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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 Women of Rubies

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.

In Inspiration January 26, 2026 By Esther Ijewere

Mercedes Blanche: Canadian Actress Breaking Barriers In Hollywood

When Cuban-born actress Ana de Armas first arrived in Hollywood, she barely spoke English and endured countless rejections before landing breakout roles. Mercedes Blanche’s journey mirrors these hardships in her own unique way.

Born in Hungary, Blanche arrived in North America with dreams of acting but no family ties or industry connections to lean on. Like many immigrant actresses, she had to carve her own path in an unforgiving industry where rejection is often the norm rather than the exception.

The Accent Struggle

One of Blanche’s greatest hurdles was her accent. Casting directors often told her outright that her accent made it “impossible” to fit her into films. Determined not to let that be her limitation, she invested years in accent removal lessons, painstakingly training her voice to blend into Hollywood’s expectations. Yet the emotional toll of erasing a piece of her identity was heavy, a reminder of the sacrifices immigrants often make simply to compete.

Battling Rejection and Isolation

For every “yes” Blanche has received, there have been dozens of “no’s.” The endless cycle of auditions, callbacks, and silences is not only professionally draining, but emotionally taxing as well. Questions like “Am I good enough?” or “Is it my accent, my look, my lack of connections?” echo in the minds of many immigrant actors.

Unlike actors born into Hollywood circles or supported by family nearby, Blanche shouldered her struggles alone. Loneliness, cultural dislocation, and the pressure to succeed could have easily led to despair. Instead, she turned to therapy, journaling, and creative outlets , including independent film projects as lifelines to sustain her through the darkest times.

Choosing to Rise

What sets Blanche apart is not that she hasn’t stumbled, but that she has chosen to rise each time. Like Ana de Armas, who went from struggling auditions to starring in Knives Out and Blonde, Blanche’s persistence is paying off. She has already earned recognition with nominations and awards at film festivals, proving that resilience not privilege shapes an artist’s legacy.

A Story of Grit and Endurance

Mercedes Blanche’s story is a powerful reminder that breaking into Hollywood is about more than talent. It requires grit, mental endurance, and the courage to keep dreaming even when doors close. For immigrant actresses, the journey can often feel impossibly lonely. Yet Blanche embodies the truth that resilience is the strongest currency in an industry built on rejection.

Her story is not only about breaking barriers in Hollywood but also about inspiring others to rise above challenges, embrace their identity, and keep pushing forward no matter the odd

In Inspiration September 13, 2025 By Esther Ijewere

May-Marie Duwai-Sowa: Sierra Leone’s Trailblazing Special Envoy Driving International Relations, Trade, Investment

May-Marie Duwai-Sowa is a dynamic leader dedicated to building bridges between nations. Appointed on February 6, 2023, by His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio, she became Sierra Leone’s first Special Envoy for International Relations, Trade, and Investment. In this historic role, she represents Sierra Leone in Canada and internationally, cultivating diplomatic ties and creating meaningful partnerships to enhance trade and investment opportunities for her country.

Champion of Equity and Inclusion

With an extensive career spanning public institutions, academia, and community organizations, May-Marie is widely recognized for her expertise in diversity, equity, inclusion, and human rights. She has worked with marginalized communities including Indigenous Peoples, women, racialized persons, persons with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQ+ groups, using collaborative and innovative approaches to address systemic barriers.

Her work is grounded in an intersectional lens and a trauma-informed, victim-centered approach to conflict resolution, dialogue, and mediation—demonstrating her commitment to justice and transformational social change.

Professional Impact Across Sectors

May-Marie has held influential roles including:

Employment Equity Specialist at McMaster University
Accessibility and Equity Specialist with the City of Hamilton
Economic Development Adviser with Ontario’s Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs
Community Developer at Hamilton’s Centre for Civic Inclusion
Family Service Specialist with the Division of Youth and Family Services in New Jersey
Refugee Case Manager with Lutheran Social Ministries of New Jersey

She also leads as Principal Consultant at SierraCan Consulting (Canada) and SalPro Consulting (Sierra Leone), while serving as Founder and President of SierraCan Institute, CEO of Juvèm Hospitality Inc., Founder and Publisher of Illuminessence Magazine, and Founding Member and Mentor of Illuminating Ladies.

Academic Excellence and Lifelong Learning

Her academic journey is just as impressive. She holds:

Honors BA in Sociology – Rider University (USA)
MA in Sociology and International Development – University of Guelph (Canada)
Executive Leadership Certificates – McMaster University (Canada)
Currently pursuing a PhD in Public Policy and Administration with a specialization in Public Management and Leadership

She has also completed several professional development programs in Canada and the United States.

Recognition and Awards

May-Marie’s exceptional contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including:

Miss Fourah Bay College (University of Sierra Leone)
Sociological Award for Social Commitment (Rider University)
Diversity Champion Award (Hamilton Centre for Civic Inclusion)
Bravo Excellence Award (Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food & Rural Affairs)
100 Accomplished Black Canadian Women Honoree (2020)

Balancing Leadership and Family

Beyond her professional and diplomatic commitments, May-Marie is a devoted mother of two. She continues to balance her roles in leadership, entrepreneurship, and community advocacy while raising her family in Canada.

In self development September 11, 2025 By Esther Ijewere

Canada-Africa Summit 2025: Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Hon. Charmaine Williams Among Featured Speakers

The stage is set for the Canada-Africa Summit 2025, happening on September 20th, 2025 at the Rose Theatre, Brampton. This groundbreaking event will bring together some of the most influential leaders, innovators, and visionaries from Canada and Africa to explore new opportunities in trade, innovation, culture, and global cooperation.

The summit promises a rich and dynamic program, featuring keynotes, networking opportunities, an expo, cultural showcases, and B2B sessions, all designed to build lasting partnerships across continents.

Distinguished Speakers

This year’s lineup includes a diverse group of leaders making an impact in politics, business, and social development:

Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Head of the Nigerian Diaspora Commission
Hon. Charmaine Williams, Minister of Women, Social and Economic Opportunities, Province of Ontario
Hon. Graham MacGregor, Minister of Multiculturalism and Citizenship, Province of Ontario
Hon. Patrick Brown, Mayor of Brampton
Hon. Ayo Owodunni, Kitchener City Councillor, Ward 5
Maryam Muritala, CEO of Canada Vendors
Florence Akpan, Founder of Infoplace Canada
Akin Oduntan, Founder of GloGold Consulting Inc.
Temi Popoola, CEO of Nigerian Exchange Group

These speakers represent a fusion of Canadian and African leadership, all committed to driving economic growth, cultural exchange, and inclusive development.

A Movement Beyond an Event

Speaking on the vision of the summit, Maryam Muritala, CEO of Canada Vendors, shared:

“This summit is more than an event—it’s a movement connecting Canada and Africa through innovation, culture, and commerce. We are excited to provide a platform for collaboration, dialogue, and growth that will create long-lasting impact for communities on both continents.”

Event Details

📅 Date: September 20th, 2025
📍 Location: Rose Theatre, Brampton
🎤 Highlights: Keynotes, Networking, Expo, Cultural Showcase, B2B Sessions, and more

Registration is now open. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, collaborate, and celebrate as Canada and Africa come together to shape the future of global cooperation.

In Inspiration October 2, 2025 By Esther Ijewere

Fatima Maada Bio: Championing Women’s Rights and Child Protection in Sierra Leone

Fatima Maada Bio, the First Lady of Sierra Leone, has emerged as one of Africa’s most inspiring women leaders, advocating relentlessly for women’s empowerment and the protection of children. Since assuming office alongside her husband, President Julius Maada Bio, on April 4, 2018, she has used her platform to amplify critical issues affecting women and girls across Sierra Leone and the continent.

Born on November 27, 1980, in Koidu Town, Kono District, Fatima is of both Sierra Leonean and Gambian descent. Her journey reflects resilience and passion, from her early education at Ansarul Islamic School and St. Joseph’s Convent Secondary School in Freetown to her academic achievements in the UK, where she earned degrees in Performing Arts and Journalism. Before stepping into public life, she was a celebrated actress, screenwriter, and film producer, earning recognition including the Best Supporting Actress Award at the 2011 ZAFAA Awards.

Hands Off Our Girls: A Bold Campaign Against Child Marriage and Abuse

At the core of Fatima Maada Bio’s advocacy is her “Hands Off Our Girls” campaign, a nationwide initiative launched to combat child marriage, teenage pregnancy, and gender-based violence. This campaign has gained international recognition and has sparked vital conversations about the rights of young girls in Sierra Leone and beyond.

Her advocacy efforts were instrumental in the passing of a landmark women’s rights bill, mandating that 30% of Sierra Leone’s workforce and government positions be reserved for women. The bill also guarantees 14 weeks of paid maternity leave, a groundbreaking achievement in the country’s fight for gender equality.

President of OAFLAD: Leading African First Ladies

Beyond Sierra Leone, Fatima Maada Bio serves as the President of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD). In this role, she continues to push for continental policies that uplift women and children, ensuring their voices and needs are prioritized in development agendas.

Her leadership on the international stage reinforces the idea that empowering women is not only a moral obligation but also a catalyst for national and continental progress.

A Legacy of Empowerment

Fatima’s impact goes beyond legislation and campaigns; she has become a symbol of resilience and hope. From her creative background in Nollywood to her role as First Lady, her life’s journey demonstrates that women can transform society through determination, compassion, and action.

Her story continues to inspire women, mothers, and young girls across Africa, proving that leadership grounded in empathy and advocacy has the power to shape a more inclusive future.

Fatima Maada Bio is not just the First Lady of Sierra Leone , she is a trailblazer for women’s rights and child protection across Africa. Through initiatives like Hands Off Our Girls and her presidency of OAFLAD, she is laying the foundation for lasting change that uplifts communities and transforms nations.

Her journey is a reminder that when women lead, societies thrive.

In self development January 26, 2026 By Women of Rubies

Maryam Muritala Named Among Top 20 Digital Marketers in Canada 2025

In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, marketing is no longer just about selling products, it’s about creating opportunities, building communities, and driving meaningful growth. One woman who embodies this transformation is Maryam Muritala, a visionary entrepreneur and the founder of Canada Vendors, who has been recognized as one of the Top 20 Digital Marketers in Canada 2025.

This recognition highlights her groundbreaking work in helping small businesses, especially immigrant and women-led enterprises, thrive in Canada’s competitive marketplace.

Who is Maryam Muritala?

Maryam Muritala is a Foreign Trained Legal Professional, entrepreneur, and digital strategist with a passion for empowering underrepresented entrepreneurs. In 2019, she launched Canada Vendors, a thriving digital platform designed to spotlight small businesses and give them access to education, marketing, and visibility tools that drive sustainable growth.

Her journey into entrepreneurship stems from her belief that commerce has the power to transform lives. Over the years, she has helped hundreds of vendors gain exposure, increase revenue, and build strong, recognizable brands in Canada and globally.

Top 20 Digital Marketers in Canada 2025 Recognition

The Top 20 Digital Marketers in Canada 2025 list celebrates innovators shaping the future of marketing with bold strategies, measurable impact, and creative excellence.

Being named on this list places Muritala among the leading minds who are not only driving results but also transforming industries. Her unique approach combines legal expertise, community building, and digital innovation, setting her apart as both a strategist and a changemaker.

“Digital marketing is more than promotion, it’s about building bridges, creating opportunities, and giving entrepreneurs the tools they need to thrive,” Muritala explains.

Previous Awards and Recognition

This latest honor adds to Muritala’s growing list of achievements, including:

CIBWE Top Black 100 Women to Watch in Canada Awards (2022)
Brampton Citizen Awards – Inspirational Category (2022)

These accolades reflect her influence not only as a digital marketer but also as a leader dedicated to inclusive economic development.

Impact on Small Business and Immigrant Entrepreneurship

Through Canada Vendors, Muritala has become a beacon for immigrant and women entrepreneurs navigating Canada’s competitive business landscape. She mentors founders, speaks at industry events, and partners with organizations to amplify diversity and inclusion in entrepreneurship.

Her platform acts as a lifeline for small businesses seeking to connect with broader markets, while her advocacy ensures no entrepreneur feels left behind.

Looking Ahead

As digital marketing continues to evolve, Muritala’s vision remains clear: empowering businesses through visibility, strategy, and community support. Her recognition as one of Canada’s Top 20 Digital Marketers is not just a personal milestone, it’s a win for every small business owner who dares to dream big.