Women of Rubies
9–5 to Entrepreneurship
In lifestyle By

Don’t Forget These 3 Tips For Your Next Job Hunt

Looking (and successfully applying) for new jobs is always going to be difficult – it does not matter if you are a recent graduate looking to take the first steps in your career, or an experienced professional seeking a change. The job market becomes increasingly more competitive each year, with numerous qualified people applying for the same job. Therefore, it is important that you take on any and all advice offered to you when searching for a job – whether they offer advice on cover letters or what to wear to an interview

Here are some top tips to help you through the process!

1. Alter your resume

Every job will have a different job specification, where they will list the skills and abilities required to undertake the role. It is important that you read this specification carefully and then alter your CV to carefully match their requirements. For example, if you have worked in a shop, be sure to note down you have cash handling experience if it is on the job spec, as opposed to assuming the employer will be aware of this already. This makes the process of looking over your CV much easier for the employer, who will be able to quickly determine whether or not you are suitable for the role.

You don’t have to massively change your CV each time. Set up a base CV that contains your main skills, work experience, and any academic qualifications and simply alter it a little each time.

2. Search smartly

Though you may feel in desperate need of work, you must search for jobs that you are trained for or have a specific interest in. It is important that you enjoy your work – you want it to be something you look forward to and can really invest yourself in order to get the most out of it. Once you know what industry you want to work within, find the best ways to apply for jobs in that industry. For example, if you are looking for business administration work, you may benefit from applying on LinkedIn or Indeed.

However, if you are looking for work within a more niche field, such as audio visual jobs, then you need to use job application portals that are more industry-specific and focused, such as Lasso. When registered with Lasso, you can browse through hundreds of jobs within the audio visual field, selecting those that are a perfect match for your skills. Even better, you don’t have to wait for invoices and can get paid weekly.

3. Do your research

When applying for a new job at a company, it is important that you learn as much as you can about that company. Check out their website and social media pages, research any news articles written about them, browse through their LinkedIn. Try to gain a deep understanding of not only the services they offer but their attitudes to work and their ethos. This will help you decide whether you want to work for them, but can also be used to help you stand out from the crowd in an interview.

Source: Baucemag.com

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Reni Edoo-Lodge
In Career Gems By

Reni Eddo-Lodge Is The First Black British Author To Top UK Book Charts

Reni Eddo-Lodge is an award winning journalist, author, and podcaster. She was the first black British author to take the overall No 1 spot in the UK’s official book charts few years ago.

Reni Eddo-Lodge’s Big Break

Eddo-Lodge’s “Why I’m No Longer Talking to White People About Race” topped Nielsen BookScan’s UK top 50 in the week to 13 June, 2020, making her the first black British author to take the top slot since Nielsen began recording book sales in 2001.

The only black author to have taken the No 1 spot on the overall charts is the former US first lady Michelle Obama in 2018, with her memoir “Becoming“.

The book which was first published in 2017, became extremely popular in the wake of the recent Black Lives Matter protests. “Why I’m No Longer Talking to White People About Race” details why the author would not be having conversations about race with most white people because they “refuse to accept the legitimacy of structural racism and its symptoms”.

Early Life

Eddo-Lodge was born and raised in London, England, by a Nigerian mother.She attended St Anne’s Catholic High School in Enfield.

She studied English literature at University of Central Lancashire, graduating in 2011. While at university, she became involved in feminist activism and the 2010 student protest movement. She was president of the University of Central Lancashire students’ union until 2012, and was an elected member of the National Executive Council of the National Union of Students from 2012 to 2013.

Career

As a freelance journalist, Eddo-Lodge has written for a number of publications, including The New York Times, The Guardian, The Independent, and several others.

Reni Eddo-Lodge has also appeared on BBC Radio 3’s Night Waves, discussing feminist issues. In April 2014, she was a judge in the BBC Woman’s Hour Power List 2014. In July 2020, Lodge partnered with Emma Watson and the WOW Foundation to spearhead a project reimagining the London Underground Map, renaming the 270 stops to spotlight women and non-binary people who have shaped the city’s history. 

 

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Zoe Saldana
In Inspiration By

Zoe Saldana Is The First Actor To Star In Four Films That Made Over $2B At The Box Office

Zoe Saldana is a hit at the box office, making her mark in four of the biggest films. She’s Gamora in Avengers: Endgame and Avengers: Infinity War and Neytiri in Avatar and Avatar: The Way of Water. With the most recent Avatar film surpassing $2 billion worldwide, Saldaña is officially the first actress to star in four films that have crossed that mark.

Out of six films that have managed to achieve this feat, Saldaña is grateful to have starred in most of them. “Knowing that at 27 years old I was seen by James Cameron and he thought that I had what it took to become Neytiri, I just ran for the hills I tell you, I just ran with it and I gave 120 percent every single day. I haven’t stopped doing that,” she told Essence.

Zoe Saldana’s Background

Zoe Saldana was born on June 19, 1978 in Passaic, New Jersey, to Asalia Nazario and Aridio Saldaña. Her father was Dominican and her mother is Puerto Rican. She was raised in Queens, New York. When she was 10 years old, she and her family moved to the Dominican Republic, where they would live for the next seven years. While living there, Zoe discovered a keen interest in performance dance and began her training at the prestigious ECOS Espacio de Danza Dance Academy where she learned ballet as well as other dance forms. Not only did her training provide an excellent outlet for the enthusiastic and energetic youngster, it would also prove to be a fortunate precursor for the start of her professional acting career. At age 17, Zoe and her family moved back to the United States where her love for dance followed and an interest in theater performance became stronger.

Career Path

She began performing with the Faces theater troupe which put on plays geared to provide positive messages for teens with themes dealing with issues such as substance abuse and sex. These performances not only gave her valuable experience but also a source of great pride knowing that she was making a difference in the lives of young people like herself.

While performing with the Faces troupe and also the New York Youth Theater, Zoe was recruited for a talent agency and her dance training years before coupled with her acting experience greatly helped her land her first big screen role as Eva Rodriguez, the talented and headstrong ballet dancer in the film Center Stage (2000). Since her professional career began several years ago, Zoe’s talent and determination have allowed her to be involved in blockbuster films and act with major actors, actresses and industry insiders at a pace that very few young professionals have experienced.
Zoe has not only held her own in major motion picture productions but gained the respect and praise from industry insiders such as Jerry Bruckheimer and Steven Spielberg and actors/actresses such as Tom Hanks, Bernie Mac, Keira Knightley, Ashton Kutcher, Kirsten Dunst and Orlando Bloom.

According to many of her co-stars, producers and directors, the sky is no limit for this young star who has incredible range, intense concentration, and a steely determination to be involved with projects that challenge her professionally with wide-ranging subject matters and characters. Just to ask practically anyone who she has worked for or with about her, glowing comments abound and earned friendships and respect are readily revealed. A star has been born, and growing every day.

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Nicole Lynn
In Career Gems By

Nicole Lynn Is The First Black Woman To Represent An NFL Quarterback In The Super Bowl

Nicole Lynn bet on herself, and it is paying off tenfold. She is set to become the first Black female agent to represent a quarterback in the Super Bowl.

Lynn represents Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts, who is gearing up to play the Kansas City Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes II on Feb. 12.

The opportunity wasn’t handed to her. Instead, Lynn took a chance by sending a direct message to Hurts.

Opportunity Meets Preparation

“Hey, have you picked an agent? If not, I’d love to link,” Lynn wrote on Instagram, according to Sports Illustrated.

Hurts, who had not yet hired a sports agent, felt strongly that Lynn would be the right choice to step into that role due to her determination and her impressive work history.

While considering the idea, Hurts was presented with concerns by those who questioned women’s success in the heavily male-dominated industry. Yet, none of that wavered his decision.

“I know the agent world in the NFL, and all sports, is very male-dominated,” Hurts explained to Sports Illustrated. “But Nicole was really on top of her stuff. She was prepared. She knew what she was talking about. She was hungry. And she was determined. And I feel that determination like that never rests. Once you come across such a determined individual, that just hits me a little different.”

Nicole Lynn

Work History

Lynn’s accomplishments in the sports world also include becoming the first female agent to represent NFL agency PlayersRep, which was later acquired by Lil Wayne’s Young Money APAA Sports Agency, in 2015.

What’s more, she was just 26-years-old when she signed her first client.

By 2021, Lynn had positioned herself as Klutch Sports Group’s President of Football Operations. She now represents over a dozen athletes, per Insider.

“Any time someone thinks of an agent, they’re gonna think of me,” Lynn said, according to NBC News. “The first person that’s gonna come to their mind is a Black woman. I’m the Jerry Maguire — that is who I am.”

Nicole Lynn
Agent Nicole Lynn

Nicole Lynn’s Determination

In an interview with Sports Illustrated in 2022, Hurts stated, “I’ve put a lot of trust and faith in a female-driven team, I have a team of straight hustlers. … They get things done. And that’s how I am on the field and off the field. We’re all trying to accomplish something.”

She’s the first but she won’t be the last. Congratulations, Nicole Lynn!

We celebrate you

Photo credit: Nicole Lynn (Instagram)

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True Daley
In Editor's Choice By

True Daley’s TRACIE App Is Supporting Black Students Facing Racism and Bullying

True Daley is a journalist, community organizer, mental health and adoption advocate, founder of TRACIE App, and co-founder of the parent-led volunteer organization – Black Student Success Committee.

True Daley
True Daley | Image: Susan Armstrong

About TRACIE App

TRACIE (Tracking Racism and Collecting Information in Education) is an innovative tool to support Black students facing racist bullying.

TRACIE is the brainchild of advocate and media professional True Daley and the soft launch is part of the Black To The Future event being held in Toronto on February 14th, 21st and 26th, featuring influencers LaToya Jane and Michael Carlon. The TRACIE Team is a grassroots organization which has received funding from the Ontario Trillium Foundation with support from charitable organization the Delta Family Resource Centre to develop the one-stop, user-friendly method for Black children, youth and their families.

Black to the future

True believes the app will curb racism, bullying and injustice in the education sector and states the official launch will be in the fall of 2024

True’s Career Path

True Daley’s creative career began in the late 80’s ( then known as Royal T) as one of  Montreal’s first female emcee which evolved to include spoken word, soul and folk music. The award-winning artist is also an actor, filmmaker and journalist.

  • Her contribution to the Canadian music scene has been captured in the  anthology We Still Here : Hip Hop North of the 49th Parallel by Charity Marsh and Mark V. Campbell published in 2020.

True’s work has been featured in ByBlacks.com and CBC Parents. She has worked with youth in conflict with the law in Rexdale and the Jane and Finch  neighborhoods for over a decade. She is an award-winning creative in film, music and technology.

True Daley | Image: Ahisu The Photographer

She is also a strong advocate for mental health awareness in the Black Community and a strong believer in holistic practices that are accessible and affordable for our most vulnerable communities.

Her Momentum

True became a household name in Toronto’s Urban Music scene in the 90s, recognized as the golden era of Hip-Hop.

She has appeared at Manifesto, NXNE, Toronto Urban Music Festival, Honey Jam, When Sisters Speak, The Urban Music Awards, MuchMusic, CBC, HBO and the Reelworld Film Festival.

The Honey Jam alumni’s first single “Comin In’ was featured on Universal Music Canada’s first all-female compilation “Honey Drops”. The single and video garnered UMAC (Urban Music Association of Canada) and VideoFact Awards among others. She then released an EP on her indie label Jahmecca Recordings entitled ‘Stranger Than Fiction” and her single” Pain and Confusion “was featured on the CHRY’s compilation “Message In A Bottle”.

True | Founder: Tracie App
True | Image: Susan Armstrong

She relocated to Taiwan, the Republic of China between 2004-2008 where she worked in music, media and theatre. She was featured in the Taipei Times and the China Post for her tribute to Miriam Makeba while performing for the President.

As a news anchor for the country’s only English radio station, she interviewed the late Bishop Desmond Tutu. As the frontwoman of hip-hop group Jahmecca Soundcrew she opened for Missy Elliott at the Taipei World Trade Centre.

She has also taken her talents of writing from the stage to the page and has been a senior writer for music and lifestyle publications for over 20 years including Peace!, Sway, The Toronto Star, ByBlacks.com, CBC Parents and more.

True Daley- Tracie App Founder
True Daley | Image: Kween Media

As an actor, True was able to hone her theatre skills with B Current under the creative direction of founder ahdri zhina mandiela and stage director Weyni Mengesha.

She is an ACTRA member who has appeared in independent films such as The Shift by Wandering Eye Productions and has also performed original spoken word on the first African-American drama series Soul Food.

True is also a community worker and arts educator. As the co-founder of the landmark D.I.V.A. (Diversity in Visual and Audio Arts) Program she provided media literacy and arts programing to BIPOC youth in high-needs communities between 2008-2011. The program was run in partnership with the City of Toronto’s Parks and Recreation Department.

True Daley as a Multi-talented Creative

This multi-disciplinary artist has recently delved into storytelling behind the camera as an emerging director and screenwriter. Her first short, Love Underground was selected for the 2016 Toronto Urban Film Festival, which screened on subway platforms throughout the city reaching over 1 million daily commuters.

2020 proved to be a breakout year for True. She was one of 8 emerging screenwriters chosen by BIPOC TV & Film to participate in a TV Comedy Writing workshop with creator, actor and playwright Ins Choi of the ground-breaking CBC sitcom – Kim’s Convenience. Later that year BIPOC TV & Film also selected True for their Kids TV Bootcamp.

Tracie App Founder
True Daley | Image: Susan Armstrong

She was also shortlisted for the CBC Creative Relief Fund as a first-time documentary filmmaker. Her treatment for BOSSLADYSK8 stood out amongst 9000 submissions.

Her hybrid feature-length film BOSSLADYSK8  co-directed  and co-produced with Suzan Armstrong is set to premiere in 2024. A scene from the highly anticipated film was shot at  Netflix Studios in Toronto in partnership with Higher Hire & Black Women Film! Canada as part of a training opportunity for Black filmmakers, with funding from the Toronto Arts Council, Ontario Arts Council, Canada Council for the Arts and Charles Street Video.

BOSSLADYSK8’s Canadian premiere will be in 2024

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Relationship deal breakers
In lifestyle By

12 Top Relationship Deal Breakers You Shouldn’t Negotiate

Do you have relationship deal breakers?

A deal breaker is a factor to consider when deciding whether to follow through with something or not. It’s that little something that makes you say “I’m done!” even when you really love someone or you’ve been together forever.

It may sound harsh — after all, no relationship is perfect, right? — but having a list of relationship deal breakers is actually a healthy way to protect yourself from toxic situations.

Don’t get caught up in controlling, hurtful, and potentially dangerous relationships.

Here are 12 relationship deal breakers that you should seriously consider when deciding whether your sweetheart is actually worth your time.

1. There Is Abuse in the Relationship

A healthy relationship is about respect, putting your spouse first, and treating them how you want to be treated.

On the other hand, a partner who lays a hand on you or emotionally abuses you is a major relationship deal-breaker.

Many people convince themselves that just because it happens once doesn’t mean it will happen again. Remember, you deserve a healthy relationship, and someone who abuses you Physically or emotionally even once isn’t worth your time.

2. You’re a Secret

If you find out that your spouse hasn’t told their friends or family about you, run for your life! Because being a secret means one of three things.

  1. They are already in a relationship and you are the side piece.
  2. They can’t commit.
  3. They are embarrassed by you.

Your time is valuable and shouldn’t be wasted being with someone who would rather keep you as their dirty little secret.

3. Plans Are Constantly Cancelled

Does your partner always seem to be ditching out on plans with you last minute?

Sure, there are legitimate reasons that your partner may be doing this, such as being called into work unexpectedly, but feeling like the person you’re crazy about is bailing on your company in favor of partying with their friends is definitely shady.

If you find that your long-term partner starts doing this, it may be signs of a deeper problem in the relationship that needs to be discussed.

4. Substance Abuse Problems

Sitting down with a drink is a great way to relax — and let’s be honest, having a buzz on is fun! But if your spouse needs some sort of substance to have a good time, or if their personality drastically changes when they are under the influence, it can really throw you for a loop.

Substance abuse is one of the biggest relationship deal breakers on this list. It can cause your partner to mistreat you, be untrustworthy, waste money, and make poor decisions that will hurt you.

Why would you want to be around someone who is high or drunk 24/7, anyway?

5. Your Partner Isn’t Faithful

When it comes to cheating, put your foot down immediately. Don’t forgive and wait for the next round of heartbreak. If you have both agreed to a monogamous relationship, both parties should be respecting that decision.

Even if you put breaking your trust and your heart aside, your partner’s cheating on you puts you at risk for depression, sexually transmitted infections, and major embarrassment.

If your partner doesn’t love and respect you enough to stay faithful, dump them. They aren’t worth your time.

6. They Fight Dirty

There are times when we’ve all said stupid things in the heat of an argument, but there’s a difference between getting caught up and using a disagreement as an excuse to be a complete jerk.

If during an argument, your partner or spouse:

  • Brings up past experiences with the intention of hurting your feelings
  • Calls you rude or degrading names
  • Gaslights you to make you feel crazy
  • Attacks you instead of the issue
  • Uses the silent treatment

Then you should consider walking away.

Healthy relationships are about open communication and fair conflict resolutions — not about seeing who can hurt the other more.

7. You Don’t Feel Good About the Relationship

Do you feel good about being around your partner, or do you get knots when you think about hanging out together?

Do you get anxiety when you think about your relationship?

Does your partner make you question your self-worth?

If so, something inside you is probably screaming: “This relationship isn’t right!” There is definitely something to be said for gut instinct when it comes to deciding whether or not to stay with someone.

If your gut is telling you something is off in your relationship, there probably is.

8. You Want Different Things

Sometimes, even if you really love each other, your relationship game just isn’t meant to work out.

He wants East Coast, you want West.

She wants to save money, you want to spend.

He wants kids, you’re fine riding as a duo.

Even if you get along well, these fundamental differences in your goals and where you see your lives going are going to cause serious resentment problems if you don’t address them soon.

9. They’re Unbelievably Selfish

We’re all selfish from time to time, but some people take it too far.

If you feel like you’re giving your all to your spouse, and all they’re doing is taking, focusing on themselves, and taking advantage of your kindness, it may be time to re-evaluate your relationship.

Don’t spend a second longer with a selfish narcissist. Trust me, it isn’t worth the headache.

10. They’re Always Jealous

Healthy jealousy is totally cool when it inspires couples to treat each other better and not take one another for granted.

However, controlling, hack-your-Facebook-and-demand-your-phone-password jealousy should never be tolerated. This is a sign of insecurity and can quickly develop into dangerous or abusive behavior. It’s better to get out before it reaches that point.

11. You Don’t Share Values

You may think that opposites attract — and that’s true! — but that doesn’t always mean they make the best partners.

If you are passionate about your politics or your faith and your spouse has opposing beliefs that upset or anger you, it could mean that your relationship wasn’t meant to be.

If you’re going to be in a relationship with someone with opposing values, be aware that it will take a great deal of time to work through how you talk about and handle those things. If you simply don’t have the patience or desire to do so, it’s time to walk away.

12. You’re Always Fighting

Do you feel like you and your spouse are always arguing?

Sure, even happy couples argue, but constantly arguing with a partner is one of our relationship deal breakers because it shows that you have poor communication skills.

Communication is everything when it comes to a healthy, happy relationship. Couples need to be able to talk to each other in order to build empathy, resolve problems, and get closer. This means addressing problems as they arise, not letting them sit and turn into huge fights down the line.

The Bottom Line

Life is far too short to spend it with someone who isn’t worth your time. If your spouse is controlling, annoying, or won’t seem to give you the time of day, it’s time to call it quits! This is obviously a difficult decision to make, but your future self will thank you when they’ve found someone who is better for them.

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 Mary Oyohosuho Phillip
In Interviews&profile By

Sickle Cell Warriors Deserve Love And Empathy- Mary Oyohosuho Phillip

Mary Oyohosuho Phillip Is  a sickle cell warrior, a sickle cell advocate, a Confidence Coach and Skin Care Consultant. Mary is  the first Sickle Cell Warrior in her family, out of 3  in total 5 kids. Mary  suffered severe complications of sickle cell, and was bedridden for 3 years, this resulted in deformity.
She has  managed to further her  higher institution learning  walking with two sticks.  Mary’s lived experience as a sickle cell survivor is a tool she continuously used to inspire, motivate and encourage people. She goes to schools, churches to share her survivor story.
In this interview with Esther Ijewere, the founder of Jesus Girls Club, Int’l shares her inspiring story.
 Mary Oyohosuho Phillip- Sickle Cell Warrior

Childhood Influence

 I can truly say that my childhood prepared me for what I am doing today. While growing up, I watched my parents give their all to serving humanity and affecting the life of people positively. I have admired and wished  to affect the lives of people just the way my parents were doing, and that has given me that push in life  and has brought me to where I am and what I am doing  today.

What Inspired Me To Be A Sickle Cell Advocate 

 What basically inspired me to be a sickle cell advocate   is first, me being a sickle cell warrior, having two other siblings being warriors too in total making   three warriors in the family. Secondly, losing my younger brother to sickle cell. Thirdly how sicklecell got me deformed, all the excruciating pain, discomfort, and all that comes with it. Going through all this I became dedicated in creating sickle cell awareness for people to prevent birthing children with the sickle cell disease.

Jesus Girls Club

Going by all the social vices that we hear daily in our society  which affect the girl child, I always get heartbroken  and think of  a way to change the narrative.  Social vices like early pregnancy, rape, molestation, sexual abuse etc. when I hear and watch young ladies  in other part of the world  doing  amazing  thing in their different  field  endeavors , this  challenges and motivate me to want to groom and teach teenage girls starting from my community , to my  country   and to the world at large on having  good morals, building a healthy self esteem self discovery and purpose driven life.

Another major thing that motivated me to start Jesus girls club was when I heard that in this age and time teenage girls  still make use of cloth pieces, that is, rags to care for themselves when on their menstrual flow which is unhygienic  to  their health. This broke my heart completely.

The Journey So Far 

 The journey since I started my organization has been full of ups and downs. At the beginning it was going smoothly but along the way many obstacles and challenges came up. At one point I gave up completely, but my passion for  this vision brought  me back on track.

Challenges 

There are so many challenges :first lack funds . Since after my NYSC  my inability to get a job was a  big challenge in carrying out my vision but the little business I was doing and the passion kept the vision running. Then the second challenge was reaching out to these teenage girls in remote rural communities where roads are accessible, and I don’t sit so well on a bike. So in general, funds and mobility are my major challenges.
How My Work Inspire Sickle Cell Advocates 
 wow! Am certain that my work has inspired other sickle cell advocate because so many Warriors always reach out to me in my inbox, telling me how I inspire and motivate them to do better in their advocacy.

Other Projects And Activities

There are so many other projects and activities lined up for my organization. First, getting my foundation registered with the corporate affairs position (CAC) ready so I can operate officially. Presently there is a project at hand called: “BACK TO SCHOOL CAMPAIGN”. My organization will be providing writing materials such as Notebooks, pens, pencils, erasers etc for children in public schools whose parents can’t afford those materials for them. There are many other projects coming up and this is a call for people to sponsor and partner with me in achieving this.

What I Enjoy Most About My Job

What I enjoy most about my job is seeing smiles on the faces of people we reach out to. My prayers to God when I was growing up, was that God should use me as a channel to bring joy into the life of people so, for God to help me in this little capacity, gives me great joy and I want God to bless me more to do greater Exploits and reaching out to more & more people within Nigeria, Africa & the world at large. That will be my greatest joy.

3 Women Who Inspire Me And Why

Since I began this Journey, there are three (3) powerful women I have seen & they inspire me greatly they are:
1. Esther Ijewere [Founder, WOMEN OF RUBIES]
2.  Dr. Adesoye Tosin (Founder Sickle Celebs)
3. My Mother Mrs. Blessing O. Phillip
1. Esther Ijewere is one woman I love so much, she inspires me. Since I came across her on Facebook, I always rush to her page everyday to read what she has posted. I admire her strength,I admire her supporting women and generally I classify her as Beauty & Brains.
2, The Second woman that inspires me so much is Dr. Adesoye Tosin, the founder of Sickle celebs. When I began the journey of advocacy for sickle cell. The first woman I came across with the same issue as mine is Dr Tosin. I thought to myself,  if a young lady  with sickle cell can go study a course as tedious as medicine and still do well in it then, she is worth emulating and this got me inspired.
3.. The third woman that motivates me is my biological mother Mrs. Blessing O.philip. a woman who is my first teacher, doctor, prayer warrior and caregiver.  A woman that never stopped loving and caring for myself and my siblings after the demise of my beloved dad, despite our many health challenges. My super hero, my strong support system, my disciplinarian but correct in love I admire her strength, perseverance, doggedness.

On The Stigmatization Of Sickle Cell Warriors

 one thing I will say to people who stigmatize sickle cell warriors is that “STIGMATIZATION IS VERY BAD”. No one choose to be born with sickle cell or any other health challenge. Stop stigmatization, show love, empathy to sickle cell warriors. Do not discriminate, we deserve to love and to be loved in return.

 What Government Should Do To Support Sickle Cell Warriors

The government should make the health facilities & health insurance available and accessible to sickle cell patients in our hospitals.  Routine drugs and medical checkup should be provided or made cheap for sickle cell   warriors / caregivers to afford.

Being A Woman of Rubies 

I  am an extraordinary lady who lives an exemplary life for the younger generation to emulate. A go-getter, a warrior who never gives up. A fearless woman, courageous, tenacious. A lady who works towards leaving an impactful footprint on the sands of time

What I Would Say To A Young Person On The Verge Of Giving Up 

“GIVING UP SHOULD NOT BE AN OPTION”. Embrace life to the fullest. Believe in God, and yourself and Hope for a better tomorrow. Put in your own efforts, because “THERE IS A PRICE FOR EVERY PRIZE”. Thank you
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Auntie Jillian
In Inspiration By

Canada’s Favourite Reality TV Family: Auntie Jillian Returns For Season 2

Canada’s first Black Caribbean family-based reality show returns for its second season, premiering Saturday, Feb. 11 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on CTV. Encore presentations to air Sundays at 2 p.m. ET/PT on CTV2, beginning Feb. 12, with episodes also available on CTV.ca and the CTV app.

“We’re so excited to be back on CTV after another successful run on Bell Fibe TV1 – and during Black History Month too, which gives us an opportunity to show a positive representation of family during this significant time for our community,” exclaimed Jillian Danford, aka Auntie Jillian. “Even through challenging times like the pandemic, our show is a great reminder that family is so important and we should cherish the time we have together.”

When cultures collide, hilarity often ensues and for The Danford family, the fun-loving and laugh-out-loud moments are endless. In Season 2, AUNTIE JILLIAN keeps viewers wondering what hysterical shenanigans this family will encounter next with focus on the themes of family – including those who have passed on – baseball training with former pro-ball player, Nigel Wilson, the COVID-19 pandemic, tarot card readings, and more! Jillian Danford (“Auntie Jillian”), her husband Warren, and adult children Myles and Milan are bound to bring some laughter and scenarios that many Canadian families can find relatable.

Meet Auntie Jillian

Jillian Danford is a YouTube, television and social media personality who gained popularity on YouTube as Auntie Jillian with more than 100,000 subscribers and over 15 million views. This well-loved Trinidadian-Canadian personality along with her husband Warren and their adult children, Myles and Milan, have captured the hearts of viewers both online and on TV.

AUNTIE JILLIAN airs: Saturdays at 8 p.m. ET on CTV and Sundays at 2 p.m. ET on CTV2
Feb. 11 & 12: Baseball & Medium

Feb. 18 & 19: Tarot Card Reading & Family

Feb. 25 & 26:  Holiday Special & Covid Special

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In Inspiration By

Abimbola Oki: I’m Teaching Women How To Turn Their Passion For Cooking Into Business

There is a popular saying that the easiest way to a man’s heart is through food; a well prepared meal could make an African man give you a blank cheque some say.

While cooking shouldn’t define the worth of a woman, It is always an addition when a woman knows her way in the kitchen, Abimbola Oki is helping many women , not only navigate cooking tasty meals, but educating them on how to turn their passion to business.

The founder of  D’Potters Catering Services  which started in 2014, is one of the most sought after caterers in Nigeria at the moment, catering for several top events, and using social media to also showcase the beauty of cooking.

Abimbola Oki

Abimbola Oki decided to turn her passion into a corporate business  by aiming to provide healthy and delicious meals for busy people, thus satisfy their cravings at affordable prices with poise for prompt delivery . Her mission is to provide amazing food experience for everyone irrespective of their status, tribe, pocket and taste

The caterer whose passion started from supporting family members during festivities, share her Inspiring journey with Esther Ijewere in this exclusive interview.

Childhood Influence

 My mum used to sell bread even though I wasn’t involved as per last born child. My sister had a restaurant back then too and I helped to run it. I never thought of running a food business then, but I was able to learn one or two things from that experience.

Abimbola Oki

Inspiration Behind D’potters Catering

I love hosting people in my house especially during festive seasons. I noticed my guests enjoyed my cooking a lot so much that they give me money. I was still job hunting as at 2013. My husband and I had a discussion about starting a food business and that was how I started fully in 2014.

Abimbola Oki

The Journey So Far

Oh it’s been bitter and sweet with so many challenges but absolutely worth it. God’s grace has brought us this far and everything is going just as I wanted it.

 D’potters Catering Academy And It’s Impact

Alot of people know how to cook but they don’t know about the food business. I started D’potters Catering School to educate women not just about learning how to cook but also learning about the business aspect. It has been an amazing journey so far. The first set of students graduated last month and some of them already started their businesses and doing well.

Abimbola Oki

Educational Background, And My Aspiration As  A Woman

I attended Lagos Anglican Girls Secondary School and graduated from University of Lagos with a BSc in Estate management. My aspiration as a woman is to see my fellow women doing well for themselves.

Challenges Of Being A Vendor

Trust-Getting customers to trust me, because we usually do payment before delivery. We have been able to build their trust.

  • Delivery- Getting a trusted delivery company to deliver food on time. There are many cases of food getting sour by the time clients gets it. We have been able get our personal bikes.
  • Staffing

Nuggets On How To Be A Sought- After Food Vendor

 We have been consistent with our principles which is to give customers value for their money

We treat our customers fairly and we don’t hesitate to apologize when things go wrong

We try to exceed their expectations ,this makes them happy to refer us to their friends and families

Why I Helped  Families In Need During The Pandemic With Food

I always love to put smiles on people’s faces whether I know them or not. I have been through the very hard times too so I understand their situation, this is my inspiration.

Do you think the food industry is favourable enough to entrepreneurs

Yes the food industry is favorable to entrepreneurs because many Nigerians are now looking for different ways to ease their stress. Nobody wants to get home from work by 8pm after a bad traffic and start cooking. They prefer to buy food.

 Other services I offer In My company

Apart from cooking bespoke food for people, we do trainings how to cook different dishes and we also teach them the business aspect. We also rent out our cooking studio to content creators, food bloggers, food brands etc Our outdoor cooking area is also available for rent to caterers who need a convenient cooking space for their large cooking

Relocating  To A New Space

I have always dreamt of moving to a bigger space but I was scared of the unknown. We were given a quit notice at the former space because they did not want us to use the space for cooking again. We had no choice but to get a new space and we got exactly what we wanted. It was not easy getting space for cooking, or took us a year to get this new place. We did some renovations and it came out perfect. All Glory to God!

How My  Work Inspire Other Women

I get a lot of messages from women that I inspired them. I have been able to prove to women that being consistent and dedicated to one’s business will pay off and they can make it in any business they decide to venture into.

 3 women who inspire me and why

  • Racheal Ray did not have a formal culinary education just like me but she is now one of the most famous female chefs in the world.
  • Siba Mtongana has been able to combine her life as a family-oriented woman and work as a celebrity chef and presenter with the support of her husband.
  • Ngozi  Okonjo Iweala  has given us a representation of global and national power. She reminds me that I can achieve anything I want to.

Abimbola Oki

Being a Woman of Rubies

I have been able to teach other women how to start their businesses (not necessarily food) and also sell on social media platforms.

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Joyce Agbanobi
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Joyce Agbanobi Is Closing The Gender Gap In The Tech Industry Through Black Woman Paving Ways

Joyce Agbanobi  and her team are trying fix the gender gap problem in the tech industry  through their Black Woman Paving Ways Initiative.

Joyce is an enthusiastic Tech leader who is passionate and committed to closing the gender gap for women of color in technology. She is a Technical Program Manager Lead at Microsoft with over 7 years + of experience in ecommerce sectors.

She is also the Co-Founder of the Black Woman Paving Ways, a platform that aims at closing the digital divide and increasing the percentage of women in STEM, through building initiatives to help women upskill for the future and Matching newbies to their dream Mentors across different Fortune 500 companies.

She founded BWPW with her grad school friend Lola Quadri  who is also in the tech sector.

Black Woman Paving Ways was created in November 2020 and since then, they have helped 4,000+ women find their unique paths in technology, gain skills for the future, get matched to technical experts and gotten their dream jobs.

Watch:  How To Save And Invest Wisely In 2023

With the major layoffs in the tech space., the goal of her company for this year is not only to bring women into technology but also to make sure they are uniquely skilled and indispensable on their roles.

To ensure that, and commemorate the Black history month, BWPW will be holding a free 2-weeks Data Analytics hands on training for women transitioning into tech, those in non-tech roles and those who own their business but not exactly sure how to make sense of their data. The training is open to both male and female.

In this interview with Esther Ijewere, Joyce shares her inspiring story and how her company is determined to support women transition into different parts of the tech industry.

Childhood Influence

I remember growing up being the only girl in a family of 6 (including my parents). With my dad been a mechanical engineer working in oil and gas, all he knew and wanted, was for all his kids to be either Engineers, Medical Doctor, or a huge disappointment.

I did not grow up having the opportunity to choose what I really wanted, my dad and Late Grand Pa (who was also an Engineering Professor) choose for me to become a Psychiatric Doctor hence I have a BSc in Psychology.

I remember my dad, saying when he was in school, in an Engineering class of 50 students, they only had about 10 girls and by final year they were left with only 2 girls with the others dropping out to less technical courses. As a result, he constantly coached my brothers and I exactly same way, to be always bold, never be afraid of been the only one and never to stop pushing even when its hard. My Parents never saw my Gender as a blocker to success, so I never saw it as a problem.

I have come this far in my career and rapidly growing, is because of some great traits (Grit, Confidence and Curiosity for Knowledge) I got from my Parents and Brothers. Who would have known that I will continuously be the only Girl or Black Girl in the room?

Inspiration Behind Black Woman Paving Way

Women are one of the most innovative creatures ever but been the only Woman of color constantly in the room was confusing to me, so I decided to really understand why and how that can change, instead of constantly complaining?

Based on my research, I realized there is a huge gender gap because of some key issues: Lack of Technical skill for the future, awareness, representation, and support on all levels. So, in 2020 during Covid, I started sharing knowledge on LinkedIn, IG, Clubhouse and had some technology series on a friends YouTube Channel- “how to break into the technology” with some technical trainings.

I also mentored women for free but got overwhelming after a while and knew I couldn’t scale doing this alone so I partnered with my Grad school friends who were also passionate about increasing the percentage of women in the space. That’s how BWPW was born!

The Journey So Far

I must say it’s been nothing short of amazing but also very tasking, time and personal funds consuming but refreshing, because we have been able to train, mentor, and help over 4,000+ women transition into different paths of technology across the globe. But we are still barely scratching the surface with over 3 billion women in the world, we have a lot more to do and planned for 2023, watch the space.

My Role As A Technical Program Manager Lead At Microsoft And How My Work Experiences In Jumia And Amazon Prepared Me For This Role

As a TPM, I Lead the analytics and process automation initiative for Hyperscale Network Connectivity in Azure, my strong analytical skills and PM experience across the 2 eCommerce giants has uniquely set me apart for my current role in Cloud Networking.

Challenges In My Line Of Work

I think my challenges are similar to a lot of other women in this space, but I can say the major challenge for me as a young woman of color and an Immigrant with an accent leading technical Projects in a room filled with white male mostly twice my age, I constantly have to prove myself, which I personally do not have a problem with as I am now used to it, but it’s a challenge.

Our BWPW Free 2-Week Introduction To Data Analytics Intensive Training For Women

With the current climate of heavy layoff in the tech space and as artificial Intelligence continues to take preeminence, we want to make sure our women are constantly upskilling to become the disruptor and not the disrupted. Low skill jobs will be the easiest to automate hence they need to stay up to date on latest technology and continuously learn new skills to stay relevant.

Whether you are a business owner, a Product Manager or wanting to get into the AI Space, an in-depth data analytics knowledge is very key.

Black woman paving way

Hence BWPW is partnering with some Snr. Data Engineers at Amazon, Google, and Samsung to hold a 2- weeks Hands on free Master Class to train women in Advanced Excel, SQL, Python and Tableau. With an opportunity to solve a real-life business problem through hands on project.

Click here to register; https://mailchi.mp/0fa2c3cea99b/data-science-masterclass?fbclid=PAAaZ7Ws_MqB3fNYMsK0BlYlnnDaWuUNgBB7Z9xgPNJkwI8OUQkkRYRjPPDHs

Other Projects And Activities

We have several products in works but our most recent is:

A platform to help democratize mentorship for women of color across the globe with a launch in 5 countries (Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Canada, and US), so we are excited for that one.

What I Enjoy Most About My Job

Critical thinking and Ability to solve problems. Every Problem to me, is an opportunity to shine and learn something new.

3 Women Who Inspire Me And Why

  • Bozoma Saint John – CMO, Netflix
  • Shelley Zalis – Founder, Female Quotient
  • Annie Jean-Baptiste – Director, Product Inclusion & Equity @ Google

These women inspire me to do more every single day. They decided not to conform to the norm, but push themselves to constantly create solid tables, instead of waiting to be invited to one, in their respective space. Their continuous way paving for women in the cooperate space is highly admirable and with them I am hopeful for a brighter future with more women in it. I believe together we can all make this change!

What We Can Do Better As A Society To Support Women Who Aspire To Go Into The Tech Industry

Support: As of today, women make up to 47% of all employed adults in the US, yet according to Computerscience.org only 18% of women earn a computer science degree. This simply means just women alone are not able to do this, we need more male support to close the gender gap.

Hire Women: Diversity breeds innovation and according to ongoing research conducted by McKinsey, it’s been discovered that diverse teams financially outperform non-diverse teams as much as 25% based on gender diversity alone. Partner with platforms like BWPW for fill those roles.

Mentor and Promote Women: Again, it’s worth going out of your way to connect with women, support your female teammates and help them climb the ladder. It’s difficult to find your footing when your peers don’t look like you or can’t relate to your challenges. Be sure to extend the same benefit of doubt you extend to men.

Encourage Women to pursue STEM: the STEM Field can appear intimidating as its heavily male dominated, so it’s important we become the bridge for young women and encourage them to pursue these field.

Support Families: about 70% of adult women will become mothers so its important for companies to provide good employee benefits to include parental-focused incentives, as having a child is a huge life changing experience.

One Thing I Wish To Change In The Tech Sector

The Technology space is constantly changing, and companies should provide room for everyone to learn and grow whether you are an intern out of school or a leader. We need to support people, so they feel empowered by technology and not frightened by it.

Being A Woman Of Rubies

Honestly been exceptional to me means caring less about perfectionism and validation from everyone but deciding to be exceptional on my own terms. Embracing my uniqueness, acknowledging my struggles, following my path, believing in myself, and ensuring I don’t lose my identity is what makes me an exceptional woman

How We Are Reflecting International Women’s Day #Embraceequity 2023 Theme In BWPW

-Leading the Black Minority Student Program (BMSD) at Microsoft: creating technical workshops to educate, close the digital divide and expose high school students to technology

– Hiring Women

– Providing Mentorship for women within the company

 

 

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