womenofrubies Archives

In Career Gems September 20, 2026 By Women of Rubies

How to Communicate Your Value With Confidence

You may be excellent at what you do, but can you explain your value in a way that other people immediately understand? Many capable women struggle to communicate their value clearly. They may minimize their achievements, rely on vague descriptions of their work or become uncomfortable when asked to speak about their experience.

This can affect how they introduce themselves, contribute during meetings, pitch their services, appear in interviews and respond when opportunities arise.

Confidence is not always about speaking loudly or having a naturally outgoing personality. It is about understanding what you bring, organizing your thoughts and communicating them with clarity.

When people understand your value, they are more likely to remember, recommend, hire or invite you into the right rooms.

Why Communicating Your Value Matters

People cannot respond to expertise they do not understand. You may have years of experience, strong professional qualifications and meaningful results. However, if your message is unclear, the person listening may struggle to recognize why your work matters.

Communicating your value helps you:

Make stronger professional introductions
Contribute confidently during important conversations
Explain your services more effectively
Strengthen your media and speaking pitches
Position yourself for leadership opportunities
Become easier to remember and recommend

The goal is not to exaggerate your abilities. It is to stop making other people work too hard to understand them.

1. Become Clear About the Value You Provide

It is difficult to communicate your value when you have not clearly defined it for yourself. Start by identifying the connection between your expertise and the outcome it creates.

Ask yourself:

Who do I help?
What problem do I help them solve?
What becomes easier, stronger or more successful because of my work?
What experience or perspective makes my approach valuable?
What do people regularly seek my help with?

Your value is not limited to your job title. It includes the problems you can solve, the decisions you can improve and the results you help create.

Instead of saying, “I work in communications,” you could explain:

“I help organizations communicate complex ideas clearly so their audiences can understand, trust and respond to them.”

The second version gives the listener a clearer reason to care.

2. Lead With Outcomes, Not Only Responsibilities

People often describe their work by listing tasks. They say they manage projects, create content, organize events or advise clients. These details may be accurate, but they do not always show the significance of the work.

Move beyond what you do and explain what your work helps achieve.

For example:

“I create social media content” becomes “I develop content that helps brands build trust and remain visible to their customers.”
“I organize professional events” becomes “I create experiences that help professionals connect, exchange ideas and build meaningful relationships.”
“I provide business coaching” becomes “I help entrepreneurs identify growth barriers and build practical systems for moving forward.”

Responsibilities explain your activity. Outcomes communicate your value.

3. Use Evidence to Support Your Message

Confidence becomes more credible when it is supported by evidence. Your evidence may include:

A measurable result
A successful project
A client transformation
An industry recognition
A difficult problem you resolved
The number of people or organizations you have supported
A lesson gained from years of experience

You do not need to recite your entire résumé. Select the evidence that is most relevant to the conversation.

If you are speaking to a potential client, share a result connected to their needs. If you are being considered for a leadership opportunity, highlight an example that demonstrates your ability to lead, solve problems or influence outcomes.

Evidence helps people understand that your confidence is grounded in experience.

4. Tailor Your Message to the Audience

One version of your message will not work in every situation. The way you introduce yourself at a networking event may differ from how you present your experience during an interview, panel discussion, client meeting or media appearance.

Before speaking, consider:

Who is listening?
What is important to them?
What problem are they trying to solve?
What part of my experience is most relevant?
What do I want them to remember?

Tailoring your message does not mean changing who you are. It means selecting the information that creates the clearest connection between your expertise and the audience’s needs.

5. Prepare a Concise Professional Introduction

Many people wait until they are unexpectedly asked, “Tell me about yourself,” before deciding what to say. Preparation helps you respond with greater clarity.

A strong professional introduction can include:

Who you are
Who you help
The problem you solve
The result your work creates
What you are currently focused on

For example:

“I am a media strategist and brand visibility consultant. I help women professionals and entrepreneurs communicate their value, strengthen their public presence and position themselves for media, speaking and business opportunities.”

Keep your introduction conversational. It should provide enough information to create interest without becoming a lengthy biography.

6. Pay Attention to How You Deliver the Message

Your words matter, but your delivery also influences how people receive them. Speaking too quickly may make a well-prepared message difficult to follow. Constantly apologizing, adding unnecessary disclaimers or minimizing your accomplishments may weaken what you are trying to communicate.

Practise:

Speaking at a measured pace
Pausing between important points
Maintaining comfortable eye contact
Removing unnecessary qualifying language
Using a steady and audible voice
Finishing your sentences without trailing off

You do not need to perform or imitate someone else’s speaking style. The objective is to communicate in a way that feels natural, clear and assured.

7. Practise Before the Important Opportunity Arrives

Confidence grows through repetition. Record yourself answering common professional questions. Practise your introduction before an event. Explain your work to someone outside your industry and ask what they understood.

You can also prepare short responses to questions such as:

What do you do?
What makes your approach different?
What project are you most proud of?
What problem do you help people solve?
Why does your work matter?
What opportunity are you currently seeking?

The more familiar you become with your own message, the less likely you are to become overwhelmed when an opportunity appears.

Confidence Is Built Through Clarity

Communicating your value is not self-promotion without substance. It is giving people the information they need to understand how your experience, expertise and perspective can help. You do not need to share everything about yourself or dominate every conversation. You need a message that is clear, relevant and supported by evidence.

When clarity improves, confidence often follows.

Learn More From Cynthia Mwangi at MVBC 6.0

This conversation will continue at the Media Visibility Bootcamp 6.0 with Cynthia Mwangi, MPRSK, a communications and public relations strategist, public-speaking trainer and corporate master of ceremonies. Her public profiles also recognize her among the Top Women in PR 2024. Learn more about Cynthia’s work.

Cynthia Mwangi speaker at Media Visibility Bootcamp 6.0 — Cynthia Mwangi brings communications and public speaking expertise to Media Visibility Bootcamp 6.0.

Cynthia will help participants think more intentionally about how they speak, present their expertise and communicate their value in professional and public settings.

Her session will be valuable for women who have meaningful experience but want to express it with greater clarity, confidence and influence.

Media Visibility Bootcamp 6.0 | October 17–18, 2026 | Virtual | Open virtuallyReserve your access at: womenofrubies.com/mvbc2026

Connect With Cynthia Mwangi

Connect with Cynthia Mwangi to learn more about her work in public speaking, strategic communication, public relations and event moderation. LinkedIn: Cynthia Mwangi, MPRSK | Instagram: Cynthia Mwangi

In Inspiration September 17, 2026 By Esther Ijewere

Remembering Maryam Muritala and Her Legacy of Impact

A life devoted to opening doors for others leaves a legacy that cannot be erased. Women of Rubies joins the Nigerian and Canadian business communities in mourning the passing of Maryam Muritala, Founder of Canada Vendors and Canada Business Forum.

Maryam was a foreign-trained lawyer, business development consultant, entrepreneur and community builder whose work created visibility, recognition and opportunities for entrepreneurs across Canada and the diaspora.

Her passing is a profound loss to her family, friends, colleagues and the many business owners and community members whose lives she touched. Yet, even in this moment of grief, her life gives us many reasons to celebrate the impact one person can create through service, connection and purpose.

Maryam Muritala was featured by Women of Rubies after being named among Canada’s Top 20 Digital Marketers in 2025.

From Law to Entrepreneurship and Community Building

Maryam Muritala was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2008 and began her professional journey in commercial and corporate law. Her legal background included experience in business, technology, copyright, trademark law and contract management.

Over time, her work expanded into business development, where she found meaningful ways to combine her professional knowledge with her passion for helping entrepreneurs succeed.

Maryam understood that many talented business owners were not struggling because they lacked valuable products or services. They often lacked access to information, visibility, networks and the right opportunities. This understanding became an important foundation for the work she would go on to build.

Building Canada Vendors

Through Canada Vendors, Maryam created a business development and advertising platform that helped entrepreneurs strengthen their brands, embrace digital marketing and connect with potential customers, partners and investors.

Her support was especially valuable to immigrant entrepreneurs and small-business owners navigating unfamiliar systems while trying to establish themselves in Canada.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, when many businesses were forced to reconsider how they operated, Maryam and the Canada Vendors team organised virtual information sessions addressing business registration, accessible funding and the use of digital tools.

Between 2020 and 2022, Canada Vendors also interviewed hundreds of small businesses across Canadian communities, giving entrepreneurs an opportunity to share their journeys and gain greater visibility.

Creating Brand Expo

Maryam Muritala was also the visionary behind Brand Expo, an annual business showcase created to help entrepreneurs present their products, services and brand stories to wider audiences. The event brought together business owners, professionals and community members through exhibitions, workshops, presentations and networking opportunities.

For Maryam, Brand Expo was about more than putting businesses on display. It was an opportunity to build relationships, generate leads, encourage collaboration and help entrepreneurs become more visible within their communities.

Celebrating Entrepreneurs Through Annual Awards

Maryam also established the annual Entrepreneur Awards in 2020 to recognise entrepreneurs demonstrating innovation, resilience, leadership and meaningful business impact. The awards created a space where founders, professionals and community builders could have their contributions acknowledged while connecting with potential collaborators and supporters.

In 2024, the Entrepreneur Awards celebrated its fifth anniversary, honouring excellence across categories including entrepreneurship, youth leadership, business innovation, media, legal services and community impact.

Through this initiative, Maryam ensured that entrepreneurs who were doing important work, sometimes without widespread recognition had an opportunity to be seen and celebrated.

Serving the Nigerian Community in Canada

Maryam’s commitment to community extended beyond the initiatives she founded. She served as Director of Public Relations and Strategic Partnerships for the Network of Nigerians in Canada, supporting the organisation’s media relations, visibility, community engagement and strategic collaborations.

Her work helped strengthen connections within the Nigerian community while promoting greater representation and opportunities for Nigerians living in Canada.

Whether she was promoting a business, developing a partnership, supporting an event or connecting people, Maryam consistently used her influence to create access for others.

Sharing Entrepreneurial Stories

In 2021, Maryam launched “The Entrepreneurial Journey,” a YouTube mini-series spotlighting business owners from different communities across Canada.

The series gave entrepreneurs an opportunity to discuss the realities of building their businesses, particularly during a period when many small-business owners were facing uncertainty. It reflected Maryam’s belief in the power of storytelling to educate, connect and inspire people.

Maryam Muritala at the City of Brampton Citizens Awards, where her contribution to the community was recognized.

A Life Rooted in Service

Maryam’s commitment to youth entrepreneurship, social change and community development earned her the Naomi Ruth Barber King Youth Legacy Award. The recognition reflected the reach of her work across North America and Africa and her dedication to helping young people and entrepreneurs pursue meaningful opportunities.

In a 2023 interview with Esther Ijewere for the Guardian Woman column, Maryam spoke about being raised by parents who believed deeply in service. She explained that this upbringing inspired her journey of building connections and creating opportunities.

She also spoke proudly about the contributions Nigerians continue to make across Canada’s business, politics, healthcare, technology and other sectors.

Women of Rubies Remembers Maryam Muritala

At Women of Rubies, we had the privilege of spotlighting Maryam’s journey, amplifying her work and witnessing her commitment to supporting entrepreneurs and strengthening communities. Our relationship went beyond editorial coverage. She was part of our community and joined us at the Women of Rubies Sip and Network Toronto event in 2024.

Women of Rubies founder Esther Ijewere with Maryam Muritala at the Women of Rubies Sip and Network Toronto event in 2024.

That same year, I was honoured with an Entrepreneur Award from Canada Vendors, an initiative founded by Maryam to recognize and celebrate entrepreneurs contributing meaningfully to their industries and communities. Receiving that recognition made my connection to her work even more personal.

Maryam understood that visibility was not simply about being seen; it was about using your platform to open doors for others. She created spaces where entrepreneurs could connect, grow and feel supported.

Her passing is deeply painful, but the opportunities she created and the people she empowered will remain part of her legacy. Maryam represented what it means to be a Woman of Rubies, a woman who created opportunities wherever she went and used her journey to help others rise.

Marketing should be considered as a long-term business investment.” – Maryam Muritala

A Legacy That Will Continue

Maryam Muritala will be remembered not only for the organisations and events she created, but also for the people she encouraged, connected, celebrated and helped to move forward. Her legacy lives in the businesses she supported, the entrepreneurs she recognised, the partnerships she built and the communities she strengthened.

Women of Rubies extends its heartfelt condolences to Maryam’s family, friends, colleagues, the Canada Vendors community, the Network of Nigerians in Canada and everyone whose life was touched by her work.

May her soul rest in peace, and may the legacy she built continue to inspire generations of entrepreneurs and community leaders.

-Esther Ijewere, Founder, Women of Rubies Inc

In Inspiration July 13, 2026 By Esther Ijewere

Yinka Ogunbiyi’s HaloBraid Raises $7M Ahead of Robotic Hair-Braiding Launch

For generations, hair braiding has remained a highly skilled but largely manual process, one that can take several hours for clients and place significant physical strain on professional stylists.

Now, Yinka Ogunbiyi, a Harvard-trained engineer and entrepreneur, is preparing to introduce technology that could change how the braiding industry operates.

Her robotics startup, HaloBraid, has raised $7 million in seed funding to bring its automated braiding assistant to market. The funding round was led by Seven Seven Six, the venture capital firm founded by Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian, with participation from Bling Capital and AlleyCorp.

The company’s first product is expected to begin rolling out in selected salons in September 2026. Rather than replacing hairstylists, HaloBraid is designed to work alongside them by completing the repetitive portion of braids that professionals begin by hand.

Yinka Ogunbiyi wearing her graduation gown at Harvard University — Yinka Ogunbiyi is a Harvard graduate, engineer and entrepreneur building technology for the textured-hair industry.

Who Is Yinka Ogunbiyi?

Yinka Ogunbiyi is the founder and CEO of HaloBraid and a graduate of Harvard’s joint Master of Science and Master of Business Administration in Engineering Sciences programme.

She graduated from the programme in 2023 and has since continued developing HaloBraid through Harvard’s entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystem.

Her journey demonstrates the power of combining engineering knowledge, cultural understanding and lived experience to solve a problem that has often been overlooked by mainstream technology companies.

How Yinka Ogunbiyi Developed the HaloBraid Idea

The idea for HaloBraid began during the 2020 lockdown in the United Kingdom. Unable to visit a salon, Ogunbiyi attempted to braid her own hair. The process reportedly took four days and led her to consider why such a repetitive and time-consuming task had not benefited from greater technological innovation.

With a background in mechanical engineering, she began exploring whether part of the braiding process could be automated while preserving the creativity, expertise and personal care professional stylists provide.

What began as a personal frustration eventually developed into a robotics company that has created hundreds of prototypes while working with hairstylists to refine the product. HaloBraid’s development has been shaped by feedback from the professionals expected to use it.

How Does HaloBraid Work?

HaloBraid is best described as a robotic braiding assistant, rather than a machine that independently completes an entire hairstyle.

The hairstylist remains responsible for preparing and parting the hair, adding extensions and beginning each braid by hand. Once the stylist has completed the initial section, the braid is transferred to the HaloBraid device, which finishes the repetitive three-strand braiding process.

The device is designed to assist with styles such as box braids and knotless braids. It does not currently add extensions, create parts or complete intricate cornrow patterns.

HaloBraid’s official website describes the technology as a braid-assist device that can help professional stylists complete braids in approximately half the usual time.

HaloBraid Raises $7 Million in Seed Funding

The $7 million seed investment represents an important milestone for both HaloBraid and the broader beauty technology industry.

The funding will help the company continue developing its device, expand testing, prepare for manufacturing and introduce the technology to professional salons.

It also signals growing investor interest in technology created specifically for markets and communities that have historically received limited attention from major technology companies.

Before securing its latest investment, HaloBraid received support through Harvard’s entrepreneurship programmes. The company won the $75,000 grand prize and crowd-favourite recognition at the 2023 Harvard Business School New Venture Competition. It later secured another $75,000 after winning the Alumni and Affiliates Open Track of Harvard’s 2025 President’s Innovation Challenge.

Access to capital remains important for women building and scaling innovative companies. Explore these funding opportunities for women entrepreneurs.

HaloBraid Is Designed to Support, Not Replace, Hairstylists

One concern that often accompanies the introduction of automation is whether technology will replace human workers. HaloBraid is being positioned differently.

Professional stylists will still make the creative and technical decisions involved in each hairstyle. They will prepare the client’s hair, create the parts, select the braid size, add extensions and begin every braid.

The device is intended to handle only the repetitive mechanical movement required to complete the length of the braid.

This distinction matters because hair braiding is more than a technical service. It is a skilled craft connected to culture, identity, creativity and relationships between stylists and their clients.

By reducing the most repetitive part of the process, HaloBraid could allow stylists to focus more on design, precision and the overall client experience.

Reducing the Physical Strain Experienced by Braiders

Professional braiding often requires stylists to repeat the same hand, wrist, shoulder and upper-body movements for several hours.

Over time, these repetitive movements can contribute to fatigue, discomfort and chronic pain. Harvard’s coverage of HaloBraid highlighted the company’s goal of reducing both braiding time and the physical demands experienced by professional stylists.

A tool that completes part of this repetitive work could make braiding more sustainable for professionals who serve several clients every week.

It could also help salons accommodate more appointments without requiring stylists to work longer hours or place additional pressure on their bodies.

What HaloBraid Could Mean for the Hair-Braiding Industry

The potential impact of HaloBraid goes beyond completing hairstyles more quickly.

For clients, shorter appointments could make protective hairstyles more convenient and accessible. People who previously needed to dedicate an entire day to getting their hair braided may be able to complete their appointments in significantly less time.

For stylists, faster appointments could create opportunities to serve additional clients and increase revenue while reducing physical strain.

The development also brings new attention to the economic significance of the textured-hair and professional-braiding industries sectors that have created businesses, careers and opportunities for generations of women.

Women of Rubies recently highlighted this entrepreneurial potential through the story of Mawusinu Jennifer Hodgson, who built Toronto’s first dedicated 24-hour braiding salon by responding to clients’ need for greater flexibility and convenience.

Both stories demonstrate that innovation does not always mean creating an entirely new industry. Sometimes, it means looking carefully at a familiar experience and discovering a better way to serve the people within it.

Portrait of Yinka Ogunbiyi, founder of Halo and creator of the HaloBraid technology — Yinka Ogunbiyi is reimagining the future of hair braiding through engineering, robotics and lived experience.

Innovation Inspired by Lived Experience

One of the most powerful aspects of Yinka Ogunbiyi’s story is that HaloBraid emerged from a problem she understood personally.

Her experience allowed her to recognize an opportunity that others may have overlooked. Her engineering background then gave her the foundation to begin creating a practical solution.

This is why representation remains essential in technology and entrepreneurship. When women from different cultures, communities and professional backgrounds participate in innovation, they bring new problems, perspectives and possibilities into the room. They do not simply join existing industries. They can also transform them.

Discover more women transforming technology in our feature on Black women in tech you should know about.

What Comes Next for HaloBraid?

HaloBraid is expected to begin appearing in selected salons in September 2026. According to Allure, thousands of stylists have already expressed interest in receiving or testing the device, particularly in major United States cities.

The salon rollout will provide an opportunity to see how the technology performs in everyday professional settings and how clients and stylists respond to it.

As the company grows, questions around accessibility, pricing, stylist training and the range of hairstyles the device can support will likely influence its long-term adoption.

For now, HaloBraid represents a bold step toward bringing robotics into an industry that has remained largely dependent on manual processes.

The Women of Rubies Takeaway

Yinka Ogunbiyi’s story reminds us that meaningful innovation often begins with paying attention. She experienced a challenge, questioned why it had remained unchanged and used her skills to begin building a solution.

Her journey also demonstrates why women need access to education, funding, networks, visibility and spaces where their ideas can be supported.

When women are empowered to develop solutions inspired by their own experiences, they can create products that improve lives, strengthen industries and open new economic opportunities. At Women of Rubies, we remain committed to amplifying women using leadership, innovation and entrepreneurship to transform their communities and industries.

Would you allow a robotic assistant to help your hairstylist complete your braids?

In Interviews&profile August 12, 2026 By Esther Ijewere

How Mawusinu Jennifer Hodgson Built Toronto’s First Viral 24/7 Braiding Salon

For many women, getting their hair braided often means rearranging work schedules, sacrificing weekends, or waiting weeks for an appointment. But for entrepreneur and healthcare professional Mawusinu Jennifer Hodgson, that challenge presented an opportunity to create something different.

As the Founder and CEO of Passionate Hands 24/7, Mawusinu has redefined convenience in the beauty industry by launching what is widely recognized as Toronto’s first dedicated round-the-clock braiding salon. Her innovative approach has not only attracted attention across the city but has also earned the salon viral recognition for its unique business model and commitment to meeting the needs of busy clients.

A Vision Born From Service

Mawusinu is no stranger to serving others. With over 11 years of experience in healthcare as a Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) and Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), she has built her career around compassion, care, and improving lives.

As the Founder of Passionate Care Nursing, a healthcare staffing and home care agency, she understands the importance of accessibility and responsive service. These same values became the foundation for her venture into the beauty industry.

Recognizing that many clients struggled to find flexible salon hours that fit their demanding schedules, she saw an opportunity to create a solution that prioritized convenience without compromising quality.

Mawusinu Jennifer Hodgson braiding a client's hair at Passionate Hands 24/7, Toronto's first viral 24-hour braiding salon. — Mawusinu Jennifer Hodgson works with a client at Passionate Hands 24/7, the innovative salon helping redefine accessibility and convenience in Toronto’s beauty industry.

Introducing Toronto’s First Viral 24/7 Braiding Salon

Located in downtown Toronto at 66 Gerrard Street East, Passionate Hands 24/7 operates around the clock, making it one of the city’s most innovative beauty destinations. The salon welcomes walk-in clients daily and offers complimentary hair washing and blow-drying with services including knotless braids, crochet braids, box braids, and other protective styles.

The concept quickly gained attention because it solved a common challenge for busy professionals, shift workers, students, entrepreneurs, and parents who often struggle to find appointment times that fit their schedules. By remaining open 24 hours a day, the salon provides unmatched flexibility and convenience for clients across the Greater Toronto Area.

Visitors can book appointments, explore available services, and check availability through the salon’s website, making it easier than ever to access professional braiding services when they need them most.

Creating Opportunities Through Entrepreneurship

Beyond providing beauty services, Mawusinu has built Passionate Hands 24/7 as a platform for economic empowerment and professional growth.

The salon creates opportunities for talented braiders and beauty professionals to showcase their skills, build their careers, and earn income in a supportive environment. By expanding access to employment and flexible work opportunities, the business continues to contribute to the local economy while helping professionals thrive.

Her success demonstrates how entrepreneurship can be used not only to solve problems but also to create opportunities that positively impact communities.

Mawusinu Jennifer Hodgson featured by Women of Rubies for her work as founder of Passionate Hands 24/7 in Toronto. — Featured by Women of Rubies, Mawusinu Jennifer Hodgson is the founder of Passionate Hands 24/7, Toronto’s first viral 24-hour braiding salon.

Balancing Healthcare and Business Leadership

Managing successful businesses in both healthcare and beauty requires resilience, strategic thinking, and exceptional leadership.

For Mawusinu, the common thread between her ventures is service. Whether she is supporting healthcare clients through Passionate Care Nursing or welcoming salon clients at Passionate Hands 24/7, her mission remains focused on delivering exceptional experiences and meaningful results.

Her ability to successfully lead in two distinct industries highlights the power of purpose-driven entrepreneurship and the importance of staying connected to the needs of the people you serve.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Women Entrepreneurs

Mawusinu’s journey serves as a reminder that innovation often comes from identifying everyday challenges and finding creative ways to address them.

By combining compassion, leadership, and entrepreneurial vision, she has built businesses that serve communities, create jobs, and improve lives. Her story continues to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women looking to turn their ideas into impactful ventures.

As she continues to grow both Passionate Care Nursing and Passionate Hands 24/7, Mawusinu remains committed to her mission of leading with passion, serving with purpose, and creating opportunities that make a lasting impact.

Share Your Story With Women of Rubies

At Women of Rubies, we are committed to amplifying the voices of women entrepreneurs, professionals, leaders, changemakers, and organizations making an impact in their communities and industries.

Through media features, storytelling, visibility campaigns, press release distribution, and personal brand development, we help women increase their visibility and grow their influence.

Whether you are building a business, launching a new initiative, celebrating a milestone, or looking to share your story with a wider audience, we would love to hear from you.

🌐 Visit us here
📧 Email: info@womenofrubies.com
📱 Call or WhatsApp: (437)-255-7007

Ready to amplify your story? Contact Women of Rubies today to explore feature opportunities, media visibility services, and partnership opportunities.

In Interviews&profile July 29, 2026 By Women of Rubies

Minister Rechie Valdez Announces $173.7 Million Investment to Support Women Entrepreneurs Across Canada

Women entrepreneurs across Canada are set to benefit from a significant new federal investment aimed at strengthening business growth, increasing access to funding, and removing barriers to entrepreneurship.

On June 22, 2026, the Honourable Rechie Valdez, Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State (Small Business and Tourism), announced $173.7 million over five years to continue and expand the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy (WES).

The announcement was made in Lethbridge, Alberta, and reflects the federal government’s ongoing commitment to supporting women-owned businesses as key drivers of economic growth, innovation, and job creation.

Supporting Women Entrepreneurs Across Canada

Women-owned businesses continue to play a vital role in Canada’s economy, yet many entrepreneurs still face challenges accessing capital, mentorship, training, and professional networks.

The renewed investment seeks to address these barriers by providing women entrepreneurs with the resources and support needed to start, grow, and scale their businesses.

“Women entrepreneurs are essential to building the strongest economy in the G7,” said Minister Valdez. “They create jobs, strengthen communities and contribute to a Canada that is strong for everyone.”

Key Funding Highlights

The renewed funding package includes support for several flagship initiatives under the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy:

Women Entrepreneurship Loan Fund

A total of $59 million has been allocated to the Women Entrepreneurship Loan Fund, which provides loans of up to $50,000 to women business owners and entrepreneurs through partner organizations.

The program has already supported more than 1,600 loans to women entrepreneurs across Canada, helping them access the capital needed to launch and grow their ventures.

Minister Rechie Valdez discusses federal investments supporting women-owned businesses in Canada — The federal government is investing $173.7 million over five years to strengthen opportunities for women entrepreneurs.

WES Ecosystem Fund

The federal government will invest $100 million in the WES Ecosystem Fund, which supports non-profit organizations delivering:

Business training
Advisory services
Mentorship programs
Networking opportunities
Market access support

The fund helps women entrepreneurs develop the skills, knowledge, and connections needed to build sustainable businesses.

Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub

An additional $7 million will support the Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub, a national network consisting of:

10 regional hubs
More than 250 partner organizations
Researchers
Business support organizations
Entrepreneurship stakeholders

The Knowledge Hub plays a critical role in generating data, research, and best practices that inform policies and programs supporting women entrepreneurs.

Building on a Proven Track Record

Since its launch in 2018, the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy has supported more than 500,000 women entrepreneurs across Canada.

The latest investment builds on that success while reinforcing the government’s broader efforts to strengthen small businesses through initiatives such as:

AI adoption support
Export development programs
Tariff relief measures
Red tape reduction initiatives
Inclusive entrepreneurship programs

The government also continues to support diverse entrepreneurs through initiatives such as the Black Entrepreneurship Program, the 2SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneurship Program, and partnerships with organizations like Futurpreneur Canada.

Why This Matters

For many women entrepreneurs, access to funding remains one of the biggest challenges to business growth. Limited access to capital, mentorship opportunities, and professional networks can slow expansion and reduce access to new markets.

The renewed Women Entrepreneurship Strategy investment aims to help close these gaps by creating more opportunities for women to build thriving businesses, create jobs, and contribute to Canada’s economic prosperity.

As the entrepreneurial landscape continues to evolve, investments like these help ensure that women founders, innovators, and business leaders have the tools they need to succeed.

Looking Ahead

The announcement represents a significant step forward for women-owned businesses and organizations that support women entrepreneurs across Canada.

For women founders, business owners, and aspiring entrepreneurs, the continued expansion of the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy offers new opportunities to access financing, mentorship, training, and networks that can help turn ideas into sustainable, scalable businesses.

At Women of Rubies, we celebrate initiatives that empower women to pursue entrepreneurship, build wealth, create impact, and strengthen communities. We look forward to seeing how this investment helps unlock the potential of even more women entrepreneurs across Canada.

Source: Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) and the Office of the Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State (Small Business and Tourism).

In Career Gems July 13, 2026 By Women of Rubies

How to Write a Professional Bio That Opens Doors

Your professional bio is often one of the first things people read about you. Whether you’re applying for a speaking opportunity, pitching the media, updating your LinkedIn profile, or introducing yourself at an event, your bio serves as your professional introduction.

Yet many professionals struggle to write one that truly reflects their value.

What Is a Professional Bio?

A professional bio is a concise summary of who you are, what you do, and why it matters. A strong bio should answer three questions:

Who are you?
What do you do?
Why should people care?

Common Mistakes

Many bios:

Read like resumes
Focus only on job titles
Lack personality
Fail to communicate impact

Your bio should tell a story, not simply list achievements.

Key Elements of a Strong Bio

Start with Your Positioning

Clearly define your role and expertise.

Example:

“Esther Ijewere is a media strategist, journalist, and founder of Women of Rubies, a platform dedicated to amplifying the voices of women across the globe.”

Highlight Your Impact, Not Just Your Title

One of the most common mistakes professionals make when writing their bios is focusing solely on their job titles and responsibilities. A title tells people what you do. Impact tells people why it matters.

Instead of simply stating your position, take the opportunity to highlight the results you’ve achieved, the communities you’ve served, the businesses you’ve built, or the change you’ve helped create.

For example, rather than writing:

“Jane Doe is the founder of XYZ Consulting.”

You could write:

“Jane Doe is the founder of XYZ Consulting, a business development firm that has helped more than 200 entrepreneurs increase their revenue and strengthen their market presence.”

The second example immediately provides context, credibility, and value. Whenever possible, include measurable achievements such as:

Number of clients served
Years of experience
Awards received
Revenue generated
Communities impacted
Projects completed
Audiences reached

Numbers help transform a generic bio into a compelling one because they provide evidence of your expertise and accomplishments.

However, impact isn’t always about numbers. Sometimes it’s about the transformation you’ve created. Ask yourself:

What problem do I solve?
Who do I help?
What difference does my work make?

The answers to these questions can help shape a bio that feels meaningful and memorable.

Add a Human Element

While achievements are important, people don’t connect with resumes; they connect with stories. A strong professional bio should balance credibility with authenticity.

In today’s digital world, audiences want to know more than what you do. They want to understand what drives you. Adding a human element can help your audience relate to you on a deeper level.

For example, you might briefly mention:

Your mission
Your passion
The reason you started your business
A cause you care about
The impact you hope to create

This doesn’t mean sharing your entire life story. Rather, it means offering a glimpse into the values and purpose behind your work.

For example:

“Passionate about helping women amplify their voices, Esther founded Women of Rubies to create a platform where women’s stories, achievements, and contributions could be celebrated and shared with a global audience.”

This statement communicates not only what she does, but why she does it. Purpose creates connection, and connection builds trust.

Showcase What You’re Building Right Now

Your professional bio should not only reflect your past accomplishments, but it should also point toward your future. Many people write bios that focus exclusively on what they have already achieved. While accomplishments matter, readers are often interested in what you’re currently working on.

Consider including information about:

Current projects
Upcoming initiatives
New ventures
Books or programs
Speaking engagements
Community initiatives

This helps position you as someone active, evolving, and continuing to make an impact.

For example:

“She currently leads Women of Rubies, a global platform dedicated to amplifying women’s stories, and is expanding the organization’s educational offerings through the Women of Rubies Academy.”

This tells readers that your work is ongoing and growing.

Tailor Your Bio for Different Opportunities

Another important consideration is that one bio does not fit every situation. The bio you use for a conference speaking engagement may be different from the one you use on LinkedIn or your company website.

Consider creating:

A Short Bio (50–100 words)

Ideal for:

Event programs
Social media profiles
Speaker introductions

A Medium Bio (150–250 words)

Ideal for:

Professional websites
Media features
Award nominations

A Long Bio (300–500 words)

Ideal for:

Company websites
Press kits
Professional portfolios

Having multiple versions ensures you’re always prepared when opportunities arise.

Your professional bio is more than a summary of your career, it is one of your most powerful visibility tools.

A well-crafted bio helps people understand who you are, what you do, why your work matters, and how you’ve made an impact. It can open doors to speaking opportunities, media features, partnerships, leadership roles, and new business opportunities.

As your career evolves, your bio should evolve with it. Take time to review and update it regularly, ensuring it reflects your current expertise, achievements, and aspirations.

Remember: if your bio is often the first introduction people have to you, make it one that leaves a lasting impression.

In Career Gems June 5, 2026 By Women of Rubies

Why Visibility Is No Longer Optional for Women Leaders

For years, women were told that hard work alone would open doors.

Work hard.
Deliver results.
Stay humble.
Let your work speak for itself.

While competence remains important, today’s reality is different. In a world driven by digital platforms, media, networking, and personal brands, visibility has become a critical leadership skill.

The truth is simple: people cannot support, hire, promote, partner with, or recommend what they do not know exists.

Visibility Creates Opportunity

Many women are doing remarkable work behind the scenes, yet remain overlooked for speaking engagements, leadership positions, board appointments, media interviews, and business opportunities.

Visibility helps bridge that gap.

When people understand who you are, what you do, and the value you bring, opportunities become easier to attract.

Visibility is not about seeking attention. It is about ensuring your expertise, ideas, and contributions are seen by the people who matter.

Visibility Builds Trust

Before making decisions, people research.

Potential clients search your name.
Event organizers review your online presence.
Media professionals look for credible sources.
Employers evaluate professional brands.

A strong and consistent presence builds confidence and trust. When your story, expertise, and accomplishments are visible, people are more likely to view you as an authority in your field.

Visibility Amplifies Impact

Many women are driven by purpose. Whether you are an entrepreneur, nonprofit leader, executive, educator, or community advocate, your ability to influence change often depends on your ability to reach people.

The greater your visibility, the greater your opportunity to create meaningful impact.

How to Increase Your Visibility

Share your expertise consistently
Speak at events and conferences
Build relationships with media professionals
Create thought leadership content
Invest in your personal brand
Join professional communities
Tell your story with confidence

Visibility is no longer a luxury reserved for celebrities and public figures.

It is a strategic tool for leadership, growth, and influence.

Women who learn to own their stories and share their expertise position themselves for greater opportunities and long-term impact.

At Women of Rubies, we believe every woman has a story worth telling and a voice worth hearing.

Ready to Increase Your Visibility?

Visibility doesn’t happen by accident, it happens through intentional positioning, strategic storytelling, and consistent action.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, professional, speaker, nonprofit leader, or aspiring thought leader, investing in your visibility can help open doors to new opportunities, partnerships, speaking engagements, media features, and career growth.

At Women of Rubies, we help women amplify their voices and increase their impact through:

✅ Media Visibility Strategy Sessions

✅ Press Release Writing & Distribution

✅ Personal Brand Positioning

✅ Media Features & Spotlights

✅ Visibility Training & Workshops

✅ Women of Rubies Academy Learning Programs

If you’re ready to become more visible and position yourself for greater opportunities, we’d love to support you.

Learn More About Our Services
📩 Email: info@womenofrubies.com

Interested in being featured?
Visit: womenofrubies.com

In Career Gems May 8, 2026 By Women of Rubies

How to Become a Member of the Women of Rubies Collective Community (RCC)

Visibility doesn’t happen by accident. For many women, it takes intention, the right support system, and a community that believes in their story as much as you do.

That’s exactly why we created the Women of Rubies Collective Community (RCC), a paid membership designed for women who want consistent visibility, media clarity, and real opportunities, not one-off features.

Why the Rubies Collective Community Exists

Over the years at Women of Rubies, we noticed a recurring question after spotlight features and bootcamps:

“What’s next?”

Women wanted more than a single feature. They wanted:

Ongoing visibility
Media positioning support
Strategy and accountability
Access to opportunities and collaborations

RCC was created to bridge that gap, a space where women don’t just get seen once, but are supported to show up confidently all year long.

What Is the Rubies Collective Community (RCC)?

The Rubies Collective Community is a year-long visibility and media support membership for women building brands, businesses, careers, and impact-driven initiatives.

It brings together women who are ready to:

Own their story
Position themselves for media and speaking opportunities
Build credibility and authority
Stay visible without burning out

This is not about chasing clout. It’s about intentional visibility that opens doors.

What You Get as an RCC Member

When you join RCC, you receive:

One guaranteed Google-optimized spotlight feature on Women of Rubies (live permanently)
One private 20-minute media clarity & strategy session with our team
Year-long media visibility support across our platforms and communities
25% discount on all Women of Rubies events and bootcamps
VIP access to select Women of Rubies and partner-led sessions
Access to the Rubies Resource Vault (media pitch templates, brand audit tools, replays, and resources)
Private WhatsApp & Telegram communities for high-level networking
Digital RCC Member Badge + welcome shoutout
Priority access to spotlight opportunities, collaborations, and campaigns

In short, you don’t walk this visibility journey alone.

Who the Rubies Collective Community Is For

RCC is for you if:

You’re tired of being excellent in silence
You want your work to be seen, shared, and respected
You’re building something meaningful and want the right audience to find you
You value strategy, community, and alignment over noise

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, creative, coach, nonprofit founder, or professional — your story deserves space.

How to Join the Rubies Collective Community

Joining RCC is simple:

Visit www.womenofrubies.com/rcc
Choose your Annual Membership
Complete your registration and payment
Receive your welcome email, intake form, and onboarding details
Begin your visibility journey with us

Once you’re in, we guide you every step of the way.

Why Now?

Opportunities don’t always come when we feel “ready.” They come when we decide to show up.

If 2026 is the year you stop hiding, stop shrinking, and start positioning yourself intentionally, RCC was built for you.

Your story matters.
Your voice matters.
And visibility, when done right, can change everything.

👉 Join the Rubies Collective Community today: www.womenofrubies.com/rcc

In Editor's Choice May 10, 2026 By Women of Rubies

Become a Visibility Partner at the Media Visibility Bootcamp 2026

In today’s world, the women who grow, lead, and influence are not just the most qualified; they are the most visible, the most clear in their message, and the most intentional about how they show up.

At Women of Rubies, we’ve seen this firsthand. Over the past five cohorts of the Media Visibility Bootcamp, we’ve brought together powerful voices across industries. These women are building businesses, shaping narratives, and stepping into spaces where their expertise deserves recognition.

Now, for Cohort 6, we are expanding.

What is the Media Visibility Bootcamp?

The Media Visibility Bootcamp is a curated, high-impact experience designed to equip women with the clarity, tools, and strategies needed to increase their visibility, strengthen their authority, and create meaningful opportunities.

Taking place in October/November 2026, this 2-day virtual experience will feature a select group of speakers, each bringing a distinct perspective on what it means to be visible in today’s world.

A curated platform for women to elevate their voice, build authority, and turn visibility into opportunity at the Media Visibility Bootcamp 2026.

Introducing: Visibility Partners

This year, we are not simply selecting speakers. We are curating a cohort of Visibility Partners, women who are actively building, leading, and shaping conversations in their fields.

Each Visibility Partner contributes to the experience by sharing practical insights, lived experience, and actionable strategies that help other women grow in visibility, confidence, and influence.

Who We’re Looking For

We are intentionally selecting a limited number of Visibility Partners who bring clear, relevant, and actionable expertise in areas such as:

Media & PR strategy
Personal branding & authority building
Content creation & LinkedIn growth
Storytelling & messaging
Leadership, workplace visibility & influence
Visibility that leads to revenue, opportunities, and capital

We are especially interested in:

Canada-based experts in visibility, branding, and media
Thought leaders in AI, content, and growth
Women with proven experience building and leveraging visibility in their industries
What It Means to Be a Visibility Partner

As a Visibility Partner, you will be part of a curated experience designed to amplify both your voice and your expertise.

You will receive:

A featured speaking opportunity (main stage or panel)
Positioning within a curated lineup of visibility-focused experts
Exposure across Women of Rubies’ event marketing and media partner ecosystem
The opportunity to connect with a growing community of women founders, professionals, and leaders

We are prioritizing speakers who can go beyond inspiration and provide strategies that women can implement immediately.

Why This Matters

Visibility is more than being seen. It is about:

Being recognized for your expertise
Shaping conversations in your industry
Opening doors to opportunities, partnerships, and growth

This bootcamp is designed to help women move from: hidden → seen → recognized → influential

How to Apply

If you would like to be considered as a Visibility Partner, please send an email to: mediavisibilitybootcamp@womenofrubies.com

Include the following:

Your full name and professional title
A short professional bio
Your proposed topic (aligned with visibility, media, branding, leadership, or growth)
Links to your social media platforms and/or previous speaking engagements
A brief description of the outcome or transformation your session will deliver

We are intentionally curating a limited number of Visibility Partners to ensure a high-quality, high-impact experience. If your work aligns with helping women show up, be heard, and grow in influence, we would love to hear from you. Let’s build a platform where visibility becomes access.

🤝 Sponsorship & Brand Partnership Opportunities

Align your brand with a curated visibility platform empowering women to build influence, authority, and opportunity across Canada and the United States.

The Media Visibility Bootcamp 2026 brings together women leaders, entrepreneurs, professionals, and emerging voices who are actively building visibility, growing their brands, and shaping conversations in business, leadership, and media.

This is an opportunity for organizations and brands to connect with a highly engaged audience of women who are growth-focused, decision-driven, and actively seeking tools, platforms, and partnerships that support their visibility and success.

Sponsorship opportunities include:

Brand visibility across event marketing and communications
Positioning within a curated women-in-business audience
Digital exposure across Women of Rubies platforms
Association with a high-impact leadership and visibility experience
Opportunities for brand storytelling and alignment with women’s empowerment narratives

If your organization is interested in sponsoring or partnering with the Media Visibility Bootcamp 2026, please contact us at: info@womenofrubies.com

In Career Gems April 15, 2026 By Women of Rubies

Mom On Mission 5.0: A Transformational Experience for Women

As the countdown begins, anticipation is building for one of the most impactful gatherings for women and mothers in Canada, Mom On Mission 5.0, hosted by A Sacred Motherhood, founded by Oyin Isaac.

Now in its 5th edition, this milestone event is more than just a conference. It is a sacred space intentionally created for women to reconnect, realign, and rise into the fullness of their purpose.

Taking place on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at the Sandman Signature Mississauga Hotel, this year’s experience promises to be deeper, richer, and more transformative than ever before.

Collage of speakers for Mom On Mission 5.0 hosted by A Sacred Motherhood, featuring Oyin Isaac, Dr. Sarah Duni, Modupe Ehinlaye, Barbara Chambers, Pst. Bunmi Adeyemi, Merissa Gleason, Oluyemisi Aremu, and Promise Shadiya. — Meet the powerful voices behind Mom On Mission 5.0—women leading with purpose, faith, and impact.

Theme: Empowered – Walking in Purpose, Raising Legacy

In a world that constantly places demands on women, the theme “Empowered” is both timely and necessary.

Mom On Mission 5.0 is rooted in a powerful truth: Your identity is not defined by your roles, but by who you are created to be.

Meet the Speakers

This year’s lineup features powerful women who are leading, building, and creating impact across different spaces:

Each speaker brings lived experience, wisdom, and practical insight that will challenge, inspire, and equip you for your next level.

Why You Should Attend Mom On Mission 5.0

This is not just another event—it is a transformational experience designed to nurture the whole woman.

1. Renew Your Mind and Spirit

Experience powerful, faith-centered conversations that bring clarity and direction.

2. Gain Practical Wisdom

Learn actionable strategies for motherhood, leadership, and personal growth.

3. Build Meaningful Connections

Connect with women who are intentional about growth, purpose, and impact.

4. Step Into Confidence and Clarity

Leave empowered to lead your life and calling with boldness.

Event Details

📅 Date: Saturday, May 16, 2026
⏰ Time: 10:00 AM
📍 Location: Sandman Signature Mississauga Hotel
5400 Dixie Road, Mississauga, ON

What You Will Experience

Rediscover your identity and purpose
Experience transformation and renewal
Gain practical tools for life and leadership
Build powerful connections
Leave confident and empowered

Secure Your Spot

This is your moment to pause, reset, and step into your next level. Register now and be part of a life-changing experience. Mom On Mission 5.0 is more than a conference. It is a call to become everything you were created to be.