In Inspiration April 16, 2026 By Women of Rubies

Christina Koch Becomes First Woman to Orbit the Moon

NASA astronaut Christina Koch is once again at the center of history, becoming the first woman to travel around the Moon as part of NASA’s Artemis program.

The Artemis II mission launched from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, carrying a four-person crew on a 10-day lunar fly-by covering approximately 685,000 miles. It marks the first human mission to orbit the Moon in more than 50 years.

The crew includes Koch, Victor Glover, Reid Wiseman, and Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen.

Artemis II Mission Overview

Artemis II is a critical test mission for NASA’s long-term goal of returning humans to the Moon and preparing for future deep space exploration.

The mission focuses on validating spacecraft systems, life support, and human performance in deep space conditions. The crew will travel aboard the Orion spacecraft on a lunar fly-by before returning to Earth.

Unlike previous missions, Artemis is designed to build long-term exploration capability rather than short-term lunar visits.

Christina Koch’s Path to Artemis II

Christina Koch’s selection for Artemis II is built on a strong foundation of experience and achievement.

She was first selected as a NASA astronaut in 2013 and quickly established herself as one of the most capable astronauts of her generation.

In 2019, she completed a record-breaking 328 consecutive days in space aboard the International Space Station during Expeditions 59, 60, and 61. This remains the longest single spaceflight by a woman.

During that mission, she also participated in the first all-female spacewalk alongside astronaut Jessica Meir and completed multiple additional spacewalks totaling over 42 hours.

Her scientific work included robotics operations on the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer, protein crystal experiments for pharmaceutical research, and testing 3D biological printing in microgravity.

Christina Koch Artemis II Moon Mission NASA Astronaut

Experience Beyond Spaceflight

Beyond her missions in orbit, Koch has held leadership roles within NASA, including serving as branch chief over the Assigned Crew Branch in the Astronaut Office.

She has also worked in technical integration roles at NASA’s Johnson Space Center.

Before becoming an astronaut, her engineering background included space science instrument development and fieldwork in extreme environments such as Antarctica and the Arctic. She also supported search and rescue and firefighting operations in Antarctica.

The Artemis II Crew

The Artemis II crew represents a new era of space exploration. Christina Koch, Victor Glover, Reid Wiseman, and Jeremy Hansen were selected for their operational expertise and experience in spaceflight.

Together, they are tasked with testing the systems and procedures that will support future lunar missions and long-duration exploration beyond Earth orbit.

Why This Mission Matters

Artemis II is the first crewed mission to travel beyond low Earth orbit since the Apollo era. It represents a major step toward establishing sustained human presence on the Moon and preparing for future missions to Mars.

The mission will help NASA understand how humans can live and work in deep space over extended periods.

Historic Achievement

With Artemis II, Christina Koch becomes the first woman to travel around the Moon, adding another milestone to an already groundbreaking career.

Her journey reflects the growing role of experienced astronauts in shaping the future of human space exploration.

From Earth orbit to lunar space, Christina Koch continues to play a defining role in space history. Alongside Victor Glover and the Artemis II crew, she is helping lead a mission that marks the beginning of a new era in exploration. The Moon is now a gateway to the future of human spaceflight.

In Inspiration March 19, 2026 By Women of Rubies

Patricia Elias: Advancing Women’s Rights, Global Advocacy, Call for “No Peace Without Women

In the global fight for gender equality, few voices carry the depth of experience, influence, and impact as Patricia Elias.

An international lawyer, former UN Women Senior Advisor, and globally recognized gender expert, Patricia Elias has spent her career advancing women’s participation, leadership, and protection through law, diplomacy, and advocacy.

Her work sits at the intersection of women’s rights, peacebuilding, and global policy, with a strong focus on the Women, Peace and Security agenda and ending violence against women and girls.

A Leader in Global Advocacy and Diplomacy

Patricia’s career reflects a rare combination of legal expertise and diplomatic influence. As the former Chief of Global Diplomatic Campaign at Every Woman, she represented the organization at the highest levels, engaging with:

World leaders
Governments
United Nations entities
and civil society organizations

Through her leadership, she successfully expanded support for global advocacy efforts from 4 to 18 countries, while growing a powerful coalition of over 4,000 NGOs and activists across 164 countries. Her work demonstrates that policy change is not just about conversation, it is about coalition, negotiation, and sustained action.

Driving the Women, Peace and Security Agenda

At the core of Patricia’s mission is a fundamental belief: Sustainable peace is impossible without the inclusion of women. Through her advocacy, she has consistently pushed for:

Women’s participation in decision-making
Gender-responsive governance
Protection of women and girls in conflict settings
Legal reforms that uphold justice and equality

Her work reinforces a global truth that empowering women is not just a social priority, but a strategic necessity for peace and development.

A Humanitarian at Heart

Beyond global policy and diplomacy, Patricia’s impact extends to grassroots humanitarian work.

She has:

Built an orphanage in Cameroon
Worked directly with street children in Gabon

These efforts reflect a leadership style grounded not only in influence but in compassion and direct community impact.

Global Recognition and Leadership

Patricia Elias’ contributions have earned her international recognition.

She was awarded the French Medal of Associative Commitment by the Mayor of Paris and Île-de-France, a testament to her dedication to social impact and advocacy.

She currently serves as the G100 Global Chair for Governments and Ministerial Advocacy, where she continues to influence policy, leadership, and global partnerships for women’s advancement.

The “No Peace Without Women” Movement

One of Patricia’s most powerful initiatives is the Global Petition: No Peace Without Women — a call to action for governments, institutions, and global leaders to prioritize women’s inclusion in peacebuilding and decision-making.

The petition emphasizes a simple but transformative truth:

Peace that excludes women is incomplete.

🔗 Sign the petition: https://www.ipetitions.com/petition/global-petition-no-peace-without-women

A Legacy of Impact

From international law to grassroots advocacy, Patricia Elias represents a new model of leadership, one that bridges policy and people, diplomacy and action, global influence and local impact.

Her work continues to shape conversations, influence decisions, and build systems where women are not just included but empowered to lead.

In every community, every nation, and every global conversation, there can be no lasting peace without women.

In Inspiration March 18, 2026 By Women of Rubies

Sabah Hussain: A Visionary Empowering Women Through Purpose, Strategy, and Economic Inclusion

In a world where women have historically battled for visibility, opportunity, and influence, Sabah Hussain stands as a testament to what is possible when purpose, strategy, and courage converge.

Sabah isn’t just a business leader; she is a visionary strategist, a community builder, and a champion for women’s economic empowerment. Her journey bridges entrepreneurship, neuroscience, leadership development, investment, and advocacy, all grounded in the belief that when women rise, communities, economies, and generations rise with them.

From Entrepreneur to Strategist

Sabah Hussain is a five‑time entrepreneur whose experience spans multiple industries and business cycles. She has been at the forefront of building, scaling, and restructuring ventures with a focus on measurable outcomes. But what sets her work apart is not just her experience; it’s her lens.

As a business neuroscience strategist, Sabah applies insights from human behaviour, decision‑making science, and cognitive resilience to help leaders and organisations perform at their best. Her work goes beyond traditional management consulting; it aligns human potential with business growth in ways that are strategic, sustainable, and transformative.

Her unique skill set has made her a sought‑after executive board advisor and angel investor, guiding startups and seasoned enterprises alike toward paths of growth, clarity, and impact.

Investing in People and Purpose

Sabah’s investment philosophy is rooted in more than financial returns. She believes in investing in human capital, in leaders, in founders, and in changemakers who are committed to impact.

Her portfolio includes startups and small businesses with potential for exponential growth, as well as businesses driven by purpose. Through her strategic support, founders gain not just capital, but clarity, confidence and community.

Founder of the Federation of Women Empowerment and Support

One of her most impactful contributions is the Federation of Women Empowerment and Support, an initiative dedicated to expanding access, visibility, and opportunity for women entrepreneurs and leaders.

Under Sabah’s leadership, the federation:

Creates mentorship and leadership development pathways
Builds networks that amplify women’s voices
Connects women with strategic partnerships and scalable opportunities
Provides platforms for women to be seen, heard, and valued

The federation operates with a clear ethos: empowerment is not a slogan, it is a structure for sustainable progress.

In line with this mission, Sabah has intentionally shaped programs that address real barriers women face:
• Lack of access to capital
• Limited networks
• Visibility gaps
• Mentorship deserts
• Opportunity exclusions

Her approach ensures that empowerment is not surface‑level, but rooted in actual, measurable outcomes.

Legacy in Motion

Sabah is not just building businesses; she is shaping ecosystems. From startup founders to corporate leaders, from emerging entrepreneurs to seasoned executives, her influence spans borders and sectors.

She is proof that leadership is not about positions held, but about impact created, and more importantly, she shows that when women are equipped, connected, and empowered, the possibilities are limitless.

In womenofrubies April 16, 2026 By Women of Rubies

The Guardian Woman Festival Expands to Drive Deeper Impact for Women

In commemoration of International Women’s Day, The Guardian Woman Festival has launched a month-long programme in Nigeria, marking a bold shift from celebration to sustained impact.

Unveiled at a media parley held at the Federal Palace Hotel, this year’s festival is themed “Give to Gain”, a concept rooted in reciprocity, investment, and long-term value creation for women.

At the heart of this initiative is a clear message: empowering women is not charity, it is strategy.

From One-Day Celebration to Month-Long Impact

According to Anita Athena Ibru, Executive Director at Federal Palace Hotel and Chief Strategy Officer (Global) at The Guardian Nigeria, the expansion to a month-long activation is intentional.

Rather than a single day of enthusiasm that fades quickly, the goal is to create structured, sustained engagement that drives measurable outcomes.

The Role of Hospitality in National Storytelling

Ibru also highlighted the unique role of hospitality in shaping Nigeria’s global image. Describing the Federal Palace Hotel as “a living property”, she noted that spaces like these do more than host events; they shape experiences, narratives, and perceptions.

From international guests attending Nigerian weddings to the global rise of Afrobeats, she pointed to culture as one of Nigeria’s strongest exports, one that must be intentionally presented and preserved.

Rethinking Corporate Social Responsibility

A key focus of this year’s festival is redefining how organisations approach Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). According to Ibru, CSR must go beyond symbolic gestures. “It is not a logo on a banner or a one-time donation,” she stated.

Instead, strategic giving should focus on: leadership development, skills acquisition, enterprise support, and women’s wellbeingand earning long-term trust

A Platform for Real Opportunities

The month-long format also creates space for practical engagement. Participants will have opportunities to:

Connect with decision-makers
Access mentorship and partnerships
Gain visibility for their work
and secure tangible growth pathways

With partners like Zoho Corporation supporting the initiative, there is also a strong emphasis on technology as a growth equaliser for women-led businesses. Additionally, organisations like Female Techpreneur are ensuring that women are not just present, but positioned in rooms where decisions are made.

As the month unfolds, organisations and individuals are invited to move beyond passive participation and actively give, invest, and build.

To learn more about the Guardian Woman festival, follow @guardianwoman or check www.guardianwomanfestival.com/

In Inspiration March 7, 2026 By Women of Rubies

ABCD Africa 100 Most Impactful Voices List (4th Edition) Released to Mark 2026 International Women’s Day

ABCD Africa is proud to announce the release of the 4th edition of the 100 Most Impactful Voices List, released to mark 2026 International Women’s Day. This list recognises female changemakers, leaders, and community builders of African descent who leverage their voices and digital content as tools for impact.

We release this edition at a significant moment. The conversations shaping our world, around equality, technology, governance, and the future of the African continent, are being had right now, and the women on this list are at the centre of them. Africa is home to bold, visionary women who are not only shaping narratives but building the platforms, policies, and technologies that will define what comes next.

In this year’s edition, we celebrate 100 extraordinary women of African descent who use their influence to educate, advocate and inspire. Through their work across digital platforms, and through leadership, governance, policy, and published works, they are breaking barriers, amplifying marginalised voices, and leading movements that redefine the future.

“It is an honour to unveil the 4th edition of the ABCD Africa 100 Most Impactful Voices List and amplify the contribution of these remarkable women. In a world where the spaces for women’s voices are being contested, this list is a reminder of what is possible when African women are given their flowers. We hope it inspires more women to use their voices, create impactful content, and shape conversations that contribute to a more equitable and inclusive society,” says Joke Pearl Oyebamiji, Founder of ABCD Africa.

The selection process was rigorous and thorough, with nominations received from digital experts and the general public. Finalists were evaluated based on their creativity, impact, authenticity, and engagement.

Visit voices.abcdafrica.co to view the full list

In Inspiration February 18, 2026 By Esther Ijewere

Khamica Bingham: Canadian Olympic Sprinter and Black Excellence on the Track

Khamica Bingham is a Canadian Olympic sprinter who specializes in the 100 metres and has represented Team Canada at the highest levels of international competition. From the Olympic Games to the World Championships, Bingham has established herself as one of Canada’s premier track and field athletes.

Born on June 15, 1994, in North York, Ontario, Khamica Bingham’s journey to becoming a Canadian Olympic sprinter did not begin on the track. She was originally a national-level gymnast before transitioning into sprinting during high school due to the financial burden gymnastics placed on her family. That shift would ultimately shape her legacy in Canadian athletics.

Khamica Bingham’s Early Career and Breakthrough

Khamica Bingham’s speed became evident early in her track and field career. In 2012, she competed in the 100 metres at the IAAF World Junior Championships, finishing fourth and signaling her arrival as one of Canada’s rising sprint talents.

Her development accelerated as she became a key member of Canada’s women’s 4×100 metre relay team. Alongside Kimberly Hyacinthe, Crystal Emmanuel, and Shai-Anne Davis, Bingham helped set a national record, strengthening Canada’s position in global women’s sprinting.

As a Black Canadian athlete, her presence on international relay teams also expanded representation at the highest levels of track and field.

Khamica Bingham at the Olympic Games

In July 2016, Khamica Bingham was officially named to Canada’s Olympic team, achieving one of the most significant milestones in any athlete’s career. Representing Team Canada at the Olympic Games placed her among the elite 100 metre sprinters in the world.

She later competed at the 2020 Summer Olympics, further solidifying her reputation as a consistent and high-performing Canadian Olympic sprinter.

Competing at the Olympic Games, Pan American Games, Commonwealth Games, and World Championships demonstrates not only speed but longevity and resilience in an intensely competitive sport.

From Gymnastics to 100 Metres Specialist

Khamica Bingham’s transition from gymnastics to track and field is a defining part of her story. Switching sports at a young age required rebuilding her athletic identity, retraining her body, and developing elite sprint technique.

Her success illustrates adaptability and determination, qualities essential for sustained performance in professional athletics.

For many young athletes, particularly those navigating financial or structural barriers, her story proves that a change in direction does not mean a loss of potential.

Representation and Black Excellence in Canadian Sport

As a Black Canadian Olympian, Khamica Bingham represents visibility and excellence in women’s sport. Track and field has long been a space where Black athletes have made global impact, and Bingham continues that tradition within Team Canada.

Her achievements contribute to Canada’s growing legacy in women’s sprinting and inspire the next generation of athletes who aspire to compete at the Olympic level.

Beyond medals and race times, her career symbolizes perseverance, discipline, and national pride.

Khamica Bingham’s Legacy in Motion

Today, Khamica Bingham remains recognized as one of Canada’s top 100 metre runners. Her participation in multiple Olympic cycles and international competitions reflects both elite performance and enduring commitment to her craft.

From a young gymnast in Ontario to an Olympic sprinter competing on the world stage, Khamica Bingham’s journey is one of transformation, speed, and impact.

She is not just running races — she is building legacy in Canadian track and field.

FAQ: Khamica Bingham

What event does Khamica Bingham compete in?
She specializes in the 100 metres and also competes in the women’s 4×100 metre relay.

Has Khamica Bingham competed in the Olympics?
Yes. She represented Canada at the 2016 Olympic Games and the 2020 Summer Olympics.

Where is Khamica Bingham from?
She was born in North York, Ontario, Canada.

In Career Gems February 17, 2026 By Women of Rubies

Meet the Coaches for the Women of Rubies Media Pitch Challenge 2026

In celebration of Black History Month, Women of Rubies is hosting the Media Pitch Challenge, a visibility-focused initiative spotlighting women whose work deserves greater recognition. This challenge creates intentional space for women to confidently share their stories, articulate their impact, and position themselves for meaningful media exposure.

Ahead of the live virtual event on February 28th, 2026, all registered participants will receive structured guidance and direct access to expert coaches who will host a live group pitch session to prepare them for the challenge.

Esther Ijewere – Award-Winning Media Strategist & Founder, Women of Rubies

Esther Ijewere is an award-winning media strategist, coach, and Founder of Women of Rubies, a global platform and community of over 200,000 women dedicated to amplifying female voices. She has been a columnist with The Guardian Newspaper for 10 years and facilitates workshops for managers and emerging leaders, helping them sharpen communication, visibility, and leadership skills.

Through strategic storytelling, editorial features, and impact-driven initiatives, Esther has supported thousands of female entrepreneurs in gaining credibility, recognition, and growth opportunities.

During the pre-challenge coaching session, she will guide participants on refining their message, strengthening their positioning, and understanding what makes a pitch compelling within competitive media spaces.

Dr. Oluwanifemi Fagbohun – Business Growth Strategist & Founder, Montreal Vendors

Dr. Fagbohun is a dynamic entrepreneur, business growth strategist, and coach dedicated to helping founders scale strategically. As the Founder of Montreal Vendors, she supports over 17,000 entrepreneurs across Canada through visibility, strategic growth opportunities, and advocacy for inclusion.

In 2026, history was made at Montreal City Hall as Dr. Oluwanifemi “Niffy” Fagbohun signed the Canadian Historic Golden Book as a laureate during Mois de l’Histoire des Noirs (Black History Month). Recognized alongside the Mayor of Montreal and directors of the Round Table for Black History Month, she became the first Nigerian in Montreal, Quebec, to receive this prestigious honor, cementing her place in history while celebrating Black excellence and cultural legacy.

She is also the force behind Niffy Signature and Niffy Wellness Foundation, championing empowerment rooted in sustainability and impact. In the live group pitch session, she will help participants align media exposure with long-term business growth and brand authority.

Wendy Nwajiufor – Founder, WinTech & Digital Influence Coach

Wendy Nwajiufor, fondly known as Chylove, is a remarkable force in today’s digital age, where technology and innovation are key drivers of change. She is a visionary entrepreneur, successful YouTuber, Executive Director, and coach whose influence extends across the globe. Her journey is one of passion, dedication, and a relentless drive to empower others, especially women in the tech industry.

Her YouTube channel, which boasts over 50,000 subscribers, began as a platform to share unique and delicious meal recipes inspired by her Nigerian heritage and immigrant experience in Canada. Today, it has grown into a community where people from all walks of life find educational, inspirational, and practical content.

As part of the Media Pitch Challenge preparation, Wendy will guide participants on confident delivery, digital storytelling, and leveraging online platforms to amplify their voice and visibility.

Media Pitch Challenge Judges — Cynthia Mwangi, Hosna Kadary, Sherley Josepth ( Judges, Media Pitch Challenge 2026)

On the day of the event, participants will have the opportunity to pitch directly to our distinguished panel of judges, gaining real-time feedback and exposure within a visibility-focused ecosystem.

What Participants Will Receive

All registered participants will gain access to practical tools and guided support designed to ensure they pitch with clarity and confidence:

Media Pitch Workbook – A structured guide to clarify your story, message, and impact.
Live Group Pitch Coaching Session – Direct access to the coaches for guidance on pitching fundamentals and visibility best practices.
Exposure to Industry Judges & Media Partners – Pitches reviewed within a curated visibility-focused ecosystem.
Certificate of Participation from Women of Rubies – Official recognition of participation in the Media Pitch Challenge.

How the Women of Rubies Media Pitch Challenge Works

Register – Secure your spot via womenofrubies.com/mediapitch and receive confirmation with next steps.
Create Your Pitch – Record a 2–3 minute video introducing who you are, what you do, and why your story deserves media visibility.
Submit Your Video – Send your pitch and bio to pitch@womenofrubies.com
Get Shortlisted – A select group of standout pitches will be invited to present live.
Pitch Live & Get Feedback – Receive real-time feedback from media and industry experts.
Winner Selected – The winner receives a premium media visibility package featuring Women of Rubies, The Guardian, Canada News Journal, podcasts, and strategic amplification across partner platforms.

In Inspiration February 13, 2026 By Esther Ijewere

Dr. Oluwanifemi “Niffy” Fagbohun Makes History as 2026 Black History Month Laureate in Montreal

In 2026, history was made at Montreal City Hall as Dr. Oluwanifemi “Niffy” Fagbohun signed the Canadian Historic Golden Book as a laureate during Mois de l’Histoire des Noirs (Black History Month). Recognized alongside the Mayor of Montreal and directors of the Round Table for Black History Month, she became the first Nigerian in Montreal, Quebec, to receive this prestigious honor, cementing her place in history while celebrating Black excellence and cultural legacy.

This recognition is a testament to Dr. Fagbohun’s decades-long dedication to empowering women, uplifting entrepreneurs, and championing inclusive communities. She is a multi-award-winning entrepreneur, bestselling author, internationally trained Chemical and Polymer Engineer, brand strategist, and dynamic speaker. Over the past 20 years, she has blended innovation, beauty, and social impact to create safe spaces where women can thrive in business and wellness. Through her work, she has empowered over 15,000 individuals globally and leads a worldwide community of more than 40,000 beauty enthusiasts.

As the Founder of Montreal Vendors, a business growth hub, Dr. Fagbohun supports over 17,000 entrepreneurs across Canada, providing visibility, strategic growth opportunities, and advocacy for inclusion. Through her vegan and cruelty-free beauty brand, Niffy Signature, and her Niffy Wellness Foundation (@niffywellnessfoundation), she redefines beauty through health, sustainability, and empowerment.

Her work has earned her a place among the Forbes Universal Women Network, leadership boards, and global mentorship programs, including the Gemstar Circle of Excellence Scholarship Program for Black youth in Montreal. Featured internationally by media outlets like CityNews Montreal, Ticker News Australia, and The Guardian, Dr. Fagbohun continues to shape global conversations around leadership, cultural pride, and entrepreneurship.

A Historic Recognition at Montreal City Hall

In 2026, history was made as Dr. Fagbohun signed the Canadian Historic Golden Book as a laureate during Mois de l’Histoire des Noirs (Black History Month) at Montreal City Hall. Recognized alongside the Mayor of Montreal and directors of the Round Table for Black History Month, this milestone marks both a personal achievement and a collective victory for representation, excellence, and community impact.

A First for Nigerian Representation in Quebec

In the 35-year history of Montreal’s Black History Month, which honors 12 laureates annually, Dr. Fagbohun became the first Nigerian in Montreal, Quebec, to receive this prestigious recognition. Her accomplishment underscores the power of representation and highlights the importance of visibility in shaping inclusive narratives.

Empowering Through Entrepreneurship and Leadership

Dr. Fagbohun’s work extends far beyond personal achievements. As the Founder and Director of Montreal Vendors, she provides Canadian entrepreneurs with visibility, mentorship, and strategic growth opportunities. Through Niffy Signature, she promotes safe and informed beauty practices globally, while her Niffy Wellness Foundation serves girls aged 10 and above, as well as women across Montreal, focusing on wellness education, confidence-building, and empowerment initiatives.

Her influence spans public speaking, authorship, mentorship, and cultural advocacy. Proudly rooted in her Ijebu heritage, she champions cultural relevance while shaping global conversations around leadership, representation, and diversity.

A Global Voice and Community Champion

Dr. Fagbohun’s work has been featured by CityNews Montreal, Ticker News Australia, and The Guardian, among others. Her recognition as a 2026 Black History Month Laureate affirms her dedication to empowering women, supporting entrepreneurs, and elevating Black excellence across Canada and beyond. She also serves as a Doctoral Fellow at the Global Institute of Leadership and Development and mentors young people, including Black youth in Montreal, through the Gemstar Circle of Excellence Scholarship Program.

Celebrating Black Excellence and Cultural Legacy

Black History Month is a time to reflect on resilience, celebrate achievements, and recommit to building equity for future generations. For Dr. Fagbohun, this recognition is not just personal, it is a testament to community-driven leadership, cultural pride, and the transformative power of consistent effort.

This milestone is dedicated to the supporters, collaborators, mentees, and global audiences who believe in her vision. It is a celebration of collective advancement, cultural representation, and the enduring impact of Black excellence in Canada and worldwide.

Looking Ahead

As we honor the 2026 laureates of Mois de l’Histoire des Noirs, Dr. Oluwanifemi “Niffy” Fagbohun’s journey serves as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us that entrepreneurship, wellness, and community impact can coexist to create lasting change. Her story continues to inspire a new generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers committed to leaving a mark on the world.

Congratulations to Dr. Oluwanifemi “Niffy” Fagbohun on this historic achievement.

In Career Gems January 28, 2026 By Women of Rubies

Funding Masterclass with Sola Oluwole (Replay)

Many women-led businesses and initiatives have incredible ideas and impact, yet often struggle to access the funding and support needed to grow. The Women of Rubies Funding Masterclass, facilitated by Sola Oluwole, tackled exactly this challenge, providing actionable strategies, clarity, and tools to help women founders position their work for funding success.

🎥 Replay Available Now

The full masterclass is now available as a replay for just $30. Watch and learn at your own pace, and revisit key insights shared during the session. Access the Replay Here

Inside, we break down:
✔️ What funders actually look for
✔️ How to prepare your business for funding
✔️ Common mistakes that block access
✔️ Practical steps you can apply immediately

Optional Add-On: Spotlight Feature

For those interested in amplifying their work even further, selected participants will be featured on the Women of Rubies platform. Share your bio, photo, and social links when you get the replay to be considered for this exclusive visibility opportunity. Send to – Info@womenofrubies.com

Take the step today to grow your impact, gain clarity on funding, and expand your visibility.

In Inspiration January 23, 2026 By Women of Rubies

Ruth E. Carter Makes Oscar History as the Most-Nominated Black Woman Ever

The legendary costume designer has earned her fifth Academy Award nomination for Best Costume Design for her work on Ryan Coogler’s Sinners, officially making her the most-nominated Black woman in Oscar history across any category. With this milestone, Carter extends a legacy that has not only shaped cinema but also paved the way for future generations of Black creatives.

Before this year’s nomination, Carter was tied with Oscar-winning actress Viola Davis at four nominations. She now stands alongside Spike Lee and Morgan Freeman, each with five nominations, ranking among the most-recognized Black creatives in Oscar history. Only Quincy Jones (seven nominations) and Denzel Washington (nine nominations) stand ahead.

A Career Rooted in Cultural Storytelling

Ruth E. Carter is widely celebrated for her ability to use costume as storytelling, honoring history, culture, and identity through design. Her work has consistently elevated Black narratives on screen, most notably in Black Panther (2018), for which she became the first Black woman to win an Oscar for costume design. Her nomination for Sinners further solidifies her role as a cultural architect in film.

In this year’s Best Costume Design category, Carter joins an accomplished group of nominees including Deborah L. Scott (Avatar: Fire and Ash), Kate Hawley (Frankenstein), Malgosia Turzanska (Hamnet), and Miyako Belizzi (Marty Supreme).

Breaking Barriers and Earning Oscars

Carter’s work on Marvel’s Black Panther marked a watershed moment in cinema. The costumes were more than outfits, they were symbols of pride, power, and identity, rooted in Afrofuturism and rich African tradition. For this achievement, she became the first Black woman to win an Academy Award for Best Costume Design.

She repeated that historic win with Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, becoming the first Black woman to win multiple Oscars in any category, a distinction that cements her legacy while spotlighting how rarely Black designers have been recognized at Hollywood’s highest levels.

Now, with her fifth Oscar nomination — this time for her work on the period-rich Sinners, Carter has surpassed legendary actresses and creatives to hold the record for the most nominations of any Black woman in Oscar history.

Design Philosophy: Culture, Respect, and Visual Truth

Carter’s approach to costume design centers on truth and representation. For Sinners, set in the early 20th-century American South, she described her work as an act of cultural preservation, using clothing to protect and reflect the lived realities of Black working-class life rather than merely embellishing characters. This level of nuance and historical sensitivity has defined her career.

Her designs don’t just dress actors; they tell their stories. Whether it’s the vibrancy of African-inspired regalia or the layered texture of Depression-era clothing, each piece becomes a visual narrative that deepens audience engagement with the story.

More Than an Oscar Nominee: A Cultural Legacy

Beyond the Oscars, Carter’s contributions extend to education and inspiration. Her memoir, The Art of Ruth E. Carter, chronicles her creative journey and creative philosophy. Her work has been featured in traveling exhibitions exploring Afrofuturism in Costume Design, showcasing how cinematic costume can reflect identity and imagination.

She also serves on the Academy’s Board of Governors for the Costume Designers Branch, helping shape the future of the industry and championing greater diversity in storytelling.

Celebrating Legacy, Visibility, and Impact

Ruth E. Carter’s achievement is more than a personal milestone, it is a reminder of the power of sustained excellence and representation. Her work has not only shaped cinematic worlds but has also expanded what visibility looks like for Black women behind the scenes.

At Women of Rubies, we celebrate moments like these because they reflect the very essence of our mission: honoring women who break barriers, build legacies, and redefine what leadership and creativity look like on a global stage.

Ruth E. Carter’s legacy is still unfolding, and history is watching.

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