Women of Rubies
Category

Rubygirls

Category
In Inspiration By

#RubyGirl | “Don’t Give Importance To What Others Think About You. – Joy Benjamin

Benjamin Joy Abah, also known as Joyben is the first child in a family of six. She is a native of Benue state, Idoma to be precise. She is a 500 level Law student of Joseph Ayo Babalola University (JABU), Fashion influencer, Youtuber and a pro Makeup artist. She is the CEO of jb_signatures based in Akure, Ondo state.

Her passion lies in inspiring and sharing life experiences while informing, educating and entertaining people.
She believes that fashion does not need to have tangible functionality and one doesn’t need a reason to justify an outfit. Fashion is a personal feeling. She’s a shy person, but also super active when she’s comfortable.

She shares her “Ruby Girl” story in this interview.

 

1. Who is Joy Benjamin?

I am a 500 level Law student at the Joseph Ayo Babalola University, a makeup artist and also a fashion stylist and enthusiast.

2. Who and what inspired you to be a makeup artiste?

There is always one special thing that sparks the “I wanna be a makeup artist” feeling and that spark came when I was in my first year in the university during our law dinner to be precise. I was in line waiting for my face to beaten. I had to wait before it got to my turn all because I wanted to look beautiful on that day.
It was at first a feeling to satisfy my beauty pleasure before it became a passion and I do not regret it one bit.

My dad actually inspired me too, I mean he has been my number one supporter since day one. Thank you Dad.

3. What inspired you to go into vlogging and what is your Youtube channel all about?

I got the inspiration to start my YouTube channel while I was preparing for a test. And it was at that moment that I discovered that it could actually be a platform where I could freely express my self to the world and also share a lot of tips.

My YouTube channel is basically about beauty, fashion and lifestyle and you can check it out on YouTube “JB Unscripted.”

4. How  has the COVID-19 pandemic affected you as a student and business owner?

The overall impact of COVID-19 pandemic has been undeniable. And unfortunately it has really affected me as a student and as a business owner.
A lot of events have been canceled or rescheduled due to the corona virus which has in a way affected my income, classes have now been held online which hasn’t been easy since we are not used to that method.

In the given circumstances, I’m trying to do the best I can. But trying to manage everything through video calls or by just reading without explanation isn’t always enough.

5. Have you encountered any challenge(s) in your makeup business and YouTube channel? If yes, can you share it/them?

Content. The most challenging element is content.

Like any great content, making a video begins with a concept or an idea.
You must answer the basic questions about the message, the concept and the purpose of your brand.

6. How did you combine your studies with your business before the pandemic began?

Most times, I get to do makeup during the weekends except for some days when people have photoshoots and events during the week then I’d have to reschedule but mostly my makeup classes and makeup sessions are usually during the weekend so I usually have the whole week to myself to study.

7. What has COVID-19 pandemic taught and opened your eyes to?

This corona virus is very dangerous but was successful in teaching me great lessons.
There is nothing serious in our World. So, live as you want to live, to what you want to do. No one knows when it all ends.

8.What is that one thing you’ll like to change about yourself?

If there’s anything I’d like to change about my self is to stop procrastinating so much.

“I would ensure that Judges should be properly screened to ensure that only people of proven integrity are appointed as judicial officers.”

9.List three women who inspire you and why?

When I think of inspirational women, I do not think immediately about those who have achieved success in a leadership role. My mom is my number 1 inspiration in all facets of life. Not only is she my best friend, but she inspires me on a daily basis, it’s hard to even put into words how much I admire her, but I know that if I’m ever having a bad day or need advice, she’ll drop what she’s doing to make sure I’m OK. I’m eternally grateful for our incredibly close relationship, and I hope that one day I’m able to be half as good as a mother (or person) as she is!

Funke Adekoya SAN, a partner at ǼLEX – one of Nigeria’s most prestigious law firms. She is a woman with an undeniably illustrious and successful career. Her ability to take on multiple roles and continue to promote progress in the legal sector and ensure its accessibility to all who are passionate about it makes her particularly unique and special.

Oprah Winifred has always been an inspiration to me. I love her spirit . She is a strong willed woman who has defied age and gender and has been super duper successful. There is a lot to learn from her.

10. If given the chance to be the Chief Justice of Nigeria for a day, what will you change?

One day isn’t enough but one thing I’d do is to review all the cases that the public consider unfair and unjust.
I would ensure that Judges should be properly screened to ensure that only people of proven integrity are appointed as judicial officers, but that security agencies should equally monitor them closely and routinely and also judicial officers should abstain from membership of political parties to avoid influence from the political class.
All judicial officers would be adequately remunerated to reduce the excessive craving and likelihood of corruption and finally the practice of the Executive arm of government approving the appointment of Judges would be abolished to reduce the perceived influence of the Governors and President on the judiciary.

11. Did your upbringing in any way prepare you for everything you are into today?

My parents have always thought me to think and act for myself, forced me to learn at an early age to be responsible and hard working. Taught me that our actions and consequences are no one’s responsibility other than our own and that the choices we make directly affect how happy and successful we would be. So, yeah they’d prepare me for everything I am today. Shout out to my parents.

12. Where do you see yourself/your brand in the next 5 years?

That I just don’t give up. Never.

I have built a lot of resilience over the years. In true sense, I can fall seven times, and I would stand up eight.

13. If you were given the opportunity to address a group of girls five years younger than you, what will be your advice to them?

My advise to them would be that you don’t give importance to what others think about you and move forward. Pay attention, but don’t stay with the limiting information in your head. Chew it and throw out what isn’t helping you thrive and become a better you. There will always be people around you who will not care to see you, those who will choose to say that you can’t achieve what you want just to serve their own frustrations. Those people are already around and will be, throughout your life. Make every effort to recognize them and use their presence to make yourself a better person, who will make the wisest choices in life.

I know this may sound cliche, but love yourself. Have a positive attitude. It’ll really help your self esteem.

by
Keep Reading
In Inspiration By

#Rubygirls| “Nigerians Owe Their Hardwork And Persona To Their background” -Oluwafunmilayo Anifowose.

Oluwafunmilayo is a Fashion designer and fashion stylist.she came into the fashion world 8 years ago and has been working professionally for 7 years. She learnt the tailoring out of boredom during her WAEC holidays but eventually derived passion in fashion even though she has always wanted to be a banker since she was a child.

She styled the award winning Movie Director Jade Oshiberu to the  AMVCA awards 2 years ago and two of her collections was also on the show this year.
She worked as an assistant costumier on the Sugar Rush movie…
She is passionate about self reliance,independency and industrious.
She is also a chef and a model.
Oluwafunmilayo is a 200 level student of National open university.

She shares her “Ruby Girl” story in this interview.

1. Let’s meet you. Who is Oluwafunmilayo?

My name is Oluwafunmilayo Anifowose; a 22 -year old fashion designer from the western part of Nigeria;lagos to be precise and i’m the Creative Director of Oprah’s cut.

2. What made you venture into the fashion industry?

I got engaged out of boredom after concluding my junior school certificate and the economic state of the nation triggered my action.

3. You fancied being a banker in your childhood days. What made you drop it?

The unemployment rate in the country and the issue of job security and getting a job in nigeria has become worrisome

4. Apart from Fashion designing what other things are you involved in?

Interestingly I’m a certified chef from self reliance catering school and also a certified makeup artist but basically into the fashion business

5. What are the challenges you faced when you started out as an entrepreneur. Do you still experience them? And also how were you able to overcome them?

Basically family members and friends wanting me to do free jobs and i will always work every time with no profit after all the efforts

a) i still experience that sometimes but i stand my grounds never to mix business with pleasure anymore

b)My upgrade in the fashion game and my new personality helped in scaring them from approaching me with free job offers

6. What has the Covid-19 pandemic taught you as an individual, brand and business owner?

It taught me to always have a plan B;to always save for the raining days and the pandemic gave me an avenue to advertise my brand more on social media because everyone was on social media at that time because of boredom and they view and see whatever you post; i took that chance and it increased my client base

7. Challenges young Nigerian fashion designer face? How can it be mitigated?

The major problem young designers face is financial aid to enhance and setting up their brand….it can be mitigated if the government can set up institutions or platforms to help in securing loans and grants

8. What was growing up in a Nigerian home like for you? Did it in anyway contribute to everything you do now?

I believe its a well known fact that we Nigerians are a group of hardworking and highly motivated people and we owe that to the background and nurturing we had from our homes. This notion is a big part of who i am, the values and morals instilled in me by my parents is the backbone of everything i do.

9. If you were to be the President of Nigeria, what would you change?

I would change a lot actually but i think the most important and urgent change is the amendment of the Nigerian constitution which i think is not inline with the need and the reality we face as a country.

10. How do you juggle fashion designing, modeling, chef and studies?

I try not to be overwhelmed by my numerous activities by finding a balance between each passion.

11. Mention 3 women who inspire you and why?

My Mother,Mrs Folorunsho Alakija and Oprah Winfrey, they are goal getters and true definition of strong women.

12. Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?

I see myself already in my future,an international award winning designer, empowering and training thousands of people

13. If you were given the opportunity to address a group of girls five years younger than you, what will be your advice to them?

Never to relent and always remember you have gone too far to stop pushing.

 

 

 

 

by
Keep Reading
In Inspiration By

As A Creative, The Lockdown Has Been A Blessing- Divine Mumeh

Divine Favour Osomujie-paul Mumeh, also known as DF or Divi. is a lover of God. She is a Law student, content creator, a youtuber and a Podcaster, birthed out of her love to talk to people and communicate her own view.

She is the CEO of lashes by divi, where she sells quality lashes for affordable prices.She loves talking, engaging in self development conversation and loves reading alot.

Who is Divine Favour?

Divine Favour Osomujie-paul Mumeh is a 400l student of Law at Rivers state university(RSU). She is a lover of God, a jovial and goofy fellow.

She is a content creator, vlogger, (Ilahi’s empire on YouTube), and also a Podcaster (Coffee time with Divi).

2. Who and what inspires your creative flow?

My creative flow is inspired by God, by my environment, my creative flow is also inspired by myself. I desire to continuously impact lives and because of that I keep on pushing.

3. How has the covid-19 pandemic affected you as a student, creative and business owner?

Covid-19 has affected me greatly as a student because since it’s inception into Nigeria, schools have been shut down and education has being on a pause, especially for students in the public schools.

As a business owner, it also has a negative effect because due to the interstate lock down, delivery of products have been low. At a point the whole business was on a hold.

As a creative, the lockdown has been a blessing, this is because now people are at home, there is less workload, and people are looking for platforms to keep them engaged during this period.

4. You vlog with your YouTube channel “Ilahi’s Empire” and recently started a podcast last December “Coffee Time With Divi”. What birthed both and what do they border on?

When I was undergoing the process of self discovery, I realized that there was nothing I liked to do and I am not like those very fortunate to know what their talents are. I realized within that time that I loved to talk, I didn’t know and still don’t know if it counts as a talent but anytime I am talking, I am happy, so I decided to rebrand my talking and make it useful, also before that time I had always dreamt of having a YouTube channel, and I kept waiting for the right time, then one day I just woke up did makeup and I started a relationship series shot 7 videos that day and started uploading.

My podcast was also birthed by my desire to talk. My YouTube channel and my podcast borders on Relationship talks, lifestyle, Vlogs and also me sharing my views on trending topics.

5. Major challenges young creatives and entrepreneurs face in Nigeria?

I think the major challenge young creatives and entrepreneurs face in Nigeria is that they tend to put themselves under pressure by comparing themselves with bigger brands that have toiled to be where they are, I believe your starting stage is a stage to acquire all the experience you need, make mistakes and get forgiven.

6. What has Covid-19 pandemic taught and opened your eyes to?

Value. It has taught me value, the world at large is on hold, but people are still relevant and still making it big in these times, the big question is: Is what you are doing adding value to people around?

7. What is one thing you’ll like to change about yourself?

My unserious nature.

8. List three women who inspire you and why?

Michelle Obama: She inspires me to be that successful woman behind a successful man, her love and support to her husband is overwhelming.

Tara Durotoye: She was amongst the pioneers of makeup brands in Nigeria, I like her perspective to life.

My mom: She is the strongest woman I know and she inspires me to be strong.

9. What inspired you to start your own beauty line: Lashes by Divi. Any plan to expand it to more beauty products? Challenges when you started and any till now?

I actually learnt how to do make-up and during that period I got interested in makeup products so when I had the opportunity to start I took it, yes if money comes I plan to expand to more beauty products.

Getting a good customer base is a huge challenge

10. If given the chance to be the Chief Justice of Nigeria for a day, what will you change?

Go through the cases of those in the prisons and the innocent ones, apply for pardon for them.

11. Did your upbringing in any way prepare you for everything you are into today?

Yes it did. Character wise, and also my love for business grew from staying in my mom’s shop and selling for her.

12. Where do you see yourself/your brand in the nest 5years?

I see my brand becoming a household name, a brand that offer value to people globally.

13. If you were given the opportunity to address a group of girls five years younger than you, what will be your advice to them?

You are a queen don’t settle for less.

by
Keep Reading
In Inspiration By

#RubyGirls| “Be Concious And Intentional About Your Thought Pattern”- Oluremi TejumoJesu

Oluremi TejumoJesu, also known as TenaciousTejumoJesu is a child of God and a Mindset Fixer, she helps individuals move their minds from average and mediocre to positive and excellent.

She has a coaching academy, Discovery Point With TenaciousTejumoJesu Academy,and this offers Coaching classes on Self Esteem,Purpose Discovery, Relationship with God and fellow humans.

She is the author of the book “You Are Enough.” She is also the Lead Volunteer of Blissful Vines Network.

She is also the CEO of Emerald Empire (a catering and event planning hub).

TenaciousTejumoJesu loves meeting people, cooking, reading, inspiring the world around her and leveraging on experiences.

She shares her Ruby Girl story with Aduragbemi Akintepede

1. Let’s meet you. Who is Tejumojesu?

TejumoJesu is a child of God who loves going about His Business. She is the second child in her family and she believes in ORIGINALITY and REBRANDING oneself as an individual.

2. What is Mindset Revamp?

Mindset Revamp is one of the programs from Discovery Point With TenaciousTejumoJesu Academy, and it aims to help individuals reset their mindset and also break some mindset myths that has been naturally built over a long period of time.

3. When did you realize your gift of revamping minds?

I realized this gift last year, precisely in the month of December.

4. You published a book titled “You Are Enough” what is the story behind it?

The story behind it is that of a young girl who suffered from low self esteem which affected her sense of identity. And she was able to overcome when she realized that she is enough just the way she is.
And that young girl is ME, TenaciousTejumoJesu

5. What does your book entail?

It is a true life story of how I struggled with low self esteem and what I did to overcome that defect.
I was very vulnerable with my readers as I gave personal examples from experiences.

6. What has the Covid-19 pandemic taught you?

It has taught me to go all out to add more knowledge to myself, it has also taught me COMPLETE TRUST IN GOD.

7. As a caterer and event planner how has the pandemic affected your business?

This pandemic didn’t affect my business, as I quickly switched to digitalization as soon as I noticed that the whole world virtually went online.
And it has since then been useful.

8. How do you relax or unwind from your busy schedule?

I take out time to REST, see a movie and spend time with my family.

9. As a Mindset coach what are the major challenges young people face in Nigeria and what is the way out?

All the challenge starts from the mind, and the only way out is to be concious and intentional about your thought pattern.

10. How do you juggle coaching, event planning and other activities you’re involved in?

I try to balance everything. And when I see that everything is overwhelming, I switch into “observation mode.”

11. *Mention 3 women who inspire you and why?

My mum
Chichi Ogbonnaya
Tolulope AkinbinuThey have been able to successfully groom me, and show me that as a woman, you can attain the greatest height and still be balanced!

12. *Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?

Married with two children.
Winner of the Forbes under 30 successful women.
Established in my coaching career and own a restaurant.

13. *If you were given the opportunity to address a group of girls five years younger than you, what will be your advice to them?

You can be whatever you put your mind to, you can be successful and no one can stop you from being the total and complete woman except you.

by
Keep Reading
In Rubygirls By

#RubyGirls | “My Upbringing Has Contributed A Whole Lot To Everything I Do Now”- Soyombo Precious

Soyombo Precious Iyanuoluwapo who is a secondary school student in her final class is a singer and writer. She is a young spoken word artist dedicated to spreading the love of God through words and poetry.

She is currently establishing online presence, writing poems, partnering with other poets and also working on a book.

Precious is currently the Teens President at Turning point center RCCG. She is a provincial executive for Lagos province 77. She is a host. An upcoming makeup artist. She also does some little hand crafts.

She shares her inspiring story with the Coordinator of Ruby Girls;  Aduragbemi Akintepede

1. Let’s meet you. Who is Precious?

I am the fifth of seven children. I am a girl. I’m a Christian. I am a poet, a singer, writer. I am an ambivert that is an extrovert and an introvert. I like being with people but I also like to be alone. I love to read. Reading is like my life force. I can read at any point in time anywhere. I am very positive, I love easily and I’m very joyful. I am a worker at Mine Teenage Ministry and also a member of Ladies with Radiance.

2. What are your hobbies?

My hobbies are reading, singing, writing, talking to people, learning new things and worshipping.

3. Where do you draw your inspirations from?

I draw inspiration from a lot of places. From God, people, random discussions, random thoughts. Just from anything.

4. You started early . At what age or class exactly did you discover your gifts? What motivated you to take them up?

I discovered my gifts over time, I’ve always known I could sing but I didn’t know I could write poems until 2016. I was 13 then. At first it was all just for the fun of it but it grew into passion and I know that my life is taking these paths.


5. Most memorable moment on stage?

My most memorable moment on stage was my first big ministration at Mine Teenage Ministry Worship Fiesta. I was supposed to do a poem with an older friend but he wasn’t able to get there on time so I had to do it alone facing rows of over 1000 people. I was scared but it worked out fine.

6. If you were given the chance to be the President of Nigeria for a day, what will change?

Well there is only so much I can do in a day. But I would at least try to start the process of cleaning up the media. At least what is available to the youths because there are a lot of unfavorable contents that are provided to them and it’s destroying their minds.

7. This is a period where the world in its entirety is yet to bounce back from the rage of a global pandemic. How has coronavirus (Covid-19) affected you as an individual and teen? Any message you will like to share concerning it?

As a teenager the Covid-19 pandemic has affected a huge part of my life. There are a lot of things that I should have done but I haven’t been able to do due to the pandemic. But on the flip side it has also given me a lot of time to grow mentally and spiritually. I’ve been able to learn a lot of new things, read a lot of new books and try a lot of new things.

As an individual, it has been time to reflect on things and become a better person.

8. Did your upbringing in anyway contribute to everything you do now?

My upbringing has contributed a whole lot to everything I do now. I know a lot of things due to the fact that I used to stay home a lot so I had time to read as much as I liked. I have parents that support me and even push me to be better. My siblings are my pillars of strength. The moment they discover that I can do something they push me to be better and do more. I’ve been brought up to always strive to be the best in all that I do and that is what brought about my drive for Excellence.

9. Any major challenge for young artists in Nigeria? Any tips on how you scaled through these challenges?

I think that the main challenge young artists have is being true to their source. They think that they have to do drugs or join groups. Personally I haven’t really gone through these challenges because the people I have in my circle are people who have the same ideals as I do. But I would say that they just have to be true to their source. Build a circle of people who think like you and be yourself. Don’t try to be like any other person. Be your own brand.


10. You are in your final class in secondary school. You are a spoken word artist, a writer, poet, host and also learn other skills. How do you juggle your academics with these other activities? What is your study routine as a student and as an artist who constantly needs to be better?

Well at first it was really hard to juggle everything because sometimes I have ministrations on school days or I had a poem to write or memorise. But with time I have learnt to give time to everything. I don’t mind reducing my sleep or my rest so that I can do all that I have to do. I do lots of my school work at night because I can concentrate more at that time. Many times I’m reading and preparing for a ministration at the same time. I have learnt to multitask and work under pressure. As a student, I create time to read which nothing disturbs then there is also time for being an artist. It’s like being two people. But I separate my life as a student from my life as an artist.

11. Mention 3 women who inspire you and why?

Firstly my mum ( Mrs Clementina Soyombo).
She has always been one of my sources of support. That woman pushes me to be the very best. She supports my decisions and trusts me. She provides to the best of her abilities everything that I need to grow. She defends me and prays for me.

• Mrs Titilope Adigun. She is a pharmacist, a mother and Wife to Timilehin Adigun. She is an hardworker and an encourager. She helps people to discover themselves and is a person of love

* Adenike Soyombo. She is an entrepreneur, she is a teacher, a friend and mentor. She is a Christian. She is the founder of Ladies With Radiance and a worker at Mine teenage ministry. She is also a source of inspiration to me because she pushes me to be better and criticizes constructively. She is also my older sister.

12. Where do you see yourself and your brand in the next 5 years?

In the next five years I’ll be done with University, I would have written over 200 poems and at least one book. I would be working and preparing to open a Fashion company too.


13. If you were given the opportunity to address a gathering of secondary school students like you, what will be your advice to them?

My advice to secondary school students like myself would be to work hard and find their passions. They shouldn’t have to be stereotypes but they can be everything that they want to be through hardwork and prayers. Life is not a bed of roses but it’s not a bed of nails either.

by
Keep Reading
In Inspiration By

#RubyGirls| “If You Don’t Fail Sometimes, How Will You Know What You’re Not Doing Right” – Ejiro Agambi

Ejiro Agambi, a graduate of Computer Science from Lagos State University, is a vibrant and an enterprising Nigerian committed to adding value and creating job opportunities.

She’s the Founder of JEOVIL GROUP which houses one of Nigeria’s leading cleaning companies; Jeovil Cleaning and Maintenance Services, LuxuryVox (The Gift Company) and other brands.

A 2019 SME100 Africa, 25under25 Awardee for professional service, an Alumnus of the U.S Exchange Program- Academy for Women Entrepreneurs.

Ejiro Agambi

1. Let’s meet you. Who is Ejiro

I am Ejiro Agambi, an enterprising Nigerian, committed to adding value and creating job opportunities.

My company is a market leader in the provision of detailed cleaning service for residential, commercial and industrial needs.

 

2. Your hobbies?

Singing, Reading & Graphic designing/ UX/UI

3. Mention three women who inspire you and why

The world is full of inspiring women to study and learn from. But, on a more personal level, I can attest that studying and learning from various great women in history has helped to shape who I am and becoming. They have informed the kind of leader I want to be as a CEO/as an individual as well as the kind of mother I want to be to my future children.

As asked, here are just three examples of the women who have made me the businesswoman and individual I am today.

(1) My mother (Dcns.Mrs.Evelyn Agambi)
She’s a teacher, leader and a business woman. I watched her influence her students, colleagues, women group members, customers and even her neigbours at her place of business simply by the way she carried herself, honour God, and with how hard she worked to solve and think through the problems of others.
She taught me, in this way, what it looks like to be a peoples’ person. How helping others solve problems requires thinking empathetically alongside them so as to truly understand what they’re going through and think about the problem from “their level.”
Thanks to her, I now know that being a real leader requires more than intelligence, ability, or even the capacity to inspire. It requires time, care, genuine concern and God’s grace .

Mrs Ibukun Blessing Awosika and Mrs Tara Fela Durotoye. They both have some ‘similarities’ role models worthy of emulation, they are an inspiration to thousands of women, young and old all around the world from them who have learnt how to effectively balance career, family and spirituality.

4. Your biggest fear?

Failure

5. When was JEOVIL GROUP birthed and what inspired you to start a cleaning company?

Jeovil Group was birthed few years ago. I notice details a lot and sometimes when I visit friends and relatives, I end up helping them to organize and clean their spaces, so I said to my self ‘why don’t I let other people know what it feels like to have an excellently cleaned space?’

6. As an award-winning entrepreneur with with a company that is a market leader in the provision of cleaning service, what has been the major challenge(s) so far?

Major challenges are finance, some contract staff ‘janitors’ disappointing at times, not meeting deadline, not being able to get the kind of high quality cleaning equipment I want but this has resulted to us birthing a Cleaning Equipment, Supply and Hygiene brand which will be launching soon.

7. You have divisions in Lagos, Abuja and most recently in Accra, how do you deal with the demands of operating in different areas and another country and what makes your brand unique?

By the grace of God, we’ve put in place proper structures to enable us handle operations in our different locations effectively. We are unique because our focus is EXCELLENCE and we do not deliver less. We are very detailed and I mean detailed to the core.

8. You are a graduate of Computer Science from Lagos State University. Any plans to venture into tech in the nearest future?

Definitely.

9. If given the chance to be the President of Nigeria for a day, what will you change?

Ohh… there’s a lot to change! From insecurity to electricity to the rules that govern businesses in Nigeria.

10. Luxury Vox is a gift company under JEOVIL GROUP alongside other brands with several awards to your credit, where do you see the group and your brands in the next five years?

I look forward to Jeovil being an household name across Africa and to provide more jobs in the next 5 years.

11. Favourite quote

My favorite quote is “ When you fail to plan , you plan to fail” there’s a lot to this quote, PREPARATION IS IMPORTANT.

12. What keeps you up at night?

(Giggles) I sleep at night.

13. If you were given the opportunity to address a group of girls five years younger than you, what will be your advice to them?

Don’t be too hard on your self, take things one step at a time, draw closer to God, have direction, have a picture of what you want in life, what you want to be.
Turn your goals into prayer requests, strive to develop your self physically, mentally, emotionally and academically. Grow without seeing failure as the end of the world, because failure is a stepping stone to success, I mean if you don’t fail sometimes how will you know what you’re not doing right? No one is perfect, we are bound to be failures sometimes and it’s okay but don’t dwell on it, glean every lesson you can from that experience, and move ahead. Lastly, remember to stay humble and consistent.

 

 

by
Keep Reading
In Inspiration By

#RubyGirls | “People tend to look at young models as sex objects sometimes and that has to stop.” -Adesola Adebayo Chioma

Adesola Adebayo Chioma is a second year Botany student in the University of Lagos. She is 5’9 model, brand ambassador and influencer.

Adesola is an only child of Yoruba and Igbo parents. She loves online shopping, watching movies, surfing the internet and trying out new foods at restaurants.

*1. Let’s meet you. Who is Adesola?*

My name is Adesola Adebayo Chioma. I’m a 200 level student studying Botany in the University of Lagos. My mom is Igbo while my dad is Yoruba which explains the combination of my names. I’m also the only child of my parents.

I love to watch movies, shop online, surf the internet and go out to restaurants to try out new foods.

 

*2. One accessory you can’t leave home without?*

My phone.

*3. You recreate pictures of female icons almost perfectly. What inspires and informs the styles you work with?*

The recreation of female icons isn’t usually planned. Mostly happens that after the pictures, I look like them.

Nothing actually informs my style. Once the photographer sends the mood board and it’s something I’m comfortable with and something I know I can do I just go ahead with it.

*4. One thing you’ll like to change about yourself?*

Nothing

*5. Modelling for you started when? What inspired you to be a model?*

Modeling for me started in 2016. My aunt was a makeup artist while I was in Js3, she’d always take me to her makeup training as her model until one day I met the CEO of MUD (Makeup designatory) who told me I had a very great skin, nice facial features and also told me I had the height to become a model. Ever since, I had always had the thought and the passion of being a model.

*6. You are a model. Bolt ambassador. Social media influencer yet a Botany student. How do you juggle the demands of your academics with other areas?*

To be very honest, it has not been easy, but my only motivation has been success. Sometimes you want to give up, but the hope for success won’t let you so I make sure I balance everything.

*7. Any major challenge for young Nigerian female models?*

There’s a lot of pressure on young models nowadays. School, social media influences, plus people sometimes tend to look at young models as sex objects and these things have to stop.

 

*8. You are passionate about fashion and modelling. What other creative fashion business ideas do you have and may want to venture into in the nearest future?*

I have always wanted to start up my own bag business but let’s see how that goes.

*9. If given the chance to be the President of Nigeria for a day, what will you change?*

Everything wrong with the present state of the country, definitely.

*10. What was growing up like for you? Did your upbringing in any way prepare you for everything you do now?*

Growing up was a bit boring! Lol but my mum was the typical African parent, and yes my upbringing did prepare me for most of the things I do now.

*11. Mention 3 women who inspire you and why?*

Hmm three women, to be honest, my biggest inspiration is my mum because she’s the strongest woman I’ve ever known.

*12. Where do you see yourself and your brand in the next 5 years?*

I don’t think I’d be a model in the next 5years. I have other plans to go into Tech and few other things.

*13. If you were given the opportunity to address a group of girls five years younger than you, what will be your advice to them?*

Do what makes you happy, but do not damn the consequences and also pray.

by
Keep Reading
In Inspiration By

#RubyGirls| “I took advantage of a strike action in my school to start up my business” – Temitayo Johnson-Laleye

Temitayo Johnson-Laleye is a final year student of Sociology at the University of Ibadan. She is the founder and lead creative director of TJL Signature, a 21st century bizzare fashion brand.

TJL Signature focuses on creating bags and jewellery from everyday materials and upscaling them to irresistible accessories.

 

Her Instagram handles are: @temitayojohnsonlaleye
@tjl.signature

tjlsignature.business.site
Website

+234 909 959 0391
Contact number

1. Let’s meet you. Who is Temitayo?

I’m a final year student of Sociology at the University of Ibadan. I’m the Founder and Lead Creative Director of TJL Signature, a 21st century bizzare fashion brand.

2. What are your hobbies?

I love trying out new things. Finding different uses for basic materials. I enjoy watching movies and reading sometimes. Discussions with people, to understand their views on topics I’m interested in also make me excited.

3. Can you tell us about TJL Signature?

TJL Signature is the confidence and attraction that we offer youths who desire to stand out in the Fashion accessories they select. We focus on creating bags and jewelry from everyday materials and upscale them to irresistible accessories.

4. Who exactly are your target customers?

Students between 15 and 25

5. When did TJL signature come into existence? What motivated you to venture into it?

TJL Signature started, June 2017. There was a strike action in my school and it got me thinking about what existing business gaps I could identify. I found that the bag making industry then lacked spice and promptness. So we introduced both to the market and they grabbed our products with open arms.

6. What keeps you up at night?

Thoughts on how to progress.

7. You are the Creative Director of TJL signature. What working experience can you share as regards that? Any major challenge?

It’s been an interesting ride. The major challenge has been balancing the brand with school. However, against all odds, we’re excelling.

8. You seem to be passionate about fashion. What other creative fashion business ideas do you have and may want to venture into in the nearest future?

 

It’s all about fashion accessories for me. The mainstream fashion industry is saturated. However, trainings are currently in the works and expansion is in view.

9. If given the chance to be the President of Nigeria for a day, what will you change?

I will increase import duties.

10. How do you juggle your academics with fashion business?

I have ad hoc staff who keep working when I’m busy.

11. Mention 3 women who inspire you and why?

Ife Durosinmi-Etti – She’s a burst of energy who would stop at nothing to empower other women.

Mofoluwaso Ilevbare – She’s a humble woman who is unstoppable in her career-family-social life balance.

Adekunbi Adeoye – Founder of Sesewa who has given herself to helping young female students gain equal representation in their careers. She helps us achieve our professional dreams.

12. Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?

I see myself as an international youth ambassador for Entrepreneurship and empowerment.

13. If you were given the opportunity to address a group of girls five years younger than you, what will be your advice to them?

I would tell them to fade out society’s voice and thrive to be the women they aspire to because they can.

by
Keep Reading
In Inspiration By

#RubyGirls | “You not recognizing that you’re precious and beautiful is your blindness” – Eniola Moyinoluwa Bello

Twenty year old Eniola Moyinoluwa Bello is a graduate of Political Science from the prestigious University of Ekiti. She co-owns Moi Jewel O.F multiglobal company with her mom.

Eniola volunteers with Gender Mobile Initiative and Ruby Girls Ng. She is a strong believer of personal growth and positive thinking.

Eniola loves reading novels a lot but can also be found surfing the internet for long hours.

1. Let’s meet you. Who is Eniola?

I am Bello Eniola Moyinoluwa. I’m the first of four children. I hail from Ekiti State and I’m a “fresh” graduate of Political Science from Ekiti State University. I had my primary and secondary education in Lagos though, before moving down to Ekiti. I enjoy reading and surfing the net. I’m a positive thinker, I like to see the good in every situation.

2. What are your hobbies?

I enjoy reading, surfing the net and sometimes writing.

3. What is your biggest fear?

This may sound cliche but my biggest fear is losing everyone I love.

4. Best quote?

“You not recognizing that you’re precious and that every inch of you is beautiful is your blindness.” You are a gift.

5. You started writing at an early age. What do your writings border on and what inspired your early writing?

(Chuckles) I’m more of a reader. Well, I write about anything that catches my fancy. Erm, I guess the books I read inspired my early writing and I had my childhood friends ( Joy and Kofoworola). We often wrote stories to compare.

6. You started a business with your mom right from your undergraduate days named Moi Jewel O.F Multiglobal company. How was it like combining your academics with it and also partnering with your mom on a business?

My mom initially started the business way back and she’ll give me some to help sell in school. I’ll bring the proceeds to her and I got my own little “change” from it too. She suggested since the business was doing well in school and people were ordering more, I should join as well. It isn’t a bad idea making a little dough for one’s self. That’s how I started going to the market with mom and so yeah. It didn’t affect my academics in any way because during exams, I wouldn’t bring goods to school.

7. You are a volunteer with Gender Mobile Initiative. What are the things the organization seek to address? How far has the organization being able to achieve these objectives?

Gender Mobile is an NGO established in ending sexual and gender-based violence by leveraging and harnessing the power of technology. We endeavor to facilitate victims’ access to support services through accessible channels and platforms.

How far?

Sometimes this year, we did an online survey on sexual harassment of university students in Ekiti State University.

There’s the adolescent hub too where we visit different schools in different local government areas of the state to provide information and build the knowledge capacity of adolescents through multiple exposure to life building skills.

There’s the Gender Mobile food hub initiative as well. We’re trying to help during this pandemic by giving foodstuffs to vulnerable women and children in Ekiti State.

8. Mention three women who inspire you to be better and why

I) This sounds cliche too but my mama is my biggest inspiration.

ii) Tiffany Haddish after reading her book the last black unicorn. She went through a lot of shit but here she is now.

III) Ibukun Awosika, she inspires me at all times.

*9. If given the chance to be the President of Nigeria for a day, what will you change?*

I’ll most likely ensure free sanitary pads are provided for ladies. It’s heartbreaking when you see or hear of ladies using clothes or other unhygienic things during their menstrual cycle.

10. What keeps you up at night?

If I’m not reading, I’m probably surfing the net.

11. You are a team member of Ruby Girls Ng. How has volunteering for it affected you as a person and what are your thoughts about platforms for young females?

It’s wonderful what we do with @rubygirlsng. It’s given me an insight into lives of women who should be celebrated always. It’s inspiring too, after reading about them, you want to do and be more too.

12. Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?

Well, I’m going to be learning and gaining practical experience. I hope to take a course on Development Study. I want to make impact too, touch lives.

13. If you were given the opportunity to address a group of girls five years younger than you, what will be your advice to them?

Never seek validation from anyone. Don’t sell yourself short, because at the end of the day it isn’t what they call you but what you answer to.

by
Keep Reading
In Inspiration By

#RubyGirls| “Charity runs in the blood of my family” – Miracle Sulieyol Igbokoh

Miracle Sulieyol Igbokoh popularly known as Mimi is a Law graduate of Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Ikeji Arakeji, Osun state and also the Nigerian Law School, Abuja Campus.

Mimi who hails from Benue State is the founder of Mirabell Child Education Foundation, an impactful NGO where she and her team reach out to school children and widows.

Let’s meet you. Who is Mimi?

My name is Miracle Sulieyol Igbokoh, I am from Benue State. I am a Law graduate from Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Ikeji Arakeji, Osun State.


Also a fresh graduate from the Nigerian Law School, Abuja Campus.
I am the Founder of MIRABELL CHILD EDUCATION FOUNDATION.

What are your hobbies?

My hobbies are reading, making research, travelling, singing and making friends.

What is your biggest fear?

My biggest fear is to fail my parents, siblings and everyone that look up to me.

Best quote

There is no impossibility for him who stands prepared to conquer every hazard.
The fearful are the failing – Sarah J. Hale.

You are the founder of Mirabell Child Education Foundation where you reach out to school children and widows. What inspired you to start your own foundation and what fueled your desire to start?

Charity runs in the blood of my family.
Growing up, I have always watched my parents make sacrifices for people to our detriment.


I remember one time, we had nothing at home to eat, someone called my dad and requested for an urgent help, my dad at that time just received a payment he was supposed to use to get food for the house and pay our fees, instead of using the money to do the basic things we needed at home, my dad used the money to assist his friend.
So growing up and witnessing how it is so easy for my parents to give, it became a huge part of me and it has also helped in shaping me into the lady that I am today. So for me, charity has always been an inborn pleasure. Right from when I was growing up, I have always loved to put smiles on the faces of people around me. There’s this fulfillment I have, when ever God helps me to meet the need of people. It makes me happy.
I feel like being a care giver is my purpose in life.
I received God’s go ahead to register the NGO on the 24th February 2014. Registering the NGO was to make it official, so it can be accessible to everyone who is interested in being a sponsor or a partner.

Did your upbringing in anyway contribute to everything you do now?

YES.
My immediate environment constitute 75% of the things I do.

What are the major challenges young people who desire to have their own foundations face? Any personal experience and how were you able to deal with these challenges?

It is not easy starting up an NGO.
Almost everyone these days wants to have an NGO, and most who are in the position to help, have supported NGO’S that ended up using the funds that was donated to them for personal use instead of impacting the lives of the people that need it the most.
So getting financial assistance is difficult.
It’s not like I have outgrown that stage, but God has been faithful and has always come through for MICEF.
Since the official registration of my NGO, it has been my personal resources and support from my parents that has financed our outreachs.
During our most recent outreach in February, where we reached out to a school in Mararaba, Nasarawa state and we reached out to widows in Shiloh praise International church in Bwari, along Kaduna road. We had supports from my family, siblings and a few friends. For now, we don’t have sponsors yet, so for me I’ll say getting funds are the major challenges in owning an NGO.

Mention three women who inspire you to be better

1. Mrs Anthonia Igbokoh (My Mom)
2. Mrs Gloria Elijah
3. Mrs Ibukun Awosika

If given the chance to be the President of Nigeria for a day, what will you change?

I would try to eradicate poverty by making sure there are industries in every community within the 36 state in Nigeria, to ensure families in the bottom level get an opportunity to feed at least three times in a day, by creating employment opportunities for their children who are graduate or for themselves.
These industries would serve has a means of employment.

You are a graduate of Law from Joseph Ayo Babalola University and also a graduate of the Nigerian law school, Abuja campus. How has the study of Law influenced you as a person? Any future plans in that field?

Studying law has sharpened my mind, strengthened my understanding and deepened my experience across the full range of humanities and social sciences. It has also broadened my breadth of understanding. Having a law degree equips me for almost any profession that requires intellectual strength combined with a practical approach to the world.
And yes, I have plans of God in the judiciary, God willing.

Notable activities or achievements of Mirabell Foundation? Any memorable or defining moment with the foundation?

The defining moment for me, was during our last outreach to the widows in Bwari, during my interaction with the widows they said our coming was a divine intervention for them, telling me how even getting a cup of rice was difficult for them, I felt fulfilled being able to reach out to them.

The number of widows we had was beyond our expectation.

Another defining moment for me, was how God miraculously provided all we needed for the outreach, two weeks to the outreach we only had 5k in the account, in the space of few days God used the C.E.O of Peaceful Peace Import and Export Investment Company to donate 100k, that was someone I have never met or spoken to before. I was really overwhelmed with joy. It was a defining moment for me, because it was the first 100k support we have ever gotten from an outsider.

Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?

With the help of God, I see myself in the next 5 years impacting more lives and becoming more. I also see us having an office for Mirabell Child Education Foundation and not just reaching out to people within Abuja, I see us touching lives in the 36 states of Nigeria and even outside Nigeria as a country.

If you were given the opportunity to address a group of girls five years younger than you, what will be your advice to them?

My advice to them would be; They should believe in themselves, with the help of God they can achieve anything they set their hearts to do.
And they should make proper use of their time, in order to achieve their goals in due time.

by
Keep Reading