Interviews&profile Archives

In Editor's Choice July 9, 2021 By Women of Rubies

#Interview| “I’m Teaching Parents How To Accept And Love Special Kids”- Mofolusho Liasu

Mofolusho Liasu is the founder of Super Parents Foundation, which gives assistive aid to the disabled. She is a lawyer, advocate, a business woman and a mother.

Her foundation, inspires, educates, advocates and raise awareness about disability myths and truths. Skills acquisition programs are organized to help indigents become more self-reliant as well give grants to help them set up their startup. Also frequent soft skills training are also set up to help them develop better coping skills. Assistive aids like wheelchairs, walker, etc and scholarships are given to some children with disabilities.

People’s homes, schools, and communities are usually visited. They also educate individuals on the need of showing empathy and compassion to people with disabilities. Foluwasho’s foundation fights for children with disabilities to be included in mainstream schools and to have access to other social benefits.

Super Parents foundation hosts over 500 children annually to mark the annual Children’s Day to promote social inclusion, bringing together children with disabilities and those without.

On this interview with Women of Rubies, she takes on a her journey.

Did your childhood prepare you in anyway for what you do now, tell us more about your growing up?

Hmm, I won’t say a No, though I never considered it until I was reminded. My best friend in secondary school was a girl with polio. I became close to her because I discovered she was enjoying the pitiful attention. I believe she was more than that and so I discouraged her from getting carried away by the pity from others. I insisted we must do things ourselves without the help of others. We would fetch water together, wash clothes etc. without anyone’s help. She became bold and always showcased her abilities whenever it was necessary. She became the social prefect and received many awards. We came across each other recently through our Alumni platform and she told me God used her to prepare me for this. Lol, it didn’t occur to me till she mentioned it.

While growing up, I hated children being bullied or discriminated based on status or for whatever reasons so I can say that could be a factor. I have never discriminated between a child with disability and one without, everyone was same to me.

I also remembered I was 10years thereabouts when my dad took me for his friend’s birthday party and I noticed the other son was kind of bullied by his father, it was obvious the boy was different but I couldn’t —- much disability then, if I would access him now, its probably mild autism with speech impediment. I saw how the mum was showing her displeasure on how he is been treated by his dad. I remember I was very upset with his dad and sad for the boy. That scene stuck to my head for years but I never thought of it making me an advocate I am today but I guess subconsciously it did.

What inspired you to start the Super Parents Foundation?

Like I said earlier, I am someone who is passionate and also aspire to change wrong social narratives to positives, advocating for care and support for vulnerable persons and protection for victims or abused. I came across a story on a group, a mother, her deaf child who needed hearing aid which costs 1million. I never knew assistive gadgets like that was so expensive. It led me to inbox her and we became very close, I got to find out the sufferings and discriminations she had to go through from her family, in-laws and society. That led me to advocating for these vulnerable parents, from there I formed a support group on Facebook called Super Parents for parents to speak their mind and share their experience, to get comfort and support from others experienced parents and supporters.

The group grew and became very alive and it was registered as NGO two years ago and it been working strong since then. Empowering members who needsupport.

Tell us about this great foundation, it’s impact in the society, and testimonials since inception

The foundation has become a strong platform for everyone, it’s an inclusive foundation which supports vulnerable persons especially persons and children with disabilities, widows are also supported too.

The foundation has a Facebook platform where people are free to speak their mind without fear of discrimination. People learn and unlearn about many issues e.g, disabilities, pregnancy, marriage and different issues affecting everyone.

Inclusive events like children’s party are organized, the children have fun and empathy is the order of the day. Our slogan ‘Let Love Lead’ is also a leading factor for us, this directs us to respect everyone equally.

We have so many testimonies from our members and even persons in the society. Parents of children with special needs no longer hide their children or the facts that they have children with special needs, the boldly advocate for other children with special needs against discrimination, also canvassing support for them. Since the advent of Super Parents Foundation, parents boldly celebrate their children with disabilities online, in their birthdays and other occasions, also to inspire others. This was a vary uncommon practice before now.

You have organized and sponsored several advocacy and empowerment programs, how do you manage it all and what drives you?

My drive is my desire to change my narratives and my — to do what I right. Above all, God called me to do this and I must fulfil my mission no matter what it takes.

From your experience, and as one with deep passion for disabled children what would greatly improve their plight in the country, and what are the things that have not been rightly applied.

Honestly, there has been great development when it comes to the support for persons and children with special needs in this country especially in Lagos State but we are still far from near perfect.

They need support in everyday, from education, to medical, to accessibility, infrastructure, etc. Once the country moves to — development, everything including the disability community will be affected positively. A lot is not applied rightly, from infrastructure or buildings that is not accessible for wheel chairs, lack of origin language interpreters in public places, roads which are bad for wheel chairs to public special and inclusive schools that are not up to standard, to poor medical facility for their, so much more. Like I said earlier, we have a long way to go.

What are some of the challenges you face?

We face lots of challenges.

The Inability of the parents and the society to accept their children with disabilities. These children are subjected to cruel treatment by relatives, native doctors and religious homes.

Funds – The work is cumbersome and we have low support compared to the task to be tackled.

Poverty – Most of these vulnerable persons and children cannot afford the basic and managing disability in Nigeria is expensive so they suffer so much from hunger to lack of adequate medical care.

Tell us about your other projects and activities?

We have lots of projects and activities. One of the biggest events is Inclusive Children’s Party. The children have fun not minding their condition, assistive gadgets are given out etc.

Empowerment – We empower members with skill acquisition training and a also provide tools or provide them with minimal capital funds to help them start their business.

We also engage in online projects to stimulate the parents to be able to help their children without much fund or assistance needed.

Mention 3 women who inspire you and why

To be honest, it won’t be fair to mention any names, from my mother, to my friends, to supporters, to mothers with special needs, widows, to the woman on the street or the one I watch on TV or online, they all inspire me. 99%of my supporters, donors, volunteers are ALL WOMEN, they all inspire me to keep pushing.

Could you share some of your favourite nuggets about life with us?

“You cannot give what you don’t have” – I cannot give love if I don’t have it, I cannot give strength to the vulnerable if I don’t have it too.

So sometimes, I sit down to reflect, then refill myself spiritually, physically and financially so as to give my best to those I serve.

“What you appreciate cannot depreciate” – I loves appreciating people, also value my supporters and lovers. I believe I increase my values and theirs when I appreciate the love and kindness they show me.

What makes you a woman of rubies?

Because I choose to see myself not just as an ordinary woman but a woman with vision and goals with God’s given ability to execute them, to impact myself and the world at large. To God be the glory.

In Inspiration July 5, 2021 By Women of Rubies

#Interview| “We Need To Get Autism Awareness To Rural Areas”- Beauty Kumesine

Beauty Kumesine is the founder ofBlazing Heart Autism Center (BHAC).

With over 12 years of experience working with children who have developmental difficulties, she has specialized her abilities and knowledge in the area of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and related diseases.
Beauty is an outspoken advocate and public speaker who talks from the heart.

Beauty serves on many boards as a director and advisory , and contributes to the capacity building of her community; for her, each child is important. Every youngster can find hope and assistance.

For the past 12 years, Heart Autism Center has been willing and ready to do more for parents and children.

In this interview with Women of Rubies, she shares her journey.

Tell us about your growing up

Growing up for me was fun, I remember vividly sharing my stuff and also time with a lot of children at different times with who didn’t have what to eat, didn’t wear the kind of cloths I wore or even have what I had then.

I’d take my stuff and give them. When they came to my neighborhood,I’d take them to my mum and introduce them as my friends (I really didn’t know them) and she’d feed them for me and we’d play for long hours before they’ll go back home.

My early childhood prepared me to help people but I was too young to realize what I was doing. Looking back, I’m glad I had the kind of upbringing I had. Thanks to my lovely parents and brothers.

What inspired you to start BHAC?

After my university education, I met a friend who introduced me to Special Needs. I didn’t know that I’d become immersed deeply in this but I am grateful to be here and contribute my quota to humanity.

BHAC was born out of passion. Passion has lead to commitment and consistency and it is my honest prayer that somehow, someday, I see the children who I cater to make visible positive progress and live an independent life.

You spent 2 years learning how to deal with people with ASD, what were some of the life lessons you learnt during this time?

Learning is a part of life. You grow everyday. The first two years of my Special Needs journey, I spent it unlearning what I initially knew about persons with special needs, changing my personal narrative and understanding about special needs and also relearning the NEW for me.

I am still learning as I see new things and have new experiences with the children I cater to.

Kindly tell us more about your PortharcourtWalk4Autism initiative, an it’s impact since inception?

PortHarcourtwalkfor4Autism is a unique roadshow initiative that was birthed out of the very peculiar need of the region I reside. The awareness level of ASD is low and hence understanding and acceptance is almost zero when BHAC started. I saw myself explaining to people on a daily basis and personally advocating everyday and everywhere I went. I need us to reach a larger audience and so we started the road show PortHarcourtwalk4Autism and as the name says, we want Port Harcourt to hear about ASD, Understand it and that way, our children and families who have individuals with ASD will be accepted in the society without discrimination and stigmatization.

You’ve been running BHAC for 12 amazing years, How has the journey been so far ?

The journey has been challenging but very rewarding. It gives me joy to see that the children we serve at BHAC thrive and make progress no matter how minute that progress is.

What are some of the challenges of your work?

Like in every sphere of human existence, challenges faced by us at work range from human capacity as we have struggled in the past creating a great and commuted work force.

We have and are also facing the challenges of FUNDING and also expectations from the families we serve.

Could you kindly tell us some of your other projects and activities.

We create awareness in the urban and rural areas, constant capacity building for our team members, research and daily interventions for individuals with ASD.

Kindly mention 3 women who inspire you to be better and why?

My Mother Mrs Florence Anwuri- I cannot over emphasis this because my mother is a role model to me and she inspires me to be better everyday. I thank her for all she has been and is to me.

Mrs Dotun Akande- She is honest, focused and also a person builder. Mrs Akande has held my hands tight and always comes through for me personally and also BHAC. She always reminds me that I can do whatever I set my mind on. I love her and she knows but I’m making this official….I Love you Mrs Dotun Akande.

Do you think Nigerians are well informed on how to deal with people living autism?

Nigerians in my opinion are not informed on how to deal with people living with Autism.

There’s still a lot of misunderstanding, misdiagnosis and mismanagement of people who have ASD in Nigeria and the information channels are limited.

Awareness is growing but it’s more in the urban areas than in the rural areas. We need to think of ways to get this awareness to the rural areas and the sooner the better.

If you were to address parents with kids living with ASD, who are finding it hard navigating parenting, what would you tell them?

The challenges parents face can’t be overemphasized. Parenting is difficult and having a child or children with ASD is challenging on its own and the society we live in doesn’t make it easy for parents.

I hope that we help build a community free of discrimination and stigmatization where love and support thrives so that parents can also mitigate their challenges and live long for their children.

—

Beauty Kumesine
Special Needs Coordinator
Autism Advocate
SLST,AC, RBT+234-803-885-2183, +234-802-9998-880Every Child can Learn,Not just in the same way…Progress isn’t always Measured on Paper….
www.blazingheartfoundation.org

In fashion&style June 28, 2021 By Women of Rubies

#Rubygirls | Improving Self Esteem In Women

I’m Okonkwo Emmanuella Chinaza the current Face of Glamorous Queen World 2021

I am currently schooling at Abia state polytechnic studying Public Administration.

My Role model is Amudat. Like she will always say be focused and never give up. And that has really kept me going.

Describe yourself in 5years to come what it will look like for you

I look forward in learning new skills and improve in my modeling career. In five years from now I see myself more professional .

How has beauty pageant helped in improving self esteem in women

Being part of a pageant gives young women the courage to try new things.

And develop a greater sense of confidence. In as much as we dont try to rely on someone we give ourselves the best in all we do we try something new and make sure it turns out to be great. we also make sure we love ourselves

What is your drive and passion relating to being a Beauty Queen

I’m always motivated and always want to try new things .

What is your Philosophy of life

I don’t fear failure but rather fear not trying. And if I believe very strongly in something, I standup and fight for it.

My dear young girls out there. Go for whatever thing you want in life. Don’t fear failure, standup and fight for what you what. And always make improvements in whatever you do.

In Career Gems June 25, 2021 By Women of Rubies

Funkola Odeleye Recognized In Leading Edge Initiative

The Reykjavík Global Forum – Women Leaders launches today Leading Edge, an initiative to celebrate and amplify the work of women who are fostering economic growth and social change. Among the five featured women is Funkola Odeleye of Nigeria, the co-founder and CEO of DIYLaw Technologies, Ltd.

Passionate about developing the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Nigeria, Odeleye’s company automated legal services for small and medium enterprises, including the process for business registrations. It has already contributed to the creation of 125,000 jobs by helping entrepreneurs scale their companies and become competitive.

Odeleye’s goal is to help reduce unemployment in Nigeria by 50 percent by 2030.

“There isn’t true leadership without rolling up your sleeves and getting dirty. Leadership is serving,” she says in her video.

With this approach to leadership and service, Odeleye wants to create a stronger economy in Nigeria and serve as an empowering role model for her young daughter.

“I have a 4-year-old daughter and I don’t just want to be a nurturer and a cater for her. I want to be one of the first inspirations that she has,” she added.

The Leading Edge initiative is one of the centerpieces of this year’s Reykjavík Global Forum – a globally renowned convening where hundreds of leaders from all sectors, including politics, business, civil society, academia, the arts, and media, “Power Together” every year in Reykjavík to build a more resilient and equal society.

The five global business leaders showcased as part of the launch exemplify the power and potential of female leadership in shaping economies across different sectors and regions of the world.

“These five impressive leaders have achieved tremendous success in their lives and careers. Their commitment to using their voices, platforms, and power to build successful businesses and contribute to the economy of their countries is outstanding,” said Silvana Koch-Mehrin, Founder & President of Women Political Leaders (WPL), co-host of the Reykjavík Global Forum – Women Leaders. “The Reykjavík Global Forum is an opportunity for leaders from all continents and all sectors to focus on solutions to advance society; and with creative, innovative women like these at the table, we can move forward faster towards more equitable workplaces, governments, economies, and communities.”

Videos highlighting the stories, setbacks, and successes of the Leading Edge ambassadors have been shared on social media, at WhatsYourEdge.org, and on the initiatives section of the Forum website, reykjavikforum.global/initiatives/, with a call to action for changemakers to amplify these messages and contribute their own stories.

“We all have a story to tell, and our hope is that this cohort of inspiring Leading Edge women will start a global conversation on what is possible when more women lead,” said Hanna Birna Kristjansdottir, Chair of the Board of the Reykjavík Global Forum. “The global GDP could increase by $28 trillion in 2025 if men and women participated in their economies equally. Particularly as we begin to envision our post-pandemic world and as we look to build forward equal, the full participation and leadership of women will be essential to a more sustainable recovery.”

Stories from the Leading Edge initiative will continue on social media during the Generation Equality Forum, a global gathering for gender equality convened by UN Women and co-hosted by the governments of Mexico and France, in partnership with youth and civil society.

Women worldwide, and those participating in Generation Equality, are invited to share their stories of female leadership, mentorship, and power on social media using the hashtags, #WhatsYourEdge and #WomenLeading. Stories will be amplified throughout the summer, culminating in the Reykjavík Global Forum 2021 from November 8 to 10. This year’s event will be a combination of virtual conversations and in-person sessions in Reykjavík, Iceland, a global leader in gender equality.

Meet the Other Women at the Leading Edge

The five women business leaders featured by Leading Edge are having significant impacts on their countries’ economies, which have mixed records on gender equality, according to the Reykjavík Index for Leadership compiled by WPL and Kantar. The Index measures the perceptions of women’s suitability for leadership in government and business.

There was very little improvement in the latest research in the way societies in the G7 view men and women’s suitability to lead. An index score of 100 signals complete agreement that men and women are equally suited to leadership. In the 2020 report, Canada scored 81, United States 76, France 74, India 68, Kenya 53, and Nigeria 47.

To learn more about these women, watch their Leading Edge videos.

Aurélie Jean, Ph.D., U.S. and France

CEO and Founder, In Silico Veritas; CAIO and Co-Founder, DPEEX

Dr. Aurélie Jean is a research scientist and an entrepreneur in computational sciences. Her consulting company, In Silico Veritas, builds algorithms and data strategies for a broad range of clients. Her AI deep tech startup DPEEX on precision medicine helps increase the survival rate of women with breast cancer by detecting and localizing the tumor up to two years before being visible on a mammography.

In her words: “We all have cognitive biases…We tend to transfer those biases to the things that we produce. Eventually, those become algorithm biases and that could lead to what we call technology discrimination.”

Chebet Lesan, Kenya

Founder and CEO, BrightGreen Renewable Energy

An industrial designer, environment enthusiast, and advocate for technology that uplifts underserved communities, Chebet Lesan’s company, BrightGreen Energy manufactures economical fuel blocks that reduce deforestation and develop other women’s entrepreneurship.

In her words: “Use what you have to do what you can. Most times, whatever you need to achieve something, you already have it in you and around you. Start where you are.”

Nivruti Rai, India

Country Head of Intel India and VP of Intel Foundry Services

A self-proclaimed risk taker, Nivruti Rai is a champion of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML). She strongly believes in its power to create value for humanity. She is using her position at one of the world’s leading technology companies to promote India’s digitalization with the focus on creating “population scale” solutions with technology.

In her words: “If you don’t fit into the frame—especially for women—that people have in their minds, then you have to come and break that framework.”

Eva Wong, Canada

Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer, Borrowell

Eva Wong wants to bust the myth that entrepreneurs are born. She co-founded the fintech firm Borrowell without technology or financial services experience and without having been part of a startup. In 2019, she and her co-founder, Andrew Graham, were EY’s Entrepreneur of the Year.

In her words: “Do something that scares you a little. Resilience and confidence are muscles that you can build over time.”

In Editor's Choice June 26, 2021 By Women of Rubies

#Interview| “Prioritize Your Mental And Emotional Health” – Omobolanle Ajijola

Omobolanle Ajijola is a Certified Trauma Counselor trained in Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Early Trauma and an Executive Member of the African Network of Professional Counselors(ANEPCO).

An NLP Practitioner and a passionate Gender-Based Violence Advocate as well as being a trained certified Emotional Intelligence Specialist, she passionately spreads awareness against sexual and all forms of gender-based violence and is concerned about the total well-being of families and by extension children.

Omobolanle is the founder of Bina AI-Amal Safety Foundation, a non-governmental, and not-for-profit organization that provides social and economic empowerment to Survivors and Victims of Gender-Based Violence and disadvantaged communities across Nigeria.

She loves and enjoys working with families and children and this has led her to volunteer with organizations that share the same vision namely Rescue Village Africa, Heartminders Initiative, Amazing Amazon Initiative, and Black Diamond Support Foundation to name a few.

She has gone on numerous campaigns to schools and communities and has participated in road rallies to raise awareness on child sexual abuse and the rights of the African Child, Sexual and Gender-Based Violence, and Gender inequality.

Her passion has led her to attend various courses tailored to child safety and sexual abuse prevention.

Omobolanle is a firm believer in securing a safe and well-balanced environment free from all forms of Violence. A true global change agent, while speaking with Women of Rubies, she gave this explorative insights on her journey;

Childhood Influence

I grew up , pretty much sheltered with my siblings , not going out much and spent a lot of time with my Grandma who was the resident conflict resolver in her area.

People would come to her with their issues and I’d watch her listen and then help sort whatever the issue was and soothe hurt tempers.

Same with helping those in need, no one came to her door in tears and left the same, she had a solution to every challenge.

She would always give back or give out to whoever was in need and when thanked she would say she was but a servant of Allah doing his bidding.

Watching my grandma (God rest her soul) advocate for what was right no matter if it got her on the wrong side of people and her big heart when it came to giving ,shaped me into the woman I am today.

My parents aren’t any different and till date still help whoever comes to their door.

Inspiration Behind Bina Al- Amal foundation?

My deep passion to effect lasting change in people’s live that made a real difference was the inspiration behind the foundation.

I’d gone on numerous Sexual Abuse awareness campaigns and the stories of abuse we heard stayed with me, I wanted to do more.

Watching children and women roam the streets without a roof over their head and no access to basic amenities and the high numbers of women who would turn up for Empowerment programs worried me a lot, and after a summer school project at an informal settlement in 2019

My mind was made up, I knew what I had to do.

Managing life as a certified trauma counsellor, NLP practitioner and a GBV advocate,

Each role requires a lot of energy and focus and I’ve been able to merge all into one and balance them all.

It’s not been easy but managing my time and prioritizing has helped me maintain the balance needed to flourish.

Experience as a multiple hand volunteer for several organizations

It’s been very educative, each volunteer role came from a personal experience and working for each Organization has taught me lot of things ranging from leadership, rapport and communication building, conflict resolution among other things.

It’s an experience I won’t trade for anything.

My work at Bina Al-Amal foundation, and its impact since inception

At Bina Al-Amal Foundation we provide the support , encouragement and empowerment to that people who live in informal settlements and we also provide the interventions needed for Survivors and Victims of Gender Based Violence .

Basically we offer prevention and intervention against Child Abuse, Rape, domestic violence, and all forms of violence against children and women while Providing prompt sensitive and psychosocial support to survivors of abuse and ensuring perpetrator is prosecuted, Provision of sexual abuse awareness programs to engage and enlighten Teenagers and young Adults on Sexual and Gender based violence and the need to be more socially and morally aware while providing the necessary psychosocial support , Provision of temporary shelters for the homeless for women especially women and families who had gone through one forms of abuse and those who live in informal settlements (shanties and rural areas),

Empowerment for women in rural and vulnerable communities and Free Education for children in rural and vulnerable communities.

Our impact since inception has been amazing.

For our survivors and Victims of Sexual and Gender based Violence, we have been able to offer psychosocial and intervention services to at least 10 families and counting.

For our informal community recipients , we have been able to offer education to over 100 of the children in the informal community as well as provision of palliative during the covid -19 lockdown.

Our teen conferences designed to educate and empower young adults has reached over 100 youths and counting, providing them with information on the dangers of sexual and gender based violence and the importance of leadership skills

Work Challenges

Our major challenge has been getting the required amount of help our informal settlement residents in terms of the shelter need as they are constantly being evicted

Another challenge is their belief system , they feel they have no hope and no one cares about them.

For our Survivors and Victims it’s tackling the silence and stigmatization that doesn’t encourage them to open up freely about their experiences

For our teens and young adults it’s helping them with the difficult choices and temptations they face in a world where information overload is everywhere.

Other projects and activities?

We are working on a building a stable environment for our informal settlement residents and helping them create a better quality of life through Empowerment and Job creating programmes.

A group therapy hub for our Trauma warriors and a teen hub for our Young adults to help them cope with this fat paced world.

3 Women Who Inspire Me

Christiane Amanpour, Oreoluwa Adebiyi and Mrs Achenyo Idachaba for their fearlessness in reporting the truth, Their can do attitude and above all love for humanity.

They inspire me to be a better version of myself and to continue to push through even when people don’t understand the journey.

My experience at social Innovators Bootcamp and its forthcoming impact

To be honest , I’d joined the bootcamp to achieve two things: to gain clarity and get the structure needed and to come 2nd was a bit of a shock. I never imagined I’d make it to the top 3. It was a humbling experience for me, I gained so much more than what I signed up for.

My SIBC Experience taught me one valuable lesson, I’m doing something right and this is going to set the tone for a lot of our activities moving forward at Bina Al-Amal Foundation.

Right steps to take in reporting a case of Domestic Violence & Rape.

For Both cases the most important thing and the first step is to Document evidence.

For a rape victim the best way to Document evidence is to go as soon they are able to a Sexual Assault Referral Centre preferably Mirabel Centre to get checked by a doctor and to get the medical attention needed

For a Domestic Violence Victim, we encourage them to take pictures of bruises, take voice recordings only if it is safe to do so.

Next step is to go to a police station to report the case. At the station, ask for their Gender Desk or Family Support Unit.

After this the police would ask for evidence of assault to which a letter would be sent to the Sexual Assault Referral Centre who carried out the examination for the rape victim.

For the Domestic Violence Victim, evidence would also be collected.

How to overcome Trauma, and stay grounded

In handling Trauma, I encourage client’s to

1)Give yourself time. It takes time – weeks or months – to accept what has happened and to learn to live with it,take it one step at a time.

2)Acknowledging your experience,that way, you can start to understand what drives your feelings of fear and anxiety, and change your perspective over time.

3) Join a Support Group, being involved with other survivors of trauma, sometimes hearing others and knowing you’re not alone offers you some of the comfort needed.

4)Ask for support from family and friends willing to help, don’t isolate yourself.

5)Take some time for yourself: It’s okay to want to be by yourself or with close family and friends

6)Talk it over with a Professional. This is where therapy comes in to give a more grounded sense of healing.

7)Get into a routine to resting a sense of normalcy

8) Exercise.

On staying grounded:

1)Appreciate life’s simple pleasures.

2)Practice gratitude.

3)Take a break.

4)Prioritize your mental and emotional health.

5)Be the change you want to see in the world.

6)Stay active.

As a Woman of Rubies

What makes me a Woman of Rubies is my selfless character and passion to see a fellow woman attain great heights and my not giving up on those who need me.

Social Media Handles:

Email: omobolanleajijola@gmail.com

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/ajijolabolanle

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/bolanleajijola.3

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ajijola-bolanle

In Inspiration June 18, 2021 By Women of Rubies

#Interview | “My childhood Was The Training Ground For My Development”- Omoakin Olayinka

OmoAkin Olayinka Mercy is a luminary with life expectations and purposeful aim of supporting young adults to achieve result at the appropriate time.

She’s an advocate of The Great people foundation whose objective is to ensure that students and the less privilege on streets get back to school.

She is a trained and qualified teacher who studied business education in Adeniran Ogunsanya college of education. A trained Business Coach at My Branding Academy.

A certified public Speaker at TalkGenerals Training School and also a Certified Diction Coach at Right Sounds Institute.

She’s s competent Photographer,an Edutainer of MercyNub TVshow,On air personnel.

She’s excellent singer, a competent and certified diction coach,a relationship and career counselor,an inspirational citer with evidence and mind -blowing Testimonies.

She’s the founder of MercyNub Media Empire, also a Brand Visiblity Coach with the aim making Brands to be known,seen and heard all over the universe.

She is highly skilled in enterprenuership with excellent initiatives aspect (MercyNub Media),also a privileged member of young African leaders initiative( YALI Network team) which stands for innovating of ideas around business management in order to create prosperous lasting solutions and impact in the environment.

She shares her story with us in this interview.

Childhood Preparation

Yes I was prepared, My childhood was a training ground because parents were not available to nurture me but my Grandmother did. She spent her last kobo to make sure I have good Education and also to express a global Mind. Blessed Memories to her as well.

Inspiration behind MercyNub

MercyNub media was an inspiration got from my love for Photograph because it is an uncommon field. I’m a Photographer.

Being a Visibility Coach

Being a Brand Visibility Coach, It has restored many lives and birth initiatives.

Great People Foundation

Great people Foundation has existed 6 years ago. It is a graced platform that have saved lives in order to have equal Education with the Elite. It is an international platform.

How I manage my Feat

Time management is the seed that germinates to Success. I do tie my activities with dates and time . I have time table.

My perception of branding & visibility

Branding is a taste of how you want us to perceive and Buy You. So as a Brand Visibility Coach, my niche is to ensure that your product, value or content gets a Global recognition by embracing Media Appearance.

Challenges

At times busy schedules may hinder my effectiveness.

Other Projects

Music Ministry,TALKshows and Adult Literacy.

3 Women who Inspire Me and Why

Mrs Ibunkunoluwa Awosika, She’s a woman that births good deliveries.

b. Mrs Folorunsho Alakija, she never gave up on her dreams. Now the richest female.

c. Mrs Iweala Ngozi, She has proven that a woman can get to any length in life despite her background.

Nuggets on how to become a successful Public Speaker

From my own School of thought, we’re all public Speakers. Because as a successful Person ,The Microphone will get to you one day to come share your Success Story to motivate others so everyone should embrace Personal Development cause it’s the key to master one’s craft.

Being a Woman of Rubies

I’m a woman of Rubies because I’m priceless being designed by God, I’m born to lead and Dominate, I have a higher and Success Voice and I forever say No to Status Quo.

Facebook: Omoakin ola Mercy

1G: MercyNub Media

WhatsApp: 08098014636.

In Inspiration June 14, 2021 By Women of Rubies

Sarah Boateng Is Investing In Girls Education Across Africa Through IGEA

British-Ghanian Sarah Boateng is a winning social entrepreneur investing in the education of girls across Africa.

She was recently named as a 30 under 30 change-maker. Through her experience working at the United Nations and other international development organizations, she created IGEA Enterprise which has a mission to support girls in rural communities in Africa achieve their educational potential

The 25 year old advocate who grew up in south London is a Psychology and Special Educational Needs Masters graduate.

She founded Investing in Girls Education in Africa (IGEA), a non-profit organisation with a mission to deliver projects that support the quality education of girls in rural parts of Africa.

According to Sarah; “Our aim is to eliminate all barriers blocking girls in Africa from accessing quality education. These barriers can be physical, such as illness, menstruation, distance from school, or mental, such as cultural taboos and the social peer pressure that that creates on the individual. As we are currently at the beginning of our organisational journey, we are focusing our efforts on just one of these barriers to start with – period poverty.

Growing up, my own mother would often talk about her struggle to remain in education. Born and raised in rural Ghana, she left school at the age of 12 to sell oranges on the side of the road. It turns out she couldn’t afford menstrual products, and as a result she missed a large amount of school. As she wasn’t able to keep up with lessons, it made more sense for her to leave education completely and instead focus on making money to help support herself and her family.

Sarah has always believed that education is one of the most important investments a country can make in its people’s future, and the best solution for reducing poverty, catalysing economic growth and increasing individual income.

We celebrate Sarah for making lemonades from the lemons life threw at her, with her lived experience.

Thank you for touching lives and intentionally investing in Girls.

In Inspiration June 8, 2021 By Women of Rubies

Tracy Batta Is Helping People Achieve Their Fitness Goals With Smoothie Express

Tracy Batta is the Cofounder of Smoothie Express. She holds a Masters degree in Communications Engineering from Swansea University, U.K. and a BSc. degree in Physics with Electronics from the Bells University of Technology, Nigeria.

The journey to Smoothie Express started in 2014. As a young lady trying to maintain an ideal weight, Tracy Batta got on a smoothie detox routine by blending fruits to make smoothies that served as meal replacements. In a short period of time, she discovered that it was challenging maintaining her detox routine as the process of making the smoothies was often tedious and time-consuming. Realising that this was not a problem peculiar to her, she partnered with her friend Omowunmi to launch the idea as a viable business.

With a united and strategic mindset, Omowunmi Akande and Tracy Batta raised $10,000 from their savings, built a website, bought a motorcycle for deliveries and established Smoothie Express. Smoothie Express started operations in March 2015.

Smoothie Express is a healthy food and beverage company that supports healthy living by providing clients with healthy meals in the most convenient and affordable way possible. Smoothie Express offers an extensive menu with a wide range of over 30 different flavours of smoothies including Salads, Sandwiches, Parfaits and Ice teas to satisfy a variety of tastes.

Tracy Batta is a contributor to The Guardian Newspaper. She gives valuable business information, inspires and motivates small businesses in Nigeria.

Being among Forbes Africa’s 30 under 30 youths is no small feat but Tracy Batta shows no signs of slowing down. She plans to grow Smoothie Express to become an international brand with locations across Africa by 2025.

We ceebrate you Tracy Batta! Thanks for keeping us fit!

In Inspiration June 8, 2021 By Women of Rubies

Tessy Egonu Is Supporting Women In Underserved Communities Through “Queentrepreneur”

Every woman is a natural born Queen, and we must all be our sister’s keeper, fix their crowns and give them hope, that is what Tessy Nkechi Egonu is doing with women in underserved communities in Nigeria through her platform “Queentrepreneur”.

Queentrepreneur is a Women’s Foundation, and a non profit organisation serving women and girls through training programs, exposure, and mentorship, Queentrepreneur Women’s Foundation empowers women to become socially conscious global leaders.

They also provide free legal assistance to female victims of domestic violence and human rights abuse and engage in human rights education and grassroots popularization of rights.

Their vision is to develop more confident women to be equipped and passionate about leading organisations, businesses, schools and agencies domestically to contribute to a society where women leaders are no longer viewed as the exception to the rule but as relevant assets and necessary additions to organisations nationwide.

Tessy who got the inspiration to start the foundation through her parent’s is convinced that every woman is born to “Become” and have a voice and identity in the society.

We celebrate the award winning changemaker for her contribution to the society.

Keep shining Tessy!

In Inspiration June 8, 2021 By Women of Rubies

#Interview| “God Deposited Seed Of Greatness In Every Human”-Olatunji Ifetayo

Olatunji Oluwadamilola Ifetayo is the founder of Lynas for the Needy, a registered charity. She is an author and the CEO of Shantilove Nigeria Enterprise which deals in made in Nigeria home and office essential products.

Her love for humanity compelled her to organize free skill empowerment training every month to reach out to 1000 people per annum. A wife and a mom of two, 32-year-old Ifetayo on this interview with Women of Rubies, shares how she balances it all.

Childhood Influence

I can say my childhood prepared me in a way for what I do now because childhood for me wasn’t rosy . I came from a background where I met my two parents hustling to cater for myself and my siblings.

I was born in one of the ghetto’s in Lagos. Our house was a face me I face you apartment as it is fondly called. A house full of commotion and hawking was the order of the day. Virtually all the neighbour’s children in my house would hawk after school.

We used to have a small kiosk outside the house where we sold provision and drugs too. One day I had to join the neighbour’s children to hawk too. The scorching sun spelled my name boldly on capital letter. I did it for 2 days and paused the third day because my parent must not hear about it.

The ghetto life is not a good place for growth especially when there is no positive influence in the environment. I could remember a lot of my friends were wayward ,some dropped out of school, some got pregnant at an early age and regretted it. I did my nursery school and part of primary school in this ghetto.

The only saving grace was, my parent later relocated to a better environment, maybe I would have joined my friends in the neighbourhood and peer group and that thereby making me make some regrettable decision that would have affected my future too. I thank God for the parents I have, they might have had little, but were bent on giving us good upbringing.

Ghetto is a place where the number of bad children surpasses the good one. I can go and on. I thank God I came out unscathed.

Inspiration behind Lynas

Lynas for the needy foundation was birthed by my passion for humanity and the compassionate heart I have as an individual. The Holy spirit inspired Lynas for the needy foundation when i was alone asking for my God given purpose on earth and how I can be of value to humanity.

We cut across different state in Nigeria, donating to the needy, raising giants of tomorrow and helping them unleash their potential and letting go of their fears.

We go to orphanage home and destitute home to empower them with skills and also celebrate every birthday celebrant anytime we hold our outreach. We make sure they have a memorable birthday. We also rescue children from the street and put them in orphanage homes or children care centres for proper intensive care. We have registered nurses and doctor among our team that helps us with medical outreach while others team members also join for a successful outreach.

We sponsor education of children in rural communities and help with education material to enhance their good education. Our food donation on the street is also another way we touch lives every time.

Lynas for the needy foundation is a registered NGO that been touching lives since it inception since 5 years ago and we are still on the path to put smile on people’s face.

About Lynas Free skill training

Yes I organize free skill training and empowerment to reach out to 1000 people yearly because i know how it feels to be jobless. I am a living witness as i couldn’t get a job immediately after my NYSC. Many graduates of today are also looking for a white collar job whereas the industries available can not serve everyone a job and it is sometimes based on man knows man factor. I believe these unemployed ones can keep themselves busy by acquiring a skill to forge ahead and be responsible and accountable. Through this more job can also be created resulting to industrialization in the society.

Lynas Impacts so far

My skill acquisition scheme has impacted many lives which includes graduates ,undergraduates ,single mothers ,drop out etc.

Over 4000 has been impacted since I started…I do both online and also train the less privileged in rural communities.

That when people mention my name they will be glad they made a start and were confident to stand up for themselves.

On Managing my company Shantilove Nigeria

Shantilove Nig Enterprise started small like every other company, I am vast on skills and that was what birthed the company. I started in Ilorin and with consistency and hard work, was able to pull through. We are into manufacturing of essential cleaning products and other craft to solve problems of poor sanitation, create job opportunities for youths and alleviate poverty in the society. It is a registered company under Cooperate affairs commission and been managed by me as the CEO and few staff for maximum production.

On finding a balance

Well I will say it has not been easy managing my responsibility as an author, CEO, striving humanitarian, mother and wife however time management has been the balancing factor and I thank God for an understanding husband who supports my career and gives me all the encouragement I need to keep pushing for my personal growth and development.

Challenges

The challenges has been funds especially during lockdown period, money doesn’t come in like before,and travelling to other States to facilitate skills where I get paid has been on hold.

The 3 women who inspires me is

Mrs Folusho Alakija, Mrs idowu Awosika and Mrs Ngozi okonjo Iweala

These women have few things in common ,humanitarian, integrity and they are advocates for gender equality.

Advice to Women

My advice to women is that we should not be a hindrance to our greatness by making fear to mar our dreams of becoming, or give in to fear by not pursuing our purpose on earth.

Every woman is unique in her own way lets come together to make the world a palatable place for ourselves through genuine love, support, and collaboration because together we create magic with our magic wands.

Let all woman always stand for the truth and justice and be a pillar of trust, confidence and integrity. Let’s also be advocates for gender equality to enable us break the ceiling glass in various sectors.

Lastly do not let your poor background or challenges of life stop you from being MORE, because you are made for more to change narrative.

You can be whatever you want to be only if you believe in the power of your dream, believe in yourself, shun fear of known and the unknown, keep your head in the game and keep focusing on your focus because no one is a nonentity.

God deposited a seed of greatness in every human. Nurture your seed and be a good tree for others to plug and get nourishments.

The world needs woman of great values to survive.

Every woman has in them greatness !!! Believe in yourself and unleash your potential!!

As a Woman of Rubies

What makes me a woman of rubies is that I am committed and passionate to giving back to the society, and my positive impact is felt in people’s lives. A lot of people talk about my authenticity, servant leadership, ingenuity, humanitarian service, and I count all this as a privilege to serve my generation.

Social media handle

Instagram- www.instagram .on/ olatunji.ifetayo

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