Career Gems Archives

In Career Gems January 8, 2024 By Esther Ijewere

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

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:

In Career Gems December 21, 2023 By Women of Rubies

How to Achieve Financial Independence And Grow Your Wealth

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.

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:

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.
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.
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.
Responsibility: Accept your role in financial outcomes and take action to make financial changes in your life.
Focus: See your process through to completion one step at a time. Accountability is crucial.
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.

She Wanted To Be A Lawyer But Ended Up A Carpenter, The Story Of Comfort Adzigbli

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

In Career Gems December 19, 2023 By Esther Ijewere

Adeola Adefemi: A Beacon Of Excellence In Education

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.

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.

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.

In Career Gems December 13, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Canada Vendors Entrepreneur Awards And End Of Year Gala Set To Ignite Mississauga On December 16th, 2023

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.

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

In Career Gems December 13, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Single Mom Of 7 Turns Her Last $5 Into A Million Dollar Cupcake Business

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 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!

In Career Gems January 9, 2024 By Women of Rubies

Here’s How To Trick Yourself Into Saving More Money

In a perfect world, we wouldn’t need to trick ourselves into saving money, because we’re all grown-ups who have self-control, right?

Let’s be honest, whether its splurging or the unfortunate mishaps that require immediate funds, we could find areas where we can cut our costs and unnecessary spending.

Acknowledging that our self-control might need some work isn’t a bad thing. Try implementing some of these tips and tricks to help you become a super fine finance ninja!

Coin Jar

It may seem old fashion, but that change after you break a dollar can add up quickly. That few extra $100 per year might not sound like much, but it’s far better things to be done with extra coins than losing them between the cushions!

Make Money Shopping

Numerous websites offer opportunities to earn cash back when shopping, whether online or at brick-and-mortar stores. One of the options I particularly like is an app that provides cash back for purchases at various participating stores. When you use your linked debit or credit card, you receive cash back. The participating stores vary widely, making it a versatile choice.

New Habits

Transform your routine. Instead of ordering lunch every day at work, pack a lunch on some days. Consider the unnecessary subscriptions you have monthly, and divert those payments into your savings account. What habits do you have that you can work on quitting to help save those extra bucks at the end of the month?

Check Your Home

You’d be surprised at how much you can save monthly by just cutting back on your energy bill. Caulk holes and cracks that let warm air out in the winter and cool air in the summer. Ask your local gas and electric providers for a free or low-cost home energy audit. This can lead to tremendous long-term savings. Learn the correct settings for your thermostat to ensure you keep your usage at bay when you away from home during the day.

How Not To Go Broke

In Career Gems December 13, 2023 By Esther Ijewere

Yewande Jinadu: 5 Things You Need To Know When Negotiating A New Salary

Salary is very important in the life of an employee. In fact, that is the reason why people leave their houses every day to go to work. A lot of people have made mistakes in the area of negotiation, and I can totally relate to it. This is for those thinking of making the next move in their career, but don’t want to later regret their salary due to lack of information.

1. Know the difference between Net Pay and Gross Pay and ensure you negotiate based on Net pay

Gross pay is the total amount an employer pays to an employee. Gross pay includes the breakdown of what an employee is entitled to, and it is from the gross pay that deductions are made, while net pay, which is also known as take-home pay, is the amount you receive after all the deductions, like tax, pension, etc., have been made. It is preferable to state your salary expectation in terms of net pay because you may not know the basis for which deductions are made in the new company.

When you negotiate on the net, it ensures that you’re not on the losing end, and HR will do some calculations before making you an offer, which will be more than what you negotiated. This is to leave room for deductions. E.g., your letter may carry ₦150,000 as pay, but by the time you receive your first alert, you will be getting ₦120,000.

2. Ask about other benefits that the company offers during a negotiation

Some companies have variable pay, based on certain conditions like the performance of the individual or the company. Some benefits may be in kind and not be cash; this should be noted when you want to mentally calculate your pay. What I’m trying to say is that do not reject an offer because it doesn’t really meet your expectation; find out if they have other perks, which can be considered. Also, if you’re coming from a place that has a lot of office perks, don’t take an offer just because it pays higher. E.g. if you’re coming from a place that pays for membership of professional bodies as well as subscriptions, cars, performance bonuses, higher HMO packages, etc.

It’s best you put a cost to the benefits you were enjoying before and ask if it exists or if it would be more, then weigh your options.

3. Do your own research

You may think you have gotten a good offer, but when you get in, you may eventually get disgruntled when you realise that your colleagues who have the same job description as you earn far above what you accepted. Jobberman, Payscale and Glassdoor will help give you insights into relevant data. If you can make calls to people in the industry who will have an idea of the range, it would be helpful (not necessarily the exact figure, though). Some people on Nairaland sometimes disclose pay for some roles, so please dig well.

4. Be open to negotiation

I always advise you to mention something higher than what you expect, then tell them you are open to negotiation. E.g., you earn ₦150,000 and the minimum you can take before considering an offer is ₦220,00. It’s best you say ₦280,000 then tell the recruiter it’s negotiable. This way, they don’t start negotiating from ₦220,000.

5. Negotiate a salary based on what works best for you

I’ve realized that different things matter to different people at various points in their lives. This guides their decision to take an offer or reject it. E.g., I have a friend whom a premium HMO is what mattered most to him (at that point in his life) because his wife needed it. To someone else, he was stupid for taking that pay, but he negotiated an HMO package that saved him millions for the birth of his child. For some people, proximity is more important, for some, it’s staff bus and canteen. Whatever your own case may be, identify it and negotiate with that.

Don’t be pressured unnecessarily. Negotiate with confidence, because you know the value you will be contributing to the organisation. Don’t be scared to have that conversation when it’s time.

Follow @careerlifeng to know more about Yewande’s work.

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In Career Gems December 5, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Women of Rubies Media Visibility BootCamp: Meet the Day One Speakers

Welcome to the Women of Rubies Media Visibility BootCamp! Media visibility has become a vital asset for women across diverse fields in an age where information travels at the speed of light. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of the transformative boot camp and introduce the impressive lineup of speakers for Day One.

Media visibility is more than just a buzzword; it’s a potent tool that empowers women to amplify their voices, share their stories, and inspire change. Let’s explore how media visibility can impact women’s lives profoundly.

Adeola Osideko

Adeola Osideko’s expertise in media visibility makes her a valuable resource for women in the field. Her experience in journalism and communications enables her to navigate the dynamic world of media effectively.

On Day One of the BootCamp, Adeola will reveal the secrets of media visibility through personal development, providing a step-by-step guide to achieving success. She will share practical strategies to help women in various fields increase their visibility, share their stories, and become influential voices in their respective domains.

Adeola’s sessions cover personal branding, storytelling, and digital platforms. Attendees will gain actionable insights to elevate their media game through interactive discussions and real-world examples.

Don’t miss Adeola Osideko’s media expertise, whether you’re starting or a seasoned pro.

Esther Ijewere

Our journey through Day One of the Women of Rubies Media Visibility BootCamp wouldn’t be complete without introducing Esther Ijewere, founder and convener of Women of Rubies Media Visibility Bootcamp.

Esther Ijewere is a prominent figure in media visibility, and her profile is a testament to her unyielding dedication to empowering women through media. With a background rooted in journalism and social activism, Esther has championed numerous causes and created waves of change through her work.

Esther has achieved a lot in promoting women’s voices and gender equality through media campaigns, earning her accolades and inspiring others.

Esther Ijewere will discuss the power of storytelling on Day One of the BootCamp. Attendees will learn to craft narratives that resonate and connect with their audience, bringing about positive change through the media.

Esther’s contributions to the BootCamp promise to be transformative. Her ability to blend storytelling with advocacy is a skill that every aspiring media influencer should cultivate. Prepare to be enthralled and educated as Esther Ijewere takes the stage on Day One.

3. Rukayat Alabi

Rukayat Alabi, widely known as “Ruky,” is a beacon of inspiration in the realms of entrepreneurship and career coaching. Transitioning from a seasoned Banking and Tech Professional, she has become a celebrated serial entrepreneur as the founder and CEO of RKY Group of Companies. Through RKY Careers, RKY Digital Solutions, and RKY Consulting Services Ltd, Ruky passionately guides immigrants in navigating the job market, helping them secure dream positions and excel in their careers—an extraordinary journey worth celebrating.

4. Sally Suleiman

Sally Suleiman, an extraordinary humanitarian, strategist, writer, and media personality, lends her voice to the voiceless, both online and offline. As the founder of The Isolycia Foundation, she focuses on providing education to underprivileged children, impacting lives through her educational outreach. With over a decade of experience in the oil and gas industry and media, Sally excels in brand management, project management, sales, marketing, administration, customer service, company development, and content production. Her purpose-driven mindset and commitment to excellence make her a valuable asset to any team and organization.

As we wrap up our journey through the Women of Rubies Media Visibility BootCamp’s Day One speakers, it’s evident that this event is poised to be a transformative experience for all participants.

The Women of Rubies Media Visibility BootCamp isn’t just an event; it’s an opportunity for women from diverse backgrounds to amplify their voices, share their stories, and make a lasting impact in the media world. It’s a platform where empowerment and transformation are the order of the day.

Join Women of Rubies Media Visibility BootCamp to make your voice count in the media industry. We look forward to seeing you at the BootCamp.

In Career Gems December 1, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Women Of Rubies Quarterly Media Visibility BootCamp: Meet The Fireside Chat Speakers

We’re excited to announce a highlight of our Women of Rubies Media Visibility BootCamp: a captivating Fireside Chat with distinguished speakers renowned for their influential work across various sectors. These industry leaders are true icons, ready to share their profound insights and inspiring journeys with us.

This exclusive dialogue is set to take place on December 18, culminating in the BootCamp experience. Register here to be a part of this enlightening session and the entire BootCamp. Don’t miss the chance to connect with and learn from these industry titans!

Azeezat Adejare: Lawyer and Culinary Entrepreneur

Azeezat Adejare is a figure of legal understanding and culinary innovation. A licensed attorney, she has woven her expertise through the fabric of legal practice, earning recognition for her commitment to justice and client advocacy. Beyond the courtroom, Azeezat has embraced her passion for African cuisine, establishing herself as a culinary entrepreneur. She is a pioneer in redefining and promoting African food, intertwining cultural heritage with contemporary taste, garnering her admiration within the culinary community.

Her achievements span diverse realms, reflecting her multifaceted interests and capabilities. Azeezat’s journey is a testament to her versatility and dedication, breaking stereotypes and fostering community through her dual pursuits. Her work has garnered attention, positioning her as a community pillar elevating African cuisine and advocating for legal empowerment.

Chinanza Favour Youth Ambassador and Author

Chinanza Favour is a distinguished Youth Ambassador and Author whose work has made a substantial impact in the realms of personal transformation and global empowerment. Hailing from Nigeria, she has become a beacon of inspiration for her dedication to fostering positive change and uplifting communities.

Chinaza is a Youth Ambassador who advocates for education, leadership, and personal development. She also works towards gender equality and youth empowerment at local and international levels. as an author and in youth empowerment, she highlights her commitment to positively impacting the world, especially among young people seeking personal growth and global empowerment.

Wendy Wintech: Content Creator and Youtuber

Wendy, or Chyluv, is an award-winning tech professional with a decade of experience. She serves as a Senior Agile Business Analyst at a major North American logistics company and is a Program Manager at BlackTECH. Wendy is passionate about bridging gender inequality in the tech industry and has earned recognition, including the Community Champion Award and Women in Tech Excellence Award. She holds a degree in Computer Science and a master’s in Human Capital Management, with expertise in Business Development, Agile Business Analysis, Strategy, and Content Creation. Wendy is also certified in several areas. She values quality time with her family, including her spouse and four children.

Rinret Gofwan: Mental Health Expert

Rinret Gofwan, an expert in behavioral change and emotional well-being, specializes in trauma therapy, emotional intelligence coaching, and Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP). With a strong educational background, she holds degrees from the University of Abuja, the University of Jos, and the University of Maiduguri, including a Master’s in International Relations and Strategic Studies. Rinret is also the visionary founding director of the Miriam Gofwan Women and Children Foundation.

Emily Wale-koya: Women’s Empowerment Coach

Emily Wale-Koya is a renowned figure in personal branding and online entrepreneurship. With a background in law, Emily transitioned into the digital space and has since made a significant impact. She created the School of Personal Branding to assist people in uncovering and optimizing their brands.

Emily’s accomplishments are notable. She has successfully coached and mentored numerous individuals, empowering them to transform their online presence into profitable ventures. She empowers women through Women of Rubies by sharing insights and experiences.

Emily Wale-Koya’s LinkedIn profile showcases her extensive personal branding and entrepreneurship expertise. Her impressive achievements include turning dreams into 7-figure realities, a testament to her dedication and proficiency in the field. Her journey from law to digital entrepreneurship exemplifies the power of reinvention and the pursuit of one’s passion to succeed in the ever-evolving online landscape.

Register for the media visibility BootCamp here: womenofrubies.com/mediavisibility

In Career Gems November 30, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Navigating The Modern Workplace: A Strategic Guide For Women

The contemporary workplace, while rife with challenges, also presents a myriad of opportunities. For women navigating this complex terrain, the journey often demands finesse, considering the persisting systemic challenges. Empowered with the right strategies, women in the workforce can significantly enhance their career prospects. Whether eyeing a promotion, contemplating a career switch, or considering entrepreneurship, here’s a comprehensive guide to pave the way, courtesy of baucemag.com.

1. Start Networking

The age-old wisdom, “It’s not what you know, but who you know,” holds true today more than ever. Networking remains one of the most effective ways to climb the corporate ladder or transition into a new career.

Industry Events: Participate in seminars, webinars, and conferences related to your field for valuable insights and connections.
Social Media: Leverage platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals and thought leaders in your industry.
Informational Interviews: Request short chats with individuals in your desired field for firsthand industry knowledge.
Professional Associations: Join women’s professional organizations for a supportive community and mentorship opportunities.

2. Get Comfortable with Negotiation

Negotiation is a crucial skill for career advancement, yet many women find it daunting. Mastering this skill is vital for achieving professional growth.

Do Your Research: Understand industry standards and articulate what you bring to the table before any negotiation.
Role-Play: Practice negotiation scenarios with a trusted colleague or friend to build confidence.
Express Value: Highlight how your skills align with the company’s needs during negotiations.
Don’t Undersell: Stand firm on your accomplishments and avoid settling for less.

To guide your efforts effectively, establish clear and SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-Bound) career goals.

Short-term Goals: Aim for achievements within the next 6–12 months, such as acquiring new skills or securing a specific project.
Long-term Goals: Envision where you want to be in 5 or 10 years, whether breaking into senior management or pivoting to a new industry.
Action Plan: Work backward from your goals, outlining the steps needed to achieve them for a focused and achievable roadmap.

4. Consider Starting a Business

Entrepreneurship can be an empowering way to take control of your career, be your own boss, and dictate your professional growth.

Skill Transfer: Apply your experience directly to your own business, such as starting a consultancy firm in your field.
Financial Planning: Create a detailed business plan, including financial projections to understand your funding needs.
Support Network: Surround yourself with a reliable team, be it mentors, business partners, or employees.
Take the Plunge: Start your entrepreneurial journey now, avoiding delays and seizing the opportunity for growth.

5. Embrace Lifelong Learning

In a rapidly evolving work environment, staying relevant requires continuous learning. Adaptability and a commitment to growth can set you apart from the competition.

Up-skill and Re-skill: Invest time in expanding your skill set, whether through mastering new software or exploring related disciplines.
Online Courses: Utilize platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning for affordable and free options to upgrade your skills.
Certifications: Research respected certifications in your industry to add weight to your resume.
Read Widely: Stay updated on industry trends, research, and innovations for a broader perspective and engaging conversations.
Soft Skills: Develop emotional intelligence, leadership qualities, and effective communication to complement technical skills.
Mentorship: Seek guidance from someone who has achieved what you aspire to, benefitting from their insights and constructive feedback.

In conclusion, the key to improving your career prospects lies in proactive planning and taking bold steps. Whether in a traditional 9-5 role, contemplating a career switch, or considering entrepreneurship, applying these strategies will shape the career path you desire. Your career is a long-term investment; start nurturing it. now.

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Career Gems