In Career Gems February 25, 2026 By Esther Ijewere

The Art of Pitching: A Comprehensive Guide To Securing Media Features

Securing media features can be a game-changer for individuals or businesses looking to boost their visibility and credibility. Crafting a compelling pitch is the first step toward grabbing the attention of journalists and editors. In this guide, we’ll explore the strategies and best practices for effectively pitching for media features.

Know Your Target Media Outlets

Understanding the media outlets you’re targeting is essential. Research their focus, audience, and the types of features they typically run. Tailor your pitch to align with the publication’s tone, style, and content preferences.

Craft a Captivating Subject Line

The subject line of your pitch is the gateway to getting noticed. Craft a concise, intriguing subject line that encapsulates the essence of your story. Make it clear why your feature is newsworthy or resonates with their readership.

Research and Personalize

Address the journalist or editor by name and reference their previous work or recent articles. Show that you’ve done your homework and understand their interests. A personalized pitch demonstrates your genuine interest in their platform.

Start with a Compelling Hook

Open your pitch with a strong hook that immediately engages the recipient. Clearly state the unique angle or story your feature offers and why it matters. Journalists are drawn to pitches that promise a fresh perspective or highlight a compelling narrative.

Clearly Outline the Value

Explain why your feature is valuable to their audience. Clearly articulate the benefits and relevance of your story. Whether it provides insights, addresses a current trend, or offers a unique perspective, emphasize what makes your feature stand out.

Showcase Your Expertise

Highlight your credentials or the unique insights you bring to the table. Journalists are more likely to feature stories from credible sources. If applicable, share any notable achievements, awards, or relevant experience that adds weight to your pitch.

Keep it Concise and Focused

Journalists receive numerous pitches daily, so keep yours concise and focused. Provide a brief yet comprehensive overview of your feature, emphasizing key points without overwhelming the reader. Make it easy for them to grasp the essence of your story quickly.

Include Supporting Materials

Enhance your pitch with supporting materials that add depth to your story. Include high-quality images, relevant statistics, or links to additional resources. Ensure all materials align with the publication’s guidelines and contribute to the overall appeal of your feature.

Below are two example pitches for Esther Ijewere and Oprah Winfrey that can serve as helpful guides:

Pitch for Esther Ijewere, Founder of Women of Rubies:

Subject: Empowering Women Globally: A Story of Resilience and Impact

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I hope this message finds you well. My name is [XXX], and I am reaching out to you on behalf of Women of Rubies, a dynamic organization founded by the inspirational Esther Ijewere.

Esther’s journey and the incredible work of Women of Rubies are a testament to resilience, empowerment, and the unwavering commitment to uplift women worldwide. With impactful initiatives ranging from education and media to advocacy for women’s rights, Women of Rubies is at the forefront of creating positive change.

I would love to offer you the opportunity to feature Esther Ijewere and Women of Rubies in [Publication Name]. Esther’s story, combined with the organization’s achievements, aligns seamlessly with [Publication Name]’s commitment to highlighting stories of empowerment and social impact.

Here are a few key points we can explore in the feature:

Esther Ijewere’s inspiring journey and vision behind Women of Rubies.
Notable initiatives and projects undertaken by Women of Rubies.
Impactful stories of women whose lives have been transformed through the organization’s efforts.

I believe this feature would resonate strongly with your readership and contribute to the ongoing dialogue on empowerment and social change. If you are interested, I am happy to provide more information, schedule an interview, or supply additional materials.

Thank you for considering this pitch, and I look forward to the possibility of collaborating on this impactful feature.

Best regards, [Your Full Name] [Your Contact Information]

Trailblazing Philanthropy: Unveiling Oprah Winfrey’s Impactful Initiatives

Pitch for Oprah Winfrey:

Subject: Trailblazing Philanthropy: Unveiling Oprah Winfrey’s Impactful Initiatives

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I hope this message finds you in good health. My name is [XXX], and I am reaching out to you with a compelling story that I believe aligns seamlessly with [Publication Name]’s commitment to showcasing influential figures making a positive impact.

Oprah Winfrey, a global icon and trailblazer in media and philanthropy, continues to inspire millions with her unwavering dedication to creating positive change. I am eager to propose a feature that delves into Oprah’s philanthropic endeavors, shedding light on the transformative initiatives that have made a profound impact on communities worldwide.

Key points we can explore in this feature include:

Oprah Winfrey’s journey from media mogul to influential philanthropist.
Insightful details on Oprah’s notable philanthropic initiatives and organizations.
Personal stories of individuals whose lives have been positively influenced by Oprah’s philanthropy.

I believe a feature on Oprah Winfrey’s philanthropic legacy would be of great interest to [Publication Name]’s audience, adding a unique and impactful narrative to your esteemed publication.

If this proposal aligns with your editorial vision, I am happy to provide additional information, arrange an interview, or share supporting materials.

Thank you for considering this pitch, and I look forward to the possibility of collaborating on this compelling feature.

Best regards, [Your Full Name] [Your Contact Information]

Conclusion

Pitching for media features requires a strategic approach and a deep understanding of your target publications. By crafting personalized, attention-grabbing pitches and clearly showcasing the value of your story, you increase the likelihood of securing media features that can significantly impact your visibility and credibility. Remember, each pitch is an opportunity to tell a compelling story and make a lasting impression on the media landscape. Good luck!

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

In Career Gems January 30, 2026 By Esther Ijewere

Intentional Presence: Boost Credibility and Influence as a Leader or Professional

In today’s fast-paced world, showing up isn’t just about being visible; it’s about being seen with intention. Whether you are a manager guiding teams, a professional building your online presence, or an entrepreneur navigating opportunities, intentional presence is the skill that shapes credibility, influence, and leadership impact. It ensures that the energy, voice, and authority you bring to every interaction align with your values and goals, so you are remembered for what matters most.

What is Intentional Presence?

Intentional presence is the conscious practice of how you show up, choosing alignment over reaction.

For managers: It’s about setting the tone in meetings, guiding teams, and leading with confidence and authenticity.
For public-facing professionals: It’s about communicating clearly and consistently across platforms, projecting credibility, and engaging intentionally with your audience.

Presence is not about being the loudest or most visible voice. It’s about being clear, grounded, and purposeful, even in moments of quiet.

Why Unintentional Presence Can Undermine Influence

Many women are encouraged to “be seen” without first clarifying how they want to be perceived. Visibility without intention can lead to:

Mixed messages about your values or authority
Overcommitment and burnout
Being remembered for busyness rather than impact

Intentional presence acts as a filter, helping you decide which opportunities, interactions, and platforms deserve your energy, and which do not.

The Three Pillars of Intentional Presence

1. Clarity

Identify what you want to be known for. Understand your values, goals, and the legacy you want to leave. Without clarity, presence becomes reactive and inconsistent.

2. Consistency

Credibility grows when your actions, communication, and decisions consistently reflect your values over time. Consistency builds trust and reinforces influence.

3. Connection

Influence is relational. Presence is strongest when people leave interactions feeling seen, respected, and understood. Connection amplifies credibility more than visibility alone.

Applying Intentional Presence in Real Life

For Managers and Leaders:

Prepare for key meetings and team interactions
Lead with authority without overexplaining
Set boundaries to protect focus and energy
Align actions with your team’s needs and your strategic goals

For Public-Facing Professionals:

Post and engage on social media with clarity and purpose
Build a consistent online identity aligned with your values
Pause before saying yes to every opportunity, and choose visibility intentionally
Use storytelling to strengthen influence and credibility

A Weekly Reflection Tool

Regardless of your role, a simple weekly check-in helps build intentional presence:

Where did I feel most aligned this week?
Where did I feel drained or reactive?
Which actions reinforced my credibility and influence?
What one intentional adjustment can I make next week?

Small, consistent reflection compounds into measurable confidence and influence.

Presence Evolves With Your Leadership Season

Intentional presence is not static. Your leadership style, visibility, and energy investment will shift with roles, responsibilities, and life seasons.

Some weeks call for visibility and assertiveness
Other times, influence comes from quiet, strategic action

Recognizing and adjusting to these shifts is part of the skill of intentional presence.

The Takeaway

Intentional presence is not about doing more, being louder, or constantly visible. It’s about showing up with purpose, clarity, and authenticity, whether you are leading a team, building an online profile, or navigating professional opportunities.

Presence is not accidental.
Credibility is not automatic.
Influence is built, one intentional choice at a time.

Author Bio

Esther Ijewere is an award-winning facilitator, media strategist, and founder of Women of Rubies, a platform dedicated to amplifying women’s voices and leadership. She supports women in developing intentional presence, visibility with purpose, and leadership credibility.

In Career Gems January 30, 2026 By Women of Rubies

WCT Leadership Excellence Awards 2026: Give to Gain

Women and allies across Canada are invited to celebrate leadership, diversity, and opportunity at the 35th annual WCT Leadership Excellence Awards (LEA). Building on the theme of International Women’s Day 2026, Give to Gain, the awards honour women, men, and organizations that actively champion women’s advancement in the workplace.

This prestigious gala is a must-attend event for Canada’s vibrant business sectors, bringing together the country’s most influential leaders and rising stars to recognize outstanding contributions to women’s empowerment and inclusion in the communications and technology industries.

WCT Leadership Excellence Awards 2026: Give to Gain — Photo: WCT website

Event Details

Date: Tuesday, April 14th, 2026
Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Fairmont Royal York, 100 Front St W, Toronto, ON M5J 1E4
Tickets & Tables:Here
Sponsorship Packages: Here

About the Leadership Excellence Awards

The WCT Leadership Excellence Awards (LEA) celebrate individuals, teams, and organizations who champion diversity, opportunity, and inclusion for women in Canada’s communications and technology sectors. This year marks the 35th anniversary of the awards, with eight prestigious categories recognizing exceptional leadership.

Nomination deadline: February 6, 2026

Award Categories

1. Woman of the Year
The highest individual honour, celebrating extraordinary leaders who have materially advanced the roles and influence of women in the digital economy.

2. ERG of the Year
Recognizes Employee Resource Groups that demonstrate exceptional commitment to women’s advancement, using best practices to foster inclusion and measurable workplace results.

3. Ally of the Year
Honours men who have made significant contributions as mentors, sponsors, or advocates, empowering women within organizations and across the economy.

4. Innovator of the Year
New for the 35th anniversary, this award celebrates women leading in disruptive or emerging technologies, turning bold ideas into transformative solutions.

5. Champion of the Year
Exclusive to WCT sponsoring partner leaders, this award recognises those championing WCT’s cause and advancing women within their organizations.

6. Mentor of the Year
Honours exceptional mentors from WCT programs — including Pods and career accelerators — who guide and develop women leaders through insight, encouragement, and dedication.

7. Rising Star of the Year
Open to WCT program alumni, this award celebrates emerging leaders making a meaningful impact early in their careers and shaping the future of leadership in Canada’s digital economy.

8. Regional Leader of the Year
Recognizes outstanding volunteer leaders across WCT chapters in Canada whose advocacy, mentorship, and dedication strengthen local networks and empower women in the digital economy.

Why Attend

The WCT Awards Gala is not just a celebration; it is a networking and learning opportunity. Attendees will connect with influential leaders, rising talent, and organizations dedicated to inclusion, equity, and innovation.

Whether you’re nominating, attending, or sponsoring, the event is a chance to:

Celebrate achievements in leadership and diversity
Recognize role models shaping Canada’s digital economy
Build connections with the country’s top business and tech leaders

How to Participate

Submit Nominations: Here
Buy Tickets & Tables: Here
Explore Sponsorship Packages: Here

Celebrate the women, allies, and organizations who give to gain in leadership. Together, we can continue to create a future where women thrive across Canada’s technology and communications sectors.

General enquiries: info@wct-fct.com

In Career Gems January 28, 2026 By Women of Rubies

Funding Masterclass with Sola Oluwole (Replay)

Many women-led businesses and initiatives have incredible ideas and impact, yet often struggle to access the funding and support needed to grow. The Women of Rubies Funding Masterclass, facilitated by Sola Oluwole, tackled exactly this challenge, providing actionable strategies, clarity, and tools to help women founders position their work for funding success.

🎥 Replay Available Now

The full masterclass is now available as a replay for just $30. Watch and learn at your own pace, and revisit key insights shared during the session. Access the Replay Here

Inside, we break down:
✔️ What funders actually look for
✔️ How to prepare your business for funding
✔️ Common mistakes that block access
✔️ Practical steps you can apply immediately

Optional Add-On: Spotlight Feature

For those interested in amplifying their work even further, selected participants will be featured on the Women of Rubies platform. Share your bio, photo, and social links when you get the replay to be considered for this exclusive visibility opportunity. Send to – Info@womenofrubies.com

Take the step today to grow your impact, gain clarity on funding, and expand your visibility.

In Career Gems January 20, 2026 By Women of Rubies

Why So Many Women Doing Impactful Work Are Still Invisible

Too many women doing impactful, community-shaping work are still invisible.

Across industries, women founders, creatives, nonprofit leaders, and advocates are building powerful solutions, driving change, and serving their communities, yet their stories often go unseen and unheard. The issue is rarely a lack of talent, effort, or preparation. More often, it is a lack of access to visibility.

In today’s media-driven world, visibility determines whose work is recognized, funded, and supported. And for many women, especially Black women and women from underrepresented communities, that access remains limited.

Visibility Is the Difference Between Impact and Opportunity

Visibility is often treated as optional, something to pursue later, once the work is “bigger” or “more established.” In reality, visibility is a growth tool. It shapes perception, credibility, and opportunity.

When women doing impactful work gain visibility, they unlock:

Increased trust and legitimacy
Access to partnerships and funding
Opportunities for media coverage and speaking
Broader community reach and influence

Without visibility, even the most meaningful work can remain confined to small circles, limiting its ability to scale and create lasting change.

Why Women Doing Impactful Work Remain Invisible

The visibility gap is not accidental. Many women face systemic barriers that limit their exposure to media platforms, industry gatekeepers, and decision-makers.

Some of the most common challenges include:

Limited access to media and storytelling platforms
Lack of guidance on how to pitch their work effectively
Confidence gaps shaped by exclusion, not capability
Few spaces designed to amplify women’s voices intentionally

As a result, women are often encouraged to “keep building” without being shown how to position their stories in ways that attract attention, support, and opportunity.

Shifting the Narrative Through Visibility

Addressing invisibility requires more than encouragement, it requires structure, access, and intentional platforms. Women need spaces that help them clarify their stories, communicate their impact, and be seen by the right audiences.

This is where visibility initiatives play a critical role. When women are supported to articulate their work clearly and confidently, they are better positioned to claim space, attract support, and expand their reach.

Introducing the Media Pitch Challenge

In celebration of Black History Month, Women of Rubies is hosting the Media Pitch Challenge, a visibility-focused initiative created to spotlight women whose work deserves greater recognition.

The Media Pitch Challenge is designed to help women doing impactful work move from preparation to exposure. It is not about perfection or polished PR language. It is about clarity, confidence, and learning how to communicate your story in a way that resonates with media, audiences, and opportunities.

Participants receive guided support to refine their pitch and share their work within a curated visibility ecosystem.

What Participants Gain

Women who take part in the Media Pitch Challenge receive:

A Media Pitch Workbook to structure and strengthen their story
Access to a live group pitch coaching session led by visibility coaches
The opportunity to pitch before industry and media judges
A certificate of participation from Women of Rubies

One standout participant will receive a $2,500 Media Visibility Package, including featured content, interviews, social amplification, and strategic visibility support.

Who This Is For

The Media Pitch Challenge is open to women who are:

Founders and entrepreneurs
Creatives and storytellers
Nonprofit and NGO leaders
Advocates and community builders
Professionals with meaningful work to share

If you are doing impactful work and feel your story deserves to be seen more widely, this initiative was created with you in mind.

Why This Matters During Black History Month

Black History Month is a time to honor leadership, contribution, and excellence, not only from the past, but in the present. Spotlighting women doing impactful work today is part of continuing that legacy.

Visibility is not about attention for attention’s sake. It is about representation, access, and creating pathways for women’s work to be recognized and supported.

Step Into the Spotlight

The Media Pitch Challenge takes place on February 28, and participation is now open.

If you are ready to:

Clarify your story
Strengthen your visibility
Share your impact with confidence

You are invited to learn more and apply.

👉 Learn more and apply here: womenofrubies.com/mediapitch
📩 Questions: pitch@womenofrubies.com

Because impactful work deserves visibility, and your story deserves to be seen.

In Career Gems January 17, 2026 By Women of Rubies

How to Become a Member of the Women of Rubies Collective Community (RCC)

Visibility doesn’t happen by accident. For many women, it takes intention, the right support system, and a community that believes in their story as much as you do.

That’s exactly why we created the Women of Rubies Collective Community (RCC), a paid membership designed for women who want consistent visibility, media clarity, and real opportunities, not one-off features.

Why the Rubies Collective Community Exists

Over the years at Women of Rubies, we noticed a recurring question after spotlight features and bootcamps:

“What’s next?”

Women wanted more than a single feature. They wanted:

Ongoing visibility
Media positioning support
Strategy and accountability
Access to opportunities and collaborations

RCC was created to bridge that gap, a space where women don’t just get seen once, but are supported to show up confidently all year long.

What Is the Rubies Collective Community (RCC)?

The Rubies Collective Community is a year-long visibility and media support membership for women building brands, businesses, careers, and impact-driven initiatives.

It brings together women who are ready to:

Own their story
Position themselves for media and speaking opportunities
Build credibility and authority
Stay visible without burning out

This is not about chasing clout. It’s about intentional visibility that opens doors.

What You Get as an RCC Member

When you join RCC, you receive:

One guaranteed Google-optimized spotlight feature on Women of Rubies (live permanently)
One private 20-minute media clarity & strategy session with our team
Year-long media visibility support across our platforms and communities
25% discount on all Women of Rubies events and bootcamps
VIP access to select Women of Rubies and partner-led sessions
Access to the Rubies Resource Vault (media pitch templates, brand audit tools, replays, and resources)
Private WhatsApp & Telegram communities for high-level networking
Digital RCC Member Badge + welcome shoutout
Priority access to spotlight opportunities, collaborations, and campaigns

In short, you don’t walk this visibility journey alone.

Who the Rubies Collective Community Is For

RCC is for you if:

You’re tired of being excellent in silence
You want your work to be seen, shared, and respected
You’re building something meaningful and want the right audience to find you
You value strategy, community, and alignment over noise

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, creative, coach, nonprofit founder, or professional — your story deserves space.

How to Join the Rubies Collective Community

Joining RCC is simple:

Visit www.womenofrubies.com/rcc
Choose your Annual Membership
Complete your registration and payment
Receive your welcome email, intake form, and onboarding details
Begin your visibility journey with us

Once you’re in, we guide you every step of the way.

Why Now?

Opportunities don’t always come when we feel “ready.” They come when we decide to show up.

If 2026 is the year you stop hiding, stop shrinking, and start positioning yourself intentionally, RCC was built for you.

Your story matters.
Your voice matters.
And visibility, when done right, can change everything.

👉 Join the Rubies Collective Community today: www.womenofrubies.com/rcc

In Career Gems January 14, 2026 By Women of Rubies

Grants for Women Entrepreneurs in Canada: Funding Opportunities to Apply for in 2026

Access to funding remains one of the biggest challenges facing women entrepreneurs in Canada. While talent, innovation, and ambition are not in short supply, knowing where to find funding and how to apply strategically can make the difference between survival and sustainable growth. Many founders miss out not because their businesses lack potential, but because they’re unsure how to position their story, financials, and strategy in a way funders understand.

To support women navigating this process, Women of Rubies is hosting a Funding Masterclass focused on helping women entrepreneurs prepare for grants and other financial opportunities. The session will be facilitated by Sola Oluwole, an experienced entrepreneur and development finance specialist who has supported women founders in navigating funding readiness and access to capital.

As we step into 2026, several grants and funding opportunities for women-owned businesses are currently open or accepting rolling applications. Below is a curated list of funding options women entrepreneurs should explore, whether you’re just getting started or ready to scale.

Her Agenda Breakthrough Grant

The Her Agenda Breakthrough Grant is a $5,000 grant designed to support women entrepreneurs who are actively building and scaling their businesses.

Grant amount: $5,000
Who can apply: Women entrepreneurs with an existing business
Requirements: Applicants must be subscribed to the Her Agenda newsletter

This grant is ideal for founders who are beyond the idea stage and need funding to unlock their next phase of growth, whether for marketing, operations, or product development.

Amber Grant for Women (Rolling Monthly Grant)

The Amber Grant is one of the most accessible funding opportunities for women-owned businesses in Canada and the U.S.

Grant amount: $10,000 awarded every month
Additional opportunity: Monthly winners are eligible for a $50,000 annual grant
Who can apply: Women-owned businesses (minimum 50% ownership)
Deadline: Rolling — apply before the end of each month

Because this grant runs monthly, it’s a strong option for women entrepreneurs who may not be selected the first time but want to apply consistently throughout the year.

Visa “She’s Next” Grant Program

Visa’s She’s Next Grant Program supports women entrepreneurs with funding and mentorship. In Canada, the program is delivered in partnership with York University’s YSpace.

Grant amount: $10,000 CAD
Additional support: 4-month mentorship and business acceleration program

Eligibility includes:

Women-owned businesses (at least 50%)
Operating in Canada
Minimum revenue threshold applies

This program is well-suited for founders who want both capital and strategic guidance to strengthen their business in 2026.

Zensurance Small Business Grant

The Zensurance Small Business Grant is a $25,000 funding opportunity for Canadian small businesses, including women-led and women-owned ventures that are actively operating and registered in Canada (though applicants from Quebec, Yukon, Nunavut, and the Northwest Territories are generally excluded from eligibility). To participate, businesses must complete an online application, provide a brief explanation of how they would use the funds, and follow specific participation steps outlined by Zensurance. A shortlist of finalists is selected, and the grant winner will receive $25,000 in funding, with additional smaller grants awarded to runner-ups.

Grant amount: $25,000
Who can apply: Canadian small business owners (operating, registered, and with annual revenue within eligibility criteria)
What’s required: Complete application, compelling business story, and participation steps (such as following Zensurance’s social channels)
Status: Application currently open for the most recent cycle (with winner to be announced January 27, 2026)

This grant can be a significant boost for small business operations, marketing, equipment investments, or scaling initiatives, and is a great opportunity to share with your audience in addition to the women-focused funding options above.

Government of Canada Funding for Women Entrepreneurs

Through the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy (WES), the Government of Canada continues to invest in women-led businesses across the country. While not all opportunities are direct grants, funding streams include:

Non-repayable grants
Micro-loans and growth loans
Capacity-building and ecosystem programs
Sector-specific and regional funding opportunities

Application periods vary depending on the delivery organization, so founders are encouraged to check federal and regional partners regularly for new intakes.

These programs are particularly valuable for women entrepreneurs seeking long-term growth support, financial readiness, and credibility.

Preparing to Win Funding in 2026

Accessing funding is not only about finding the right opportunity, it’s about preparation. Understanding what funders look for, how to communicate your impact, and how to present your financial readiness can significantly improve your chances of success.

That’s why our Funding Masterclass is designed to help women entrepreneurs move from uncertainty to clarity, and from preparation to opportunity.

In Career Gems December 7, 2025 By Women of Rubies

How to Stay Safe Online: Digital Protection Tips Every Woman Should Know

Our personal lives, finances, and work all live online, digital safety has become essential, especially for women.

Cybercriminals are targeting women more frequently with:

identity theft
romance scams
investment scams
phishing emails
hacked social media accounts

The good news is that a few simple habits can protect your digital life.

1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Avoid using the same password everywhere.
Try a password manager to keep things easy and secure.

2. Turn On Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

This extra security step can block most hacking attempts.

3. Be Careful With Public Wi-Fi

Avoid accessing banking apps or typing passwords while on public networks.

4. Verify Before You Click

Scammers now use branded emails, fake websites, and social engineering.
Always double-check links and email senders.

5. Protect Your Social Media Privacy

Limit what you share publicly,especially:

full birthday
home location
travel plans
children’s details

6. Know the Latest Online Scams Targeting Women

In 2025, the top scams include:

“We noticed suspicious activity” bank messages
Fake investment platforms
Crypto coaching scams
Fake job offer emails
Instagram recovery scams

7. Keep Your Devices Updated

Old software = easy entry for hackers.

Digital safety is self-care.
Protecting your identity, finances, and information is essential in 2025, and every woman deserves to feel safer online—with the right tools and habits.

In Career Gems January 2, 2026 By Esther Ijewere

Highlights from the Women of Rubies Media Visibility Bootcamp 5.0 (Replay Available)

Women of Rubies has successfully concluded the fifth edition of its Media Visibility Bootcamp, a transformative two-day capacity-building programme designed to equip women with the tools, confidence, and influence needed to amplify their voices and lead with clarity. The highly anticipated event brought together industry experts, thought leaders, and purpose-driven women from around the world for deep learning on storytelling, visibility strategy, leadership, communication, and personal branding.

This year’s edition, themed “From Visibility to Leadership: Turning Influence into Impact,” opened with a keynote address from The Honourable Rechie Valdez, Canada’s Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State for Small Business and Tourism. In her message, the Minister congratulated Women of Rubies for “creating a platform that supports women and strengthens their leadership capacity.” She noted that programmes like the Media Visibility Bootcamp remain essential for empowering women to speak with confidence, shape their narratives, and access opportunities that foster long-term success.

She further emphasized that leadership is not only an individual pursuit but a collective responsibility, adding that “we must continue to build a world where every woman can thrive, be seen, and be heard.”

The Honourable Minister of Women and Gender Equality; Rechie Valdez

Her words set a powerful tone for the weekend, laying the foundation for two days of rich insights, shared experiences, and actionable strategies. Day 1 featured presentations from communication leadership experts including Andrea Carter, Chinwe Bode-Akinwande, and Tope Mark-Odigie, followed by a thought-provoking panel session with Urmi Hossain and Tobore Anne Emorhokpor. The discussions explored personal storytelling, emotional resilience, overcoming visibility fears, and how women can claim space in leadership and media.

Day 2 continued with equally high-impact sessions led by Sola Oluwole, Adejisola Adetiba (Lady ABHA), and Nifemi Fagbohun. The final panel brought together Omoshalewa Onayemi, Faith Oloruntoba, and Jessica Campbell, who examined visibility from the lenses of technology, global influence, and personal credibility. Speakers encouraged participants to show up with intention, embrace their uniqueness, and use visibility as a tool for expanding influence and unlocking opportunities.

In her reflection on the event, speaker Faith Oloruntoba described the Bootcamp as “an incredibly impactful experience,” emphasising the depth of engagement, vulnerability, and shared stories within the room. She noted that the Women of Rubies team “curated a meaningful, high-quality experience that not only empowers women to show up confidently but also reminds speakers why our voices matter.” She expressed her gratitude for being part of the programme and her willingness to support future editions.

Founder of Women of Rubies and convener of the Bootcamp, Esther Ijewere, also shared her thoughts, highlighting the significance of the cohort. She explained that this edition reinforced the truth that visibility is not merely about being seen but about leading with purpose, courage, and service. According to her, “This cohort reminded us that visibility is not about spotlight, it is about impact. The women who joined us showed extraordinary bravery, intentionality, and hunger to grow. Our mission remains to help women tell their stories boldly, lead confidently, and build platforms that will outlive us.”

The 2025 edition of the Bootcamp was supported by a network of media and community partners including Olorisupergal, Montreal Vendors, Naijapreneur Canada, Leading Ladies Connect, Teo Afrocarib Market Inc., and NaijaMarketDay, all contributing to the event’s wide reach and accessibility.

With hundreds of women trained across five cohorts, the Women of Rubies Media Visibility Bootcamp continues to strengthen its position as one of the leading visibility and leadership development programmes for women globally. The replay of this year’s edition is now available at womenofrubies.com/mvbc5 for those who wish to revisit the sessions or access the content for the first time.

Women of Rubies remains committed to amplifying women’s voices, bridging visibility gaps, and supporting women in leadership across diverse sectors.

In Career Gems November 14, 2025 By Esther Ijewere

Funke Ernest-Omoruyi: Empowering Immigrants and Professionals to Build Wealth and Stay Cyber-Safe

Navigating life as a new immigrant or professional in a fast-paced digital world can be overwhelming ,especially when it comes to managing finances and staying protected online. But for Funke Ernest-Omoruyi, widely known as @funkefinancials, this challenge has become her purpose.

A Cybersecurity Professional, Certified Financial Educator, and CEO of Funke Financials, Funke is dedicated to helping people in Canada take control of their financial future while safeguarding their digital lives.

With over two decades of experience across banking, finance, IT, and cybersecurity, she brings a rare and powerful blend of expertise that addresses two major needs in today’s world: wealth building and digital security.

Championing Financial Literacy Through the Smart Wealth Accelerator

Funke is the visionary behind the Smart Wealth Accelerator, a rapidly growing financial literacy community designed especially for immigrants and professionals who want to understand money the right way.

Through classes, weekly tips, and support sessions, the platform provides:

Practical financial education
Guidance on saving, investing, and budgeting
Wealth-building strategies for new immigrants
Accountability and community support

Her mission is simple: to make financial knowledge accessible, actionable, and empowering.

Digital Business Owner Helping Women Earn With Ease

As a digital business owner, Funke teaches professionals how to earn online using simple automation systems, a powerful opportunity for anyone seeking additional income streams.

She also partners with a global beauty and wellness brand, helping women build confidence, embrace wellness, and create income through personal branding and community selling.

Her work shows that earning online doesn’t have to be complicated, it just requires the right guidance.

Where Finance Meets Cybersecurity

What truly sets Funke apart is how she combines cybersecurity with financial education.

She helps people:

Avoid online scams
Protect their data
Build secure digital habits
Understand the risks that affect their money and identity

In a world filled with digital threats, her expertise is both timely and essential.

A Proof That Financial Freedom Is Possible

Funke Ernest-Omoruyi is more than an educator — she is a living example of what’s possible with:

The right knowledge
The right tools
The right discipline

Through her platforms, she continues to empower thousands of people to pursue financial stability, protect their digital lives, and create wealth with confidence.

Her story is a reminder that financial freedom isn’t just a dream , it’s a strategy, a commitment, and a journey anyone can begin. Follow her on Instagram here to learn more about her work.

Career Gems