Interviews&profile Archives

In Interviews&profile June 19, 2020 By Esther Ijewere

“I Want To Be A Ray Of Hope For People Living With Disability”- Jennifer Ibrahim

Someone once said the only disability is a matter of perception, If you can do just one thing right, you’re needed by someone. This what beautiful Jennifer Ibrahim represents. A woman who has not allowed her physical outlook define or limit her greatness.

Jennifer Ibrahim stopped schooling in Jss3 due to her health issue. She was diagnosed with Sickle Cell Anaemia which led to her inability to walk again. She is into poultry business which caters to the intricate needs of persons which special needs.

Jennifer is very humane, passionate about humanity, widows, orphans and physically challenged.Her interest in this special category of people stems from their inability to meet there basic needs, and because she knows how it feels to be in need and to be caged by the body , She is a ray of hope for them

Her vision is to open a Foundation (Jenny Home of Hope Foundation) to give hope to other physically challenged persons. Jennifer shares her inspiring Journey with me in this Interview

Childhood Preparation

No, my childhood did not in anyway prepare me for who i am and what i do now because at my childhood i never thought of been physically disabled or even been an inspiration to people. My childhood was full of life and fun,I was living very healthy and not knowing what a sickle cell person is. I had the the dream of becoming an actress right from childhood, the business minded person i am now started right from childhood. I could buy sweet and biscuits just to sell to my classmates, like i was very free from sickness, far away from hospitals. I could walk distant miles just to get food items because i love to cook and i was very engaged and busy not until age of 13.

Inspiration behind my Business

Like it is I’m my first response, I like to do business and so i had to go into it. I had gone into other businesses before this poultry such as “Chin-Chin selling, Aya selling and selling of slippers shoes”. But in all of it, there had not been much gain and i wanted better income so as to be independent financially and to help myself and even people around me.

I sold my laptop at the rate of #15,000 and thought it wise to invest wisely other than spending it causally. Then the idea of the poultry business came in and for a start i had to buy 50 birds.

The Journey so far

Hmmmm, it’s been tough, heartbreaking and discouraging but i expected all of it though it’s stressful cause you could imagine me in my condition trying to ensure that i meet customers demand especially the dressing of the chicken and delivery.

I started with 50birds but had a lost of 11 birds which was heartbreaking. The second set of chickens was 80 and all survived of course that was very encouraging and the present is 100 birds but still growing up for now,so you see it’s been challenging all the way but for the fact that been a business minded person is part of who i am,I have to keep pushing and considering the fact that the income is better than other business i have been into.

My passion for causes centred around physically challenged persons

Well for now i have not done something big in that area but as the saying goes “Charity Begins At Home”. I am trying my possible best to make maximum impact in my community, like giving out food items to my few friends here that are physically challenged and sharing Bible passages as well. I am also not too mobile but i have been able to hold a program early this year tagged ” Divine Meals” which was designed for me to eat divinely with physically challenged and less privilege. I intend to do more with the grace of God on me.

My Foundation

The inspiration behind the foundation came October 2018 while i was reading a Christian Motivational book, and then my life began to change for better. I had the name “Jeni Home Of Hope Foundation” of which i believed it was not me but the Holy Spirit. I started picking interest in things that concern physically challenged and their welfare. In as much as i desire to do the needful ,i also need finance to help and is why i really need the business to help work this out

Government and provisions for persons with disability

Considering the fact that i don’t really go out, but for the few persons have heard from and the news i go through,most help comes from Non-Governmental Organization and less from Government. The only Governmental help and assistance i have heard is through the ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development which help both disabled mothers and children. Aside the ministry, it’s difficult to have the Government help or assist the less privilege and vulnerable, but NGOs today are doing greatly in the aspect of assisting physically challenged. We’ve heard of NGOs giving out wheelchairs,taking responsibilities of a person’s medical treatment and even giving out food items to less privilege. Also want to use this medium to thank NGOs all over the world,I appreciate your good works.

My advice to the physically challenged trying to navigate in life

To never give up even through trials and challenges, Giving up should never be an option. Strive hard because its not easy and as the saying goes “There is always a light at the end of the tunnel”

Build anything you have passion for so it would pay you at the end,in order to avoid been dependent.

Finally,always remember never expect ease from life cause life is a test and you don’t expect test to be easy.

Challenges I experience as an advocate for disabled persons

The primary and main challenge is discouragement from friends and even family.As an advocate one gets to be asked “Can you make it”? Do you have what other warriors that are well known and celebrated have? Do you have the finances?

There are always the discouraging voices i hear as am advocate for the disabled and trust me i always feel down in my spirit and discouraged. But getting to know the story about warriors who are now advocate,i got to understand that i don’t need much to be an advocate, I just need a made up mind.

Women Who Inspire Me to Be Better

Joni Eareckson Tada:

After reading Joni’s story,i woke up from my sleep and had to stand on my feet .I made up my mind to be somebody in life not minding when i will walk. Joni’s story turned my life from been carnal to been spirit filled and now i can say ” I am up to do the best i am called to do”

Muniba Mazari:

Muniba as the iron lady of Pakistan is one person’s life story that keeps me going. After all medical reports that Muniba can’t be the artist she wanted to be ,she picked up courage which made her the motivational speaker that she is today.

“Joni’s story woke me up and Muniba’s story has made me a moving train”.

Mummy Folusho:

Mummy is physically fit but I’m inspired by her works,she is one of my inspiration because i have come to realise what been an advocate means. Her advice is inspiring, her help and also concern towards the physically challenged is so much inspiring.

Being a Woman of Rubies

1) In my weakness i find strength

2) I hold myself with a high esteem

3) I am not just a warrior but a conquerer as well

4) I am special and unique in my own way

5) And lastly God on my side, i am a victorious advocate

Support for Persons with Disability during the Pandemic

Even before the pandemic, Government have not been fair with people living with disability. But in view of the pandemic, the Government have tried so far in reaching the less privilege and i appreciate them for that. Now the question is what then happens after the pandemic? Are the palliatives just for the period of the pandemic or will the aid extend even after all this happening?

I will love the Government to extend their aid even after the pandemic because a lot out there need their help in terms of medical issues.

In Interviews&profile June 17, 2020 By Esther Ijewere

Circumcised Women May Have Low Libido – Elohor Ovite

Leading and trending Nigerian sex therapist based in Abuja, Elohor Ovite, has identified that women most prone to low libido are women who were circumcised while adding that the uncircumcised too are not immune.

Speaking in a recent interview the sex therapist, who is also the Chief Executive Office E&E Skincare, posited that most Nigerian women have sexual problems but not too disposed to discussing it or seeking help.

She said, “Most women have sexual problems, a lot of women actually, but they won’t say it. As I said, a lot of them shy away from the conversation. Men also do not help matters in telling the women they, (the women) have problems. This is because they either do not want to kill their ego or make them feel bad.

“In matters of sex, everyone wants to have the mindset that they are giving their partner the best, but when you tell someone they aren’t, it becomes a problem. From my experience, most women suffer low libido or sex drive. Other sexual problems in women range from vaginal weakness, looseness, vaginal infections, vaginal dryness etc. Many factors may be responsible for the problems and one of them is circumcision. In fact, circumcised women tend to have a low sex drive and may need my product, Kayanmata to start enjoying blissful sexual life again.”

She added that with Kayanmata, she has been able to help many women get out of their sexual gloom.

“I am into Kayanmata business, this business deals with problems that concern women mostly. Most women have issues in their marriage and relationships that could be easily sorted out by this product but they don’t know. These products are purely herbal, no side effects at all, in fact in seeing them alone you know these are all-natural products from herbs. But most women still shy away from their problems.

“Sex is very important in a relationship and marriage but most people ( women ) especially would act as if they are not interested in having that conversation. Kayanmata is a Hausa word, meaning ‘Women’s things’. They are herbs used to enhance sexual pleasure. Kayanmata is the same as aphrodisiac, anything that is used to stimulate sexual pleasure,” she explained, saying women who have used the herbs have amazing story of love and fulfilment to tell.

“Kayanmata are natural products which could be in form of fruits, herbs or even seeds that help in resolving sexual issues, creating intimacy and love between women and man. With Kayanmata, we have products that help in different ways, such as vaginal tightener, which helps to tighten loose vagina caused by something else, say childbirth or natural causes. We also have products like sweeteners, that are lubricants that make a woman very wet and sweet.

In Interviews&profile June 16, 2020 By Esther Ijewere

“Don’t Be Ashamed To Discuss Sex Education And Boundaries With Your Kids – Dr. Nimi Ekere

“Says Social Media made people more aware of Child Sexual Abuse “

The Coronavirus has in no little way made the world appreciate frontline workers more, people who defy odds to stand in gap and keep the society safe. Dr. Nimi Ekere is one of such unsung heroes, working tirelessly to keep us safe. She is a trained medical doctor and a consultant Family Physician. A Fellow of the National Postgraduate Medical College of Family Physicians. She is a life coach, mentor and teacher who is extremely passionate about children and young people, walking in the right path to achieve their full potentials.

She is also very passionate about effective and intentional parenting. Her Foundation, Ekom Charity Foundation mentors’ young people and also cares for the less privileged in the society. She is also the founder of Smile and Shine Children’s Foundation which is a non-profit organisation for children, 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 for victims( children) of sexual abuse. She is the author of a collection of books that teach children and parents all they need to know about child sexual abuse. They include; ‘Some parts are special’ for children aged 2 to 5 years, ‘Setting boundaries’ for elementary schoolers’ , ‘Sparkles at dawn’, for teenagers and young adults and ‘Into the light’ for Parents and guardians.

Dr. Nimi Ekere is also a well sought-after public speaker, and happily married with kids. The inspiring Doctor who is a sought after online for medical and parental advice, shares her journey with me in this mind-blowing interview.

Childhood Preparation

I grew up seeing my mother care so much for others. My mother literally lived for others, especially the indigent. Up till now she still pays fees and house rents for people that are in need. She taught us how to love people, show empathy and go the extra mile for others. Even if I have a warm and calm personality, I can say that the act of giving, showing love and generosity to others were things I saw my mum do, so it became a part of me. My dad on the other hand, made me love to write. He would buy newspapers like Concord, punch and magazines like NewsWatch, prime people etc. and would hand over to me after reading as I would insist, I had to read them. Afterwards, I started to write articles and then I started to write short stories. I would take a wooden spoon and stand on front of the mirror and just talk. I liked Oprah Winfrey and I thought I could talk like her. Looking back, I think my childhood truly did play a significant part in what I am doing today albeit subtly.

Inspiration Behind Ekom Charity Foundation

I have always loved children and young adults. I had always known I would mentor children and since I also have a heart for humanity, I decided to start Ekom Charity Foundation years later to mentor young children and care for the less privileged, especially women. We go to schools to teach children about charting a good course for their lives. They are taught to avoid peer pressure, drugs, all forms of vices and we counsel them too. The foundation also does free medical outreaches and health campaigns.

So far, we have carried out numerous free medical services for the less privileged. We have organised events like Christmas parties in slums with Santa Claus giving wonderful gifts to the children. Most of these kids had never had a Christmas party in their lives and the excitement on their faces remain indelible, to say the least. I am deeply passionate about children…maybe this is because I am the first child.

Smile and Shine is new, and it was started because I had and still have a burning desire to end child sexual abuse. I had seen children become medically and psychologically traumatised because of CSA. Some became suicidal and one of them. Even committed suicide. I have seen parents lose their children to the deleterious effects of CSA. I have also seen people blame the victims or survivors rather than give them the help that they deserve while the perpetrators walk the streets like heroes. I want to stop this.

I want to be able to help children not to get abused in the first place and in the sad event that they get abused, that help is proffered and these children are subsequently reintegrated back into the society and become healthy adults regardless. I want to also break the silence that is attached to CSA. I call it the “don’t tell anyone” phenomenon which is common in this part of the world. I believe that if victims are allowed to speak up, help would come faster and so, healing would also be faster and long lasting.

The Journey So Far

It has been an emotional journey for me, financially tasking and truly time consuming but it is worth every step. As long as a child gets help and never goes back to that experience, I am so happy and fulfilled. I would need collaborations from the government as well as other NGOs as sometimes, the children need more than the emergency medical and psychological care. They could need to go to a safe place as their “homes” might be unsafe for them. We also need justice to be served as the perpetrator should ideally get prosecuted. Again, this would require collaborative efforts from the legal angles and law even agencies.

Being A Medical Doctor, Life Coach, Teacher, Wife, And Mom And Managing It All

It really isn’t easy, but I thank God for the strength and wisdom. I work hard and try my best to give my best at anything I do. I do not joke with my role as a wife and mother. I do well to take care of the Homefront because I believe that your home should be a prototype of what you want to see in the society. So, I spend time with my husband to train our kids. I try to spend time to teach them, support, and nurture them on the right path. It is not surprising that they are always get the best behaviour awards in addition to their outstanding academic awards. I owe it all to God. I also have a supportive husband who is my best friend and stands in just well when I have to be away caring for patients, teaching or mentoring children and young people.

Book Publication

I have published four books for Preschoolers and young children, older children and preteens, teenagers and young adults and parents. So, I have a collection of books for the family on how children can prevent sexual abuse and how they can build a formidable relationship with their parents. The book for parents is an exposé on child sexual abuse. Everything a parent must know; from red flags to tell tale signs and how a child and the family can get help when an abuse occurs, including when and where to get help. Additionally, it also gives practical steps on how a parent- child relationship can be built and sustained. It is indeed a must have for the family.

The Epidemic Of Sexual And Why We Should All Be Involved

I would like to state here that child sexual abuse has always been here with us. Social media has helped a great deal to make people more aware of the menace called CSA. If it appears to be on the rise, I will say that the state of the economy could be contributory. Parents have to work so hard and the child are left in the hands of their nannies and relatives who may even be the abusers. Also, a lot of parents are not friends with their children. Having a good reputation with your child and instilling the right values in them is a step towards preparing CSA. A child who needs to seek validation from external sources is a vulgar child at risk for molestation. Also, parents need to start early to teach their children sex education using age appropriate words and terms. All these are contained in my books.

On Parents Who Hardly Have Time For The Kids

Create time for your kids. No one can take care of your children better than you. No maid or relative can care for your kids better than you. And this is not only for mothers, even fathers should be involved in raising the children. Both parents need to spend time to speak with their kids as often as possible and build a good relationship with their children. Your children should be able to tell you anything without the fear of being judged or criticized.

Being A Medical Doctor And Children’s Advocate

I think it is easier for me because i am taken seriously. The children open to me and tell me things they can never tell their parents and because I create an enabling and confidential environment with them, it makes it lot easier for me. They tell me I am their role model and some even say they want to be doctors when they grow up. I would say that being a doctor makes the walk somewhat easier.

Women Who Inspire Me To Be Better

My mum, Mrs. Joy Raymond; She is an amazing woman who set the pace for what has become my lifestyle today. She is generous, kind, selfless and really caring. All these qualifies I see in myself and I truly thank God for a great mother.

Oprah Winfrey- I love her love for humanity and like I said earlier, I had dreams of being on TV as a child because of Oprah.

Late Pastor Bimbo Odukoya was something I admired greatly. I think she was a great woman and I really loved her family values and all she stood for. I still listen to her messages. She inspired me so much.

Being a Woman Of Rubies

I would say that I am a go- getter and once I put my heart to a cause that I think is right, I go all out. Again, I am touching lives, which is what God requires of me as a Christian. I think these and more make me a woman of rubies.

On Protecting Kids From Sexual Abuse During The Pandemic

Make your children your friend. Let them not walk on eggshells when they relate with you. Make sure you call from work to check up on them from time to time. Installing a CCTV would also be of great help. Do not be ashamed to discuss sex education and boundaries with them. Also talk to their caregivers or nannies. Let your children know how to say no to untoward behaviours and advances. Also educate the nannies about your expectations, do’s and don’ts and boundaries.

To place an order for my book , send an email to books@nimiekere.com or send a WhatsApp message to+ 2347038829374

In Interviews&profile June 15, 2020 By Esther Ijewere

“For decades Men Have Been Told To Make The First Move” – Didi Edet, Lagos Matchmaker

Didi Edet is a United States certified and award-winning dating coach in Nigeria. She has been matchmaking for over 7 years but got her certification from the United States in 2015.

The platform Lagosmatchmaker was created as a need for privacy in this dating age. It is a privacy-focused matchmaking platform for singles over 25years to meet like-minded individuals. It has now been extended to every location in the world so we also have clients in Belgium, Dubai and More.

She has her first degree in Economics from the prestigious Howard University and her masters in international strategy from the University of St. Andrews, Scotland. She also works as a statistician for National Bureau of Statistics and has previously worked as a strategist for NEXIM Bank and a data analyst with Debt Management Office. She decided to go into matchmaking as it is a platform that she is passionate about.

How did you start with lagosmatchmaker?
The platform was created to match single individuals above 25 years but with a huge focus on privacy. I did take a couple of courses in a bid to get certified to be more knowledgeable in this area of expertise.

What is the difference between online dating and using a matchmaking platform?
A matchmaking platform comes with support that an online service might not be able to provide. The platform works manually too so you do get to communicate with actual humans that can give you their perspective on things and not an automated service.

What expectations do your clients have with meeting other single individuals?
They do expect the best. Some expectations are reasonable and some are so out there which is what we call the search for the unicorn. With the new age and availability of options, people don’t put in as much effort to get to know a person and at the slightest view of imperfection, the person wants to move on to the next single individual. The process involves us being transparent and clear on giving dating advice to the clients.

What are some of the challenges you have encountered with a new line of business in Nigeria?
I have encountered a lot of challenges. The fact that matchmaking is fairly new to Nigeria in the business sector means there is no blueprint or previous marketing plan to follow.

This was a major challenge to learn how to market and educate the mass about what we do and the process. We are privacy-focused so we have to explain to clients that we don’t have pictures posted of individuals. Things are done manually which doesn’t make the process as efficient but it leads to better results and we are highly focused on the results.

Another major challenge was getting good staff. That took about a year to find the perfect people that understand the job, get them a little bit of training and it’s been a blessing to have people who genuinely care about the clients as I do.

Another challenge is explaining to people what we do. Some people think we give relationship advice which is not what we do. We focus on the dating aspect of life because this is an area I have been certified in and also as a single individual dating, things in this aspect are fresher to my understanding. We are linking individuals together and that’s it.

Why are you manual in your process instead of automated like everyone else?
Being automated like everyone would be less work for us. I would not even need as much staff in an automated service but we found out after moving from automated back to the manual that our results were higher. It’s just different when you can communicate with a person that talks you through the process and tries to understand the difference between what you want and what you need.
The manual process allows to be like a friend to you introducing you to our other friends and rooting for it to work out.

What are the types of people on the platform?
We have a huge variety of people from various locations and various status. We have singles that have never been married, divorced, widowed and more. Our client base can be described as the working class that may not have a lot of time for social activities so outsource a part of their social life to us.

Can clients see pictures of people before they meet them?
Our platform is privacy-focused so this means privacy is our highest priority. We don’t circulate or post pictures of members. However, we can exchange pictures of members with the permission of that party. We have had a lot of successful matches with this formula so we know it’s something that works for us.

Will they have an unlimited number of people to meet when they sign up?
No, you will have a fixed number based on your membership level and this was done to make people take their matches seriously because, in a situation where you have unlimited matches, we have seen people abuse that by finding little excuses to not give the person a chance because they feel there are a million more at their beck and call so they are not as intentional with their choices.

Is this strictly online?
No, we have an office located in the heart of Lekki and it’s open for enquiries but we have found out that majority of our client base are busy, so we are more efficient with the online network and work faster that way.

What advice would you give to singles out there?
I feel everything you want in life can be achieved if we put the effort into it. If you want a job, you get qualifications and make the effort to apply for it. I feel effort should be applied to dating too as opposed to sitting and hoping for things to magically fall in place, I feel if you want love, but the effort to search for it. We are here to make that an easy process.

Can you tell us more about yourself?
I am a certified dating coach with Lagosmatchmaker. We focus on connecting singles above 25 years and letting them enjoy the dating process. We do not divulge into the relationship aspect which is a bit broader. We focus on meeting an individual, having a first and second date.

Why did you go into matchmaking?
Lagosmatchmaker is a privacy-focused matchmaking platform for like-minded individuals and was birthed out of the need for privacy in certain aspects of our lives like dating. A lot of my friends I spoke to wanted to be able to search for a date without leading with who they are.

In this age of Internet fraud, how can one trust online matchmaking?
I don’t think there is any worry with internet fraud with Lagosmatchmaker because it’s not strictly an online matching platform. We do have an office located off Admiralty way, Lekki, Lagos where clients can come in and discuss the process if they so wish. But we discovered that a lot of people don’t have the time which is why a lot of our work is done online.

Who qualifies to consult a matchmaker? And can you be consulted?
Anyone with a busy schedule can consult a matchmaker. I always say it’s the same as outsourcing cleaning or cooking because you don’t have the time to do those things yourself. The same way matchmaking is a service that helps the busy people who have little or no time to socialize and meet someone at their convenience.

Why are men shying away from making the first move?
I would not say men are shying away from making the first move. Men for decades have been told they alone could make the first move but in this new era, women are now able to make the first move so you might find an increase in the number of women searching for a man. Because it’s new and it’s effective than having to choose a spouse out of just the ones that choose you. These days, you can make a choice rather than choosing from your available option.

How should a woman react if she loves a man but feels the man should make the first move?
I would tell that lady to make the move herself because I do believe in communicating what you feel as opposed to being quiet and hoping in some magical way, he should know how you feel.

What are those things that should be put into consideration before going into marriage or a long term relationship?
I stay on the dating aspect of life, not the relationship aspect as I am exploring that myself. Relationships are too broad to try to understand so I rarely divulge into actual relationship discussions or advice.

Any individuals, single and trying to find love can participate. Unlike @lagosmatchmaker that is very focused on privacy, @lmmmixer.ng Is more visible.

The minimum age on the platform is 25yrs. We have currently had an increase in the number of older clients that have signed up. We have a lot of females ages 40 to 55 and males ages 45 to 65. We aim to help everyone find that happiness that comes with companionship.

In Interviews&profile June 15, 2020 By Esther Ijewere

“One Of The Most Difficult Things To Do Is Leading People”- Kolajo Blessing

“Breaking the glass ceiling” is one the best things that came out of Hillary Clinton contesting for Presidency. A tag line she often used during her campaign, to encourage women to take charge and squash their limiting beliefs. Kolajo Blessing is one of such women! She has not just broken through the glass ceiling, but also encouraging other women in her generation to do so.She is the first Female President of OOU Literary and Debating Society and also the first Female President of VeeCee Success Stories, a position she holds in a bid to share stories of young women and men alike, as an undergraduate of Olabisi Onabanjo University. Blessing is also an excellent writer and a great spoken word artist. She recently wowed people with her craft on Instagram when she did spontaneous spoken word session about Slay queens. The double President shares her inspiring journey with me in this interview.

Childhood Preparation
My childhood days prepared me a lot for what I do today, and the things I will still do in the future. I remember growing up was not so fun for me because I took interest in what my age groups do not enjoy doing which was reading literary texts, so I spend more of my time with imaginary characters in novels. My daddy would trek down to the bookshop to buy storybooks for me every weekend, which I would finish reading before he comes back from work, and that was at the age of seven. I enjoyed watching the news, too, which has served as a platform for my exposure because I grew up in a rural environment.

Being the President of OOU Literary and Debating Society and first female president of Veecee Success Stories
If I’m asked I will say one of the most difficult things to do is to lead people. It was difficult waking up to the reality that there are a set of people looking up to me in many aspects, having to think that any bad decision I make affects many others. Having to do all this, along with achieving my academic vision and personal development, gave me a tough time. However, the experience I had has shaped and moulded me into a better person; leadership isn’t easy but it’s worth it.

Being a student and managing my role
Time management and setting priorities. I denied myself of a whole lot of things; I scrapped my fun time totally and fused it into my creativity. I do not attend impromptu programmes, neither do I go for unnecessary visits. My schedule was church, lectures, library, official meetings and any events where I have been called to perform. It wasn’t easy for me because I am a youth and I have needs, but some prices are worth paying to achieve the goal of self-development, which I did because I had the best results of my life during that period.
Using my position to squash stereotype of women holding powerful positions in the society

I set an example by leading the associations even better than my predecessors who were males, because people were wondering that this small girl cannot do it. Also, I remember that each time an assignment was meant to be given or an opportunity arises in any of the associations that I led, what I did was to conduct a capacity test to pick someone suitable for the job. In most cases, the female members perform better and I do not hesitate to pick them since they have proven themselves worthy regardless of the gender reservations that has been for that position, because I believe women are tools for greatness and not humans that should always occupy the backseat. Also, I write to influence the mind of the society positively about the issue of gender discrimination.

Being a Poet
What inspired my poetry is just the need to express myself in a way that is unique and beautiful. However, when I noticed that I am making positive impact, I started doing more and that is what has brought me to limelight and accord this kind of honour to me. Be on the lookout for many things, by June of this year I will be launching three poetry collections for junior secondary school one, two and three titled “Raindrops” and many other great things shall follow.

Three women who inspire you to be better and why
The number one woman that inspired me a lot when I was a child was Professor Dora Akunyili, she was an intelligent woman, I do watch her speak on NTA when I was young. Also, the words of Michelle Obama and Chimamanda Adichie are energy giving shots to my soul.

Challenges of being an undergraduate joggling so many things at once
Managing people especially when they are older than me was the first challenge, getting people of like minds to work with was my second challenge. Lastly, having to cope with challenges of being a teenager/youth, peer pressures and the likes was so difficult.

Being a Woman of Rubies
I am a Woman of Rubies because I am productive, and I have something valuable to offer my generation and beyond. I am beautiful and strong regardless of the circumstances around me.

To young women who are afraid to live their dreams
Dear young girls, the best motivation you can ever have in life is having a clear vision that will always serve as a drive to your success. Never be afraid to accept challenges, never be afraid to bring those dreams into reality, for only the brave can rule this world and do not neglect the place of God, for his grace will always be sufficient for you.

Values OOU has instilled in me as an undergraduate
The first value is perseverance, the harsh condition of the school and its administrative system has taught me to persevere. I can say OOU, through the people that I have met, gave me the best gift I have now which is poetry.

In Interviews&profile June 14, 2020 By Esther Ijewere

Nkiru Olumide-Ojo: ‘Including Men In Gender Conversations Helps Greatly’

Nkiru Olumide-Ojo holds two decades of experience in Strategic Marketing and Corporate Communications Management, looking after multinational and national brands in Nigeria and some African Markets. Her work experience spans across various sectors including Financial Services, Aviation, Telecommunication and the Oil and Gas sectors.

An expert Reputation and Crisis Communication Manager, she currently works as Regional Head of Marketing and Communications at a financial services Group in South Africa. Nkiru holds board level experience having sat on the boards of Stanbic IBTC Trustees Limited and CMC Connect Burtson Masteller.

A frequent Conference Speaker, she was the immediate past keynote speaker at Google Nigeria’s 2019 International Women’s Day celebration. London Advertising Week, Africa Public Relations Conference, and Standard Bank’s Blue Heels Women’s Programme are some of the conferences where she has spoken.

Over the past couple of years, Nkiru has had several recognitions such as Leading Woman in Marketing and Communication in 2016, Marketing Personality of the Year 2017, NIPRO’s top 40 under 40(2008), Brand Journalist of Nigeria’s Award for Leading Marketing Personality amongst others. She holds a Master’s degree in Strategic Marketing Management from the Kingston University Surrey, London, alongside a Post-graduate Diploma in Management/first degree in Biological Sciences, and many professional trainings.

Nkiru is the published author of the Pressure Cooker- Lessons From A Woman at Work. A female enthusiast, Nkiru is keen to see women develop leadership skills and is the Founder of a female social development organization, the LightHouse Women’s Network. Nkiru is married to Olumide and they have two children.

In this interview with GuardianWoman, she sheds more light on the activities of the LightHouse Women’s Network as the organisation holds its annual conference today in Lagos.

You were once described as a person of many parts – tell us what that means?
I’m not entirely sure what the person who was describing meant, but I do strongly believe that everyone has the ability to express themselves in more than one way if they choose to and I do so -wholeheartedly. I’m a wife and Mum. I run a social development agency focused on women, I’m an author/writer and I work at an organisation doing marketing and corporate communications.

Tell us about the LightHouse Women’s Network and why you set it up?
The Lighthouse Network was an accidental baby, one that I’m delighted happened.

As an outcome of my personal frustration trying to be the best mum/wife/daughter/daughter-in-law, church worker/friend and more- I was struggling with many bottles dropping- I kept putting my hands up to ask questions at every female gathering I attended- I felt the answers I was getting weren’t assuaging my needs and so I started expressing myself via a column called the PressureCooker.

The outcome of this column was tonnes of questions coming through- I didn’t have the answers (as I was obviously still searching myself). But I realised I could find the answers within my network- I started bringing women within my network together annually to answer these questions- it’s been six years now and we have made it more formal with various signature activities impacting the working woman and the girl getting ready for the workplace.

Give us a peep into the Network and some examples that have worked for some women that others can learn from
We are five principal players with five diverse board of trustees, cutting across three generations- Yomi Badejo-Okusanya, Bunmi Oke, Olumide Ojo, Eniola Edun and Temitope Jemerigbe. Because impact measurement is important to us, we only embark on specific projects and taking on numbers we can deliver on. We have three signature activities- our “Getting the Girl Ready for the Workplace” project – which we carry out in polytechnics and other higher institutions. The CEO Roundtable where we have senior executives glean directly from a CEO and our Standard Mentors Connect Project. For all of these, we follow through to gauge progress participants have made and our virtual group helps foster continuity. We are so far from where we’d love to be, but we are making progress.

You mentioned the column you kept which you said became a book, tell us some of your personal struggles that you shared in your book
I talked about the maternal wall- and what I call mummy guilt- the one you feel as a working mum who is away from her children. I talked about why sponsorship is so important for women, I talked about the boy’s club, my faith, the error of not managing your boss well and the one dearest to my heart, lessons from failing- specifically about not making moments of failure monuments of failure, rather to learn from it.

What informed the analogy of your book with the kitchen pressure cooker?
Definitely the pressure I was feeling as a working young mum- I consistently felt like I was being boiled in a pressure cooker!

Do you think it would be proper for employers to give working mothers some concession at work?
I do think so for it would improve productivity- and I’m not talking flexible work hours alone, I mean things like breastfeeding room or even crèches, if the company can afford it. The physiology of breastfeeding is such that the mom does need to express breast-milk during work hours and you’d agree the bathroom isn’t the best place. It would be brilliant of the organisation if it can include a crèche to help both get the mothers’ hearts at rest and get more out of them.

As workplace readiness is something the Lighthouse focuses on, what do you think are the top three skills required for the girl to succeed in the workplace?
. Communication – The ability to understand what is being said as well express yourself clearly, confidently-
. Thinking/Problem Solving Skills – the real reason corporates are set up is to solve problems- you’ve got to have the ability to think up solutions. Having the right attitude- completely non-negotiable, as this is a basis for learning and growing within organisations

What in your view precludes women from advancing in the workplace?
I believe sometimes we stand in our own way- I mean our beliefs- that some roles are unattainable and therefore we limit our ambitions. I can assure you if we took a poll of 100 girls working in an office, only 10 per cent are aiming to be CEOs of that organisation- the rest don’t quite care.

The maternal wall also manifests itself in ways that makes the career trajectory a bit uneven as we do take off maternal time. I think in some industries-the boys club still exists- a club where males think some roles are exclusively theirs.

How do you think we can curb the above?
I think by instituting policies in this regard. Some sectors have strong policies requiring businesses to achieve gender-balance in management and this same policy has ensured balanced representation in some countries. Rwandan government has a balanced representation of both genders, with young females holding very interesting positions. Most importantly, I think including men in the gender conversations helps greatly which is why our signature event this year is themed: Views From The Other Side and we are having four generations of men discuss the woman and the workplace. It is our view that only when they know what the issues are can they support wholly.

How have you been able to maintain the work-life balance?
I have a work like integration approach- where I have structured work into my life. Structured because it does have a specific time allocated to it all day round, similar to how I have structured the many other important things in my life- each then takes its order of priority- faith, family, work, socials, but then again there is an art required in the blending. Lastly, I think the frustration comes from trying to do all at once! Some things will have to take a backseat at different times.

As an example, my social life took a back- seat once when I had a fast-paced work, really because I had to balance other facets- I made up for that way later.

What’s your advice for women who are still struggling with it?
Having a good home support system, a supportive spouse. I meet working girls everyday, who have what I think to be the strangest hang-ups such as, “I like to do everything in my house myself,” “I don’t like my in-laws.” I think both are strange hang-ups if you work because you can reasonably outsource the first in order to spend more time on another equally important thing or the latter. Your in-laws can serve as a support system for your children rather than strangers.

With your busy career, how helpful and supportive has your husband been?
My husband works as well and has females in his team, added to myself, his sisters, he does have full “consumer insights” and is fully supportive of the working woman.
Mention some of your favourite female authors.

Brene Brown is my latest hang-up, I’m currently lapping up every book she has written and can’t get enough of her- her authenticity in embracing notions people typically wouldn’t want to talk about completely inspires me-vulnerability and shame. A few of the obvious -Chimamanda Adichie, Sefi Attah. Their way with words and the ability to keep you suspended from reality days after you have dropped their books. Otherwise, I love my good old John Maxwell, Norman Vincent Peale- I always have their books around me.

How has mentorship helped to shape your career and lifestyle and how are you helping to mentor younger women?
I actually am a product of many mentors/teachers- bosses, pastors, leaders who have been instrumental to my all round growth – my husband Olumide Ojo, Ephraim Osunde, Funke Felix-Adejumo, Yomi Badejo-Okusanya are the ones for whom I have pulled out a seat to be directly mentored, otherwise, I have been mentored informally by many, especially my bosses and pastors. In return I do have structured mentees assigned from the Lighthouse Women’s Mentors Connect.

Who are the women you admire and why?
Funke Felix-Adejumo-for her uncanny wisdom, Sola David-Borha for her many accomplishments delivered with amazing humility, Mo Abudu, for being many things having made a detour from a corporate life.
Arianna Huffington for being many things after Huffington post. Then a few of the obvious- Oprah for making giving so intrinsic to success. I could go on.

Aside writing what are your other interests?
Poetry (sorry I know you said asides writing) but poetry is a new exploratory ground for me and I’m embracing it. I love comedy festivals and stage performances- I love a good laugh. I’m also exploring a few outdoor sports, I haven’t liked any as yet, but then again, I haven’t been consistent- I’d be a bit more confident to speak around these shortly.

Tell us about growing up, family life.
I grew up in a small family in Port Harcourt.
My dad worked in Total and Brossette before he set up his own business, my mum worked in First Bank before resigning to look after the home. My father it was who instilled values for the workplace in us. Till his death, his first question during his daily call was “ I hope you got to work on time?’’
We grew up in an area called D/Line, with neighbours as close friends, a children’s club on our street and an Anglican church nearby. I loved PHC, with our sharp wits and mouth. I often say PHC imbues you with some natural confidence.

What’s your personal style and what are your favourite colours?
Classic- I’m not given to trends, as I’d like that my look remains timeless. I love colours, I find black so boring and constantly needing to be “brightened up”.

I therefore only wear it to work, once it isn’t a work function or environment- I express myself in bold colours.

What’s relaxation for you?
Sleeping.

Your life’s mantra?
You don’t walk so lightly that you don’t leave footprints- make sure your footprints make a good impact.

Advise for younger women trying to climb the career ladder
You can. There’s also a God factor- he causes “time and chance to happen.’’ You should pray to “be lucky.”

Source: Marie Diamond for Guardian Woman

In Interviews&profile June 9, 2020 By Esther Ijewere

MIT Elects First Black Woman As Student Body President

Sophomore Danielle Geathers just made history after being elected as the student body president at Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The win makes her the first Black woman to lead the undergraduate association.

A mechanical engineering major, Geathers and her running mate, Yu Jing Chen, presented a well balanced platform that focused on unity, equity and authenticity.

“Someone asked if the UA president was a figurehead role [during the debate]. I think no, but minimally, a black female in that role will squash every perception that MIT is still mostly white and male. Minimally, the immediate image of that will make MIT a more welcoming and inclusive place,” Geathers told the school’s paper, The Tech.

Prior to running for office Geathers founded the “Talented Ten”, a program focused on increasing applications and enrollment amongst Black women at MIT by pairing high school juniors with current students.

Geathers’ statement on the organization’s website reads, “I have created the Talented Ten because I understand the value that black females bring to campus while also understanding the tremendous loss the MIT community experiences when a qualified, underrepresented minority student chooses to not enroll.”

Now with Geathers’ in place as the student body president, she’s focused on pushing MIT to become a place where all students receive the institutional support they need to thrive.

Congratulations Danielle! We’re rooting for your success!

Source: Becauseofthemwecan

In Interviews&profile June 9, 2020 By Esther Ijewere

Owner Of Black Girl Sunscreen Secures $1 Million Investment

The owner of Black Girl Sunscreen secured a $1 million investment from a private woman funder, Forbes reports.

Even in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, Shontay Lundy, owner of Black Girl Sunscreen (BGS), was still able to secure the investment needed to take her business to the next level. BGS is the only Black-owned indie brand carried full time in Target’ sun care section, an accomplishment in and of itself. Now, Lundy partnered with a private investor to the tune of $1 million to help scale her brand even further.

The company currently only sells adult and children’s sunscreen. The BGS SPF 30 and BGS Kids SPF 50 is sold in over 200 Target stores across the country and the brand is worth a cool $5 million. With only 5 people on staff, Lundy wanted to ensure that she continued the company’s momentum through the pandemic, instituting an “all hands on deck” approach that included aggressive social media strategy and marketing efforts, resulting in an increase in e-commerce orders.

“I told the team we need to change the narrative and be very nimble to survive this. I worked hard for three years. We created a groundbreaking product for an underserved market that resonated with our community. Black Girl Sunscreen brought awareness and shifted a mindset around people of color wearing sunscreen. Lastly, it didn’t hurt that we [already] secured a partnership with a big-box retailer, which activated national exposure for our brand,” Lundy told Forbes.

The brand launched in 2016 and has been popular with women of color. The paraben free product that includes moisturizing natural ingredients like avocado, jojoba, aloe, cocoa butter, and carrot juice caters specifically to melanated women, allowing them to enjoy wearing the sunscreen without the residue and harsh chemicals included in other brands. With Black-owned women companies receiving less than 1 percent of all venture capital funding annually, Lundy said that seeking an investor who was also a woman just felt “natural” to her.

The company not only sells sunscreen but also educates melanated women about why the product is needed for their skin as well, warning against sunburn, skin cancer, and signs of aging. Lundy says the funds will help take the brand to the next level and allow the company to release more products sooner than later. She hopes that her story will encourage other Black entrepreneurs to seek out all resources when getting their businesses off the ground.

“My advice for other minority businesses looking for funding is to take advantage of grants and available resources, participate in pitch competitions to learn how to sell your business and gain exposure, have buttoned-up financials; and put yourself in environments to meet investors/high-net-worth individuals,” Lundy said.

Congratulations Shontay! We can’t wait to stock up on our sunscreen!

Photo Courtesy of Black Girl Sunscreen

Source: Becauseofthemwecan

In Interviews&profile June 9, 2020 By Esther Ijewere

North Carolina Senior Gets Accepted Into 45 Colleges, Receives More Than $4 Million In Scholarships

A North Carolina graduating senior has a lot to be excited about, getting accepted into 45 colleges and receiving more than $4 million in scholarships, WTVD reports.

Ive Jones is a senior at Apex Friendship High School in North Carolina. While commencements everywhere have been canceled as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Jones is still celebrating, and rightfully so. The 17-year old is graduating summa cum laude, with acceptance letters to 45 out of the 50 schools she applied to and $4 million in academic scholarships.

“Being awesome was being authentically me, and I didn’t know that until I saw other Black kids doing it,” Ive told Because of Them We Can.

The rising college freshman has worked hard to get to where she is today. At just 11 years old, she organized a fundraising campaign to help children in Africa who were orphaned as a result of the Ebola pandemic, setting an initial goal of $4,000 and raising nearly $30,000. Last year, Jones organized a health conference in Raleigh, North Carolina to encourage young women and people of color to pursue careers in STEM. She’s always had an interest in the health sector and has focused most of her energy thus far on making an impact there. The irony of her graduating while navigating a pandemic here in the U.S. isn’t lost on us.

“As a student, these things are things we’re going to be discussing in class and I’m going to need to know thoroughly in order to apply my knowledge later on,” she said.

Jones is taking her talents to Princeton where she plans to major in global health on full scholarship. Her mother, Catherine Jones, said she’s just so proud. “I’m immensely proud of her. She’s just a hardworking person. [Graduation] was a moment we’ve looked forward to. But in everything you have to find gratitude. And you know, at the end of the day we’ll still get to celebrate. I’m West African and we find ways to celebrate,” Catherine Jones said.

Ive is still hoping that she can celebrate with her class when this is all over. But for now, she’s just focused on the future.

Congratulations Ive!!

Photo Courtesy of WTVD

In Interviews&profile June 9, 2020 By Esther Ijewere

This Chicago Teen Just Earned Her Master’s Degree At Just 14-Years-Old

A 14-year-old Chicago teen is celebrating a huge win, graduating with her master’s degree before most of her peers have graduated from high school.

According to Rolling Out, Dorothy Jean Tillman has been exceeding expectations her entire life. At just 8 months old she began talking, by four she was completing math problems and by nine she was starting high school. Three years later at the age of 12, she earned her bachelor’s degree in humanities from Excelsior College.