In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, marketing is no longer just about selling products, it’s about creating opportunities, building communities, and driving meaningful growth. One woman who embodies this transformation is Maryam Muritala, a visionary entrepreneur and the founder of Canada Vendors, who has been recognized as one of the Top 20 Digital Marketers in Canada 2025.
This recognition highlights her groundbreaking work in helping small businesses, especially immigrant and women-led enterprises, thrive in Canada’s competitive marketplace.
Who is Maryam Muritala?
Maryam Muritala is a Foreign Trained Legal Professional, entrepreneur, and digital strategist with a passion for empowering underrepresented entrepreneurs. In 2019, she launched Canada Vendors, a thriving digital platform designed to spotlight small businesses and give them access to education, marketing, and visibility tools that drive sustainable growth.
Her journey into entrepreneurship stems from her belief that commerce has the power to transform lives. Over the years, she has helped hundreds of vendors gain exposure, increase revenue, and build strong, recognizable brands in Canada and globally.
Top 20 Digital Marketers in Canada 2025 Recognition
The Top 20 Digital Marketers in Canada 2025 list celebrates innovators shaping the future of marketing with bold strategies, measurable impact, and creative excellence.
Being named on this list places Muritala among the leading minds who are not only driving results but also transforming industries. Her unique approach combines legal expertise, community building, and digital innovation, setting her apart as both a strategist and a changemaker.
“Digital marketing is more than promotion, it’s about building bridges, creating opportunities, and giving entrepreneurs the tools they need to thrive,” Muritala explains.
Previous Awards and Recognition
This latest honor adds to Muritala’s growing list of achievements, including:
CIBWE Top Black 100 Women to Watch in Canada Awards (2022)
These accolades reflect her influence not only as a digital marketer but also as a leader dedicated to inclusive economic development.
Impact on Small Business and Immigrant Entrepreneurship
Through Canada Vendors, Muritala has become a beacon for immigrant and women entrepreneurs navigating Canada’s competitive business landscape. She mentors founders, speaks at industry events, and partners with organizations to amplify diversity and inclusion in entrepreneurship.
Her platform acts as a lifeline for small businesses seeking to connect with broader markets, while her advocacy ensures no entrepreneur feels left behind.
Looking Ahead
As digital marketing continues to evolve, Muritala’s vision remains clear: empowering businesses through visibility, strategy, and community support. Her recognition as one of Canada’s Top 20 Digital Marketers is not just a personal milestone, it’s a win for every small business owner who dares to dream big.
Tobore Anne Emorhokpor, Assoc CIPD, MPharm, is a passionate community leader, philanthropist, and advocate for women and children whose journey spans from Nigeria to the UK. Her deep commitment to empowering families inspired the creation of Nigerian Women in the UK (NWIU) , a thriving network of over 18,000 women that provides vital support in safeguarding, childcare, domestic abuse, accommodation, and social services.
Passion Rooted in Personal Experience
Born and raised in Nigeria, Tobore moved to the UK at just 16. Yet, her heart has always remained deeply connected to Nigerian women and children. Over the last nine years, she has tirelessly supported countless families in Nigeria by paying school fees, covering medical bills and surgeries, funding vocational training, and seeding small businesses. She has also stood firmly as an advocate against abuse, signposting survivors to resources and guiding them on the path to justice.
Building Nigerian Women in the UK (NWIU)
Tobore’s dedication to women’s empowerment led her to start Nigerian Women in the UK (NWIU) six years ago. Recognizing the isolation and lack of support many Nigerian women face in the UK, she created a safe space for women to share experiences, build friendships, and support one another.
What began as a Facebook group has grown into a vibrant community of over 18,000 women across 14 regional Telegram groups. In 2024, NWIU was registered as a Community Interest Company, allowing the organisation to expand its impact through events, mentorship programs, welfare initiatives, and even international retreats.
In the last year alone, NWIU handled over 150 safeguarding cases, providing support for women navigating social services or helping children overcome bullying. “My proudest achievement is seeing women who once felt voiceless now step into leadership and confidence,” Tobore shares.
Supporting Women and Families Beyond Borders
Tobore’s commitment goes beyond NWIU. She personally funds education, healthcare, and small businesses for families in need. Her motivation comes from witnessing lives change: children returning to school, women achieving financial independence, and families regaining hope.
She also runs Michrichmeg Ltd, a platform teaching digital skills, AI, and finance to help women earn from home. Alongside this, she partners with Utility Warehouse to guide families in saving money and creating side incomes. All of these initiatives are tied together by her mission: helping women live better lives.
Recognition and Awards
Tobore’s work has received widespread recognition, including:
Mumpreneur of the Year, Yummy Mummy Awards (2025)
Right Livelihood Award, Drum Majors for Peace (2021)
She views awards as a reflection of the communities she represents, shining a light on stories of resilience, courage, and strength.
Family as an Anchor
As a wife and mother of three, Tobore emphasizes the importance of family in maintaining balance. “My husband is incredibly supportive, and my children inspire me daily. I don’t pretend it’s easy, but I prioritise, delegate when necessary, and make sure I’m present for the important moments,” she explains.
Women Who Inspire Tobore
Tobore draws inspiration from remarkable women around the world, including:
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala – for breaking barriers globally.
Michelle Obama – for her grace, authenticity, and empowerment of youth.
Her mother – for resilience, sacrifices, and quiet strength.
Looking Ahead: Vision for the Future
In the next five years, Tobore envisions expanding NWIU with a physical community hub in the UK for mentorship, welfare, and empowerment programs. She plans to build digital academies through Michrichmeg Ltd, helping women globally generate wealth using digital products and AI. Through Utility Warehouse, she aims to help at least 500 families achieve financial relief. Her ultimate goal remains clear: empowering Nigerian women to thrive without limitations.
Tobore exemplifies the essence of a Woman of Rubies, someone who shines not just for herself, but for others. Through her leadership, advocacy, and unwavering commitment, she ensures that no woman feels invisible and no child is left behind.
If there’s anyone who can effortlessly unite African culture with the world through music and purposeful action, it is Sonia Oduwa Aimy. With her shimmering velvet voice, boundless energy, and soulful appeal, Sonia blends Afro-jazz, Afrobeat, highlife, and the African griot call-and-response tradition into a unique, infectious sound that spreads joy and inspiration wherever she performs.
Her performances are more than music, they are an experience. As one reviewer described, her work “gives you hope, happiness, and emotional sensations.”
The New Album: Light-Imole
In 2024, Sonia released Light-Imole, an album that deepens her connection to spirituality, the earth, and humanity. The 10-track project, released under her Saimy’s Art & Believe/Slammin Media label, is a fusion of storytelling inspired by her Nigerian roots and global experiences. Written in English, Italian, and her native Edo language, Light-Imole carries messages of encouragement for navigating complex times.
Her track “No Sneaking” reminds us of the timeless value of truth, fairness, and respect—principles that build trust and credibility. The album also features Canadian Mi’kmaq singer-songwriter Esther Jane Willow in Sel Senapa (“When the Sun Sets”).
Beyond Music: Award-Winning Film Producer
Sonia’s creativity extends beyond the stage. In 2023, she premiered her documentary TRACE: Tracing African Canadian Extraordinaire, a powerful tribute to the unsung contributions of seven African Canadians in business, arts, academia, and advocacy. The film has since won over 100 global awards, proving Sonia’s versatility as a storyteller and cultural ambassador.
A Journey Across Continents
Born in Benin City, Nigeria, Sonia grew up surrounded by diverse cultures and musical traditions. By age 11, she was singing in public; by her early 20s, she was in Italy, refining her craft at the Centro Jazz in Turin. Fluent in multiple languages, she became an international performer, sharing the stage with icons like Miriam Makeba, Hugh Masekela, and the Mahotella Queens.
Her 14-year career in theatre included a historic run as the first Black Cinderella with the National Theatre of Turin and portrayals of legendary African women on stage.
A Voice for Advocacy and Empowerment
Through her non-profit African Women Acting (AWA) in Canada, Sonia empowers African artists and addresses pressing issues such as sexism, racism, and mental health. She has created platforms for young women and marginalized youth to connect with their heritage and showcase their talent.
Legacy and Philosophy
Whether through music, film, or advocacy, Sonia’s mission remains constant: to build bridges across cultures and generations. As she puts it:
“It is not how far you go, or how much you do, but how well you understand and appreciate every bit of what it takes to live a beautiful life and the legacy that you build until our call time.”
Osereme Inegbenebor is a dynamic Nigerian-born actor, compère, producer, and sports journalist, making her mark across multiple industries with passion and purpose. A proud graduate of the University of Benin, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in Foreign Languages and a Diploma in Theatre, showcasing her strong foundation in performance, communication, and storytelling.
From Stage to Screen: A Flourishing Acting Career
Osereme is best known for her compelling performances in films such as “Baby Farm,” “Love in Every Word,” “Who Lived at Number 6,” and “Lockdown.” Her ability to embody diverse characters and tell powerful stories has made her a respected voice in Nigerian cinema and African film storytelling. Whether in drama or romance, Osereme brings depth, authenticity, and emotion to every role she takes on.
A Leading Voice in Sports Journalism
In 2021, Osereme’s talent and influence were recognized when she was named Sports Influencer of the Year at the prestigious Pulse Influencer Awards. That same year, she earned a coveted spot among the Top 5 Women of Nigerian Descent in Sports, a testament to her impact as a female sports journalist and influencer in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Her insightful commentary, engaging style, and authentic voice have made her a role model for aspiring sports journalists across Africa.
Compère and Producer: A Versatile Media Professional
Beyond acting and journalism, Osereme shines as a seasoned compère (event host) and media producer, effortlessly blending charisma and professionalism. Whether hosting high-level events or producing creative content, she brings flair and a strong work ethic, making her a trusted figure in the entertainment and media industries.
Advocate for Health and Social Impact
Osereme is not just a creative force, she is also deeply committed to social impact and health advocacy. She works with various NGOs across Africa to combat preventable diseases, particularly focusing on eradicating Malaria. Her advocacy work underscores her dedication to using her platform for positive change, especially in underserved communities across the continent.
Final Thoughts
Osereme Inegbenebor exemplifies versatility, excellence, and impact. From captivating audiences on screen to elevating conversations in sports journalism and driving awareness for public health, she is a true force of inspiration. As she continues to rise, her voice remains one to watch, both in the media and in the movement for a healthier, more empowered Africa.
Oluwadamilola Comfort Odeyemi, popularly known as Damilola GlowVille or DamiGlow, is a certified marriage and relationship counselor, speaker, author, and content creator. She is the founder of The DamiGlow Brand, a platform rooted in faith and emotional intelligence, helping individuals and couples build intentional relationships and legacy-driven marriages.
In this interview withWomen of Rubies, Damilola opens up about her journey, tools for building strong connections, and how she’s using her voice to inspire healing and love.
Inspiration Behind the Journey into Counseling and Relationship Coaching
My journey into marriage counseling began with a passion to see people thrive in their relationships. I watched too many couples suffer in silence, good people, with good hearts, lacking the right tools. Over the years, my vision has evolved from just providing advice to building a platform; The DamiGlow Brand that equips singles and couples with timeless principles, emotional wisdom, and faith-based tools to not just survive marriage but to enjoy it deeply. My goal is legacy: marriages that last, love that grows, and homes that heal.
How to Make Marriage Fun and Fulfilling
The key is intentionality. Love doesn’t grow in autopilot mode. Even with demanding schedules, couples can reconnect through small but meaningful rituals like morning prayers, date nights, lunch check-ins, or simply dancing in the kitchen after a long day. Fun in marriage is less about grand gestures and more about shared laughter, deep conversations, and knowing you’re emotionally safe with someone.
Common Causes of Conflict in Marriage and Peaceful Resolutions
Most conflicts stem from unmet expectations, poor communication, and unresolved emotional wounds. Many couples fight not over what is said but how it is said. The path to peace is to prioritize understanding over winning. Listening actively, managing tone, and choosing the right timing are crucial tools. Also, prayer and emotional honesty can calm storms before they escalate.
My Book: Fight Like A Winner and Its Message for Couples
Fight Like A Winner: A Simple Guide to Conflict Resolution in Relationships and Marriages is not just a book—it’s a blueprint for navigating disagreements without losing yourself or your partner. In it, I teach that the goal of conflict should never be to win an argument, but to protect the relationship. Couples learn how to pause before reacting, communicate clearly, and stay solution-focused. The book offers practical tools like setting ground rules for tough conversations, taking emotional time-outs, and ending conflicts with love and unity. It’s about transforming fights into fuel for deeper connection. Grab your copy on Amazon and Selar
Steps to Manage Disagreements and Strengthen Connection
The heart of the book is this: don’t fight to win the argument, fight to protect the relationship. Couples must learn to pause before reacting, clarify intentions, and stay solution-focused. Conflict should be a doorway to deeper connection, not destruction. Practical tools include setting ground rules for disagreements, taking time-outs when emotions are high, and ending every conflict with a reaffirmation of love and unity.
Advice for Singles Preparing for Marriage
Slow down and build wisely. Marriage isn’t just about love, it’s about compatibility, shared values, emotional maturity, and faith. My advice is: heal before you commit, grow self-awareness, and choose a partner who values commitment as deeply as you do. The right preparation will save you from future frustration.
How Emotional Intimacy Impacts Long-Term Relationships
Emotional intimacy is the glue of lasting relationships. It’s about being seen, heard, and safe. Couples can improve this by practicing vulnerability, asking each other deep questions, showing empathy, and simply being present. A 10-minute heartfelt conversation can be more intimate than an expensive date night.
Success Story: Helping a Couple Rebuild Trust and Connection
I once worked with a couple on the verge of separation due to emotional distance and constant arguments. Through counseling, they learned how to express needs without blame and how to rebuild trust through accountability and grace. Today, they not only stayed together but mentor other couples. It reminds me why I do what I do.
Role of Effective Communication in Marriage
Communication is everything! It’s how love is expressed and how conflicts are resolved. I often recommend tools like using “I Statements”, For example, “I feel neglected when you…”, weekly check-ins, and emotional temperature charts. Most importantly, learn to listen with the intent to understand, not respond.
What Makes You a Woman of Rubies?
I am a Woman of Rubies because I contribute to building a better world by strengthening families, one relationship at a time. My work empowers men and women to create marriages that their children will admire, not fear. I am building a legacy where love is safe, communication is healthy, and marriage is joyful, not endured.
Women Who Inspire Damilola and Why
Modupe Dorcas Ogundele (My Mother) – Her unwavering faith and sacrificial love taught me the foundation of godly womanhood. Debola Deji Kurunmi & Priscilla Shirer – For their boldness in faith and clarity in teaching. Michelle Obama – For her strength, elegance, and her ability to balance influence with deep devotion to family
Follow Damilola GlowVille on Instagram, Facebook, Youtube, Twitter, Tiktok, for relationship tools, emotional wellness tips, and updates on her programs. For bookings, counseling inquiries, or to grab her book Fight Like A Winner, book a slot here or reach out on Whatsapp here
Caria Wei stands as a beacon of inspiration at the intersection of financial independence and technological innovation. As a co-founder of Nuvo and the visionary force behind NuDEX, she is not just building platforms, she is shaping a future where individuals, especially women, can reclaim control over their financial destinies. Her journey is defined by resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to democratizing access to decentralized finance (DeFi), ensuring a more inclusive and equitable financial landscape for all.
A New Era of Financial Freedom with NuDEX
NuDEX, Nuvo’s decentralized exchange, will soon launch on Mainnet, offering early access to experienced traders looking to securely expand their portfolios. Unlike traditional centralized exchanges (CEX), which are vulnerable to hacks and mismanagement—like the recent $14 billion Bybit incident—NuDEX prioritizes self-custody, ensuring users retain full control of their assets. This groundbreaking platform combines the efficiency of centralized trading with the security of decentralization, empowering users to trade across multiple chains (Ethereum, Bitcoin, Goat, EVM, and more) seamlessly.
But NuDEX isn’t just for seasoned traders. Recognizing the barriers many face when entering the crypto space, Wei and her team have created a safe space for curious minds to explore. Through NuDEX’s testnet, anyone can experiment with crypto trading and investment using test tokens—no real money required. It’s a risk-free gateway to understanding DeFi, designed to inspire confidence and curiosity in equal measure.
A Vision Rooted in Empowerment
Wei’s journey into blockchain was born out of personal experience. After facing the frustration of having her assets frozen by a centralized exchange, she became determined to create a decentralized alternative that eliminates the need for intrusive KYC processes and centralized control. Her vision for NuDEX is clear: to provide a platform where users can trade with autonomy, security, and ease.
Yet, her mission extends beyond technology. In an industry where over 80% of participants are men, Wei is a powerful advocate for women in crypto and DeFi. She believes that financial literacy and access to DeFi tools are essential for women to take control of their personal finances. Through NuDEX, she’s not just building a trading platform—she’s creating opportunities for women to step into the world of crypto with confidence.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Women in Tech
Wei’s leadership is a testament to the transformative power of inclusivity and innovation. By championing women in blockchain and DeFi, she’s paving the way for a more diverse and dynamic industry. Her story is a call to action: to recognize the contributions of women in tech and to create spaces where their voices can thrive.
As NuDEX continues to grow, Wei remains committed to fostering financial inclusion and literacy. Her work is a reminder that the future of finance is not just about technology, it’s about empowering individuals to take control of their financial futures.
Join the Movement
NuDEX invites everyone, experienced traders and curious beginners alike to explore the possibilities of decentralized finance. Whether you’re trading on the Mainnet Beta or experimenting on the testnet, NuDEX is your gateway to a more secure, inclusive, and empowering financial future.
Let’s celebrate leaders like Caria Wei, who are not only shaping the future of blockchain but also inspiring women to take their place in the world of finance and technology. Together, we can build a more equitable and innovative tomorrow.
Autumn Lockwood has carved a path that is both groundbreaking and inspiring. As an assistant sports performance coach for the Philadelphia Eagles, she made history as the first Black woman to coach in a Super Bowl. Her achievement is a significant milestone in the NFL, shining a spotlight on the importance of diversity and representation in professional sports.
Early Life and Athletic Background
Born in Chester, Pennsylvania, Lockwood’s athletic journey began on the soccer field, where she played for the University of Arizona’s women’s soccer team. It was during her time as a student-athlete that Lockwood developed a strong passion for sports performance, an interest that would later define her career.
Transition to Sports Performance Coaching
After graduating in 2015 with a degree in Criminal Justice and a minor in Psychology, Lockwood transitioned into sports performance coaching. Her early coaching roles at East Tennessee State University and the University of Houston gave her the opportunity to work with women’s soccer, basketball, and softball teams, setting the foundation for her future in sports.
Breaking into the NFL
In 2019, Lockwood took a major step forward by joining the NFLthrough the Bill Walsh Diversity Coaching Fellowship with the Atlanta Falcons. This prestigious program opened doors for Lockwood in a male-dominated field and provided invaluable experience. In 2022, she became an assistant sports performance coach for the Philadelphia Eagles, where she would make history just a year later.
Making History in Super Bowl LVII
Fast forward to February 2023, and Lockwood made history by becoming the first Black woman to coach in a Super Bowl. Her role with the Eagles during Super Bowl LVII was a testament to her skill, determination, and hard work. Not only did she contribute to the team’s success, but her presence also represented a milestone for women and people of color in professional sports.
The Legacy of Autumn Lockwood
Lockwood’s achievements extend beyond the field. Her journey is a source of inspiration for many, especially aspiring female coaches of color who dream of breaking into traditionally male-dominated spaces. Through her dedication and trailblazing spirit, Autumn Lockwood continues to push boundaries and inspire the next generation of sports professionals.
By challenging norms and paving the way for greater inclusion in the NFL, Lockwood is showing that with persistence, barriers can be broken, and history can be made. She is a role model for anyone who believes in the power of hard work and determination to create real change.
Love is more than just an emotion; it’s an art, a journey, and a process of continuous growth. For Mary Olufunmilayo Ochonogor, a certified love and relationship coach, understanding the complexities of human connection has been a lifelong passion, shaped by personal experiences and professional development. Dedicated to helping individuals and couples build healthier, more fulfilling relationships, Mary’s work reflects her deep commitment to personal growth and authentic connections. Here’s a glimpse into her journey, coaching philosophy, and the heart behind LoveConnect Mates.
The Early Inspiration Behind My Journey
Growing up, I observed the dynamics of relationships within my family and community, which sparked my interest in understanding human connections. These early experiences taught me the importance of communication, empathy, and mutual respect—values that now form the foundation of my coaching practice.
Embracing the Woman of Rubies Identity
Being a Woman of Rubies signifies strength, resilience, and the ability to inspire others. I embody empowerment by encouraging my clients to embrace their authentic selves, recognize their worth, and take charge of their happiness. My work is about helping individuals unlock their potential and approach relationships with confidence.
LoveConnect Mates: Where Connections Blossom
The name of my initiative, LoveConnect Mates, was inspired by a deep desire to help people find meaningful connections. I wanted to create a platform where individuals could meet like-minded partners while feeling supported and guided throughout the process.
My Approach to Matchmaking
I approach matchmaking by taking a personalized and holistic view of each individual. This involves understanding their values, interests, and long-term goals, as well as fostering open communication to help them articulate what they’re truly looking for in a partner. I focus on compatibility beyond surface-level traits to create connections that have depth and potential for growth.
The Coaching Philosophy That Drives Me
My coaching is guided by authenticity, empathy, and self-awareness. I encourage individuals to embrace their true selves while building the skills to connect with others meaningfully. I also prioritize fostering emotional intelligence and helping clients develop confidence and resilience as they navigate their relationship journey.
Beyond Coaching: A Passion for Impact
Outside of coaching, I’m involved in various initiatives such as volunteering, public speaking, writing, and other creative endeavors. These projects allow me to expand my impact and connect with people in different ways, further reinforcing my mission to inspire and uplift.
The Culinary Connection: Where Love Meets Food
Cooking, like relationships, requires patience, creativity, and attention to detail. I balance my work and passion by treating both as avenues for connection and mindfulness. Cooking also reminds me of the importance of nurturing—just as a great dish needs the right ingredients and care, so do healthy relationships.
The Most Rewarding Part of My Journey
The most rewarding aspect of my work is witnessing clients transform. Seeing someone move from doubt and frustration to confidence and joy in their relationships is incredibly fulfilling. It’s a privilege to be part of their journey toward personal growth and meaningful connections.
Final Thoughts: Let’s Turn Your Relationship Goals Into Reality
With years of experience helping people transform their love lives and crafting meals that spark happiness, I’ve learned that love, like cooking, requires the right ingredients, patience, effort, and a little bit of spice. I combine compassion with actionable strategies to help you break free from limiting patterns, embrace your worth, and attract the love you deserve.
My mission is to inspire confidence, clarity, and purpose in your journey toward love. When I’m not coaching, I enjoy cooking, which keeps me grounded and inspired in both life and love. Together, let’s turn your relationship goals into reality.
Jasmine Uboma is a visionary educator, entrepreneur, and advocate for equity in education who has revolutionized math instruction and inspired countless young minds to pursue STEM careers. At just 17, she self-published the BeyondMath Analytical Workbooks, now available on Amazon, which use puzzle-based activities to develop critical thinking skills in students from Grades 4–8.
As the founder of BeyondMath Educational Services Foundation, Jasmine empowers underrepresented youth through mentorship, AI training, and STEM-focused events, closing the diversity gap in science and technology fields. Recognized by CBC and honored with awards such as Black Champion and Youth Change Leader, Jasmine’s innovative work has earned her an Ontario Scroll and commendation from MPP Zee Hamid for her transformative impact.
Her entrepreneurial spirit, advocacy for diversity, and dedication to empowering marginalized communities make Jasmine Uboma a role model and a beacon of hope for aspiring changemakers.
In this exclusive interview with Esther Ijewere, she shares her story.
Inspiration Behind Creating BeyondMath
During COVID, my mom encouraged my brother and me to do something meaningful instead of spending all our time on TikTok. She tasked us with finding something we cared about. Math has always been a passion for me, so I wanted to give back in that space.
Reshaping Math and STEM Learning
The books and the workshops we run as an organization are geared towards presenting math differently to students. As the world evolves, so do some of our teaching practices. Ultimately, our goal is to breathe life into STEM, especially where kids might think it’s boring or too difficult for them.
Needed Changes in Education for Equity
We need to see more after-school programs presenting math in a fun, unique, game-like way. Each generation has different learning needs, and making math more accessible will build resilience in kids to continue in STEM. Black kids have often been channeled into athletics, and I want to advocate that they can excel in STEM too.
Overcoming Challenges in Self-Publishing
One of the challenges was getting that first investment. Self-publishing and printing is a tall order, but we had a Kickstarter to raise some funds. I was also blessed to have a mother who saw the vision and contributed financially.
Role of Mentorship in STEM Empowerment
It’s important for students to see representation of themselves at higher levels because it tells them that they can achieve the same. I count myself privileged to have a mother in STEM, which has inspired me greatly.
Most Rewarding BeyondMath Initiatives
Our yearly math competition is always exciting! It shines a spotlight on kids who want to be challenged. I also really enjoy our end-of-year events, where we recognize students’ efforts and just have a great time together.
Advice for Aspiring STEM Entrepreneurs
Reach out to a teacher or guidance counselor who may know about STEM pathways and the steps to get there. My email is always open for questions from kids or parents: beyondmatheducation@gmail.com.
Leadership and Advocacy as a Young Black Woman in STEM
How has your experience as a young Black woman in STEM shaped your approach to leadership and advocacy?
I see the disparity in higher-level STEM, especially in math. There are very few women, let alone Black women, in my classes. I’m often the only Black student. This drives me to push more Black students into STEM.
Memorable Moments and Recognition
The provincial scroll and the CBC article are tied as my most memorable moments. Seeing the article reposted on my school website, hearing friends play it on the radio, and getting a letter from my university president were surreal. Receiving recognition from the provincial government through my MPP was also amazing.
Lasting Impact of BeyondMath
I want to see more Black students entering STEM-related fields. We are incredibly smart, and our fresh perspectives are needed in STEM. I also hope for an attitude shift in students when it comes to math—it’s challenging but extremely rewarding.
Being a Woman of Rubies
I have grown as a leader and shown younger kids that there’s a way through challenges. My journey emphasizes that they don’t have to do it alone, which makes me a Woman of Rubies.
Inspirational Women
First, my mother, Dr. Nnenna Uboma, who paved a huge path for me. Second, Beyoncé, for always striving to be the best version of herself. Finally, Olamide Olowe, the founder of Topicals, built an empire catering to POC—it’s so inspiring!
EFe Alasa is an entrepreneur, artist, and seasoned businessconsultant with over a decade of experience in crafting innovative solutions that drive business growth and value. As the Co-founder of myEKI, she leverages her expertise to bridge technology and local markets, creating impactful solutions that inspire change, foster prosperity, and elevate the quality of life. By blending technology with artistry, Efe delivers unique solutions that resonate with communities and industries alike. Outside of her professional achievements, she continues to pursue her passion for music, integrating creativity and innovation to make a lasting impact across various sectors.
Inspiration Behind myEKI
myEKI was born from a desire to connect local businesses and communities with the global opportunities technology can provide. I saw a gap in the e-commerce space for ONE platform that caters not only to large-scale sellers but also to Small and Medium-sized Businesses (SMBs) who may be local vendors, shippers, and riders. What makes myEKI stand out is its holistic approach—it’s not just a marketplace but an ecosystem that empowers SMB vendors (home-based or not) to reach global markets, provides opportunities for riders and shippers to support them, and offers a comprehensive directory for visibility to all myEKI consumers, regardless of where they are at. It’s about bridging gaps, building connections, and fostering economic growth at every level.
Leveraging Expertise as a Business Consultant
My background as a business consultant has been invaluable in shaping myEKI. It has given me the skills to identify market gaps, craft strategic roadmaps, and build solutions that align with user needs. Key milestones include launching the platform, unveiling its new look, and expanding its features to accommodate diverse users like our customers, vendors, riders, and shippers. We’ve also seen an increasing number of listings in our MEK Directory, showcasing our role in amplifying business visibility.
Empowering Women Entrepreneurs on myEKI
We actively encourage and support women entrepreneurs through targeted onboarding programs, offering them tools to manage their businesses effectively, and providing training resources to enhance their e-commerce skills. We plan to start a spotlight of their success stories to inspire others and build a community of empowered women on the platform come 2025. I also envision creating grants, mentorship programs, and exclusive networking opportunities to further support female entrepreneurs and help them scale their businesses globally.
Blending Artistry and Technology at myEKI
Artistry and technology share a common thread—creativity. My background as a gospel artist fuels my ability to think outside the box, craft compelling narratives, and build experiences that resonate emotionally with users. This perspective has shaped myEKI’s user-friendly design, our storytelling approach in marketing, and our efforts to create a visually appealing and engaging platform. Beyond myEKI, this blend allows me to inspire others to embrace innovation while staying connected to their unique creative potential.
Enhancing Storytelling Through the Women of Rubies Media Visibility Bootcamp
The Women of Rubies Media Visibility Bootcamp equipped me with tools to craft compelling narratives that resonate with diverse audiences. It helped me refine how I communicate myEKI’s mission and impact, ensuring our story inspires and attracts more users, partners, and investors. I’ve learned how to harness the power of media to amplify our voice and showcase myEKI’s transformative potential for businesses and communities.
Women Who Inspire Me
Sara Blakely: Founder of Spanx, Sara’s journey from door-to-door fax machine sales to building a billion-dollar brand exemplifies resilience and innovation. Her story inspires me to embrace unconventional ideas and persist through challenges.
Dija Ayodele: Founder of the Black Skin Directory, Dija’s work in advocating for diversity in the beauty industry and creating inclusive platforms resonates with my commitment to representation.
Jessica Anuna
Jessica Anuna: Jessica Anuna’s work with Klasha is more than just a business success; it is a movement. She represents the possibility of transforming an entire continent’s approach to global commerce through innovation, perseverance, and inclusion. Her story is a powerful example of how determination and creativity can create opportunities that uplift entire communities and inspire others to dream big
Each of these women demonstrates courage, determination, and the power of aligning purpose with impact. My focus is to support Africa’s local artisans and producers, showcase the richness of local resources, create economic opportunities for communities, prove profit and impact can go pari passu and exemplify how entrepreneurship can drive meaningful change that paves the way for a more ethical and innovative future.
Long-term vision for myEKI
My vision for myEKI is to make it the go-to platform for empowering local and global commerce. I see it as a hub where vendors can thrive, riders and shippers can earn sustainably, and communities can access diverse opportunities. To achieve this, we’ll continue to innovate, integrate advanced technologies, and expand our reach into underserved markets. Ultimately, myEKI will not just be a marketplace but a movement that bridges borders, fosters growth, and transforms lives.
Identifying Opportunities in Retail Tech
My strategy will be to combine market insights, customer-centric thinking, and data-driven analysis, to ensure that any new opportunity in perspective aligns with our strategic goals, solves real problems, and contributes to long-term growth. Retail tech is an ever-evolving space, and staying agile, curious, and innovative is key to thriving within it.
Staying Motivated Through Challenges
I stay motivated and resilient by focusing on my purpose and the bigger picture of why I started myEKI. Every setback is an opportunity to learn, adapt, and grow. myEKI was first launched in 2021, as EKI Market and renamed after the setback I experienced. I remind myself that failure is part of the journey and not a reflection of my worth, so I always focus on turning my ideas into solutions that resolve real issues. Surrounding myself with a supportive network, practicing self-care, and celebrating small wins also help me maintain perspective and keep moving forward with determination.
Advice for Aspiring Tech Entrepreneurs
Focus on solving real problems with innovative solutions, stay curious and adaptable, embrace setbacks as learning opportunities, use technology creatively, build a strong support network, and stay purpose-driven to create meaningful change. Dream big, start small, and stay relentless.
