in collaboration with governments, international organizations, and other stakeholders. She helped raise awareness of sustainable energy and mobilized resources to support initiatives in countries across Africa and beyond.
The Rise of Damilola Ogunbiyi as the UN Special Representative for Sustainable Energy expands her visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to promoting sustainable development.
ADVOCATING FOR WOMEN IN STEM AND ENERGY
As a champion for gender equality, Damilola Ogunbiyi has strongly advocated for women’s participation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields and the energy sector. Through her leadership positions, Ogunbiyi has worked tirelessly to promote gender diversity and inclusion in the industry and has actively encouraged women to pursue careers in STEM-related fields.
She believes empowering women and girls is crucial to achieving sustainable development and ending poverty. She has made it a priority to create opportunities for women in the energy sector.
At the 2018 Africa Energy Forum, Ogunbiyi won the Global Fairness Award and Women’s Economic Empowerment Award for her advocacy efforts. The inspirational work of her is an inspiration to female STEM and energy leaders and reinforces the importance of promoting gender equality.
Recognition And Awards For Damilola Ogunbiyi Work
Damilola Ogunbiyi’s impressive achievements in the energy sector have not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by her numerous awards and accolades. Several international organizations, including the United Nations, the World Economic Forum, and the African Development Bank, have recognized her work.
Ogunbiyi has been named one of Fortune’s 50 Greatest World Leaders and honored with the African Power, Energy & Water Industry Award for outstanding contribution to the sector. In addition, she was recognized as one of the 100 most influential Africans by New African Magazine in 2019.
For Sustainable Energy Under Ogunbiyi’s Leadership
Under Damilola Ogunbiyi’s leadership, the future of sustainable energy in Africa looks promising. Ogunbiyi has been a strong advocate for expanding access to clean energy sources and has worked to promote the adoption of renewable energy technologies across the continent.
Through her leadership roles at the Nigerian Rural Electrification Agency and the Sustainable Energy for All Initiative, she has implemented innovative programs and initiatives to increase energy access in rural communities, promote clean energy solutions, and foster sustainable development.
Ogunbiyi has also been instrumental in promoting private sector investment in the energy sector, creating opportunities for local entrepreneurs and businesses, and driving economic growth. Her vision for sustainable energy in Africa emphasizes the importance of community engagement and empowerment and the need for a collaborative, multi-stakeholder approach to achieve sustainable development goals.
Under Ogunbiyi’s leadership, sustainable energy is set to drive development and progress in Africa.
Conclusion
As a trailblazer for women in renewable energy, Damilola Ogunbiyi has achieved remarkable success in the energy sector.
Also, she has contributed to the Nigerian Rural Electrification Agency and Sustainable Energy for All Initiative by providing sustainable energy. In her vision of sustainable energy for Africa, Ogunbiyi’s leadership will undoubtedly shape its future.
Aspiring leaders can learn valuable lessons from Ogunbiyi’s journey, including the importance of education, perseverance, and advocating for marginalized communities. Ogunbiyi’s work has shown that positive change in the energy sector is possible with determination and a commitment to sustainability.
Dorothy B. Gilliam is a trailblazer in American journalism who has made significant contributions to the industry. Born in Memphis, Tennessee, in 1936, Gilliam grew up in a segregated society and faced many challenges as a young woman of color.
Despite the obstacles she faced, Gilliam pursued a career in journalism and became the first African American woman to work as a reporter at a major newspaper. Throughout her career, Gilliam has worked to increase diversity and inclusion in newsrooms and has mentored countless young journalists.
In this blog, we will explore the life and legacy of Dorothy B. Gilliam and examine the impact of her work on the industry and society as a whole.
EARLY LIFE AND CAREER OF DOROTHY B. GILLIAM
Dorothy B. Gilliam’s early life and career shaped her worldview and inspired her to pursue a career in journalism. Gilliam attended Lincoln University in Jefferson City, Missouri, where she studied journalism and became involved in the civil rights movement.
After graduating, she worked as a teacher in Nashville, Tennessee, and later as a public relations specialist in Washington, D.C. During this time, she became interested in journalism and began taking classes to improve her skills. In 1961, she was hired as a reporter at The Washington Post, starting a career spanning several decades.
CHALLENGES FACED BY WOMEN IN JOURNALISM
Throughout much of the 20th century, women faced significant barriers to entry into journalism. Many newspapers and magazines had strict gender roles, with women relegated to writing about “soft” topics such as fashion and cooking.
Women were often not taken seriously as journalists and were frequently subjected to harassment and discrimination in the workplace. Despite these obstacles, women like Dorothy B. Gilliam persevered and fought for equal opportunities in the industry.
Gilliam’s success as a journalist paved the way for future generations of women and people of color in the field.
DOROTHY B. GILLIAM’S CAREER AT THE WASHINGTON POST
Dorothy B. Gilliam’s career at The Washington Post spanned several decades and covered many important issues. She was a strong advocate for civil rights and education and worked to increase the representation of women and people of color in the media.
In 1972, she was promoted to assistant editor, making her the first African American woman to hold an editorial position at The Washington Post. Gilliam’s work at the newspaper helped to shape the national conversation on issues such as race, gender, and social justice, and her impact on the industry continues to be felt today.
IMPACT OF HER WORK ON WOMEN IN JOURNALISM
Dorothy B. Gilliam’s work at The Washington Post and her advocacy for diversity and inclusion in journalism have impacted the industry. Her commitment to telling the stories of marginalized communities and her dedication to increasing representation in newsrooms inspired many young journalists to follow in her footsteps.
Gilliam’s work helped break down industry barriers and create a more inclusive and diverse media landscape. Today, more women and people of color are working in journalism than ever, and the industry strives for greater diversity and representation.
AWARDS AND RECOGNITION RECEIVED
Throughout her career, Dorothy B. Gilliam received numerous awards and honors for her work in journalism and advocacy. In 1983, she was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Special Local Reporting for her coverage of school desegregation in Washington, D.C.
She has also received awards from the National Association of Black Journalists, the Women’s Media Center, and the International Women’s Media Foundation,
DOROTHY B. GILLIAM’S CONTRIBUTIONS TO DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION IN JOURNALISM
Dorothy B. Gilliam’s contributions to diversity and inclusion in journalism are far-reaching and enduring. She has been a vocal advocate for increasing newsroom representation and creating a more inclusive media landscape.
Gilliam has mentored countless young journalists and has worked to create opportunities for women and people of color in the industry. Her work has helped to diversify newsrooms and ensure that the stories of all communities are represented in the media.
BOOKS AUTHORED BY DOROTHY B. GILLIAM
In addition to her work as a journalist, Dorothy B. Gilliam has authored several books on race, gender, and journalism. Her first book, “Paul Robeson: All-American,” was published in 1976 and explored the life of the African American singer, actor, and civil rights activist.
Her other books include “Skin Deep: Black Women and White Women Write About Race” (1996), which she co-edited with Julia P. Johnson, and “Trailblazer: A Pioneering Journalist’s Fight to Make the Media Look More Like America” (2019), which chronicles her own career and advocacy work.
LEGACY OF DOROTHY B. GILLIAM
Dorothy B. Gilliam’s legacy in journalism and advocacy has been significant. Through journalism, she helped shape the national conversation on civil rights, education, and social justice issues. She also fought for greater diversity and inclusion in newsrooms, mentoring young journalists and advocating for more excellent representation of women and people of color.
Gilliam’s advocacy helped break down industry barriers and create a more inclusive and diverse media landscape. Today, her legacy inspires and guides journalists striving for more significant equity and representation in the industry.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, Dorothy B. Gilliam’s contributions to journalism have been significant and far-reaching. As a trailblazer and advocate for greater diversity and inclusion, she helped break down industry barriers and create a more equitable media landscape.
Through her work as a journalist and author, she brought attention to important issues such as civil rights, education, and social justice. Her legacy continues to inspire and guide future generations of journalists who seek to make the media look more like America.
As we progress, we must remember and honor the trailblazers like Dorothy B. Gilliam, who paved the way for a more inclusive and diverse industry.
Meet Dr. Maggie Aderin-Pocock, a British scientist who is best known for her work with the James Webb Space Telescope, the largest space telescope ever made, now has a Barbie doll. Her other achievementsinclude becoming the first Black woman to win gold at the Physics News Awards and being appointed as chancellor of the University of Leicester. These achievements were no easy task; growing up, Aderin-Pocock attended 13 different schools but often struggled because of her dyslexia.
The toy company Mattel has honored many of our Black queensand pioneers with dolls, with Aderin-Pocock’s being the newest addition. The doll marks a full circle moment for the space scientist who grew up playing with ones that didn’t look like her. Even today, she says she plays “Barbie” with her daughter and never thought she’d see the day where she’d be adding her very own doll to the play date.
Aderin-Pocock said in an interview with The Guardian, “Learning that Mattel is planning to immortalize you in Barbie form would be a “pinch me” moment for anyone. It feels especially surreal for me. When I was growing up, Barbie offered a narrow ideal of beauty: she was thin and blonde, with straight hair and blue eyes, and she didn’t look a bit like me. But times have changed. I’ve been lucky enough to receive a number of awards in my career, but I think having a Barbie role model made in my image may be one of the most important.”
This Barbie will not only serve as more representation for our little Black queens but will also share Aderin-Pocock’s inspirational life story. It will let little girls everywhere know that they too can shoot for the stars!
Patricia Kayanga is a Washington, D.C.- based entrepreneur and the founder of Ohhs, a new line of patented disposable underwear. Kayanga was born in Uganda, moving to the U.S. with her family where they were able to build a great life. However, Kayanga never forgot her humble beginnings or the feeling she felt relocating across continents and having her mom’s expensive items get damaged. It was the idea that first sparked a passion for something more disposable. And Kayanga followed that idea until she found the perfect product – disposable underwear.
After checking the patent website, Kayanga realized there was nothing similar in the market. She then immediately got started on a prototype while working on securing the patent. She finally won the patent for the disposable underwear design, becoming the first Black woman in the U.S. to hold such a patent. But her wins were met with challenges and because there was no similar product, Kayanga ran into issues trying to secure a manufacturer. She finally found one who could craft them according to her liking and Ohhs Disposable Underwear was born.
The disposable undergarments are made of sustainable fabric and bamboo, boasting hygienic and eco-friendly benefits. The products are seamless and have a dry material that makes it perfect for vacations, camping, spa days, and that time of the month. Kayanga also has a built-in charitable model, donating a pair of the eco-friendly underwear to local domestic violence and homeless shelters whenever a box is sold.
Many women need quality underwear, but it’s only sometimes available. Underwear is the second most requested item in homeless shelters. We have a product that can serve that need and is more convenient. Our goal, honestly, is to scale across the nation. You should have access to it, no matter the circumstances,” said Kayanga.
Ohhs are available in multiple colors and styles, offering full-coverage garments and bikini and thong options. They come in packs of 4 or travel packs of 7 and Kayanga has also begun donating 5% of profits to non-governmental organizations (NGOs) “that provide menstrual resources to school-aged girls and women.”
Nkechi Sarah Ahanor-Wilson is an entrepreneur, public speaker, aesthetician, and business mogulwith over 10 years of experience. She is the CEO of Shoreline Pacific International and House of Cacosa, an award-winning luxury hair-selling brand.
She has been able to employ creativity and use her analytical mind to seamlessly transition her brand of skincare and beauty products. Nkechi has carved a niche selling luxury and sleek hair that showcases the beauty of women from the inside out.
As a leading beauty care manufacturer who has leveraged consultative selling strategies that build relationships across all target markets, she has built a reputable brand with deep knowledge of marketing campaigns and implementation.
The award-winning Canada-based celebrity is also involved in humanitarian projects through “The Empowered Woman Summit”, a platform she uses to empower and educate women on how to use innovative technology and hands-on skill set training.
The amazing mom of three and wife is a lover of God and humanity and committed to making the world a better place. In this interview, Nkechi shares her inspiring story with Esther Ijewere
Childhood
Growing up as a child was tough because my parents separated, and my mum also passed on. I grew up overnight, I started preparing myself for life’s journey. It brought out and boosted the entrepreneurship spirit in me, even as a child. At a tender age, I ventured into business. I was actually in secondary school when I started doing business. I made pastries known as buns, Chin-Chin and the like. I started selling it as a student to my fellow schoolmates. Entrepreneurship is something that has been in me. Growing up I engaged in other things and realized that business pays.
The inspiration behind Cacosa Hair
The inspiration behind Cacosa hair is a painful one. I started it while I was in pain. I started losing my hair at some point, due to health reasons. I got depressed with my edges falling off. The only option I had was to start wearing a wig. While wearing wigs I got my confidence back. With my hair falling off, and people avoiding touching my hair, it began to get to me, but with the wigs, I began to feel more comfortable and confident. This inspired me to assist other women gain their confidence back. This is the major reason I introduced medical wigs for those suffering hair loss, people who have alopecia, when you are having chemotherapy, this causes them to lose their hair.
The Empowered Woman Summit and its impact since inception
I gave birth to this initiative when I went to business school. I realized back in business school that a lot of women have great business ideasbut all they needed was funding. Taking this into consideration, I thought to myself if there was another woman who needed funding, that was how I created the platform.We started supporting people during Covid in 2020 and we have made some giant strideas and progress. Moving forward I intend to make it a proper foundation.
Lessons learned as an entrepreneur, mother, and humanitarian
I have learnt to keep my mind open as an entrepreneur. Once you are an entrepreneur, there should be room for losses, tears, and pain, you should just keep your mind open because as an entrepreneur, you must see and experience these things.
Furthermore, as an entrepreneur, you must have passion for your business. It’s not just because you want to make money but because you have passion for it. At times I just feel like packing up and closing down these businesses, but I get up every day and put in my best.
In addition, as a mother, I have come to realize that every mother should be another child’s mother. I look out for all the mothers. Other mothers might be looking for their children. Looking out for these mothers, you are looking for their children as well.
Humanitarian work has taught me the importance of intentional kindness, and the joy of touching lives and lighting the path of others. If it’s something you have passion for, you would do it without forcing it.
3 women who inspire me and Why
Funmilayo Namabiri the owner of Funmi Hair UK. Where I am today is based on her support. She was the only one that gave me a listening ear when I started. One of her pieces of advice was the goal of growing my brand to a certain extent that I can now have purely Cacosa hair and no one is going to take that from me.
2. Ibukun Awosika -She is one woman whom I admire so much. As an entrepreneur, you want to be connected to people who can bring out the best in you. We studied one of her books at the Business School. There is no time when I listen to her speak that something positive does not come into my mind and thinking. My perspective changed. I just keep thinking about something good.
Michelle Obama
3. Michelle Obama– I have watched her life as the first lady of the United States of America, as a black woman I discovered that her strength was above and beyond. One thing I like about her is her humility. She is homely and doesn’t look down on people.
My work-life balance routine
I love work and so do not have anything to do except improve my business. I have a lot on my plate, so most of the time I am busy with work. I create bonding time with my family and spend my free time with a few people that I called close friends. I also love travelling, having fun, winning and dining.
One thing I wish to change In the beauty Industry
I think the drive for originality. I have come to realize that in the beauty industry, we have a lot of copycats. We have a lot of people trying to be like another person. We want their initiative but do not have an understanding of how they were able to develop their brand. Give people their money’s worth. Genuine products and quality should not be compromised.
People should see value in the cash they exchange for a product. For instance, if someone wants the original product, you should be able to buy and sell authentic products for the customer, this is where your passion comes into play because if you have passion for what you are doing you will understand that the beauty industry is more like a creative industry. That is why my hashtag is called beautifying queens. That zeal for originality is not what a lot of people have. Most people are in the beauty industry just to make money.
Challenges of being a business owner
I am a woman who has experienced losses in business, like lots of them. I lost my shipment in transit recently and lost a huge amount of money. I had to refund the customers’ money. Some of them were impatient and others were patient. I had to appeal to them. What transpired could make a business fold up. One thing that keeps me grounded is my passion for my work. I don’t let challenges weigh me down. I learn the lessons and keep moving.
Being a Woman of Rubies
What makes me an outstanding and unique woman is taking care of other people’s children. I look out for other people’s kids. I am that woman to whom God has shown mercy, I have been fortunate, and I love to share love and spread light wherever I go, especially with children.
My brand, Cacosa means so much to me. Kindness and empathy are two techniques I have deployed to draw people’s attention to my business, and my circle. If I realize that someone does not have empathy we can’t be friends. I put a lot of emotions into my business because of my passion. The thing that distinguishes me from other brands is my approach to customers. I am intentional about building healthy relationships with my customers and I love to see the smile on their faces, it makes me happy.
Surely, there are so many hindrances that women in business face. However, when it comes to race, the number of black women entrepreneurs has greatly increased over the past decades.
According to the Census Bureau, eight million businesses in the United States are owned by people from minority groups, and 2.5 million of these are owned by African-Americans (which makes them the only racial or ethnic group with the highest number of business ownerships).
We all know it, there is nothing women can’t do. While the stakes are higher, you can break down the boundaries and become a successful entrepreneur.
How?
1. Embrace diversity
Before you make other people believe in you, you first have to believe in yourself. Instead of seeing it as a barrier, you have to embrace your diversity and use it as a competitive advantage.
Take note that diversity goes beyond gender, nationality, color, or race. We have to embrace our uniqueness, be proud of our strengths, and turn our weaknesses into opportunities.
2. Be passionate about what you do
When you love what you are doing, you gain the courage to look past the challenges and the discouragement from other people. To succeed in business, you’ve got to have a strong mission.
Why do you want to start a business?
Successful entrepreneurs have many things in common. One is their sense of purpose. Of course, an obvious reason is to gain profit.
But there certainly has to be a reason much higher than that which motivates you to pursue what you do.
3. Accept that failure is part of it
You’ve heard stories about business tycoons bouncing back from their failures and have turned out to be better entrepreneurs.
You won’t believe how founders of giant companies like Twitter, Huffington Post, LinkedIn, and PayPal all went through massive failures, costing them millions of dollars.
Here’s the thing – 75% to 90% of all startups fail. It only shows that failing in business is normal.
At some point, you will commit mistakes, you will make wrong decisions, and you will fail. The secret is to never give up.
4. Plan ahead
Behind a successful business model is a solid plan. You don’t jump into the river without knowing how deep it is.
Create a detailed business plan. Identify pain points. Pool your resources and know your options. For example, where will you get the funding? Will it be from your savings or through business financing?
Will you still need investors? How will you reach out to them? List down all your ideas. Do your research. Invest in knowledge. And be ready to start something.
5. Embrace Change
No matter how comprehensive your business model is, at some point, you will have to make adjustments or perform a total shift.
Changes in business are inevitable. Market demands and trends change from time to time. It is scary to confront changes. That’s a normal reaction. But you have to be flexible and adaptable. Otherwise, you could be left behind.
6. Don’t Forget that You Are Human too
As you establish and grow your business, you will find yourself devoting most of your time to it.
You will miss some important family affairs for client meetings, endure sleepless nights for endless paperwork, and forego weekends to beat deadlines. The key is to strive for balance.
Drink your water. Eat your veggies. Sleep. Pamper yourself. Get your hair done. Go for a mani-pedi.
For you to keep up, you have to be physically and mentally healthy.
Becoming a businesswoman is not an easy feat. Striving for success is much more challenging especially when people kind of judge you for your race or gender.
But don’t let anything or anyone stop you from becoming a top-notch entrepreneur. Remember, in business success, there are no boundaries.
This article was written by Lidia Staron
Lidia Staron is a part of Content and Marketing team at OpenCashAdvance.com. She contributes articles about the role of finance in the strategic planning and decision-making process. You can find really professional insights in her writings.
Peramare Health Management Company, a Nigerian-based healthcare organization, has partnered with Wevvo Foundation, a community-based platform of female breadwinners, to provide affordable health packages to support the health and well-being of single mothers and other women who are the primary providers for their households.
The partnership between Peramare Health Management Company and Wevvo Nigeria is aimed at providing women with access to high-quality healthcare services at affordable rates across Nigeria. The health packages offered by Peramare Health Management Company will cover a range of medical expenses, including basic diagnostics and laboratory tests, surgery, outpatient care and mental health support amongst other services.
“We are excited to partner with Wevvo Nigeria to provide affordable healthcare packages to female breadwinners in Nigeria because we know that a woman ready for success is one who takes her health seriously,” said Basiru Salisu Kallamu, Group Head, Admin and Finance of Peramare Health Management Company. “We believe that access to quality healthcare is a fundamental right, and we are committed to making healthcare services more accessible and affordable for everyone, especially those who need it the most.
Wevvo Foundation is a community based platform of single mothers and female breadwinners who are dedicated to supporting and empowering each other. The community provides a range of services to its members, including access to financial support, capacity development, counseling, and access now to healthcare.
“We are thrilled to partner with Peramare Health Management Company to provide affordable healthcare packages to our community members,” said Weyinmi Eribo, founder of Wevvo Foundation. “Access to quality healthcare is a critical need for our members, and this partnership will help us to ensure that our community members have access to the healthcare services they and their children need to stay healthy and thrive.”
Peramare Health Management Company and Wevvo Nigeria are committed to working together to improve the health and well-being of women in Nigeria. The partnership is a testament to their shared commitment to promoting access to quality healthcare services for all. For more information about Peramare Health Management Company and Wevvo Nigeria, please visit www.wevvo.ng.
