Funmi Fatona-Ayowole Is Providing Mental Health Support For CanadiansThrough ‘The Soul Clinic. Her personal mission is to be an ever-growing, trustworthy being expressing love and wisdom, contributing to healing the world, and leaving a legacy of impact, health, and wealth for the next generation.
Funmi is an emotional health and wellness coach, speaker, counsellor, project manager, execution specialist and team lead. Through her work of coaching, counselling and team building, Funmi deploys her relational gifts of natural empathy and disciplined connectedness to help unlock the potentials of people and visions.
Funmi’s personal mission is to be an ever-growing, trustworthy being expressing love and wisdom, contributing to healing the world and leaving a legacy of impact, health and wealth for the next generation.
She is the Founder at TheVirtualSoulClinic– a tech-driven non-profit organization democratising a listening ear by connecting trained volunteer coaches with people in the community who require mental health support via virtual, high quality safe spaces.
This non-profit provides mental health first aid – first with an evidence-based QuickScan to diagnose the client’s mental and emotional health status and then a 15-minute call with a support coach that listens non-judgementally, helps untangle mind webs and invites the client to take initial steps in the direction of the healing journey.
These services (diagnostic survey, results, support call and post-call recommendations) are all free of charge. Beneficiaries include but are not limited to new (and not so new) immigrants settling into Canada and young leaders that identify as people of color from all walks of life.
TheVirtualSoulClinic is on a quest to expand its network of support coaches, equip them via continuous training and mentoring, improve the platform’s user experience and increase its reach. Please learn about ways to support us atbit.ly/GiveTVSC
Funmi runs TheSoulClinic (a private coaching practice), delivering individual and group coaching programmes and content, helping clients build their soul strength – leading to increased mental and emotional independence, clarity, and resilience. She speaks and facilitates group healing sessions.
As a certified project management and marketing communication professional with over 15 years of experience providing client, event, brand, and project leadership in the marketplace, Funmi currently works with The Garden – a renowned Independent Agency in Toronto, as a Project Lead for a myriad of brands and clients.
She is married and is a supermom of 2, aiming to thrive with family first. Sundays are her best days, filled with fellowship, fun and food!
Chichi Uchendu is a dynamic Social Entrepreneur, Digital Marketing Consultant and passionate advocate for financial literacy. As the founder of “SixFigureMom,” she dedicates herself to empowering women with the essential principles of financial literacy, firmly believing that every woman deserves the knowledge and skills to take control of her financial future.
In her role as a Digital Marketing Consultant and Team Lead at Dynamics Virtual Assistant (Dvirtualassistant), Chichiassists businesses in harnessing the immense potential of online platforms. She firmly believes that a strong online presence is the key to effectively reaching and engaging target audiences. Through her business, she has successfully supported over 10,000 global businesses and trained more than 25,000 students on leveraging the Internet to grow and thrive financially.
Chichi’s impact extends even further as the Founder of LearnifyAfrica, an ed-tech company with a mission to empower women and youths through tech and digital marketing. With her diverse expertise, Chichi continues to drive positive change and uplift communities through education and financial empowerment. In this interview with Esther Ijewere, she shares her inspiring story and her passion for teaching mums financial literacy.
Childhood Influence
As a mum, reflecting on my childhood, I can see how it has significantly influenced and prepared me for the role I have now as a social entrepreneur. My childhood experiences taught me resilience and adaptability. I faced various challenges and setbacks along the way, but these experiences taught me to stay determined and find innovative solutions to overcome obstacles. They have equipped me with the tools, mindset, and determination to pursue my passions, support my family and create a positive impact in my community and beyond.
The inspiration behind SixFigureMom, Learnify Africa and Dynamics Virtual Assistant
The idea to start Dynamics Virtual Assistant agency originated from a confluence of two key factors: my existing skills and the need for an additional source of income. As you may know, I have always been passionate about technology, problem-solving and organizing tasks efficiently.
However, despite possessing these valuable skills, I found myself unsure of how to monetize them effectively. The traditional job market was limited in terms of flexible opportunities, and I craved a way to leverage my abilities while maintaining a work-life balance. I knew there had to be a way to use my skills to create value for others and, in turn, generate income for myself.
During my research, I stumbled upon the concept of virtual assistants and the growing demand for remote support services. The rest they say is history. I was inspired to start SixFigureMom during the COVID-19 pandemic to help women work and earn remotely. The SixFigureMom community empowers women to know that in this era you don’t have to choose between raising a family and your career; you can do both successfully.
Dynamics Virtual Assistant, the parent company of LearnifyAfrica, is a female-focused ed-tech platform that utilizes technology and community building to educate and empower women in digital skills, mainstream media and financial literacy.
Since our inception, we have empowered over 10,000 women across the globe through training, education and job-skill matching. We also assist organisations, digital creators and business owners with their digital marketing needs such as managing their social engagement and creating a profitable social footprint. Our mission is to increase access to employability and promote education and gender equality.
How the journey has been since she started her platforms
The journey has been rewarding and challenging at the same time. The testimonials I got from Sixfigurenation make me keep pushing, knowing that women can earn a decent living with the phones in their hands. The challenging aspect of it – building a client base from scratch, navigating the intricacies of running a business and managing a team of remote assistants – has presented its share of hurdles. However, witnessing the positive impact our services have had on our clients’ lives and businesses has been incredibly gratifying.
Challenges
I have encountered different challenges one of them being time zone differences and remote communication. Some clients prefer people from their countries but I had to build trust by ensuring we over-deliver on our promises thereby making us retain over 85 percent of clients.
How my work has inspired other women around me
My work has served as a source of inspiration for the women around me in several ways. Empowering Women to LeveraTheireir Skills: My journey has shown other women that they can leverage their skills and passions to create meaningful and profitable ventures.
Promoting Work-Life Balance: As a virtual assistant agency, we prioritize remote work and flexible hours. Encouraging Skill Development: Through ongoing training and upskilling programmes, I have emphasized the importance of continuous learning and personal growth.
Supporting Women-Owned Businesses: Beyond my agency, I have actively supported and collaborated with other women-owned businesses. This networking and partnership have fostered a sense of solidarity and collective growth among women entrepreneurs.
Providing Role Models: Representation matters. As a female founder in the technology and business domain, I have become a role model for aspiring women entrepreneurs and professionals. My achievements have shown them that they too can succeed and make a significant impact in their chosen fields.
Other projects and activities
As a mum, I am deeply committed to my role as a parent and ensuring the well-being and happiness of my children. Apart from running my agency and the Edtech Academy, I am involved in several other projects and activities that align with my passions and values such as community engagement and continuous learning.
Work-life balance routine
As a wife and mum of three, maintaining a healthy work-life balance is of utmost importance to me. Juggling the responsibilities of running a business and caring for my children requires careful planning, organization and setting clear boundaries. Here’s an overview of my work-life balance routine:
Outsourcing Non-Core Tasks: To lighten my workload, I delegate non-core tasks.
Structured Family Time: Family time is a non-negotiable part of my routine. I set aside specific hours during the day when I engage in activities with my children, such as helping with schoolwork, playing games or going on outings. Designated Work Hours: I establish specific work hours during the day when I can focus solely on business-related tasks.
Three women who inspire her and why
Oprah Winfrey’s journey from humble beginnings to global success serves as a reminder that no dream is too big to achieve with determination, hard work and resilience.
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, through her books and speeches, challenges societal norms and promotes the idea of being unapologetically oneself. Chimamanda’s fearlessness in tackling difficult subjects inspires me to use my voice to advocate for change and to be unafraid of challenging prevailing narratives.
Lupit Nyong’o inspires me to embrace my unique strengths and advocate for causes that are close to my heart.
Advice to mums who still don’t know they can make money while working from home
Believe in yourself and your potential. Working from home offers incredible opportunities to balance your personal and professional life while earning income. Your skills, talents and experiences are valuable assets that can be monetized in various ways. Take the leap of faith, explore the possibilities and discover the vast array of remote work options available to you.
Women with a passion to earn money but lack support
Supporting women who have the motivation to earn more income but lack adequate support is crucial for empowering them to achieve their goals and improve their financial independence. We can offer assistance and create a supportive environment for such women through Financial Literacy and Skill Development by providing access to workshops, training programs or online resources that focus on financial literacy and skill development.
Being a Woman of Rubies
As a woman, I believe I embody the qualities that make me a “Woman of Rubies.” Here’s how I relate to those characteristics: Empowerment: Empowering women has always been a priority for me.
Advocacy: I use my platform to raise awareness about important issues and encourage others to take action for positive change. blindness: I believe in the power of kindness and compassion. Through my journey as an entrepreneur, a mum and a woman, I strive to be a “Woman of Rubies” by embodying these qualities and using my experiences and achievements to create positive change and empowerment for those around me.
One thing I wish to change in society
One thing I hope to change in society is to create more support for women’s entrepreneurship by providing more access to resources, funding and training for women entrepreneurs.
Tracy Folorunsho-Barry Is breaking boundaries in North America, lifting other women and helping them find their paths in life. The Nigerian-born amazon is the founder of GROW Women Leaders and GROW Foundation. During her migration to Canada from Nigeria, she faced struggles with integrating into the country and lacked the proper guidance and support she needed as an immigrant.
Barry also found that her struggles were common for other immigrant women in Canada and decided to take action after freeing herself from a limited lifestyle. She took the initiative to start helping other women, especially immigrants, reach their full potential and access new opportunities regarding their careers. Since then, she has dedicated her career to helping thousands of women, especially immigrants, get hired and advance their careers.
In 2017, under GROW Foundation, she launched Project150: Accomplished Immigrant Women in Canada and the Speak Out Women series where she began gathering stories from more than 200 immigrant women across Canada who have overcome adversity to achieve success in their careers and lives. They shared their stories and expressed that they wished they had known about the knowledge, resources and guidance available for them to succeed in Canada.
She collated these stories and published the book; Untold Stories of Immigrant Women in Canada. Later in 2018, Barry founded GROW Women Leaders (GROW), a career leadership development and advancement platform designed to help women get hired and advance their careers.
In 2021, she opened GROW space, a socially conscious 7000sq ft facility that houses Nurture café, lounge, co-working space and more. For her contributions and community involvement, she has been honoured with various awards and recognitions such as; Top 100 Black Women to Watch In Canada, Top 6 Immigrant Women of Inspiration, and a notable recognition by Mayor Don Iveson and the City of Edmonton in 2020.
She shares her inspiring story with Esther Ijewere in this interview.
Childhood Influence
Growing up, I loved helping people as it came to me naturally, even though I had no idea what I would do when I grew up, I guess it has played a major part in who I am today. For example, my mother had a grocery store, and through that grocery store, I was able to help people who I thought were in need within the community. I think staying true to oneself has a way of showing up in one’s career path.
Inspiration Behind Grow Women Leaders
Coming to Canada as an immigrant and not having guidance, I didn’t know anyone. I had to go through the integration process on my own. The name came about when I began Project150: Accomplished Immigrant Women in Canada and the Speak Out Women series as Gradual Rising of Women (G.R.O.W.), where I began gathering stories from more than 200 immigrant women across Canada who have overcome adversity to achieve success in their careers and lives.
They shared their stories and expressed that they wished they had known about the knowledge, resources and guidance available for them to succeed. While collecting their stories of resilience, I realized the wealth of knowledge these women possessed and the valuable insights that they could share with other immigrant women and their communities. Thus, the book, Untold Stories of Immigrant Women in Canada was published. I wanted to inspire other women like me, and from there it grew bigger. While hearing others talk about their stories, it changed my life and I knew it was something much bigger I began GROW Women Leaders and I had to figure out a way to help more women to become women leaders as it is their careers that set them apart.
It is the idea of helping women and empowering women. But in this case, I’m doing it by helping women connect to companies. I want to grow people and build them up to become women leaders.
The Journey So Far
No one prepares you for the entrepreneurship journey. It hasn’t been easy and still isn’t easy but the positive impact my work has on others makes it all worth it.
Being At Forefront Of Helping Immigrant Women In Canada Find Their Voice And Purpose, And Project 150
What started as a project has become so much more. I believe that if you have gone through challenges and you succeed, it is important to help others the way so that they don’t have to go through the same challenges that you have been through. It is the idea that I’ve gone through it and I want you to be able to succeed. This is the reason I do what I do today which has stemmed from Project150: Accomplished Immigrant Women in Canada and the Speak Out Women series through Gradual Rising of Women (G.R.O.W.), where I began gathering stories from more than 200 immigrant women across Canada who have overcome adversity to achieve success in their careers and lives. They shared their stories and expressed that they wished they had known about the knowledge, resources and guidance available for them to succeed. While collecting their stories of resilience, I realized the wealth of knowledge these women possessed and the valuable insights that they could share with other immigrant women and their communities. Thus, the book, Untold Stories of Immigrant Women in Canada was published.
My Aspiration For Black Women In Canada, Especially New Immigrants Trying To Integrate Into Society
For those who are trying to integrate into society, it is knowing your worth. If you know yourself, other people can’t define you, I see that as a community of immigrant women. You may not know what you’d want to do but once you understand what your worth is, Canada will give you a space to do what you want to do. Canada has a lot of opportunities and the world is waiting for you. Follow your passion, and you will find your path. For every purpose, people are depending on it. I took an unconventional career path and I was able to help more than just my family, I helped my team, the women who use GROW’s services and more.
The GROW Space And Its Impact Since 2021
The GROW Space, is a socially conscious 7000sq ft facility that houses a Nurture café, lounge, co-working space and more. Nurture is more than a social lounge, we are a socially conscious in-house kitchen & cafe located within the GROW Space serving brunch, meal prep, catering, cocktails and more. Proceeds generated go back to supporting the women at GROW, supporting women, especially immigrants, to get hired and advance their careers. The impact that our space has had since 2021, it has been a space that is open for the public as well as our candidates to work and lounge in our space, while the Nurturers have access to amenities to help them develop and advance their career.
Challenges
I experienced a lot of challenges, especially since I was doing something unconventional. I never knew that there were negative connotations behind the word ‘ambitious’ until I started pushing for my goals to build a company that helps others. Ambition can truly be a terrible, terrible thing because for a society that pushes women to do more, can also be the same to say that you’re doing too much! With that being said, I didn’t receive much support and I had to prove myself a lot especially since I was trying something from nothing. People usually support what they understand and unfortunately, for a creative like me, it takes time for others to understand your work before they support you.
Being Recognized As One Of The Top 25 Canadian Immigrants
To be recognized as one of Canada’s top 25 immigrants, is very exciting as it is a validation of my work and my journey to it.
One Thing I Wish I Could Do To Make The World A Better Place For Women, Especially Black Women
It’s what I’m doing right now, which is ensuring that everyone gets equitable employment, especially women. Although it is getting better, there is still a lot of work to be done for gender parity.
Being A Woman Of Rubies
I am a visionary. It is one thing to be a visionary, but then it can execute the vision.
To Young Women Who Aspire To Be Where I Am But Lack The Opportunity And Support
Keep pushing, push until something good happens. Your vision and idea are valid, stick to what you want.
Women Who Inspire Me And Why
Individuals who inspire me, are the everyday women who are usually unsung heroes that are constantly striving to create a better home, and build a better community and world at large. These women are the ones working in entry-level, mid-level, to senior-level jobs.
For Women Who Want To Join the GROW Community
GROW Women Leaders is a leadership development and advancement agency helping women get hired and advance their careers. It is FREE to join so SIGN UP NOW! Our digital talent platform is dedicated to helping women, especially immigrants, get connected to the workforce. We will connect you to our partner companies. Join us now! https://growwomenleaders.com/See you on the inside where we all grow together.
When I saw Janey Buzugbe at the Elevate Festival in Toronto a few weeks ago, speaking passionatelyabout Intersectionality and diversity, and how she’s been able to navigate the tech sector as a black woman in Canada, I knew I had to share her story to inspire other women.
Janey Buzugbe is an energetic entrepreneurand tech partnerships leader who believes in living life by giving; what she has to give is humanity at the intersection of business and technology, and she is doing so significantly. She heads the Black Innovation Programs and Partnerships at the DMZ – the #1 University based Incubator – providing leadership and support to 400+ Founders across 5 programs with resources and access to 30+ partners to support their Startup growth.
She is the founder of Immiducation, a community-first Startup that supportsover 17000+ immigrant professionals with career-readiness skills, a career network, and access to careers in Tech. Over the past decade, her tech career has spanned the corporate, non-profit, and Startup worlds in digital marketing, program and product management, recruitment, and Tech partnerships.
The amazing entrepreneur holds an undergraduate degree in Information Technology, postgraduate certificates in Media and Account Management, and a Master’s in Management Innovation. She is also the host of JaneyofCanada; a YouTube channel providing career and settlement advice for immigrants.
Janey Buzugbe shares her inspiring journey with Esther Ijewere in this Interview.
I grew up the first daughter of a military father and a very ambitious and entrepreneurial mother. Growing up watching my mom working on several businesses in addition to a not-for-profit as well as growing her career in public service, I thought for sure I did not want to be her. Never thinking that this entrepreneurial spirit was already coded in my DNA.
Moreover, specifically, my career in Tech Partnerships and people-facing roles definitely is aligned with how I grew up, pretty much being the family organizer and manager; going to an all-girls’ high school where the foundation for the confidence I have was honed; playing sports to competitive levels; as well as being the youngest in my class, yet course leader for 5 years all through my Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology. So, I am no stranger to leadership and being in male-dominated spaces. So, yes, my upbringing prepared me for life as a social entrepreneur and a leader in Tech
Inspiration behind Immiducation
When I moved to Canada in 2015 as an international student, I found that as a Newcomer, even with some guidance from family, I was making some mistakes and missing out on real opportunities that translated to money or career growth in Canada. So, at first, I started a YouTube channel, JaneyofCanada (Janey Buz), to share my learnings. For Example, my video “Top 10 things everyone coming to Canada should know” now has over 150k+ views. As this channel and my career grew, I would get inquiries to speak on how I grew my career to leadership in such a short time and on the channel, I would get inquiries about certain professions and regions in Canada I could not speak to as those were not my firsthand experiences.
After coaching more than a few people, I realized the challenge of underemployment – not getting work in your field of training and/or earning way less than the average Canadian – was a pervasive problem. I heard it very clearly in 2021 to build a community of like-minded professionals to support each other and bring forward-thinking employers to the community to engage and hire from.
Truth is, you become what you see, so we created a space for high-achieving newcomer professionals to see what they could become and access support in becoming that.
How My Involvement In settlement Of Newcomers, Black Innovation Programs And Partnerships Impacted Me As A Black Woman
This is an interesting question. At first, I did not identify as a Black Woman. Coming from Nigeria, I believed the term ‘Black Person’ referred to melanin-blessed folks who were born and/or raised in North America. You see, I was just a Nigerian woman. The thing about labels and identity is, sometimes it doesn’t matter what you see yourself as if other people see you differently. I quickly realized that everyone saw me as Black and so I began to learn about my new identity.
As I learned, I experienced the diversity of different Black people, then I also realized my privilege of being a debt-free, well-educated, family-oriented African woman. I realized that these privileges and others are not available to every Black person but also, even with the privilege, the playing field is not leveled for us. Then, I made the decision to put my energy and passion into being a champion for the under-represented, whom I prefer to refer to as ‘Underestimated”. This has impacted the way I see myself and the world around me. That there is power and strength when the world does not see you coming!
My Passion For Issues Centered Around Intersectionality, Diversity And Inclusion
My passion for the cause stemmed from my experiences as an underrepresented, (underestimated) Newcomer, African Woman. I want people to stop and think when they say things like “Your English is so good” or assuming because I am Black, I can rap, twerk or I do not have a dad in the picture.
This way, they are assuming something (often negative) of a person because of how they look. Instead, they could be curious without demeaning a person. That initial statement could sound somewhat like this “Is English the main language where you are from”? This turns an assumptive statement into an open curious conversation and makes the person on the receiving end feel included.
Janey Buzugbe
Challenges
To shed some more light, in Canada, as I have now grown to Leadership, I have experienced what is colloquially known as “performative or optical allyship” where people want to come of as forward-thinking, so they want to have a Black women leader as part of their organization or project; to nail the diversity picture but they often miss the mark on Inclusion and belonging; where your ideas, thoughts and culture are not welcomed or celebrated.
The Audience Reception And Lessons From My Panel Session At The Elevate festival
I learned that the sky is the stepping stone for us women. I learned that we often, especially as women, buy into some negative assumptions that keep us stagnant. For me, being in the innovation space and even part of a selection committee for a Venture Capital firm, I believed being a solo founder is a deterrent in getting funding from external investors but here I was sitting next to a solo founder who had raised some good money from Investors.
So now with every deterring thought, I try to counter it by asking myself, “ Janey, who told you that this is true?” and “is it absolutely true for everyone?” . I also learnt that my story is important – to continue to share with boldness and humility. People need to see what they can become or at least validate that they are not alone.
Thoughts On The Profiling Of Black Women, And How They Can Be Supported
Yes, Black women are underrepresented, and we face the double-bias of being Black and Woman. However, we are still a force to be reckoned with – we are just underestimated. To Black women, find yourself a support community that will build you, you can learn from and help you on the days you feel low.
This is very important! Not sure where to start, check out Immiducation. And to allies, try to move from being passive to active, reach out of your comfort zone to communities you don’t usually find yourself. You support one Black woman, you support a whole generation – this is more than being an Ally, this is being a Champion.
How I Am Using My Organization To Create Room For Black Women In The Tech Sector
For me, it is important to create opportunities that I wish I had and I want to see for myself. So firstly, 90% of my team at Immiducation are exceptional Black women whom I am eternally grateful for. When we have our monthly coffee chat with industry experts, I aim to have Black Women or other people of colour because I believe you become what you see. We plan on launching a mentorship group in the near future solo for Black women
Why I Started My Youtube Channel; Janeyof Canada
I had my YouTube Channel in my head for many years before I created it – a lot of people had told me my energy was very good for the media. However, it took me a while to start because I needed to figure out what type of content would truly be helpful for my audience while not being something I would get bored of. So after a few tries, I landed on content to support other career-minded newcomers.
This was how Janey Buz (JaneyofCanada) was born in 2016. So as I progressed in my journey through 3 Study Permit applications, 1 Work Permit application, 1 permanent Resident application and 1 Citizenship application; all of which I did myself, I wanted to share with others my immigration and career journey. Now, the channel community has grown to over 18,000 with about 1 million views.
Most impactful, is the 100s of emails from grateful people who share that through my videos, they have landed in Canada in either their dream school or as a permanent resident and didn’t have to spend money using agents or consultants. I am on a mission to democratize immigrant success for my generation and beyond.
3 Women Who Inspire Me And Why
My mother – Janey Buzugbe (Snr); She taught me many things I know about being a strong, Christ-loving, entrepreneurial and career-oriented woman with a personality that lights up a room while putting the people in her life, her family as priority
Nkechi Nwafor-Robinson – My mentor; she taught me that I matter, her energy is through the proverbial roof; something I thought I needed to shrink about myself. She’s taught me that this energy is exactly what the world needs!
Beyoncé – Just because! Her creativity and business sense is one to be reckoned with. #WeRunTheWorld
To The Woman Who Has Lost Hope Due To Marginalization And Lack Of Support
Please do not give up. Go where you are celebrated and not tolerated. Quit fast, quit often if the environment is deteriorating your mental health and self worth. Join a community and share/confide with people who can lift you up. You are the CEO of You Inc., so do what any CEO would do. To help your confidence, keep a list of things you have achieved, compliments and positive feedback you have gotten over the years – I call this your “Brag book”. This is your weapon to combat imposter syndrome or feeling inadequate. Trust me, your brain does not hold as much as you’d like to think. Write it down.
Janeyof Canada
My Work-Life Balance Routine
I never miss out on my sleep and catching up with my loved ones. I also try to take walks and dance in between meetings. I am learning now that “NO” is a full sentence and trying to practice that. It took me landing in the hospital to start to prioritize my health and I promise you; it is not worth it. Work will always be there and so would be others to do the work. But my life – my time on earth, I have only got one.
Being A Woman Of Rubies
My God-given strength and ability to bounce back and push myself, surrounded by incredible support, to be a better version of Janey than I was yesterday because I truly believe that this is how I can live out God’s purpose for me.
Women of Rubies is proud to announce our much-awaited Media Visibility Bootcamp, an event designed to empower and equip aspiring women entrepreneurs with essential skills to amplify their brand’s presence through media channels. Let’s introduce you to our esteemed lineup of speakers who are trailblazers in their fields. Each speaker brings a wealth of knowledge and experience, ready to share valuable nuggets to help you unlock the power of media visibility. Get ready to be inspired and informed as we delve into the details of this transformative event!
An Expert in Media Strategy with over 10 years of experience in media strategy and branding, Estheris a force to be reckoned with in the industry. As the founder of Women of Rubies, she will reveal the secrets behind crafting compelling media campaigns that capture attention and drive results. Get ready to learn the art of storytelling to resonate with your audience and boost your brand’s visibility.
2. Tosin Ajibade, Founder- Olorisupergal
Tosin Ajibade, also known as Olorisupergal, is a Nigerian media entrepreneur, blogger, and influencer. Through her popular blog, Olorisupergal.com, she has become a leading figure in Nigerian media and entertainment. With a strong social media presence and engaging content, Tosin has amassed a large following and has been recognized with numerous awards for her contributions to the industry. She will share practical tips and tricks to harness the power of social media marketing and create an engaged community around your brand.
3. Brenda Okorogba, Founder-MomentswithBren
A multi-award-winning service and learning experience designer, Brenda is the founder of Momentswithbren Consulting, a professional training and coaching company. Known for creating targeted learning solutions, Brenda has helped diverse students and professionals secure significant funding, transition into dynamic careers, and develop their leadership abilities. She will share tips on how to use thought leadership to expand your reach in the digital landscape.
Nora is an exceptional content creator and LinkedIn influencer. With a decade of experience in content creation and storytelling, she helps businesses gain visibility and increase revenue. Nora’s rapid growth on LinkedIn, where she’s nurtured a community of over 100,000 individuals, is a testament to her expertise and influence.
5. Gusi Tobby, Brand Strategist & Founder- Girl Hub Africa
Gusi Tobby is a social impact strategist, communications expert, and PR and Media relations specialist. She’s made significant contributions in diverse industries such as Finance, Fashion & Lifestyle, Social Development, and Telecoms. She’s the founder of Girl Hub Africa, Nigeria’s largest all-female volunteering organization, focused on closing gender disparities. From crafting compelling pitches to establishing fruitful media relationships, she will share the PR strategies that lead to meaningful visibility.
6. Chichi Uchendu, Founder- Six Figure Mom
Chichi Uchendu is a passionate advocate for financial literacy and a skilled Digital Marketing Consultant. Through her platform, “Six Figure Mom,” Chichi teaches women essential principles of financial literacy, equipping them to take control of their financial future. In her role as Team Lead at Dynamics Virtual Assistant, she helps businesses across the globe leverage the power of online platforms. She will share tips on how to make money.
With such an exceptional lineup of speakers, our Women of Rubies Media Visibility Bootcamp promises to be an event like no other. Mark your calendars for a day filled with invaluable insights and actionable strategies to unlock the true potential of your brand through media visibility. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from the best and join us on August 11th and 12th on Zoom. Be prepared to take your brand to new heights with our inspiring speakers leading the way!
Fola Adegoke is the founder and lead Career Coach at Winfinite Consulting. She is a trailblazer in the field of Cybersecurity & IT Audit training. With a passion for empowering professionals and a comprehensive understanding of career challenges and opportunities. With her expertise and passion, Fola has become a trusted guide and inspiration for professionals seeking success in cybersecurity. Her journey is a testament to the power of determination, knowledge, and the relentless pursuit of one’s dreams.
In this article, we willexplore Fola’s remarkable journey, the inspiration behind Winfinite Consulting, and how her immigration to Canada four years ago transformed her life.
Early Influences
Fola’s childhood laid the foundation for her current career. Growing up in a loving and supportive environment, she nurtured a thirst for learning and problem-solving. Her talkative nature and communication skills developed during lively conversations with family and friends, unknowingly shaping her future role as a Cybersecurity Career Coach. Fola’s dreams of becoming an Engineer instilled her with a passion for critical thinking and puzzle-solving—essential qualities in the cybersecurity industry.
The Birth of Winfinite Consulting
Her strong desire to promote diversity and equality in the industry led her to establish Winfinite Consulting. Witnessing the struggles faced by immigrants in finding rewarding jobs due to non-recognition of qualifications, she leveraged her expertise in Cybersecurity and IT Audit to guide and empower them. Fola’s guidance became highly sought after, driving her to create Winfinite Consulting as a platform to empower individuals from all backgrounds. The goal was to provide practical, hands-on training that would prepare aspiring professionals for the challenges they would face in the cybersecurity industry.
The Journey of Winfinite Consulting
Since its inception, Winfinite Consulting has experienced remarkable growth and success. Fola’s coaching approach, centered around individual aspirations and development, has empowered numerous professionals to transition into high-demand cybersecurity careers. The positive impact of Winfinite Consulting is evident in the success stories of individuals who have unlocked hidden potential and secured rewarding jobs. Fola’s expertise as a thought leader, trainer, and speaker has garnered recognition and earned her nominations for prestigious awards.
Challenges in the Cybersecurity Landscape
Fola encounters various challenges in her line of work. Keeping pace with the ever-evolving threat landscape requires constant upskilling and staying updated on industry trends and regulations. Bridging the skills gap and addressing the talent shortage in the cybersecurity industry is another significant challenge. Fola strives to attract and nurture diverse talent by providing practical training that prepares students for real-world challenges. Balancing security and usability is an ongoing endeavor that requires innovative approaches and a deep understanding of both security principles and practical usability.
Inspiring Women in Cybersecurity
Fola’s work has become a beacon of inspiration for women in the field. By breaking barriers and shattering stereotypes, she showcases that gender is not a limitation in pursuing a successful career in the male-dominated cybersecurity industry. Fola actively promotes the inclusion of women, sharing her knowledge and experiences to motivate them to embrace their skills and passions in this exciting domain. Her journey and positive impact serve as inspiration for other women to believe in themselves, overcome challenges, and make their mark in cybersecurity.
Other Projects and Activities
In addition to her work at Winfinite Consulting, Fola is currently focused on automating processes to enhance efficiency as the company continues to grow. For example, she is implementing a Learning Management System to streamline onboarding.
Enjoying the Journey
Fola finds great joy in meeting new people, learning new things, and keeping up with evolving threats and risks. The combination of fulfillment and excitement that her work brings is a constant source of motivation. Guiding individuals with no prior experience to achieve their goals in cybersecurity, witnessing their transformation.
Empowering Change
As a Woman of Rubies, Fola embodies the qualities of strength, resilience, and compassion. She has overcome numerous obstacles throughout her career, displaying unwavering determination and tenacity in carving a successful path. Sarah’s commitment to driving positive change extends beyond her own achievements. As a Career Coach and trainer, she dedicates herself to empowering others, especially women, to succeed in the face of adversity. She firmly believes in the power of diversity and inclusivity, and she actively works towards creating opportunities for underrepresented individuals in the cybersecurity sector.
Inspiring the Next Generation
To young women aspiring to enter the cybersecurity sector, Fola has a powerful message: believe in yourself and embrace your unique strengths and perspectives. She emphasizes the importance of constant learning and challenging oneself in a dynamic industry like cybersecurity. She encourages aspiring professionals to seek mentors and supportive communities that can guide and inspire them on their journey. She firmly believes that every individual has the ability to make a positive impact and contribute to the cybersecurity landscape.
In the small town of Concord, North Carolina, a remarkable young womannamed Kyanna Woods has captured the hearts of many with her extraordinary achievements. Despite being born with a heart defect that required open heart surgery as an infant, Kyanna has defied all odds to graduate at the top of her class and secure over $2.5 million in scholarship offers from various universities. Her inspiring story is a testament to resilience, determination, and unwavering faith.
A Miracle Child’s Triumph: Kyanna’s journey began with her miraculous survival through a life-saving open heart surgery at just three months old. Doctors warned her parents, William and Kourtney, about potential challenges she might face in walking, sports, and learning. However, Kyanna proved them wrong, not only excelling academically but also in sports.
Graduating as a Valedictorian
At Cabarrus Charter School in Concord, Kyanna graduatedas the valedictorian, a well-deserved recognition for her exceptional academic performance. She also recently earned her associate’s degree, further demonstrating her dedication and commitment to education.
Acceptances and Scholarship Offers
The culmination of Kyanna’s hard work came in the form of acceptance letters from an astounding 61 colleges. Among them were prestigious institutions such as Xavier University, the University of South Carolina, Spelman College, and Appalachian State University. The scholarship offers extended to her totaled an awe-inspiring $2.5 million.
The Power of Family Support
Kyanna acknowledges the vital role her family has played in her success. Their unwavering support and encouragement have been a constant source of motivation for her. In her own words, she describes them as her “unwavering cheerleaders” who inspire her to reach for greatness.
Choosing a Path Forward
With numerous options available to her, Kyanna made a significant decision. She has decided to attend Xavier University of Louisiana, an esteemed Historically Black College and University (HBCU). Kyanna plans to pursue her pre-med studies in psychology, and her valedictorian scholarship will support her in achieving her dreams.
Kyanna Woods’ journey is nothing short of inspirational. From facing a heart defect as an infant to excelling academically and earning remarkable scholarships and acceptances, she has proven that determination and a strong support system can overcome any obstacle. As she embarks on her college journey at Xavier University, we can only imagine the incredible impact she will make in the field of medicine and beyond. Kyanna’s story serves as a beacon of hope for all, reminding us that resilience and faith can lead to extraordinary achievements.
Exciting news has emerged in the fashion and media industry as Marie Claire announces Nikki Ogunnaike as their incoming editor-in-chief. With her tenure commencing on August 8th, Ogunnaike will assume a pivotal role in shaping the editorial direction of Marie Claire across multiple platforms, including print, digital, events, and social media. This significant appointment has generated great enthusiasm and anticipation among industry insiders and fashion enthusiasts alike.
A Visionary Leader
In a statement, Hillary Kerr, the chief content officer of Who What Wear and Marie Claire, expressed her confidence in Ogunnaike’s exceptional talent, noting her visionary mindset, impeccable taste, and extensive experience. Kerr’s endorsement further emphasized Ogunnaike’s ability to lead the historic brand into a new era while nurturing the growth of Future’s Women’s Network.
Expanding Fashion and Luxury Coverage
As part of her new role, Ogunnaike will spearhead the expansion of fashion and luxury coverage, propelling Marie Claire’s presence across various platforms. Her mission will include driving audience diversification and enhancing the overall content strategy. This strategic focus reflects the brand’s commitment to providing women with a comprehensive destination that celebrates their careers, personal style, and their engagement with the world around them.
Expressing her enthusiasm for the opportunity, Nikki Ogunnaike conveyed her admiration for Marie Claire’s reputation as a trusted source for women seeking purpose and power in their lives. She expressed her eagerness to lead the brand into a new chapter, catering to women who are passionate about their careers, personal style, and their impact on the world. With her unique perspective and vision, Ogunnaike is poised to usher in an exciting era for Marie Claire.
Her New Role
The appointment of Nikki Ogunnaike as the incoming editor-in-chief of Marie Claire marks a significant moment in the magazine’s history. With her exceptional leadership qualities, distinct point of view, and unparalleled experience, Ogunnaike is set to guide the brand into a new era of success. Fashion enthusiasts and Marie Claire readers can anticipate a fresh and dynamic approach to fashion and luxury coverage across all platforms. As August 8th approaches, the industry eagerly awaits the commencement of this new chapter, brimming with excitement and anticipation for what the future holds under Nikki Ogunnaike’s guidance.
Meet Dana Christian, a resilient entrepreneurand business funding expert hailing from Snellville, Georgia. Her passion and determination lie in helping African Americans gain access to funding opportunities, enabling them to create generational wealth. Through her renowned website, The Ladder to Passive Income, Dana has transformed the lives of countless individuals, equipping them with the knowledge and resources to obtain funding and launch successful businesses. Join us as we delve into Dana’s extraordinary journey, from overcoming personal challenges to becoming a source of inspiration and empowerment for others.
A Journey of Resilience and Determination
Dana’s path to success has been marked by tenacity and an unwavering spirit. As a teenage mother of two and a high school dropout, she faced numerous obstacles early on. However, she refused to let these circumstances define her future. Motivated by a desire to create a better life for herself and her family, Dana embarked on a mission to turn her dreams into reality.
Unlocking the Power of Passive Income
After working at the post office for 25 years and experiencing financial hardships following an injury, Dana recognized the need to generate additional streams of income. She also observed a lack of knowledge and guidance in accessing business funding options, preventing many individuals from building wealth. Driven by this realization, she dedicated herself to researching and educating herself about real estate investment and passive income strategies.
Turning Dreams into Reality
Through relentless dedication and hard work, Dana’s efforts paid off. She secured the necessary funds to invest in real estate, eventually amassing a millionaire’s portfolio. Drawing from her personal experiences, she discovered the transformative power of credit and its role in achieving financial freedom.
Empowering Others through The Ladder to Passive Income
Inspired by her own success, Dana founded The Ladder to Passive Income, a platform designed to empower others to achieve similar levels of financial success. Through her website, she provides an array of resources and services aimed at helping individuals access various funding options, even with less-than-perfect credit.
Dana Christian’s Recognitions and Impact
Dana’s expertise in funding has garnered recognition from esteemed platforms such as Black Enterprise, NBC News, and Fox News. However, her true measure of success lies in the countless lives she has positively impacted. Clients express their heartfelt gratitude for her guidance and support, emphasizing the profound effect she has had on their financial journeys.
Guidance and Support: Dana Christian’s Ethos
When asked about her impact on the black community, Dana eloquently stated, “Everyone needs gas – guidance, advice, support.” This philosophy underpins her unwavering commitment to assisting those who may lack access to critical guidance and support systems.
A Beacon of Inspiration
Dana’s influence within the community cannot be overstated. Through her work, she has not only helped individuals attain financial freedom but also empowered and inspired others to pursue their dreams. Her journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of perseverance, hard work, and unwavering dedication.
Dana Christian’s journey from adversity to success exemplifies the transformative potential within each of us. Her unwavering determination to create generational wealth for African Americans has not only changed lives but has also become a beacon of hope and inspiration for many. Through her expertise, guidance, and The Ladder to Passive Income, Dana continues to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools needed to access funding opportunities and pave the way for a brighter future. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that with the right guidance and support, anyone can overcome challenges and
Aya Osman, an 18-year-old African American studentfrom Orange Park, Florida, has defied the odds and emerged triumphant in the face of adversity. Battling cancer for the past two years, Aya recently graduated Summa Cum Laude from high school, marking an extraordinary achievement. With an unwavering determination and an indomitable spirit, she has also been awarded a full scholarship to attend (NYU), propelling her closer to her lifelong dream of becoming a neurologist. Let’s delve into Aya’s inspiring journey of resilience, determination, and unwavering focus on her dreams.
A Steadfast Focus on the Present
At the tender age of 12, Aya began nurturing her dream of becoming a neurologist. However, her path was suddenly disrupted when she was diagnosed with cancer. Undeterred by this life-altering diagnosis, Aya chose to remain focused on the present rather than dwelling on an uncertain future. Adopting a step-by-step approach to life, she channeled her energy into her studies, determined to not let cancer dictate her dreams and aspirations.
Enduring Aggressive Treatments with Strength
Aya’s battle against cancer necessitated grueling treatments aimed at eliminating the tumor in her arm. For six long months, she underwent chemotherapy sessions every three weeks, enduring three-day hospital stays. Despite the physical and emotional toll, Aya refused to let the disease consume her. She found solace in her schoolwork and other activities, recognizing the power of distraction and maintaining a sense of normalcy amidst adversity.
Overcoming Challenges with Academic Tenacity
Throughout her treatment, Aya’s unwavering commitmentto her studies never wavered. Her mother ensured that she had access to a laptop in the hospital, allowing her to stay connected with her educational pursuits. Even while medical professionals monitored her progress, Aya diligently maintained her International Baccalaureate schedule, pouring herself into her studies despite the physical limitations and distractions.
A Remarkable Achievement
Aya’s dedication and perseverance yielded remarkable results as she graduated Summa Cum Laude from Ridgeview High School, boasting an exceptional 4.77 GPA. Her outstanding academic achievements earned her a well-deserved scholarship to NYU, with the support of the Tom Coughlin Jay Fund Foundation, an organization committed to providing financial and emotional support to children battling cancer.
Embracing a Bright Future
Now cancer-free and two years into remission, Aya looks forward to embarking on her next chapter at NYU. Armed with her scholarship, she will pursue a major in biology, setting the stage for her future endeavors in the field of neurology. Aya’s journey exemplifies the power of resilience, determination, and a steadfast focus on one’s dreams, reminding us all that no challenge is insurmountable when met with unwavering determination.
Aya Osman’s journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of resilience in the face of adversity. From her unwavering focus on the present to her remarkable academic achievements, Aya has demonstrated that even in the darkest of times, dreams can be realized with tenacity and perseverance. As she prepares to embark on her college journey at NYU, Aya serves as an inspiration to all, proving that with determination and unwavering belief in oneself, any obstacle can be overcome.
