Inspiration Archives

In Editor's Choice October 8, 2022 By Women of Rubies

I have Taught Over Ten Thousand People The Power Of Real Estate In Canada- Deborah Ojo

A famous writer once said; “To be successful in real estate, you must always and consistently put your clients’ best interests first. When you do, your personal needs will be realized beyond your greatest expectations.” These words best describe multi-award-winning Canadian real estate agent Deborah Ojo, CEO of DeborahHomes.

Deborah Ojo started out as a class teacher before she established DeborahHomes, a company she built on the core values of honesty and integrity spiced with an uncompromising stand on professionalism. The amazing entrepreneur who is also known for strategic and focused approach is a real estate agent with RE/MAX, the largest Real Estate company in Canada.

With over 10 years experience In the Real Estate sector, she has taught over 63 seminars and counting to minority communities on how to Own their own piece of real estate free of charge as a way to give back to those communities, and helping women who have passion for the business find their path and earn a living.

Deborah Ojo has built a solid foundation of clients in her community through her professionalism, attention to details, and commitment to always put her client’s needs first. The Human Resources Management graduate and amazon shares her inspiring journey with Esther Ijewere In this Interview.

Childhood Influence

My success was due to no small degree to the lessons of my childhood. Despite not having much, my parents worked hard to manage the finances of the home. My mum was a primary school teacher and sells fabrics to her colleagues. Our family finances were more stressed when my dad lost his job after 20 years service in the bank, we had lost our major source of income. I watched my parents stretch out every penny to make our finances work.

You know what this experience taught me? My dad sat me down, he said “Oluwatosin, the best advice I can offer you now in order to thrive in your future endeavours is to think DEPLOYMENT instead of EMPLOYMENT” , Having seen how deplorable a worker is in the hand of their employers, not minding the sacrifices and how committed they are to their employer. This simple advice was stored up in my mind since as a little child I was then and has guided me to shape who I am today.

Fast forward, I decided I wasn’t going to dedicate my life to an employer who can let you go when you need them most. The foundations of my financial literacy, management of funds and business are all attributed to childhood, it taught me to keep going no matter the defeat into the stepping stone of opportunities.

Why I Pitched My Tent In The Real Estate Sector

My inspiration was drawn out of my WHY? My WHY’S range from having financial freedom, ability to travel the world without an employer giving a time limit, building a legacy for my children, helping the underserved communities and marginalized sectors. Spending quality time with my family, especially my husband. When I had the desire to own a multi chain of real estate, I had no way or resources to act on it.

As an immigrant in Canada, I see firsthand how hard it is for my parents to secure accommodation. I saw how people of minorities are underserved in securing rental units and owing their real estate portfolio. The systemic biases ran so deep that I took it upon myself to change the narratives and I decided to start educating people in my community on how they can become homeowners and not just helping their landlord to keep building wealth.

In my then 2-bedroom apartment, with a family of seven, my dream was born. I decided I was going to own a multi apartment building where I will give minority communities opportunities to rent / own safe and affordable apartments in Canada.

How Deborahomes became one of the most sought-after Real Estate agencies In Canada

As a child I was ambitious, I wanted to know how wealthy people became so successful, I threw myself into research and I discovered the answer was Real Estate, but I had nothing to start with. I quickly discovered Real Estate is a male dominated industry and my goal is to inspire other younger women to see that a woman can be a household name and make it to the top. I dared to be different, to me you owe the world that much to be the best or nothing else. Many women just like myself have so much to contribute to this universe but somehow are subjected to believe it’s hard to achieve. I decided on strategic meetings, which had enlightened countless numbers of women in our society, and helped them bring out the genius in them. Most of them are highly successful in Real Estate Ventures.

Challenges

Some of our greatest opportunities could be dressed in defeat. I had nothing going into this career than a desire to be great and affect lives. There was no mentor that looked like me and many of my colleagues will bully me in the years to come, I mean, I was young, a woman of color with no sales background who dared to not be a regular 9-5.

When I started, because of my sharp change in career, alot people had thought there wasn’t alot of minority women making it big time in Real Estate, but I blocked all the naysayers, I wasn’t afraid to change my circle of friends, you know what they say that if you want to know your true friends, start a business.

\Well, it happened, my friends couldn’t trust me with their business but I quickly made new friends that are my best clients till today. You know what else I did, I studied and learned all that was available to know in Real estate that my colleagues started to respect my expert knowledge. That really helped me to climb really fast in my career.

I actually told myself that if I put my all into this and it didn’t work for 6 months, I will go back to my old job, But God so good, I closed a couple deals within the first couple of months, that validated me. I knew it would work and I have never looked back since. I can never underestimate my husband’s sacrifices in building the brand Deborahomes. Many people that know him, know that there’s no Deborahomes without him.

Thoughts on the real estate market

It’s a moving train and this Current Real Estate market is not an exception. A Lot of people try to time the market, invest when its low and cash out when its high but the market is a fast-moving train with many delicate intricacies, you can not possibly time it but you will do well to build your team of professionals like Real Estate Agents, Mortgage brokers etc to advise you of the right strategy depending on the market circle. Deborahomes provides consultation to its clients on how to strategically grow their portfolio to maximise returns,and by the way, it’s a great time right now to buy Canadian Real Estate, due to interest rate hike, The market is down about 20% in the Greater Toronto area so if you buy now, you will have position yourself for huge profit in the future

What It Takes To Own A Home In Canada

1.Good Credit – a good credit is 680 points and above, if you plan on buying a house, work on building and checking in on your credit score. Think about it this way, your credit rating is the only thing on paper that a lender can consider to evaluate whether you are trustworthy enough to lend to.

2. Income – A lender will use your income to calculate your affordability. The more you earn, the more loans you can potentially qualify for.

3. Down payment – As a residence you can put as low as 5 percent down of the purchase price if you qualify. As a non residence, in most cases you will need 20-35% down to buy a home

How I am using Platform create room for women in the community

I use my platform to teach new immigrants and underserved communities about the importance of Real estate ownership. Held free training / Webinars , I have taught over ten thousand people the power of real estate. I also help women understand the power of their voice and how to use it . In dealing with families I have discovered many women had no clue to their family finances or the courage to think they too can be a decision maker and their opinion matters. I would ask women what they wanted in a home and they would simply say whatever my husband wanted. I wasn’t raised like that and since I married me and my husband believed in tabling all our opinions to help us make the best decisions. Two is better than one and if women simply keep quiet then they are cheating their homes, their generation to contribute the ideas. I use my platform to encourage women to speakup, in family decisions and even in their career. I have also mentored other female agents to become successful in their real estate careers

One Thing I wish to Change In the real estate sector

Oh I would totally go paperless, there will be no longer paper contracts to save the planet. I’m all for reduce, reuse, recycle. I would reduce the red tape around the new development approval process. This will help speed up new home construction and make more housing affordable especially for minority communities who have been severely underserved.

3 women who inspire me and why

These people have different levels of success in different expertise, business, and lived in different parts of the world but what is common among them is they all had dreams, followed by lessons learned and then success. It proves that success leaves clues, I believe to be success, follow who knows the road, we don’t always have to reinvent the wheel, sometimes, copy the model.

My mum is my greatest inspiration, as a child, she didn’t have shoes to wear, she hawked, slept on the streets but yet did not make excuses for herself, her success is not by chance or luck, she had a burning desire for success and she converted all the opportunities she had into success. She has a remarkable mindset to never give up. She recognises no defeats.

Oprah is another person that inspires me, as a visible minority, she was born into poverty and now one of the richest African – American of the 20th century and the greatest philanthropist in U.S History. Oprah overcame many obstacles in one of the worst era in the United States where blacks were discriminated against but she overcame those obstacles through prayer and hard work . Oprah’s wealth and fame is certainly no accident, as she believes that luck is simply “preparation meeting opportunity”.

Sheryl Sandberg , an immigrant who moved with her parents to the United states in search of greener pasture and with focus, rose to the position of COO at Facebook, becoming the company’s second-highest ranking official. This woman has exceptional leadership skills. During her time at Google, she grew the ad and sales team from four people to 4,000.

Other projects and activities

We were real estate investors before I became an agent, when I say we, I mean me and my husband. Personally, we focus on flipping houses, long term buy and hold, Private lending and Land development. There are lots on the horizon that I do not have authority to announce yet but let’s just say we plan to buy multiple doors before the year runs out.

My work-life balance routine as a mom, wife, business owner and mentor

I have an amazing support system, my amazing partner who lets me fly as high as I want. I couldn’t have been here without him. When I’m home I’m a mother and a wife, when I’m at the office, I am not burdened with my home because I know he is home, and I have learned to give up on lots of things that don’t add value to me or my goals. I learned quickly to spend QUALITY time with family. I have also mastered the act of delegating roles to trusted team members, I don’t do everything because I’m not good at everything. I focus on my core competencies alone and I consistently revalue our business to find ways to improve efficiencies.

Being a Woman of Rubies

I have met many people that have told me how inspired they are by me. Sometimes when we are doing something you do not know who is watching but people are mostly inspired by how I juggle my big family and my business. I say it is knowing who are in Christ, I am Deborah to my generation and my husband, and I am conscious about our callings to our generation. Real Estate is my platform to preach the gospel. The gospel of come and see how I became a millionaire and you can be a millionaire too. We are called to abundance! I believe my talents are not for me alone so I pray hard and work like I don’t pray. Clear communication has been the key to having a successful marriage and a successful career.

Contact details & social media handles

Instagram @deborahomes

Facebook @deborahomes

Twitter @deborahomes1

Linkedin @deborahomes

Website: www.deborahomes.com

Contact: +1647-705-2487

In Career Gems September 30, 2022 By Esther Ijewere

HER Network Holds Her Summit Themed “Power Of Community”

On September 18^th 2022, the first-ever Her Summit, presented by the global inspirational and lifestyle platform Her Network, brought together women from diverse sectors and levels for an interactive learning and networking experience.

The theme of the first edition of Her Summit, tagged ‘The Power of Community, reverberated throughout the varied panel sessions, where a diverse set of experienced female professionals and entrepreneurs who have led admirable careers and built sustainable businesses shared their impact stories and inspired professional and career growth among attendees.

Each session was distinctive, touching on areas like entrepreneurship, technology, inclusion, career, gender diversity, beauty, and collaboration. One of the recurring words shared by the speakers was that constant development is always significant for better performance and confidence.

Nkem Onwudiwe (Founder, Her Network and Convener, Her Summit)

In her introduction speech, the founder of Her Network, Nkem Onwudiwe, said, “The Power of Community” was inspired by our collective belief at Her Network that, while we all understand the value of belonging to a community, a lot of people don’t realize how powerful a community can be if it is comprised of the right people with the right values, goals, and motives. Now, more than ever, women genuinely need to not just come together but also lean in and understand that no woman is an island, and we all need one another to thrive. That’s the key message I want everyone to take away from this!”

Singer and Songwriter Kaline entertained the guests with a brief music performance which left guests awed by her melodic voice. The guests also connected, networked, listened to a health and wellness conversation by Mutti, learned about Real Estate from Omalicha by Middlechase and took affirmative photos in front of the branded photo walls of affirmation.

Her Summit was hosted by multidisciplinary marketing consultant and author Izin Akioya, whose eloquence, poise and constant words of affirmation kept guests vibrant and engaged.

Guests left with multiple goody bags from Her Summit’s brand partners; premium hair extensions brand LUSH Hair Nigeria, real estate investment company Omalicha by Middlechase, and Mutti, a trusted online pharmacy. In addition to these goody bags, speakers and two lucky guests were gifted the newly launched Paco Rabanne’s FAME perfume courtesy of Glam Brand Agency.

For more information about Her Network, visit www.hernetwork.co

In Inspiration September 30, 2022 By Esther Ijewere

Chioma Ogamba Is Helping People Achieve Their Immigration Dreams Through Kisha Immigration

Chioma Ogamba knows her onions and she is proud of it. The amazon is fast becoming one of the most sought-after Immigration consultant In Canada, with core focus on Student Visa, Business Immigration, Citizenship and Residency by Investment.

Chioma Ogamba is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Kisha Immigration, a licensed Canadian immigration company located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. The trusted brand was birthed out of her passion for helping people find greener pastures and sharing in their joy when their dream becomes an exciting reality. Her niche is in Student Visa, Business Immigration, Citizenship & Residency by Investment

The company began as a pro bono consultation and guidance service in 2016, before becoming a fully licensed company with an expanded reach and range of clients and services. Kisha Immigration is affiliated to Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC), College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC) and Canadian Association of Professional Immigration Consultants (CAPIC).

The driven amazon with an eye for innovation and excellent customer service is committed to helping her clients achieve their Canadian dream. Kisha Immigration renders services such as immigration and citizenship consulting, business immigration, citizenship and residency by investment, settlement consulting and lots more.

Chioma Ogamba studied Applied Business Computing in the United Kingdom and graduated with First class Honors. The visionary amazon also got educated in four countries: Nigeria, Malaysia, United Kingdom, and Canada. Being an ardent believer in personal development and never-ending improvement, she immigrated to Canada as a permanent residence, then acquired degrees in Canadian Immigration Consulting, Information Technology, and an MBA (Business administration), graduating at the top of her class with a perfect CGPA of 4.0/4.0 in all three.

Her first relocation experience started when she was 18 years old and had to avoid the pangs of the ASUU strike in the Nigerian university. She gained admission to study at a UK-affiliated school in Malaysia and relocated with her immediate younger sister, whom she assisted with both her admission and student visa application.

Accidentally, this was her first informal immigration client. Eighteen months down the line, they were awarded scholarships and transferred to the University of Sunderland to complete their first degrees. She was responsible for both the scholarship applications and the study visa applications to the UK.

A year later, she graduated with a first-class in Applied Business Computing. Due to the UK’s policy as of 2012 after graduating, she could not secure a post-graduate work permit, resulting in her going back home in Nigeria to serve and work,

Read Also: I Want Immigrant Women In Canada To Have A Voice

She then embarked on another journey to relocate to Canada as a graduate student. Fortunately, in 2016 she seized the opportunity to relocate to Canada as a permanent resident. Along the line, she fell in love, got married, even handled her husband’s application, and relocated as a family to Canada in 2018.

Since then, she has helped other family members and friends relocate with their families.

The key highlight for her was helping her youngest sister to immigrate to Canada as a permanent resident in 2021 and helping her husband join her in less than a year. Kisha connotes great Joy and that is why Chioma essentially is delighted in witnessing people’s lives change entirely for the best. Their lives gets transformed in a way that generations will be inspired by her actions to become a licensed Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC).

Follow Kisha Immigration to know more about Chioma’s work.

In Inspiration September 28, 2022 By Esther Ijewere

#WCW | Meet Maryam Muritala,The Entrepreneur Giving Canadian Vendors Visibility

Maryam Muritala is a Foreign trained lawyer with areas of specialization in Business, Technology , Copyright, Trademark law , and Contract Management.

She is also an experienced Business Development Consultant. She has helped entrepreneurs across five continents launch successful and thriving businesses. Maryam is the founder of Canada Vendors a Business Development and Advertising Company using digital marketing tools to give structured visibility to businesses across Canada and the diaspora.

At Canada Vendors, they offer Business Development Consultations and Solutions, Advertise brands using digital technology, connect service providers with prospective clients, and host Business Networking Events. Between 2020 and 2022 during the lockdown, they interviewed 255 Small businesses across various communities in Canada offering support.

Maryam Muritala is also the convener of Brand Expo, a brand visibility event that showcases the work of different brands across Canada.

She recently launched a mini-series on YouTube in 2021 titled “THE ENTREPRENEURIAL JOURNEY” spotlighting business owners across communities in Canada, so far they have interviewed entrepreneurs from Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, British Columbia, and Alberta.

We celebrate Maryam for her tenacity, determination, and her support for female business owners in Canada.

Follow her: @canadavendors to know more about her work.

In Career Gems September 24, 2022 By Esther Ijewere

Kemi Lala Akindoju Joins Amazon Studios As Senior Movies Creative Executive

Kemi Lala Akindoju has been announced as one of Amazon Studios’ four-member local Originals development team.

Kemi Lala Akindoju (Senior Movies Creative Executive), Kaye Ann Williams (Head of Scripted and movies for South Africa), Brendan Gabriel (Senior Unscripted Creative Executive for South Africa), and Mike-Steve Adeleye (Senior Scripted Creative Executive for Nigeria) will join Wangi Mba-Uzoukwu on the Amazon Studios Originals development team.

They will build Africa’s premiere studio and a home for talent to grow and share their original stories with the world.

In a LinkedIn post announcing the team, Amazon studios’ Head of Originals, Africa and the Middle East, Ned Mitchell wrote:

“Another big day! I’m thrilled to share that our Amazon Studios Local Originals team has grown even more, both in South Africa and Nigeria. Please welcome Kaye Ann Williams, Brendan Gabriel, Lala Akindoju, and Mike-Steve Adeleye to the Amazon Studios Originals development team, joining Wangi Mba-Uzoukwu.

“This immensely talented group joins with the singular goal of building Africa’s premiere studio and home for talent. Together with our colleagues and partners, we are at work to deliver authentic, premium, and beloved hit scripted and unscripted series and movies to our local and global audiences.”

“I am incredibly excited to be joining the Amazon Studios Local Originals team as the Senior Movies Creative Executive, Nigeria,” Akindoju shared on Instagram. “Amazon Studios has shown its commitment to creating opportunities that are laser focused on creatives & content.”

Source: Pulse Nigeria

In Inspiration September 23, 2022 By Esther Ijewere

I Produced The Short Film ‘Mirror’ To Address Child Molestation- Opeyemi Omobolanle Olakanmi

Opeyemi Olakanmi produced the short film “Mirror” to address the effect of child molestation and the role we should play as a society. Passion, patience, perseverance are three qualities you need to have as a filmmaker. These are the qualities that makes Opeyemi Omobolanle Olakanmi story inspiring.

She is a scriptwriter, location manager, actor and a film producer who understands the power of sacrifice to success. She founded Mightypen Production to produce films and web series in Nigeria, and support young writers, actors, producers, cinematographers to showcase their talents.

The Polytechnic of Ibadan trained computer scientist is one of the young vibrant filmmakers in Nigeria. She quit her job as Customer Care Officer (CCO) at Skye bank (Polaris) to follow her passion and pitched her tent in Africa’s biggest film producing industry in 2017.

Her sojourn into Nollywood gave her the oppurtuinity to explore her skillset. Opeyemi Olakanmi started as writer and location manager. She then went ahead to study cinematography at Iris Film Academy, Ibadan to perfect her skills.

She produced her first movie, IRORA (ABUSE) in 2019. A Yoruba film that highlighted the pain and bad sides of domestic violence and campaigned against gender inequality.

Her latest film; Mirror is a short film produced in 2022 and which is currently showing on Mightypen TV on YouTube. She is currently working on her first web series, MECHO. A production that highlights the joy and struggles of artisans in a mechanic village.

Opeyemi Olakanmiwas nominated as best scriptwriter in 2021 at the Yoruba movie gist award. She shares her inspiring story with Esther Ijewere in this interview.

Childhood Influence

Growing up has to do with what I am and the orientation I have at the moment because I could remember vividly that several times my mum would call me and said, “look at your front, who do you see? Look at your back, what do you see? You can only see me, right? It is because I’m the only one you have.” As much as my mum was a teacher and my stepdad, a lecturer, I wasn’t deprived of any social life. I have free movement even though I am an introvert. I rarely go out. I am always at home reading one book or the other. I enjoyed reading story books to the extent that I started writing my own stories. I remember I met Agbo Areo, the author of Wives and Mother at a time and I told him how much I have passion for writing and how badly I wanted to be an author but my mum was never in support of that. Though she was a loving mother and wanted me to be something else. I appreciate her for the kind of mother she was and the kind of support she gave me while she was still alive. She raised in me a strong and positive woman. She always made me believe that I can get whatever I want

Inspiration behind Mightypen production

I started mighty pen entertainment as a writer because I believe everything worth doing is worth doing well. My opinion is that as a writer, it is good to have a registered company or brand so that your clients can trust you enough. And this is what informed my desire to get my company registered. It was along the line that I realized that I am more of a filmmaker than just being a writer. I then decided to go to film school and studied cinematography and to know more about filmmaking in general. My desire to be a filmmaker and my interest in contributing my own efforts into developing and expanding the film industry are parts of what made me take Mightypen beyond just a writing company into a film production company. And this is also to help young talents to realise their potentials and bring their dreams to reality.

Impact of working on different movie projects

I joined the Yoruba film industry through the TAMPAN president, Mr Bolaji Amusan popularly known as Mr Latin but deep down in me I knew I didn’t want to limit myself into the Yoruba film industry. I want to be an all rounder. I want to be an excellent filmmaker that produces both Yoruba and English movies. And there was an opportunity that came my way in 2018 that changed my mentality entirely. It was when they shot a project that starred Bimbo Akintola, Rahama Sadau and directed by Taiwo Shitu. I have forgotten the title of the production for that particular project changed my orientation about filmmaking and opened my eyes to see how production should be done properly. It was then I decided to join the English sector of Nollywood. Also, being a writer, a location manager, an actor and a producer has opened my eyes to know a lot of things in the film industry which have greatly contributed to my progress as an independent filmmaker.

The Journey so far

The journey has been rough and tough. Since I started Mightypen Entertainment, it has been tough for me to get jobs from other productions. A lot of people and colleagues stopped calling me for jobs because according to them I am now a CEO and I have what it takes to produce my own productions and that I really don’t need their jobs. In fact, I needed to call producers, production managers, directors etc to say that I am still available for jobs even though I have my own production company. So, the journey has been tough but the passion and the love for filmmaking keeps me going.

My new project “Mirror”

Mirror is a short film that talks about child molestation and its effects on the victims and the society at large. I wrote the story to shed more light to the trauma that the victims of child abuse and their parents go through. This film was produced as a result of contributing my voice to the campaign against child abuse and rape.

Challenges

Being a filmmaker in Nigeria is not an easy one at all and you have to be very strong if you want to embark on that journey because it is a journey that is filled with a lot of hurdles. Filmmakers in Nigeria are facing a lot of challenges. Lack of financial support, harassment on locations by thugs, piracy, over expensive locations and security problems. It is a lot

Other projects and activities

My first production as a producer is a Yoruba film titled IRORA which is on YouTube and I have also produced another Yoruba film, ORISUN, which is currently showing on YouTube as well. I worked as a location manager for an English film Last Request which is on Netflix and I’m currently working to produce my first web series titled MECHO.

I’m also a social media influencer and I have worked with different individuals and organisations to promote products and programs on social media. I have worked with Global Factory T-shirts where we organised empowerment programs for women in the slums.

What I enjoy most about my work

The part I enjoy most about my job is when I employ people I grow up seeing in the movie industry. Having legends, people I adore and love so much on my set gives me so much joy. When I employed Ayo Mogaji to feature in my first production, IRORA, I was so full of joy. And another part I enjoy is seeing myself helping young talents in the industry to grow. This gives me a great sense of fulfillment. And the joy of seeing a lot of people seeing and talking about your works can’t be quantified.

Three women who inspire me and why

The first woman who inspired me is my mum. She is my idol and a woman of great courage. I admire her so much and her courage to keep going even in the toughest situation. Whenever I look at myself I see myself in her. She was a great woman. I am very happy to have had her as a mother

The second woman that inspire me is Mo Abudu, the founder and owner of Ebony Life TV and Film. She has been rated as one of the “25 most powerful women in Global Television” by the Hollywood Reporter. She has made a great impact in Nollywood by producing amazing and quality films that have traveled even beyond Africa. She has become a household name.

The third person is Iyabo Ojo. She’s another woman that has made a name for herself in Nollywood. She’s one of the few people that dived from Yoruba film industry into producing and acting in English films successfully. I admire her passion and courage a lot. She is a single mother like me and anytime I look at her, I draw courage from her. These are the three women that have really inspired me.

What we can do better as a society to encourage more women to go into movie production

For a long time men dominated the Industry and called the shots in the filmmaking industry but now we are beginning to see women taking over the industry by producing and directing great movies. We have seen the likes of Mo Abudu, Kemi Adetiba, Jade Osiberu, Mildred Okwo and many more. So, a foundation has been laid already for more women who are interested in making films. However, we need to keep educating, orientating and supporting women and young girls in the industry. We need to also let them know that aside from beauty, they need talent and that they have to be very humble and respectful because talent without virtue is nothing. We also need to tell them that they don’t need to sell their bodies before they can make it. You don’t have to date anybody. They must also know as well that the industry thrives on collaboration and not by competing with your fellow filmmakers.

One thing I wish to change in the art and entertainment sector

What I wish to change especially in the Yoruba movie industry is to stop this idea of a producer also being the lead cast in his or her film. It is getting tiring and boring now. Once people see a Yoruba film, they already know that the lead character is a producer. My argument is that you don’t need to appear in your film as a producer. If your film is good, people will know you. And if you are an actor producer, you can take a minor role because combining producing with acting is not easy and this can make you lose focus and not concentrate on the job. And this may affect the quality of the work. And also I would like to change the habit of not crediting the writers for their works and the ill treatment of crew members on set.

Being a woman of rubies

What makes me a woman of rubies is the fact that I have been able to stand out in the industry without any scandal. It is really a great feeling. And also, combining the role of a mother, father and entrepreneur makes me a woman of rubies.

Advice for young women who want to pitch their tent in the movie industry?

For the young women who want to join the industry, I will advise them to have a side hustle. Having a side hustle is very important and this will put money in your pocket because it is not that easy to make money in the movie industry. If you are coming into the industry as a full-time filmmaker it means you’re coming with a lot of money. I understand that the industry is lucrative and it has a lot of financial benefits but you won’t get all the money you are expecting in a year. So the best thing is to have a financial support system. And lastly, be humble and be respectful. This will take you far and open a lot of doors for you. It is very important that you must know this.

Opeyemi Olakanmi short film is availale on

In Inspiration September 26, 2022 By Esther Ijewere

I Started Elevate Her UK To Empower Vulnerable Women- Ebony King

Like a phoenix, Ebony King is rising from the ashes of adversity and inspiring others to do so through her story and Elevate Her Uk. She is a Youth Advocate, Community Leader, and Youth Mental Health First Aider. British-born, with Nigerian ethnicity. Ebony is the founder of Elevate Her UK, a non-profit organisation that provides support to vulnerable teenage girls and young women from disadvantaged backgrounds, where they are mentored, offered skill-based empowerment workshops and outreach. Ebony was brought up in a broken home as her parents divorced when she was a child. During her teenage years she witnessed various traumatic events which led her to rebel.

Ebony was negatively labelled and eventually got pregnant at 18. There was a huge stigma during that time and being a teenage mother out of wedlock, without a university degree and being from a Nigerian background came with a huge amount of pressure and gossip. However, she managed to stay strong and fought gallantly with the bit of support she could get to make herself a better person. She turned a pain to purpose by supporting other teenage girls and young women battling with the same or similar challenges she had faced.

Since the establishment of Elevate Her UK, she has been able to raise a fully qualified and trained team who, through their life experiences, provide mental health support, inspiring empowerment workshops and outreach, enhancing entrepreneurship and employability skills in young people.

In 2021, the Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Enforcement in Barking and Dagenham, Magaret Mullane, invited Ebony King to discuss how they can make the streets safer together and how she can offer her support to the organisation.

The BSc. Hons Psychology and Counselling studies graduate was nominated Female Volunteer of the Year for Barking and Dagenham Women Empowerment Awards alongside her organisation. This was a milestone achievement for the organisation and Ebony King in person, making them stand out from other non-profits in their local area. Ebony King has gained much recognition from people empowered and politicians in the borough. She is under the Citizens UK Alliance, a people power community organising alliance across the UK. Ebony King also delivers motivational assemblies and youth safety workshops in secondary schools to educate and engage with the youth.

She shares her inspiring story in this exclusive interview with Esther Ijewere.

Childhood Influence

Growing up in a one parent household from the age of 6, being in the middle of a court child contact battle for years and being labelled as a problem child during my teenage years definitely prepared me in various ways for the work that I am doing now. It made me resilient.

Inspiration Behind Elevate Her Uk

Becoming a teenage single mother, growing up fast, engaging in activities I had no business in and witnessing so many traumatising things with a lack of emotional support or recovery; I always told myself that when I am older, and I have the resources I will help other vulnerable girls that were in the same or similar situations as me.

What Motivated Me To Kick Off #Protecther

The #ProtectHer campaign was a much-needed project that had to be put out as soon as possible. The street harassment, violence against women and girls, gang grooming, peer to peer abuse cases in the UK keeps increasing every year. I also spotted things on social media from countries all over the world.

The young girls I support would share certain experiences with me and I was just shocked that these things were still happening. I was even more disgusted when I found out these things were happening in schools and children were not being safeguarded enough. When I was younger my friends and I were harassed by older men so I was able to understand how frustrated my beneficiaries were.

The Journey So Far

The journey so far has had highs and lows. However, I must say that one of the main challenges was finding out that there are certain organisations in the same field that could see you as a competitor because they have been doing this for a lot longer than you, but they are not getting the attention or recognition that you are getting. They can bad mouth you to sponsors or potential partners, something that I would never do as I keep it professional. My creativity and unique way of doing things is getting Elevate Her UK noticed. I started this organisation with an open and positive mind. I didn’t know that not everyone’s intentions are the same. I’m doing it for genuine passion and my lived experiences. The young people requesting my services and leaving positive feedback is what motivates me to continue helping.

My Work Getting the Attention Of A Cabinet Member And Its Impact

My work getting noticed by policy makers was shocking at first because I didn’t even know that the #ProtectHer campaign would be featured on TV or Newspapers let alone for British politicians to share it on their social media platforms and invite me to their office. I was happy because my voice and all the vulnerable girls that I support were finally being heard.

My Nomination As Female Volunteer Of The Year

For the Barking and Dagenham Council Women’s Empowerment 2022 Awards in March I was nominated as female volunteer of the year and Elevate Her UK was also given a nomination for our work in our local community. This was amazing because prior to this we had only delivered 1 year of frontline work to young people since the pandemic. This showed us that we are making an impact.

Other Projects And Activities

We have a Youth Safety campaign working with Transport for London (TFL) to allow students to feel safer travelling to and from school. This was featured on BBC News recently. We also deliver free skill-based empowerment workshops to young girls teaching them how to do things such as hair, nails, lashes, self-defence, first aid, driving and more. We do this to promote entrepreneurship and improve their employability skills. We are partnered with secondary schools in the UK and Nigeria to deliver youth safety awareness assemblies and one to one mentoring sessions to inspire, motivate and uplift.

Due to my past experience of being a teenage mum in emergency accommodation we often do outreach in mother and baby hostels within the UK and Atlanta, Georgia. We distribute feminine hygiene products and baby wipes and nappies.

Our Partnership With ASDA, Empowerment And Giveaways

In March 2022, women’s empowerment month, Elevate Her partnered with ASDA, a popular supermarket in the community. ASDA provided sanitary towels and feminine hygiene products to give to homeless teenage girls and young women. Also, Elevate Her UK partnered with a few British public figures such as female rappers Ivorian Doll and Br3nya, very much loved by the youths to boost its empowerment workshops. Among the numerous giveaways by Elevate Her UK to disadvantaged and low-income families, in January 2022, we did a school uniform, feminine hygiene products, shoes and goody bags giveaway. The likes of Toyin Abraham, a top Nollywood Producer and star Actress, were present to grace the event financially and physically. We have been able to organise several empowerment workshops and partnered with various prominent organisations in the UK. The first series of delivery workshops took place immediately after the first lockdown in the UK. It was done in partnership with Future Youth Zone.

Future Plan

We plan to organise a project to get young people to start thinking more about global warming and climate change and do more things to save the planet, we also want to establish a sister arm in October 2022, Elevate Her Africa, where they would be reaching out to teenage girls and young women in Africa. This will be replicated in the UK. The project is anticipated to kick off in Nigeria being my place of origin. I also anticipate writing a book to motivate teenage girls and young women struggling mentally and emotionally.

To Young Women Living Through My Life Experience

Don’t allow anyone’s negative judgement of you, affect your mind-set. Be positive and believe in yourself. If you don’t know what you want to do with yourself go and do some research, you are never too old to learn. Say no to peer pressure, do not copy others, stay in your lane. Listen to your parents and do not rush to be an adult. If you want to live a comfortable life in future , do not be lazy. Refrain from depending on others anybody can let you down at any point no matter how long you’ve known them, prepare for the worst and you will be disappointed less.

What I Enjoy Most About My Job

The fact that I can put a smile on young people’s faces especially the ones that lose hope or purpose in life. They can see that in my life I changed negatives to positives, so they are motivated. I like helping people, if I can’t do it directly, I will refer someone else that can help them.

3 women Who Inspire Me And Why

Firstly my mother’s hardworking drive is a big inspiration to me because as a single mum she actually tried. I have seen her overcome so many things that I do not have the patience or understanding for. Secondly, I am inspired by all women that are able to face reality and pick themselves up from their struggles and change it around to succeed someone like Oprah Winfrey. Lastly, all women that stand up boldly for their rights are also an inspiration to me. It’s not easy going against the norm to fight for what is right.

To People Who Stigmatize Teenage Moms

Stop judging! Everybody is going through things behind closed doors. Being a teenage parent is not the end of the world as long as they turn their lives around and get back on track. There are many successful teenage parents nowadays, many of them birthed superstars worldwide. Identify the reason why they got there and find solutions for them. They need support not stigma!

One Thing I Wish To Change In The World

I would remove all the toxic things and judgmental people so that everyone else can focus on what really matters in life, Peace and Happiness.

Being A Woman Of Rubies

The fact that I can make a positive impact on other girls and women from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Connect with Ebony King;

Twitter- https://twitter.com/elevateheruk

Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/elevate.her.uk/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/elevateherorg/

Email; help@elevateheruk.org

In Career Gems September 7, 2022 By Esther Ijewere

Oyinkansola Alabi Addresses Mental Health Problems In New Documentary

Oyinkansola Alabi is set to release a documentary and a comic book that addresses mental health issues. The Founder of Emotions City, an emotional intelligence centre is committed to addressing mental health issues and proffering solution.

The documentary is titled, ‘The Story of a Girl Who Stood Up for Emotional Intelligence in Nigeria’.

According to her, the comic book will be released alongside the documentary this month.

She explained that the documentary tells the impact of emotional intelligence and mental health on some people she has encountered.

“We interviewed about 10 people who shared their stories that made up the documentary. We are also exploring technology; more so we are becoming a tech platform that creates emotional stability solutions,” she said.

On the comic book, she said: “We are trying to simplify mental health and make it go viral. People prefer to read the content title, wisdom and wilts, which is education and some level of simplicity and fun. So we decided to hop on a comic. We have done some comics before, which were shared amongst friends. But now we want to amplify the voices and make it go as viral as possible.”

She further stated that the comic book would be translated into 10 different languages like Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo, French, English, German, Spanish, Tiv, Efik and Russian with the help of volunteers, adding that it would be distributed free of charge while the translators would receive credit for their intellectual contribution.

Speaking on how the centre has impacted mental health in Africa, she said: “We created therapy gift cards where you can gift your friends, colleagues or anyone who needs therapy, that can reach out to us and come for sessions. We also had a therapy hotline for a year where people could call in and receive free therapy. We had to pause it because I was the one sponsoring and championing it with my funds and I just felt a year was good enough to do that but we offer free therapy from time to time when we can.

“This means I need to deepen my impact and look beyond offering therapy to individuals, organisations and schools so that we can include mental health in the curriculum. I will be more available to work with school, to create a mental health department, mental health cafes and include mental health in their curriculums.”

Alabi recently bagged a doctorate degree on Behavioural Psychology from S.K University in Benin Republic. She is also a productivity enhancement and life validation strategist. The first female founder of an Emotional Intelligence Academy in Africa, she is also the convener of Africa’s first Emotional Intelligence Week. A Goldman Sachs Scholar, Alabi is one of the 100 most influential and impactful women in Nigeria, 2019 and 2022.

Source: Guardian Nigeria

In Editor's Choice September 1, 2022 By Esther Ijewere

‘It Is Difficult To Access Funding If You Are Not A Big Name In The NGO Sector’- Aiyekusehin Monisola

Aiyekusehin Monisola is the strategy lead and founder of Betharbel foundation a non profit creating a bright future for the African woman and child, With over 7years in experience as a social innovator working across sectors such as sexual and reproductive health, STEAM Education and climate change.

She has impacted over 3000 students and 1500 Women through her work in Betharbel foundation, and increased profit for 100 women through her Bethpad project.

Monisola is interested in Inclusive Education, climate change ,and international Development. Over the past two years Monisola has been working with the IDPs and is passionate about ensuring that the IDP children get quality education through the free tuition project of Betharbel foundation for the IDP children.

She earned her masters degree in international Relations from university of Benin in 2018. She is a fellow African change maker ,An Ambassador for women health with Days for girls international , YALI RLC Alumni, an Ambassador for change with save and nurture the child foundation, and the 2022 GEDA pitch winner and fellow for Donors for Africa Foundation. She shares her story with Esther Ijewere in this interview.

Childhood Influence

My childhood prepared me partially for what am doing today, I was born into an average family with three other siblings, my both parents were civil servants , and it wasn’t quite easy fending for the family with the peanuts they earned, my both parents had to do menial jobs with their government jobs to ensure we got quality education and food on the table. I watched these scenarios and I made up my mind that I would make life more comfortable and meaningful for every woman and child as God blesses me. and so I began learning different skills early as a teenager with the motive of empowering anyone who crosses my path, ensuring I leave them better than I met them.

Inspiration Behind Betharbel foundation

Two things inspired me to start up the Betharbel foundation, First the struggles I experienced as a child ,I didn’t want anyone to experience these struggles without a way out. I knew there was something I could do to help . Secondly the abuse I experienced from the first month of my marriage, I lived in abuse for 10 years and I experienced all forms of abuse from physical, emotional ,verbal, psychological, just name it. I discovered that children and women were the most vulnerable, I wanted to be a voice to the voiceless and I needed a platform to do this ,so it fueled my passion to start up my foundation with the aim of creating a bright future for the African women and children. My mantra became the broken often become masters at mending, no woman or child should experience the pain and trauma I have been through, and if they have I can help them on their journey to healing.

Impacting 3000 Students And 1500 Women Through My Projects

We have carried out projects in Bayelsa and Abuja. Menstrual hygiene projects in Five secondary schools in Bayelsa 3000 students, Hand Wash campaigns in 5 primary schools and 7 secondary schools in Bayelsa, Vocational skills training in yenegwe community training over 200 women and empowering 20 of the participants. COVID 19 education in schools and communities within Bayelsa, provision of COVID relief materials to 200 aged women and single moms at IDP camp in Osiri Bayelsa state, face mask drive for 2000 people in swali Market. Pad bank for girls in kuchiyako community ,kuje distributing pads to 200 girls and many others.

The Journey So Far

The organization started in 2018,but was officially incorporated in 2020,before then I have been a serial volunteer , volunteering for various NGOs, I would say my journey has been fun and challenging Fun because it’s what am passionate about. And I don’t mind spending my all to put a smile on the face of the vulnerable and so am always excited doing this. On the other hand I would say challenging because of some of the Bottlenecks I encounter on the field, financial limitations and the fact that we are not a “big name” in the non profit sector ,but in all I have been consistent, and gradually on a daily basis I can tell my impact story, my little effort is putting smiles on the faces of people particularly women and girls.

Ripple Effect Of Training 3000 Youths

God has been faithful and The impact has been unimaginable going down memory lane when we started in Bayelsa, particularly the skills training in 2019 I can testify of blessing in igbogene community in Yenagoa local government presently an undergraduate student of Niger delta university, who was a secondary school leaver at that time who was part of those who got trained in tailoring and got a sewing machine, the skills she acquired is what she uses to support herself through school she is presently in her 300 level. We have also increased profit for women in the IDP camp through our bethpad project with the aim of ending period poverty and also empowering these women economically. The testimonials are numerous to write, the ripple effect is that most of our beneficiaries are paying it forward and reaching out also within their circle.

Challenges

One major challenge has been finance, most of our projects have been self funded, with the little resources we have been able to do what we can. Another challenge has been getting stakeholders to align with what we do. Another challenge has been insecurity, we can no longer enter some communities freely, despite the fact that the people who need our intervention are in this communities, insecurity has limited our movement to this communities Another challenge has been the fact that we have not been able to get the right partnership and support to help improve and strengthen our work.

3 Women Who Inspire Me And Why

The list is endless but I would mention just three women who inspires me

– Esther Ijewere of Women of Rubies ,she inspires me. I have followed her closely for some time and I have watched her put smiles on the face of people particularly single moms ,despite been a single mom herself, she chose to be a blessing to other people around her, she is fearless and resilient, I also look forward to her daily affirmations and how those affirmations have been a been a blessing to many.

– Chidi Koldsweat of donors for Africa foundation is one woman who inspires me, her work in the development sector blows my mind ,how she impacts other non profits and helps them align their work appropriately is one aspect I salute her greatly for.

Another lovely women who inspires me is Dr. Adeola Olubamiji, she inspires me so much, she doesn’t even know me but I follow her closely, how she rose from nothing to becoming one of the 100 most influential women in Canada, and how she has helped others step up in their career .

What Government Should Do To Support IDPS

For me one major aspect the government should focus on is on education and empowerment such that these people can quickly be integrated back into the society. In the words of Nelson Mandela Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world. If we must change the narrative and ensure the circle of insurgency is totally broken, The government should support the IDPs to get proper and quality education, they should not be neglected in any way. And for the adults empowerment and skills training to make them economically useful such that they can be integrated back into society.

What We Can Do Better As A Society To Educate Women On The Importance Of Leaving Abusive Marriages

We must keep speaking, we should share our stories, organize, sensitization and speak up campaigns, we must ignore the stigma that comes with walking away, no life is worth losing because of abuse, Every one must be ready to speak up against abuse and we should build a strong support system for victims and survivors. I recently shared my story on a blog and so many women spoke up because they read my story, when we speak up, it gives others the courage to do likewise

Our parents must be willing to nurture both genders appropriately, one should not become a slave because of marriage. There should be no shame in walking out of abuse, If it’s not working it is best to walk away alive than to die in abuse

Being A Woman of Rubies

I am unique and special, God’s prized possession ,and I trust God for everything, living my life one day at a time. I don’t see limitations as obstacles, I see them as stepping stones to the greater heights God has prepared for me.

Sex Education Tips For Parents

For me sex education should be introduced as early as possible I would suggest from age 3 and it should be age appropriate. For toddlers it can be taught as safe touch and unsafe touch and it can be taught as a poem, rhymes or song properly demonstrated. Body parts should be taught early and called the right names

Parents should have friendly conversations with adolescent constantly including discussions on sex education, and initiate discussions on body changes as puberty progresses and use it as an opportunity to discuss sex education. Parents should discuss self awareness and use it as an opportunity to discuss sex education and be very observant to know when children change or withdraw and should always be sensitive to listen to their children .

In Editor's Choice August 20, 2022 By Women of Rubies

Esther Ijewere: How To Use Mindfulness Meditation To Reduce Stress And Anxiety

Mindfulness practice is one of my favorite type of meditation, perhaps because it’s easy, even for beginners. It is the act of combining awareness and concentration.

What is meditation?

Meditation is a technique used for thousands of years to develop awareness of the present moment. It can involve practices to sharpen focus and attention, connect to the body and breath, develop acceptance of difficult emotions, and even alter consciousness. It’s been shown to offer a number of physical and psychological benefits like stress reduction and improved immunity.

It doesn’t belong to any particular religion or faith. Though ancient in origin, it’s still practiced today in cultures all over the world to create a sense of peace, calm, and inner harmony. Meditation may offer a solution to the growing need to reduce stress in the midst of busy schedules and demanding lives.

Read: How Hawking At Age 10 Made Me More Determined- Adeola Olubamiji

Although there isn’t a right or wrong way to meditate, it’s important to find a practice that meets your needs.

I start with grounding, walking barefoot and feeling the earth under my feet, then I find a comfortable place to sit, and flow into breathing exercise to release stagnant air from my body.

Breathe in for 4 seconds, and exhale through the nose for 4 seconds. I do this 5×, then close my eyes and focus on my breath, while observing my body sensations, thoughts and feelings.

You can also watch my Youtube video on how to protect your energy here; Protect Your Energy

There are 8 other types of meditation. We practice at least 3 of it naturally but people don’t even know they are types of meditation.

8 other popular types of meditation practice according to Healthline

Spiritual: It focuses on developing a deeper understanding of spiritual/religious meaning and connection with a higher power.
Focused: Involves concentration using any of the five senses. For example, you can focus on something internal, like your breath, or you can bring in external influences to help focus your attention. Example includes, staring at a candle flame or counting your breath. It may be simple in theory, but it can be difficult for beginners to hold their focus for longer than a few minutes at first. If your mind does wander, simply come back to the practice and refocus. This practice is ideal for anyone who wants to sharpen their focus and attention.
Movement: This is an active form of meditation where the movement guides you into a deeper connection with your body and the present moment. Movement meditation is good for people who find peace in action and want to develop body awareness.
Mantra: This type of meditation uses a repetitive sound to clear the mind. It can be a word, phrase, or sound, one of the most common being “om.” , This is also a good practice for people who don’t like silence and enjoy repetition.

Read: How to live an wholesome life

Transcendental: It was founded by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi and refers to a specific practice designed to quiet the mind and induce a state of calm and peace. It involves the use of mantra and is best taught by a certified TM practitioner.
Progressive: This form of meditation involves slowly tightening and relaxing one muscle group at a time throughout the body. In some cases, it may also encourage you to imagine a gentle wave flowing through your body to help release any tension. This form of meditation is often used to relieve stress and unwind before bedtime
Loving-kindness: It is used to strengthen feelings of compassion, kindness, and acceptance toward oneself and others. It typically involves opening the mind to receive love from others and then sending well wishes to loved ones, friends, acquaintances, and all living beings. Because this type of meditation is intended to promote compassion and kindness, it may be ideal for those holding feelings of anger or resentment.

Also read: Be Careful Not To Be The Problem You Are Trying To Solve For Others

Visualization: It is a technique focused on enhancing feelings of relaxation, peace, and calmness by visualizing positive scenes, images, or figures. This practice involves imagining a scene vividly and using all five senses to add as much detail as possible. It can also involve holding a beloved or honored figure in mind with the intention of embodying their qualities.

Incase you woke up today feeling down and weary, or you probably lost your spark or the energy to keep pushing, I encourage you to try the mindfulness meditation, just make sure you release your soul from worry and anxiety before you start. You can also practice anyother one on the list to help you stay grounded.

You can also watch this video and practice this positive affirmation; https://youtu.be/jZ815bmduEU

Do you meditate? Does it work for you and balance your energy? I will be glad to read from you in the comments.

Connect with me on any of my social media platforms;

Facebook; https://www.facebook.com/esther.ijewere

Instagram; https://www.instagram.com/estherijewere/

Twitter; https://twitter.com/estherijewere

Subscribe to my Youtube channel; Esther Ijewere Channel

I am rooting for you to have a stress and anxiety free year.

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Esther Ijewere: How To Use Mindfulness Meditation To Reduce Stress And Anxiety

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