self development Archives - Women of Rubies

In Career Gems November 3, 2025 By Esther Ijewere

Jessica Campbell: Award-Winning Entrepreneur Redefining Sports, Entertainment Branding

Jessica Campbell is an award-winning entrepreneur, educator, and creative director based in Los Angeles. As CEO of PO3 Agency, she leads innovative branding and marketing campaigns across the sports and entertainment industries, working with Grammy-winning artists, athletes, and global brands. She has produced high-impact campaigns for platforms like ESPN and UBS Financial, generating billions of impressions. A recognized voice in media and leadership, Jessica continues to redefine storytelling, brand influence, and digital engagement worldwide.

From Southern California to Global Strategy

Born and raised in Southern California, Jessica’s creative spark was ignited the moment she saw her first sports graphic on ESPN. That early exposure to storytelling through visuals fueled her journey from a young designer to a respected marketing strategist and creative director.

Her academic path took a defining turn at Pepperdine University, where she shifted from Business to Integrated Marketing & Communications — aligning her creativity with strategic thinking. During college, Jessica interned with the John R. Wooden Award, where she gained deep insight into sports marketing and event strategy, setting the foundation for her entrepreneurial vision.

The Birth of PO3 Agency

In 2021, Jessica launched PO3 Agency with just three clients. In less than two years, it grew into a full-scale digital marketing powerhouse serving over 100 clients across sports, music, and fashion.

Today, PO3 Agency helps athletes, creators, and companies build authentic digital identities that resonate far beyond the screen. Jessica’s leadership emphasizes strategy, culture, and purpose — ensuring every brand her team touches tells a story that connects emotionally and endures over time.

Defining a New Era of Brand Storytelling

Jessica’s approach to branding is both bold and human. She believes success lies in showing up online with intention, not just visibility. Through PO3 Agency, she guides her clients to discover who they are, what they stand for, and how to express that authentically.

For athletes and public figures, this means creating personal brands that transcend the spotlight and extend their impact. Jessica challenges her clients to reflect deeply, asking:

“Who are you beyond your sport? What makes you different? Why would a brand choose you?”

This strategic and introspective style has made PO3 Agency one of the most sought-after firms for creative storytelling in North America.

Empowering the Next Generation

Beyond her agency’s success, Jessica is deeply passionate about mentorship and education. She frequently speaks at universities, summits, and creative workshops, sharing lessons on leadership, media, and personal branding.

Through PO3’s internship programs, she provides opportunities for emerging professionals to gain real-world experience in marketing, strategy, and creative production. Her guiding philosophy is simple but profound:

“Don’t fake it till you make it, own it from the start.”

A Trailblazer Shaping Culture

Jessica Campbell’s journey is proof that vision, grit, and authenticity can redefine industries. She’s not just building brands — she’s shaping culture. By combining strategy, creativity, and storytelling, she continues to open doors for women and young creatives who dream of leaving their mark on the world.

Her story reminds us that success isn’t about waiting for permission, it’s about creating the runway yourself and inviting others to walk it with you.

In Career Gems October 30, 2025 By Esther Ijewere

How Faith Oloruntoba Is Building Bridges Between Luxury Travel and Tech Innovation

Faith Oloruntoba is an entrepreneur, strategist, and innovator reshaping two worlds often seen as miles apart; travel and technology. Her story reflects a rare blend of creativity, resilience, and purpose that continues to empower women and businesses across continents.

From Luxury Travel to Life-Changing Experiences

As the Lead Travel Advisor and Founder of Ivory Luxe Journeys, Faith has built one of North America’s most trusted luxury travel consultancies. Over the past five years, she has curated bespoke travel experiences for more than 1,000 clients, spanning 200 destinations across Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean.

Her work goes beyond logistics, it’s about storytelling through travel. Each itinerary is designed to connect people to culture, community, and self-discovery. Through her 500-member women’s travel community, Faith inspires women especially caregivers and professionals to travel boldly and guilt-free.

“Every trip is more than leisure; it’s an act of freedom, connection, and rediscovery.” — Faith Oloruntoba

Empowering Small Businesses Through Innovation

In addition to her travel ventures, Faith founded Groupbuyhive, a tech-driven platform helping independent grocery retailers leverage collective buying power to reduce costs and increase profitability. Her approach bridges cultural intelligence with innovation, empowering underrepresented entrepreneurs with access to equitable resources.

Her leadership in digital innovation and community economics has earned her features during Black Futures Month and recognition from leading Canadian accelerator programs including League of Innovators, Black Founders Network Accelerate, and Elevate eCommerce North.

Championing Women’s Empowerment and Social Justice

Faith’s dedication to advocacy and equity extends far beyond business. As a Humanity in Action Senior Fellow, she has contributed to policy discussions at the European Union Parliament in Strasbourg and the Flight and Migration Forum in Berlin, highlighting issues around gender, migration, and minority representation.

She also founded SHE Talks Initiative, a youth-focused campaign providing sexual health education for Nigerian teenage girls, proof that her commitment to empowerment is both local and global.

A Legacy of Learning and Leadership

Faith holds degrees from some of the world’s most respected institutions, the University of Hamburg (Germany), Rotman School of Management (University of Toronto), Schulich School of Business (York University), and the University of Lagos (Nigeria).

Today, she serves as a Senior UX Content Designer at RBC Wealth Management, where she humanizes financial technology for clients through accessibility and inclusion.

Designing a Future of Dignity and Joy

For Faith, success is not measured by titles or trophies, but by the impact of community-driven innovation. Whether helping small businesses grow, mentoring women leaders, or curating global travel experiences, she continues to champion a world where technology, storytelling, and empathy intersect to create lasting change.

Faith Oloruntoba stands as a true Woman of Rubies, proving that with passion, purpose, and persistence, one woman can bridge industries and inspire transformation across borders.

In Career Gems October 30, 2025 By Women of Rubies

Urmi Hossain: Empowering Women Through Finance, Storytelling

In a world where women are constantly redefining what leadership means, Urmi Hossain stands out as a woman who truly wears many hats. A finance professional, author, speaker, blogger, and podcast host, Urmi’s journey reflects the power of resilience, self-discovery, and purpose-driven growth.

Currently based in Canada, Urmi works in the financial services industry and holds two of the most respected designations in global finance , CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) and CAIA (Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst). Her path in finance is not just about numbers, but about breaking barriers and empowering more women to pursue careers in the male-dominated world of finance.

A Voice for Identity and Belonging

Urmi’s debut book, Discovering Your Identity: A Rebirth from Interracial Struggle, offers a deeply personal look into her journey as a third-culture kid , avigating identity, culture, and belonging. Through her words, she invites readers to embrace their unique stories and see difference not as a barrier, but as a bridge to empathy and understanding.

Her storytelling continues through her acclaimed podcast, Stories Beyond Borders, where she explores themes of identity, migration, and what “home” really means. By amplifying diverse voices, Urmi fosters important conversations about inclusion and representation in an increasingly interconnected world.

Championing Women’s Empowerment and Leadership

Beyond her professional achievements, Urmi is passionate about women’s empowerment and personal growth. She serves as Co-Chair of Women in Leadership’s Montreal Chapter, where she advocates for mentorship, education, and equal opportunities for women in the workplace.

Her commitment to leadership is also evident in her role as an active Toastmasters member since 2019, where she has served as both VP of Education and Club President. Through public speaking, she continues to inspire others to find their voices, build confidence, and lead with authenticity.

A Lifelong Learner and Role Model

For Urmi, growth is a lifelong journey. Whether she’s boxing, running, or diving into a new book, she embodies the spirit of continuous learning and balance. Her life is a reminder that women can thrive in multiple spaces — combining intellect, empathy, and passion to create meaningful impact.

As Urmi prepares to share her expertise at the upcoming Media Visibility Bootcamp Cohort 5, her story continues to inspire women to show up boldly, speak their truth, and embrace their full potential.

In Inspiration October 31, 2025 By Women of Rubies

How Oluwanifemi “Niffy” Fagbohun Is Empowering Women Through Beauty, Business, Leadership

Oluwanifemi “Niffy” Fagbohun is a multi-award-winning entrepreneur, five-time bestselling author, and internationally trained Chemical and Polymer Engineer. With two decades of cross-industry experience, she has built a remarkable career that blends innovation, beauty, and empowerment. Her journey reflects the power of passion and purpose in driving transformation for women around the world.

Building a Community of 17,000 Entrepreneurs

As the Founder and Director of Montreal Vendors, Niffy leads a thriving network of more than 17,000 entrepreneurs in Quebec. Through this platform, she champions visibility, economic access, and cultural inclusion for small businesses and creatives. Her leadership has positioned Montreal Vendors as one of Canada’s most dynamic ecosystems for diverse entrepreneurs.

Redefining Beauty Through Safe and Sustainable Practices

Niffy is also the visionary behind Niffy Signature, a vegan, cruelty-free beauty brand that prioritizes health, safety, and sustainability. Through her work, she has empowered over 15,000 women globally by providing education, training, and access to safe beauty products. Her dedication to ethical entrepreneurship extends to the Niffy Wellness Foundation, a nonprofit advancing beauty health, mentorship, and wellness education for women and girls in underserved communities.

Global Recognition and Impact

Niffy’s groundbreaking work has been featured in major media outlets such as CityNews Montreal, Ticker News Australia, and The Guardian Nigeria. Her contributions to entrepreneurship and women’s empowerment have earned her numerous awards, including the Canadian Choice Awards (2024 & 2025) for Health and Beauty, Top 100 Black Women of Excellence to Watch in Canada (2023), and the Global Entrepreneurs Award (2025).

Leadership, Mentorship, and Global Advocacy

Beyond her businesses, Niffy serves on leadership teams with Playmas Montreal, CDNBCA, Gemstar School of Excellence, and Black Engineers of Canada. As a proud member of the Forbes Women Network, she uses her platform to mentor women and advocate for inclusivity in leadership.

A dynamic international speaker, she has delivered presentations across Canada, Nigeria, the U.S., the U.K., and Australia, inspiring audiences with her message of confidence, purpose, and wellness.

Confidence and Purpose

Through her foundation, bestselling book Your Beauty Police, and global advocacy, Niffy continues to create safer, more inclusive spaces for women and girls. Her life’s work embodies the essence of empowerment — proving that beauty, business, and leadership can all coexist when rooted in purpose and integrity.

In Career Gems October 17, 2025 By Women of Rubies

Sola Oluwole: Empowering Entrepreneurs Through Inclusive Finance and Leadership

Sola Oluwole is a development finance specialist and advocate for inclusive entrepreneurship. With over 15 years of experience, she helps diverse founders, especially women, access finance, mentorship, and growth opportunities.

A Visionary for Inclusive Growth

Sola Oluwole is a seasoned development finance specialist, business consultant, and advocate for inclusive entrepreneurship. With a career spanning over 15 years, she has worked with countless entrepreneurs to grow their businesses by facilitating access to financing, strategic advice, and networks that foster sustainable success.

Driving Impact Through Inclusive Entrepreneurship

As a former Regional Manager for Inclusive Entrepreneurship at the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC), Sola played a key role in connecting diverse entrepreneurs ,particularly women and minority founders with the resources, programs, and networks needed to thrive. Her work focused on breaking down barriers to business growth and promoting equity in entrepreneurship.

Championing Women Entrepreneurs Globally

Sola’s passion for empowering women entrepreneurs has guided much of her work. She co-leads 3G Action, an organization dedicated to helping underserved founders , including women, Black, and Indigenous entrepreneurs access funding, mentorship, and training. Her commitment to creating equitable ecosystems continues to shape conversations around inclusive business practices in Canada and beyond.

A Legacy of Service and Leadership

Outside of her professional achievements, Sola volunteers with local and international organizations committed to helping women and girls reach their full potential. In 2012, she founded a women’s capacity development organization that supports personal growth and leadership across several countries.

Education and Credentials

A certified Project Management Professional (PMP), Sola holds an MSc in International Development from the University of Manchester. Her blend of academic excellence and real-world impact positions her as a transformative leader dedicated to fostering inclusion, leadership, and empowerment in the business ecosystem.

In Editor's Choice November 11, 2025 By Women of Rubies

From Visibility to Leadership: Meet the Speakers for Media Visibility Bootcamp Cohort 5

The 5th edition of the Media Visibility Bootcamp, themed “From Visibility to Leadership: Turning Influence into Impact,” brings together a powerful lineup of women leaders, storytellers, and changemakers who are helping women elevate their voices and transform their visibility into lasting influence.

Hosted by Women of Rubies, the global empowerment platform founded by Esther Ijewere, this cohort continues the mission of equipping women with the tools to amplify their message, leverage media strategically, and build influence rooted in authenticity and impact.

Here’s a look at the inspiring voices shaping this year’s conversations:

Esther Ijewere |Media & Communications Strategist | Founder, Women of Rubies

A Canadian-based media and communications specialist, author, and advocate for women’s and children’s rights, Esther Ijewere is a columnist for The Guardian and CEO of Women of Rubies, an organization dedicated to empowering and celebrating women from diverse backgrounds. Through her advocacy and storytelling, she continues to help women across the world gain visibility and influence.

Andrea Carter | CEO, Andrea Carter Consulting | Forbes Council Member

A pioneering organizational scientist and DEIB strategist, Andrea Carter is the creator of the Belonging First Methodology™, the first validated tool for measuring organizational belonging. She has impacted over 100,000 employees globally, reshaping how leaders and companies approach inclusion and performance.

Sola Oluwole | Development Specialist | Co-Founder & Director, 3G Action Consulting

With over 18 years of experience spanning four continents, Sola Oluwole co-leads 3G Action, a platform helping underserved founders, particularly women and Black entrepreneurs access finance, training, and business growth resources.

Urmi Hossain | Finance Professional & Author

A CFA and CAIA Charterholder, Urmi Hossain blends her expertise in finance with her passion for women’s empowerment. She is the author of Discovering Your Identity and hosts the Stories Beyond Borders podcast, amplifying diverse stories around culture, identity, and belonging.

Chinwe Bode-Akinwande | Head of Sponsorships, Partnerships, Events and Collaboration, FirstBank. Founder, CBA Foundation

Chinwe Bode-Akinwande is a humanitarian, social impact leader, and corporate executive passionate about purpose-driven leadership. She serves as Head, Sponsorships & Partnerships at First Bank of Nigeria Limited, where she drives brand visibility and social impact initiatives. Chinwe is also the Founder of the Chinwe Bode-Akinwande (CBA) Foundation, a non-profit supporting widows and their children through empowerment, education, and advocacy. Her work blends compassion with corporate excellence, transforming lives and communities.

Tope Mark-Odigie (TMO) | Media Personality & Wealth Coach

As CEO of REB360 and co-host of Your View on TVC, Tope Mark-Odigie empowers women through financial literacy, real estate investment, and entrepreneurship. Her Game of Money conferences and bestselling book Transform continue to inspire individuals to build purposeful and abundant lives.

Adejisola Atiba (Lady ABHA) | Leadership Coach & Community Builder

With over 30 years of experience in banking and leadership, including nearly two decades with one of Canada’s Big 5 banks, Lady ABHA has transitioned from corporate success to community impact. As a TEDx speaker, author, and Founder of the Council of Nigerian Professionals, she continues to redefine purpose-driven leadership and inclusion.

Faith Oloruntoba | Tech & AI Expert

A Nigerian-Canadian entrepreneur bridging luxury travel and digital innovation, Faith Oloruntoba leads Ivory Luxe Journeys and a thriving women’s travel community. She empowers women to explore boldly while integrating technology into lifestyle and business experiences.

Omoshalewa Onayemi |Lawyer, Entrepreneur & Media Personality

A tri-jurisdictional lawyer and founder of Naijapreneur Canada, Omoshalewa Onayemi champions Nigerian businesses in Canada through entrepreneurship and storytelling. She also leads Klothier’s Zone by Shally, an Afrocentric fashion and lifestyle brand inspiring cultural pride.

Tobore Anne Emorhokpor | Women’s Advocate & Career Coach

A dedicated advocate and founder of NWIU and The Nigerian Child Protection Trust, Tobore Anne supports over 18,000 women through empowerment and financial inclusion. Her initiatives, Mich Rich Meg and Money Makers Alliance, focus on digital and financial literacy.

Oluwanifemi Fagbohun |Business Development Strategist | Founder, Montreal Vendors

Oluwanifemi “Niffy” Fagbohun is a multi-award-winning entrepreneur, five-time bestselling author, and global beauty and wellness expert. As Founder and Director of Montreal Vendors, she empowers over 17,000 entrepreneurs through visibility, inclusion, and growth. Through Niffy Signature and Niffy Wellness Foundation, she champions safe beauty, wellness education, and women’s empowerment worldwide. Featured in CityNews Montreal, Ticker News Australia, and The Guardian

Jessica Campbell |Award-Winning Brand Strategist | Founder PO3 Agency

Jessica Campbell is an award-winning entrepreneur, educator, and creative director based in Los Angeles. As CEO of PO3 Agency, she leads innovative branding and marketing campaigns across the sports and entertainment industries, working with Grammy-winning artists, athletes, and global brands. She has produced high-impact campaigns for platforms like ESPN and UBS Financial, generating billions of impressions. A recognized voice in media and leadership, Jessica continues to redefine storytelling, brand influence, and digital engagement worldwide.

About the Media Visibility Bootcamp

Since its inception in 2023, the Media Visibility Bootcamp has trained and empowered over 600 women across the world to gain visibility, media confidence, and thought leadership. This 5th edition expands its focus to digital storytelling, AI-driven media strategy, and authentic leadership development, with sessions designed to provide practical tools and global connection.

Stay tuned for more details, speaker spotlights, and registration information via www.womenofrubies.com and @womenofrubies on social media.

In Career Gems October 17, 2025 By Esther Ijewere

Andrea D. Carter: Pioneering the Future of Workplace Belonging

Andrea D. Carter is a globally recognized Neuroscience-Based Senior Consultant, Strategist, and Research Leader who is redefining workplace culture through the lens of belonging. In today’s rapidly evolving corporate landscape, the conversation around diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) has never been more critical. However, while many organizations focus on ticking the DEI checklist, few truly understand the transformative power of belonging.

A Trailblazer in Workplace Transformation

Andrea’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. With an impressive seven global awards in 2024 and three prestigious accolades already under her belt in 2025—recognizing her for Innovation, Strategic Leadership, and as a Top 100 Entrepreneur & Innovator to Watch—she is a force to be reckoned with. Her mission? To eradicate toxic workplace environments and replace them with cultures where every individual feels valued, seen, and empowered to thrive.

Academic Excellence Meets Real-World Impact

Armed with a Master of Industrial & Organizational Psychology, Andrea wears multiple hats with ease. She is a Senior Research Leader and an Adjunct Professor at Adler University, specializing in Belonging in the Workplace. As a Forbes Council Member and contributor to The Conversation Journal, her thought leadership reaches far beyond the boardroom. Her recognition as the Aspiring Innovator of the Year by the Coalition of Innovation Leaders Against Racism is a testament to her visionary impact in the field.

Groundbreaking Research That Redefines Belonging

In 2021, Andrea conducted pioneering research on Workplace Belonging, revolutionizing how organizations measure, analyze, and implement belonging-driven strategies. She developed the only validated organizational belongingness instrument capable of precisely measuring the disparity between dominant workplace cultures and underrepresented employees. This tool has set a new global benchmark for inclusive corporate culture, bridging the critical gap between DEI efforts and organizational performance.

Driving Systemic Change Across Industries

Andrea’s expertise in belonging and intersectionality, combined with her strategic consulting acumen, has made her a sought-after expert across seven industries. Her influence extends to thousands of employees worldwide, from high-pressure corporate environments to organizations committed to systemic change. Her data-driven approach ensures that her strategies are not just theoretical but deliver tangible, transformative results.

Shaping the Future of Work Through Belonging

Andrea D. Carter is more than a consultant or researcher; she is a catalyst for change. Her work goes beyond addressing surface-level issues, delving deep into the systemic roots of workplace toxicity and inequality. She envisions a future where workplaces are not just diverse and inclusive but truly spaces of belonging—where every voice matters, and every individual can thrive.

As organizations worldwide grapple with the challenges of the modern workplace, Andrea’s groundbreaking work offers a roadmap to a more inclusive, empowered, and successful future. Her mission is clear: to create workplaces where belonging isn’t just an initiative but the very foundation of organizational success.

In Career Gems October 17, 2025 By Esther Ijewere

Tope Mark-Odigie: Empowering Societal Growth Through Entrepreneurship

Tope Mark-Odigie stands as a beacon of transformation, leveraging entrepreneurship as a catalyst for societal advancement. With a fervent belief in real estate as a pathway to wealth creation, she tirelessly advocates for good governance to foster an enabling environment for Nigerians to thrive. For over a decade, she has graced television screens as an award-winning host of Nigeria’s most popular breakfast show, captivating audiences with her insights and infectious energy.

Visionary Solution Provider

As a visionary solution provider, Tope has collaborated with corporate organizations, non-profits, and government agencies to develop effective strategies addressing unemployment and promoting behavioral transformation. Her commitment to mindset reforms underscores her dedication to achieving collective societal growth.

Leading Initiatives for Empowerment

At the helm of REB360, Tope serves as CEO, spearheading initiatives focused on empowering individuals and fostering wealth creation through real estate. Additionally, she is the driving force behind WIRE Africa (Women in Real Estate, Africa), an NGO dedicated to facilitating the participation and financial empowerment of African women in the real estate sector.

Inspirational Figures

Tope draws inspiration from three remarkable women who have left an indelible mark on her life. Her mother, Mrs. Olayinka Odubella, epitomizes resilience and success, instilling in Tope the values of perseverance and determination. Ibukun Awosika, an entrepreneur and devoted servant of God, embodies the essence of success across multiple domains, serving as a guiding light for Tope’s aspirations. Lastly, Oprah Winfrey’s journey from adversity to unparalleled success serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and resilience, inspiring Tope to reach greater heights.

The “Game of Money” Conference

The “Game of Money” conference epitomizes Tope’s mission to demystify the complexities of financial management. By assembling a diverse lineup of coaches, entrepreneurs, and corporate professionals, the conference aims to impart invaluable insights on wealth creation, inflation management, and financial resilience. Through this platform, Tope seeks to bridge the gap between entrepreneurship and corporate sectors, empowering individuals to master the intricacies of the financial landscape and achieve financial freedom.

Conclusion

Tope Mark-Odigie’s unwavering commitment to empowerment and societal change serves as a testament to the transformative power of entrepreneurship. With her vision, resilience, and passion, she continues to inspire growth and create lasting impact in communities across Nigeria and beyond.

In Career Gems October 17, 2025 By Esther Ijewere

Chinwe Bode-Akinwande: Multifaceted Leader in Marketing, Strategy, Humanitarian Work

Chinwe Bode-Akinwande (CBA) is a distinguished marketing communications professional with over two decades of experience spanning brand communication, marketing, strategy, digital marketing, and corporate innovations. Her impact is felt across both public and private sectors, earning her recognition as one of the Top 50 Most Influential Women in Marketing and Corporate Communications by WIMCA for two consecutive years (2023 and 2024).

Professional Excellence in Corporate Communications

Currently serving as the Head of Digital Marketing at FirstBank, CBA also leads Sponsorship, Partnerships, Events, and Collaborations, driving strategic initiatives for one of Africa’s most reputable financial institutions. Her career journey includes leadership roles at esteemed organizations such as UNICEF (Head, PLM Division), Zmirage Multi-Media Limited, Selcroft Associates, Ibeto Group, and LynxTronix Computers.

Her vast expertise in brand management, marketing strategy, and corporate communications has positioned her as a thought leader in the industry. She holds certifications in Social Media Marketing from Hootsuite Academy, Strategic Brand Management from Austin University Texas, Digital Marketing from Edu Pristine USA, and Consulting from Harvard School of Continued Education, Boston, USA.

Academic and Professional Credentials

CBA holds a BSc. in Banking and Finance and a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) with a specialization in Marketing from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. She is also a Full Member of the Institute of Strategic Management Nigeria (ISMN), a Fellow of the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN), a Member of the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM) and the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), as well as a Full Member of the Sustainability Professionals Institute of Nigeria (SPIN).

Authorship and Thought Leadership

As an accomplished author, CBA has penned four books, sharing her wealth of knowledge and expertise in marketing, business, and personal development. Her works continue to inspire professionals and aspiring leaders in the marketing and corporate sectors.

Championing Humanitarian Causes

Beyond her corporate career, CBA is deeply passionate about social impact. She is the Founder of the Chinwe Bode-Akinwande Foundation (CBAFoundation), a non-profit organization dedicated to advocating for and supporting underprivileged widows and their children. Under her leadership, the foundation has positively impacted over 11,000 lives through its five-point agenda, which focuses on empowerment, education, and financial support.

Podcasting for Impact: Hope for the Widow

CBA is also the host of the podcast “Hope for the Widow,” a platform that provides support and encouragement to widows navigating life’s challenges. With over 40,000 listeners, the podcast has become a beacon of hope and empowerment for countless individuals.

Final Thoughts

Chinwe Bode-Akinwande exemplifies excellence in corporate leadership, marketing communications, and humanitarian work. Her dedication to uplifting others while excelling in her professional pursuits makes her a true inspiration. Whether through her strategic roles in corporate marketing, her influential books, or her impactful foundation, CBA continues to leave a remarkable legacy.

Stay connected with CBA as she continues to shape the future of marketing and social advocacy!

In Career Gems October 13, 2025 By Editor

Urmi Hossain: From 9–5 to: How I Turned Free Time into Purpose

Have you ever Googled yourself to see what’s out there about you? Because I have.

A friend of mine once pointed out how much of an online presence I’ve built. Before I’m invited to a podcast or asked to write an article, I’m often met with questions like, “How do you manage all of this?” “Where do you find the time to do the things you do?” “Why is it important to do the things you love?”

Simply put, nothing I’ve done so far was intentionally planned. I just followed my passions and put them “out there” for the world to see. So let’s go back in time to understand how it all started.

I’ve always been a woman with many passions. When I started my career in 2016, all I did was work, and I felt like I was missing out on life. My life felt empty and meaningless, just working all the time. I used to share my dreams with friends and family and talk about wanting to achieve all of them.

Then the pandemic happened. Suddenly, I had more time to do the things I loved: YouTubing, podcasting, blogging, creating content, and publishing books. It was 2020, the turning point that made me realize it was time to go after the things that truly matter to us.

As I began this adventure, I spoke with many industry experts, especially friends who were already pursuing their passions. Most of them were entrepreneurs, which meant they had to be on strict schedules and manage everything on their own. I, on the other hand, had to balance it all while working full-time and studying almost full-time, which left me with very little time.

My journey of pursuing my passions started with the concept of Ikigai, which means a reason for being, a purpose in life, or a sense of meaning. After reading the book Ikigai, I realized it was time to live with intention. It all started by following my curiosity and intuition. I wanted to write? I started a blog. I wanted to create YouTube videos? I opened a YouTube channel. None of this happened overnight. It was a step-by-step process filled with trial and error. I stepped outside of my comfort zone to explore what truly resonated with me.

Nothing came easily, and I faced many challenges along the way. When you pursue your passions, you’ll face judgment, zero support, and even backlash, but you have to cut through the noise and follow your intuition.

In my case, there was a lot of learning involved. I didn’t know much about YouTube or blogging, so I spent a lot of time learning. Since I was also working full-time, I kept it simple, posting twice a month on both platforms. Over time, as I exposed more of myself to the world, people started reaching out to me for podcasts, article features, interviews, and collaborations. Little by little, I began to build my online presence and personal brand. The things I valued most, the things I talked about online and in my content, became part of my identity. And it all remained consistent with who I truly was.

So, what was the secret sauce?

When it comes to pursuing your passions, there are three key things you need:

Passion must feel effortless.
Whatever you do should come from the heart. You do it because you want to.
You’ll always make time for it.
Whether it’s working out, cooking, or writing, we do it because it’s on our priority list. We don’t make excuses like “I don’t have time.” Instead, we say, “I’m going to make time for it.”
Passion develops you into who you’re meant to be.
Whatever you commit to helps shape who you are. It gives you clarity about who you want to become and builds your identity. For example, if you love writing, you’ll grow into a writer or blogger. If you enjoy creating videos, you’ll become a YouTuber. Your passions define your present and your future.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Pursue Your Passions

Start with one passion and see if you can manage it with your busy schedule. Don’t overdo it.
Create a schedule to allocate time for the activities you want to accomplish. Don’t just come home and scroll or do nothing. Use your time wisely.
Some passions can be monetized if done well. Quality content attracts the right audience. If executed properly, it can pay off.
Be consistent. Don’t stop just because you’re not seeing engagement. It takes time. Your consistency reflects your character, it shows that you’re not a quitter.
Utilize mentors, websites, and YouTube for educational purposes. There’s plenty of free information out there to help you grow.
Your passion can become a full-time job. It’s all about trial and error. If you’re good at something and feel it has the potential to become a business, go for it. Many entrepreneurs start this way.
Most importantly, enjoy it.
If you keep making excuses, maybe it’s not something worth pursuing annd that’s okay too.

About Urmi

Urmi Hossain is a finance professional, author, speaker, and advocate for women’s empowerment. Based in Canada, she works in the financial services industry and holds both the CFA and CAIA designations. She is the author of Discovering Your Identity: A Rebirth from Interracial Struggle and host of the Stories Beyond Borders podcast, where she amplifies voices on identity, migration, and belonging.

Urmi also serves as Co-Chair of Women in Leadership’s Montreal Chapter and is passionate about continuous learning, personal growth, and public speaking.