Interviews&profile Archives

In Inspiration March 10, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Sally Suleiman: Community Service Increases Your Social And Relationship Skills

Sally Suleiman is an extraordinary humanitarian. She lends her voice to the voiceless, and disadvantaged persons in the society on and offline.

The notable Humanitarian, Strategist, Writer and a Media Personality is also the founder of The Isolycia Foundation – a Non Governmental organization that focuses on Education for underprivileged children.

She has impacted and put smiles in the lives of many children through her educational outreach.

Sally Suleiman is an Alumna of Middlesex University where she studied International Business and she’s part of the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI). Sally through her social media platforms has become an household name, using her voice and resources where it matters.

She has worked in the oil and gas industry for more than ten years, as well as in the media for ten years. She excels at brand management, project management, sales, marketing, administration, customer service, company development, and content production.

She has received the necessary training and grooming to become a purpose-driven individual with a drive for success and an appetite for excellence, making her well-suited to make a meaningful contribution to any assigned team and the company as a whole.

Sally shares her inspiring journey, and how her mom’s death changed her perception of life in this exclusive interview with Esther Ijewere.

Childhood Influence

I was such a generous and empathetic child. I loved to do things for people, I loved to help the poor. I started helping when I was in primary school, I would give the less privileged my old school items and even share my lunch and lunch money with the underprivileged. So I had that path right from my childhood.

My childhood wasn’t the best. I lost my Mum when I was 5years old. This made me grow up very fast and opened me up to challenges that a 5years old shouldn’t be going through. My Mum was a great woman, she was a teacher, she was my best friend, she was my everything, that was a very painful experience for me and my siblings.

Things changed when my wonderful stepmom came into the home, I am who I am today because of this woman, she made sure that I grew up in the way of the Lord, she taught me almost everything that I know today. I owe my success to her.

Inspiration behind Isolycia Foundation

The Isolycia Foundation was inspired by my love for education especially at the elementary level. I believe that every child should be in school, peculiarly at that tender age. So the Isolycia foundation focuses on education for children in rural areas. We also sensitize parents on the need to send their children to school. I formed the name from my late mum’s name and my step mum’s name.

The Journey So Far

It’s been humbling so far. Every challenge I face teaches me a lesson, so I’m grateful.

Supporting The Less Privileged And Using My Platform For Social Good

I love the fact that I wake up fulfilled doing what I love to do. I love the fact that I’m able to touch lives and inspire people. I get messages everyday from people saying how much I inspire and motivate them, this is enough impact for me knowing that I am touching the world one day at a time.

The Impact Of Being A YALI fellow

It has helped through learning by taking their courses. I’m a professional at what I do because of the available resources YALI provided.

Coordinating A Giveaway Platform Online

Giveaway platform just like the name implies, is a platform where I give out things to people, this is part of my Social responsibility for being a media personality. I also help promote small businesses through this platform, I open them up to their potential clients.

Positive And Negative Side of Being a Social Media Influencer

The positive side is impacting lives and making money (LOL), the negative side is sometimes you get misunderstood and you get attacked. You experience bullying, hate and all sorts. But I have learnt to ignore and focus on the positives and those who love me.

Challenges Of My Work

It could be tasking financially because I do not depend on anyone, I do everything from my pocket. Also managing my time can be challenging. I have so much to do but little time.

3 Women Who Inspire Me To Be better

HE Toyin Saraki

HE Bisi Fayemi

And the most recent Vice President of America, Kamala Harris.

These women inspire me in different ways. Their passion, their success, the change they bring in their various fields inspires me.

Nuggets on the power of community service

Community service connects you to others. It allows you to connect to your community and make it a better place.
Community service increases your social and relationship skills
Community service also increases your self-confidence. It provides a healthy boost to your self-confidence, self-esteem, and life satisfaction. You are doing good for others and the community, which provides a natural sense of accomplishment.

I’m going to leave a quote by Denzel Washington – “At the end of the day it’s not about what you have or even what you’ve accomplished… it’s about who you’ve lifted up, who you’ve made better. It’s about what you’ve given back.”

Being a Woman of Rubies

I’m a woman of rubies because I stay positive, i inspire and impact lives.

In Inspiration March 10, 2023 By Esther Ijewere

Detorera Obimakinde: If You Ever Walked Away From An Abusive Relationship,You Won

Detorera Obimakinde is a banker with over 10 years work experience. Her failed marriage, subsequent abuse physically, emotionally, psychologically and verbally in another relationship, having a child out of wedlock, struggle with career and other unpleasant experiences sent her on a quest to find her voice and decided she was going to overcome all the challenges she faced.

This and the thirst for her own personal healing gave birth to her NGO, The Renewed Woman Foundation (The RWF) ,a place of hope and strength for women of all background where they can draw strength and inspiration.

The NGO is poised to help other women gain back their voices, see life from positive perspective regardless of whatever challenges they’re going through. The foundation is helping them heal, gain strength to forgive themselves and others who hurt them.

She believes there are people in the same or worse situation she was years ago but are unable to find help. Adetorera is actively committed to mentoring several young girls in her community.

The amazing amazon graduated from Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta, Ogun state, proceeded for her BSc in International Relations from Lead City University and went on to get her MBA in Marketing Management from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomosho, Oyo State.

She is also an entrepreneur and a mother to a lovely boy. She shares her story with Esther Ijewere in this interview. (First published in 2019).

Childhood Influence

I never had a childhood that prepared me for all these. My parents have been married for about 40years now and I have never seen my dad raise his hands against my mom. Yes the quarrel and argue but I never saw them confront each other. Growing up I never lacked anything , all I saw around me was love and care. My 2 siblings and I are also neatly-closed . As a matter of fact, for me before my marriage in 2013, life was beautiful. I never encountered any challenge until then. I made my papers once, got into school once, didn’t struggle to get a job, you understand. So I never thought I would be here.

Meet Me!

I had my primary, secondary and tertiary education in Abeokuta too. Before proceeding to Ibadan for my B.Sc. at Lead City University and NYSC at NTA.

I got a job with Coolfm/Wazobia FM shortly after and spent a few years there before joining the banking industry since over 7 years now. Currently I’m a service leader in one of the branches of keystone bank. I’m passionate about anything concerning the welfare of girls and women. I believe every woman deserves to be heard and deserves an opportunity. I love to travel, watch movies and make friends

Failed Marriage And Finding My Voice Again

I guess I married for the wrong reasons. I didn’t know why I did and what I wanted out of marriage, I ended up marrying wrongly. Although at 26 I wouldn’t say I was young but I was naive , and I also think the man I married wasn’t sure he loved me because he never stood up for me, he never struggled to be better and never took responsibilities for his actions.

And then while trying to get out of it, I got trapped in the hands of a self-acclaimed prophet. And that was where the real lesson began. I was battered, suppressed, oppressed, humiliated, trampled upon, and lied against, manipulated. Infact, I totally lost all the self-esteem I had.

I was obviously affected at work and people who wanted to take advantage of me took it well, so in was demoted.

I got depressed, developed high BP, wasn’t sleeping and could barely take care of my child( thank God I had a very supportive mother and maid).

But a friend whom I’m grateful to , linked me up with a woman of God who helped me get back myself and of course my mother who prayed and fasted for me to be able to escape the dungeon I was. And so that’s how the journey to rediscovering and finding my purpose started.

Touching Lives Through RWF

Through Renewed Woman Foundation, over 100 women have found a place to share their experiences, connect with others who have gone through the same, thereby understanding that they aren’t alone after all. Collectively we’ve built an haven of support, hope and strength for women of all background, thereby drawing strength and inspiration from each other.

In this place, women are able to reach out without fear of being judged and assured that they will find whatever help they seek, physically, spiritually, emotionally and sometimes financially. At the end, we have testimonies of women who have gone on to heal, be better women and chase their dreams once again.

Challenges

The challenges basically is finances and getting the right people to support the vision. One tree cannot make a forest. Yes there are alot of people out there but are they the right people. One needs God to choose partners in a journey like this.

Time is also a major challenge, especially because of my kind of job. The RWF would have done more work if I had a more flexible schedule.

Being A Mom, Banker And voice for Women

Ummmmm… What’s that quote again? ‘You never know how strong you are, until being strong is the only option you have’. For me it’s been dedication, commitment, tenacity, purpose and perseverance. Being a Mom taught me dedication and commitment (chuckles, I bet a lot of Mom out there will nod to that). I know that my darling son is my utmost responsibility and biggest commitment so it keeps me going even in the darkest days. Being a banker taught me tenacity. Any banker will tell you that.

From meetings to targets and everything it comes with. And finally being a voice first for myself and then other women taught me first purpose, because before coming into that space I was lost. Like a ship without a sail. I found purpose and then developed perseverance to stop at nothing until my dreams are realized while helping other women achieve the same regardless of their stories. And that’s basically how I manage it all. And above all, I can say I’m utterly blessed with the most amazing family and friends. And they sure make my journey through it all memorable.

Reward

The greatest reward so far is the positive feedbacks that I have gotten from people who have attended our conferences, meet me one on one and who have been impacted by what we do. Alot of lives have become better through the RWF. And that’s an absolute joy to me.

5 Years From Now

In the next 5 years. I hope we are able to reach out to more women in south west and then move beyond the shores of this country. I look forward to patterning with both government and private organizations to organize various skill acquisition trainings for various survivors of DV. Because I’ve long discovered one of the major thing that keeps a lot of women in abuse is lack of financial capacity. So if they know help is ready available, perhaps more women will be encouraged to leave to live. So in 5 years I hope to have train hundreds of women in various skills and organized at least 20 conferences across 5 states.

Government Has To Do More For Victims Of Domestic Violence

Yes, I do believing in recent times and in such State as Lagos, the government has been of immense help towards helping DV survivors. But I strongly believe the government need to do more. The seemingly rise of DV in recent times isn’t necessarily because it’s just happening, rather I will say it is due to the emergence of social media. Social media brings everything to light these days and we are able to see clearer the plight of most women and men alike. So the government need to do more.

Pass stricter laws that keep abusers behind bars and for long too. There is a strong need for a physical safe havens, where women in DV can run to for refuge and know they are safe there until they figure out what to do with their lives (I’ve seen too many DV victims who ran away from their abusers but couldn’t find any safe place only to end up back at the abusers place).

The government need to provide schemes that not only provide skills but also basic finances to begin with. There are major roles our parents need to play too. I believe I am able to easily get back up and be where I am today because I had a good support system from my family.

Enough of parents insisting that their children in abusive marriages just so the society and their churches can see them as good people. If your child comes to you about being abused, as a good parent, your first response ought to be leave to live. There is no trophy given in heaven to anyone for dying in abusive relationship or marriages.

I am Precious, I am a Woman of Rubies

My strength , the acknowledgment of my state and the desires to help other women come out better makes me a woman of Rubies. Rubies although are precious, they undergo hard and tough process to become a precious gem and that is my story.

For Women I Abusive Relationships

Death is inevitable after all, one day we all will be called home. But please make sure you aren’t leaving that decision in the hands of an abuser to make for you. Do not lay your life on the altar of anyone’s anger and madness. God created us for purpose and to make His name glorious, you must never let anyone deprive you of that.

Stop focusing on what people will say, do not be fooled by a lot of people’s hypocritical ways. You will be shocked to find out what goes on behind closed doors. It is easier for people to come on social media and project whatever they want you to see about them and their marriages. And if care isn’t taken, you’d be swallowed into that lie and begin to live a make believe.

Know and own your truth. You aren’t alone, and because you chose to walk out of an abusive marriage doesn’t make you a failure, instead it makes you a conqueror. And like a dear friend use to say ‘If you ever walk away from a no good, manipulative, demeaning and abusive relationship or marriage, you WON’!

Choose your own life, you come first. Leave to Live.

In Editor's Choice March 8, 2023 By Women of Rubies

12 Black Canadian Pacesetters And Feminists Who Inspire Us

We recognize and celebrate the equality movement and trail-blazing Canadian women whose resilience, hard work, creativity, and sacrifices continue to set the pace for all women around the globe in honor of Black History Month.

1. Jean Augustine

The Honorable Jean Augustine became the first Black woman in a federal Cabinet as well as the first African Canadian woman appointed to Parliament. She was appointed Chair of the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Secretary of State, and went on a victorious campaign for legislation to acknowledge of Black History Month in Canada in February 2002.

She was re-elected to the new Cabinet as Minister of State in 2003. Also, she was elected Assistant Deputy Chair of Committees, ranking her as the first Black woman to be the Speaker’s Chair in the House of Commons in 2004.

Black Canadian Feminists — Honorable Jean Augustine

2. Zanana Akande

In 1990, Zanana became the first woman of color to be appointed as a member of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario, and the first woman from the African Diaspora to serve as a cabinet minister in Canada. Zanana Akande channeled her energy on community schemes like the Chair of Black Legal Action, a non-profit in Toronto, after leaving politics.

3. Angela James

Angela helped Canada win gold at four Women’s World Championships and was known as one of the top players in women’s hockey. In 2000, she quit her skates but embarked on coaching and later became second Black athlete to be enlisted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2010.

4. Emily Mills

Emily Mills dedicate her life to connecting Black Canadian women. In 2010, Mills launched her network ‘How She Hustles,’ a platform for black women to connect online and via organized events. She founded HERstory, a creative digital series turned CBC documentary starting over 150 women of color that attracted the attention of the prime minister and were awarded by the CBC’s President.

Canadian Feminists — Emily Mills | Image – Julia Park Photography

5. Dr. Wanda Thomas

In 2016, Dr. Wanda became the first Black Nova Scotian to be elected to the Senate. She is the first Black Canadian to have an academic term, emerging fill professor at Dalhousie University with a research centered on diversity and oppression. Dr. Wanda is the President and founding member of the Association of Black Social Workers. In 2005 she was given the Order of Canada and in 2014 the Order of Nova Scotia.

6. Portia White

Portia White became the first black Canadian singer to acquire International recognition at age 30. Despite the severe racism and inequality treatment she became the first Canadian to perform at New York City’s prestigious Town Hall in 1944 and thrived in the classical music space, a genre with a little number of Black people. Portia embarked on a world tour where she sang for Prince Philip and Queen Elizabeth.

Several scholarships were awarded to her name like the ‘Portia White Prize, awarded by the Nova Scotia Arts Council to an exceptional Nova Scotian in the arts.

Canadian Trailblazer — Late Portia White

7. Dr. Afua Cooper

Dr. Afua is an Associate Professor at Dalhousie University, with research centered and expertise in African Canadian Studies. Dr. Afua is acknowledged as a leading authority on the Black Diasporic experience in Canada. She created exhibitions on Black slavery and history. Between the 2018-2020 , she performed as Poet Laureate of the Halifax Regional Municipality. She has a local connection, as the SFU Ruth Wynn Woodward Endowed Chair, between 2008-2009.

Canadian Female Trailblazer — Afua Cooper

8. Kathleen Kay Livingstone

Kathleen Kay Livingstone made a life commitment to empowering and networking with women of color. In the 1940s Kay moved, from being one of Canada’s top Black actresses to emerging as a famous broadcaster, community organizer, and humanitarian. Kay put in the effort to see Black students obtain scholarships in the 1950s and after relocating to Toronto from Ontario, London she became part of a social network of Black middle-class women enjoying their best life but soon discovered a better purpose for the club so she changed the name to Canadian Negro Women’s Association for educating black youths and working for the welfare of the minorities.

Canadian female broadcaster — Kathleen Kay Livingstone

9. Mary Ann Shadd

Mary founded a racially integrated school and opened Provincial Freeman in 1853, an anti-slavery newspaper that highlighted the stories of leading Black people in Canada to promote settlement. She is the first Black woman to land a law degree in 1893 and the first woman to release a newspaper.

Black people who made history in Canada — Mary Ann Shadd

10. Viola Desmond

Viola is a pacesetter and beautician to young Black women. She is popularly known for declining to sit in the appointed Color section of a Nova Scotia movie theatre in 1946. Viola was charged with extorting the government for the one-cent difference in tax between the two tickets and was arrested. She disputed this charge but her conviction stood until 2010 when she was finally exonerated.

Black Canadian who made history — Viola Desmond

11. Rosemary Brown

Rosemary was a notable politician, social activist, and educator, who fought for gender and racial equality. Rosemary launched the British Columbia Association for the Advancement of Colored People in 1956, to assist people to obtain access to employment, housing, and legislation resources. She was the first Black woman appointed to political office in Canada in 1972.

After a few years, she advocated under ‘Brown is Beautiful’ and campaigned to be the leader of the NDP, winning second place. She was recognized as a recipient of a YWCA award in 1989.

12. Violet King

Violet King as a young girl had the dream of becoming a criminal lawyer which came with gender and racial opposition in the 1940s. In 1948, She enrolled in the University of Alberta and became the only Black female student in her class. When Violet graduated, she became the first Black person to graduate from law school and to be called to the bar in Alberta. With that accomplishment, she became the first Black female lawyer in Canadian history; Her dream came true.

Violet utilized her influence as a lawyer to fight for the less privileged, immigrants, and workplace rights for women. She worked for the Department of Immigration and Citizenship in Ottawa before proceeding to New York. She is the first woman named to a senior executive position with the YMCA.

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In Inspiration March 4, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Meet Remi Osifo,The Hospitality Consultant Behind Abuja City Tourist

Remi Osifo is the Lead Curator for Abuja City Tourist. With over 8 years managerial experience, she has navigated the media, management consulting and the hospitality sector. She is also a seasoned professional in Human Resources Management, local tourism promoter and brand storyteller.

She began Abuja City Tourist in 2018 as a means to change the mainstream media narrative of Nigeria and drive investment in the hospitality sector.

She has effectively done this using visual storytelling with Abuja as the focal point. This has grown and birthed an experience company for intending tourists known as ACT experience @act_experience.

In celebration of women’s month, we celebrate Remi for putting Nigeria on the map, and showing the beauty of Nigeria’s rich culture and heritage.

In Editor's Choice March 2, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Kechi Okwuchi: Plane Crash Survivor, Bullying Prevention Advocate, And Songwriter

Kechi Okwuchi is a Nigerian-born Texas based plane crash and burn survivor, a singer/songwriter, an author, an inspirational and TEDx keynote speaker and bullying prevention advocate. Kechi found her true voice after her accident — a plane crash that took the lives of 107 of 109 passengers in Nigeria in 2005.

Journey To Survival

Though the journey was difficult, a third degree burns over 65% of her body and arrived at the hospital with a 30% chance of survival, She spent four months in the ICU and then three more months at the hospital in what she calls her “patchwork era” because “they were just patching me together and keeping me alive,” and was sustained by her faith, family and music.

Early Days

She resumed high school in 2009 and then went on to University, where graduated Summa Cum Laude in 2015 with a Bachelor’s in Economics . She began to sing and perform at her church, at burn and trauma fundraisers, galas and at family events, sharing what she loved with those she wanted to inspire.

America’s Got talent

In Season 12 of the America Got Talent, she shared her story of surviving a plane crash that killed 107 out of 109 passengers, that music was an escape for her as she recovered from her injuries. Kechi sang “Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran, earning four “yes” votes, she made it to the Finals.

Becoming a finalist on America’s Got Talent was Kechi’s dream realized and on June 10th, 2018, she released her first single, “Don’t You Dare,” on all music platforms. She has since become a traveling artist, inspirational speaker and burn survivor advocate for multiple burn survivor organizations, including Shriners Burns Hospitals.

In 2019, she became a finalist on America’s Got Talent: The Champions through Simon Cowell’s “golden buzzer.” Kechi has now chosen to forge ahead on a path that allows her to explore both business and artistic opportunities.

Since then, she has become an active ambassador for multiple organizations such as WEMovement, Be Strong Global and the United Nations Foundation #TOGETHERBAND project, advocating for various global causes such as youth empowerment, bullying prevention advocacy, and sustainable living.

Kechi released her summer single ‘All the Time’ on May 2021, and a powerful duet ‘All My Love’ with The Texas Tenors. She is signed with Baker Publishing Group for the publication of her memoir titled ‘More Than My Scars’ in Spring, 2022. She hopes to use her voice and her story to ignite hope and courage all over the world within those that need it.

In Career Gems March 2, 2023 By Women of Rubies

True Daley Launches TRACIE APP In Toronto with Black To The Future Event

TRACIE (Tracking Racism and Collecting Information in Education) is an innovative tool to support Black students facing racist bullying.

The soft launch of the much awaited app was part of the Black To The Future event held during Black History Month in 3 different locations across Toronto, with funding support from the Ontario Trillium Foundation, and community support from the Delta Family Resource Centre.

Latoya Jane and Micheal Carlon at the TRACIE APP Launch – Toronto Library, Parkdale Branch – 14th of Feburary

Influencers, Latoya Jane and Micheal Carlon were key facilitators at the launch, as they shared their lived experiences with bullying, injustice and racism.

TRACIE is the brainchild of True Daley, a community organizer, advocate, educator and media personality . True is also a community worker and co-founder of the landmark D.I.V.A. (Diversity in Visual and Audio Arts) Program, where she provided media literacy and arts programming to BIPOC youth in high-needs communities between 2008-2011.

True’s work as a journalist has been featured in ByBlacks.com and CBC Parents. She has worked with youth in conflict with the law in Rexdale and the Jane and Finch neighborhoods for over a decade. She is also an award-winning creative in film, music, and technology.

Speaking on the inspiration behind the TRACIE app soft launch, here is what the multi-disciplinary advocate and visual storyteller had to say;

“The inspiration behind the soft launch is an opportunity to introduce children, youth, students and community members, to a new advocacy tool and to get some feedback about some of their experiences so that we can design the app in a way that is most effective for the experiences that they’re having and we can match their needs.

We also wanted some feedback on the interface, the features, and the possibility of being able to use this app in a practical sense.

We wanted to gain their confidence that it would be a positive and supportive tool for them. We also wanted to tap into the experiences and get those personal accounts; the breadth of experiences that children and youth are having and that adults are still healing from over generations from being in this education system and navigating it as a Black person.

THE TRACIE APP TEAM — TRACIE APP team at the third soft launch. Venue: Toronto Library , Albert Campbell branch, Scarborough. Image: Esther Ijewere

The soft launch was just our way to let people know that there is help on the way, that the app is being developed and that we are considering their needs, and utilizing this innovative tool to support our community and to start to really have impact in ways that the policies within the school boards have not.

Based on a series of events over decades within the school board and school boards across Canada, we’ve noticed that anything that’s been put in place has not been effective, but it’s all been just talk, and the harm has been continuing from generation to generation.

It was just announced that $100 million in funding from the federal government is going towards supporting Black youth with their mental health.

True Daley and Adi Yemane | Image: Esther Ijewere

Aside from typical family issues, I’m sure alot of the challenges are rooted in navigating and being educated in these racist settings. So as grassroots community advocate, I had to find a more practical, sustainable way to support families because I realized that those of us who are doing this work on the front lines can get burnt out really quickly, and that’s just counterproductive for everyone.”

The TRACIE App will be launched in 2024, but the TRACIE team will continue rolling out programmes to educate and sensitize the community periodically, and improving the app .To get involved and know more about the TRACIE app, head on to www.tracieapp.com, email: info@tracieapp.com and follow @tracieapp and @truedaley.

More photos from the soft launch

Recording Artist and Motivational Speaker; Latoya Jane

True Daley and Latoya Jane at the TRACIE Launch

In Career Gems March 4, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Top 8 Websites Women Can Use To Find Remote Jobs

2020 was proof that almost any job can be fulfilled from the comfort of one’s home. In fact, shutdown and lock-in orders left many people with no choice but to transform their homes into work offices and as folks attempt to get back to normalcy, many can’t see themselves commuting to an office five days out of the week anymore.

Additionally, people, especially those in the creative fields, are shifting away from the norm of working under one set company and opting to work across several entities as freelancers.

According to a report, before the pandemic, only 6% of employees worked remotely. Researchers anticipate the percentage to increase to 25% by the end of 2023.

Here is an official list of the best websites to find remote gigs whether you’re already on your freelance job journey or a pro in the space.

1. Upwork

If you’re looking to supplement your income, this website is great for finding short or long-term remote work. From creative writing to social media management, voice work, and beyond, this platform allows users to create a profile that showcases their skills and put their bid in to work with people who are currently seeking help for various projects.

2. Fiverr

Per their website, this company is the world’s largest marketplace for digital services and allows both buyers and sellers a chance to digitally streamline a transaction. This is the perfect site for any techies looking to provide their services to a client and vice versa.

3. Toptal

If you’re a freelance professional, this is the site for you. This company offers an application-based network to clients looking for top freelancers in roles that range from designers, software developers, finance experts, product managers and project managers.

4. Guru

For those with a knack for marketing, Guru is a great tool to pick up remote work to showcase your skills. Thanks to its user-friendly profile set-up and dozens of jobs that are shared daily, people can definitely expect to find great work for writing, designing, developing, and more.

5. Media Bistro

Whether you’re a newbie to the industry or a veteran in the game, this site offers an array of writing and editing positions, helping users to find their niche and to get paid while doing so. Not only can people go here to find jobs, but the website also offers various training and even tips for navigating the career journey.

6. Twine

With a commitment to diversity, this platform helps those from underserved communities find remote and freelance work, this site offers positions at more than 5,000 companies and roles range from writing, design, development, marketing, and more. And if that isn’t enough, the rates available on this site are extremely competitive meaning you can get your worth (plus tax).

7. Contently

Not only can you use this website to find a job, but it also serves as a place to share and build your portfolio as a creative. It offers freelance gigs with hundreds of the most successful startups and brands in the world.

8. Art Wanted

If you’re an artist looking for gigs to fuel the bigger picture, Art Wanted offers a space that allows creatives who excel in graphic design or digital illustration the opportunity to book roles that align with your artistic vision. In addition to that, this hub allows artists to share their work, giving others an opportunity. to purchase with them.

Worthy mention…..

Codeable

This one is for all the coders. If you’re a guru at WordPress, this website is a great starting point for all of your coding freelance and remote needs. They offer clients who are seeking WordPress theme plugins so it’s a great place to jumpstart your freelance coding journey.

Gigster

Another hot spot for the techies, this platform provides jobs that range from software designers, web designers as well as app designers. While they do have a screening process to get on the platform, one cool feature uses artificial intelligence to match freelancers with projects.

Source: Baucemag

In Inspiration March 1, 2023 By Esther Ijewere

Dr Nimi Ekere: The Family Physician Giving Hope To Victims Of Child Sexual Abuse

Dr. Nimi Stephanie Ekere is a Consultant Family Physician. She is a graduate of Medicine and Surgery from the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria. Nimi had her residency training at the Family Medicine Department of the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital where she later became the Chief Resident Physician handling clinical, academic and administrative duties.

She was also involved in the training and supervision of junior residents and did this effectively and efficiently.

Dr Nimi Ekere is a Fellow of the National Postgraduate Medical College of Family Physicians with interest in Adolescent Health. She currently works as a Consultant Family Physician at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital ( LASUTH).

Dr Ekere is also a Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants and a Certified Management Consultant. She is a Certified Management Specialist with distinction in Time Management from the London Graduate School.

Dr Ekere is a leading Child Advocate, Author, Speaker, Coach, Parenting Enthusiast, Teacher and Humanitarian. She has practised medicine in urban and rural areas for almost two decades and has endeared herself to her patients through her dedication to duties, empathy and love for people, especially children, adolescents, and the less privileged.

Nimi is the founder of Smileandshine Children’s Foundation, a non-profit organisation that is aimed at preventing Child Sexual Abuse, providing the needed help and support, as well as emergency care and treatment with adequate follow up and rehabilitation of victims (children).

In rural communities in Nigeria, Dr. Nimi’s campaign against child abuse has inspired social security and hope for many children with unbelievable realities. Her child advocacy has been featured multiple times on various mainstream media outlets, including the BBC.

Dr Nimi Ekere is an author of four best selling books that address the issue of Child Sexual Abuse with practical remedies. This collection of books teach children, pre-teenagers, teenagers and parents all they need to know about combating the menace. All four of her books are in different academic curricula of government-run primary and secondary schools in Nigeria.

One of her books is currently in use in the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), also known as Junior WAEC, in Rivers State.

Nimi is a strong proponent of effective and intentional parenting and convenes different programmes and conferences that promote child rights and protection. She has also featured in many panels and conferences across the globe.

She has organised numerous outreaches for children, vulnerable women and the elderly. She also has carried out numerous medical outreaches, free trainings for the less privileged, sometimes partnering other NGOs; local and international.

She is the convener of STRIVE CONFERENCE, an annual children conference that brings together children from public and private schools with the aim of teaching and empowering them to make better choices in all they do, to ultimately become better versions of themselves. The past edition had in attendance the first Lady of Lagos State, HE, Dr. Mrs. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu and a host of other dignitaries.

In Inspiration February 27, 2023 By Esther Ijewere

Captain Janet Days Is The First Black Commanding Officer Of The World’s Largest Naval Base

Captain Janet Days is now the first Black woman commanding officer in Naval Station Norfolk’s (NAVSTA) 106-year-history, 13NewsNow reports.

The Chicago native graduated Summa Cum Laude from Old Dominion University and was commissioned through Naval ROTC’s Enlisted Commissioning Program. Within her 24-year career, she’s taken numerous tours aboard: USS Simon Lake homeported at La Maddalena, Italy, USS Mahan, and USS Forrest Sherman. She’s also been deployed twice!

Her leadership hasn’t gone unnoticed; Days was awarded the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (7), Army Commendation Medal (2), Army Achievement Medal, and the Afghanistan Campaign Medal.

Few weeks ago, she was sworn in as NAVSTA’s 51st Commanding Officer, a role that is typically reserved for white men, making history as the first Black commanding officer of the world’s largest naval base, which is located in Norfolk, VA. This wasn’t the first time Days made history; in 2021, she was named the first Black woman Executive Officer at Naval Station Norfolk.

In her new role, she’ll be overseeing 6,200 acres, including 13 piers, an 8,000-foot airfield, 63 ships, two 188 aircrafts and 18 squadrons. A true trailblazer and an inspiration to us all, this is a beautiful way to end Black History Month.

Congratulations, Captain Days!

Source: Becauseofthem

In Career Gems February 25, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Bimbo Ademoye: The Nigerian Actress Taking The Industry By Storm

Bimbo Ademoye, is a renowned Nigerian actress, best known amongst her fans for her role in several blockbuster movies. Besides her acting prowess, Bimbo has continued to widen her fanbase through her bubbly personality and skits.

Here is a look at the renowned actress’s life, including details about her education, career, net worth, and relationship.

Bimbo Ademoye’s Education

Since the native Bimbo Ademoye state is Lagos, the actress began her elementary education at St. Margaret’s Primary School in Ikorodu, Lagos. She later enrolled in Mayflower Secondary School, located in Ikenne, Ogun State, for her secondary education. After completing her secondary school education, Bimbo was admitted into the prestigious Covenant University, Ota, where she pursued a degree in Business Administration.

Career

Bimbo began her acting career in 2017 when she started in a short film – ‘Where Talent Lies.’ The film was nominated at the Africa International Film Festival (AIFF) and she won an award.

In April 2018, Bimbo Ademoye featured alongside the famous Stella Damasus in the film Gone, a moment that she describes as having been quite inspirational in her life.

She also starred in the movie- ‘Backup Wife,’ which earned her a nomination as Best Lead Role for the Nigeria Entertainment Awards.

Her exceptional acting skills in ‘Personal Assistant,’ eventually won her the Best Supporting Actress award. Bimbo has has appeared in more than many films, portraying wide-ranging roles.

Relationship

Bimbo Ademoye has not announced being in any relationship but there are speculations that she is engaged to VJ Adams. A Nigerian video jockey, television presenter, entrepreneur, musician cum executive producer.

Net worth

Bimbo Ademoye allegedly has an estimated net worth of around $1.6 million.

Filmography

The films Bimbo starred in that you can check out from latest to former releases are:

Anikulapo _ 2022
Introducing the Kujus
Hustle
Ayinla
13 Letters (film)
Lies in between_2021
Breaded Life
Creepy Lives Here_2021
Nneka the Pretty Serpent_2020
Reach_2020
Dear Affy_2020
Sugar Rush
Special Package_ 2019
Reach_ 2019
Feels Like Heaven_ 2019
Light In The Dark_ 2019
Girlfriends_ 2019
The Family_ 2019
Kamsi_ 2018
Getting Over Him_ 2018
Light in the Dark_ 2018
Personal Assistant_ 2018
Desperate House girls
Gone_ 2018
My Wife & I_ 2017
This Is It_ 2016
Rofia Tailor Loran
Charmed
It’s About Your Husband
Diary of a Crazy Nigerian Woman
The Backup Wife
Last Days

Awards and Nominations

The hardworking and passionate actress has earned awards and nomination to her name. They include:

Best of Nollywood Awards in 2017
Best of Nollywood Awards in 2018
City People Movie Award in 2018
AMVCA in 2019
Best of Nollywood Awards in 2020
Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards in 2022