Figure it Out with Ruby

Love is more than just an emotion; it’s an art, a journey, and a process of continuous growth. For Mary Olufunmilayo Ochonogor, a certified love and relationship coach, understanding the complexities of human connection has been a lifelong passion, shaped by personal experiences and professional development. Dedicated to helping individuals and couples build healthier, more fulfilling relationships, Mary’s work reflects her deep commitment to personal growth and authentic connections. Here’s a glimpse into her journey, coaching philosophy, and the heart behind LoveConnect Mates.

The Early Inspiration Behind My Journey

Growing up, I observed the dynamics of relationships within my family and community, which sparked my interest in understanding human connections. These early experiences taught me the importance of communication, empathy, and mutual respect—values that now form the foundation of my coaching practice.

Embracing the Woman of Rubies Identity

Being a Woman of Rubies signifies strength, resilience, and the ability to inspire others. I embody empowerment by encouraging my clients to embrace their authentic selves, recognize their worth, and take charge of their happiness. My work is about helping individuals unlock their potential and approach relationships with confidence.

LoveConnect Mates: Where Connections Blossom

The name of my initiative, LoveConnect Mates, was inspired by a deep desire to help people find meaningful connections. I wanted to create a platform where individuals could meet like-minded partners while feeling supported and guided throughout the process.

My Approach to Matchmaking

I approach matchmaking by taking a personalized and holistic view of each individual. This involves understanding their values, interests, and long-term goals, as well as fostering open communication to help them articulate what they’re truly looking for in a partner. I focus on compatibility beyond surface-level traits to create connections that have depth and potential for growth.

The Coaching Philosophy That Drives Me

My coaching is guided by authenticity, empathy, and self-awareness. I encourage individuals to embrace their true selves while building the skills to connect with others meaningfully. I also prioritize fostering emotional intelligence and helping clients develop confidence and resilience as they navigate their relationship journey.

Beyond Coaching: A Passion for Impact

Outside of coaching, I’m involved in various initiatives such as volunteering, public speaking, writing, and other creative endeavors. These projects allow me to expand my impact and connect with people in different ways, further reinforcing my mission to inspire and uplift.

The Culinary Connection: Where Love Meets Food

Cooking, like relationships, requires patience, creativity, and attention to detail. I balance my work and passion by treating both as avenues for connection and mindfulness. Cooking also reminds me of the importance of nurturing—just as a great dish needs the right ingredients and care, so do healthy relationships.

The Most Rewarding Part of My Journey

The most rewarding aspect of my work is witnessing clients transform. Seeing someone move from doubt and frustration to confidence and joy in their relationships is incredibly fulfilling. It’s a privilege to be part of their journey toward personal growth and meaningful connections.

Final Thoughts: Let’s Turn Your Relationship Goals Into Reality

With years of experience helping people transform their love lives and crafting meals that spark happiness, I’ve learned that love, like cooking, requires the right ingredients, patience, effort, and a little bit of spice. I combine compassion with actionable strategies to help you break free from limiting patterns, embrace your worth, and attract the love you deserve.

My mission is to inspire confidence, clarity, and purpose in your journey toward love. When I’m not coaching, I enjoy cooking, which keeps me grounded and inspired in both life and love. Together, let’s turn your relationship goals into reality.

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

A Trailblazer in Workplace Transformation

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

Academic Excellence Meets Real-World Impact

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

Andrea D. Carter

Groundbreaking Research That Redefines Belonging

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

Driving Systemic Change Across Industries

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

Shaping the Future of Work Through Belonging

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

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

Jasmine Uboma is a visionary educator, entrepreneur, and advocate for equity in education who has revolutionized math instruction and inspired countless young minds to pursue STEM careers. At just 17, she self-published the BeyondMath Analytical Workbooks, now available on Amazon, which use puzzle-based activities to develop critical thinking skills in students from Grades 4–8.

As the founder of BeyondMath Educational Services Foundation, Jasmine empowers underrepresented youth through mentorship, AI training, and STEM-focused events, closing the diversity gap in science and technology fields. Recognized by CBC and honored with awards such as Black Champion and Youth Change Leader, Jasmine’s innovative work has earned her an Ontario Scroll and commendation from MPP Zee Hamid for her transformative impact.

Her entrepreneurial spirit, advocacy for diversity, and dedication to empowering marginalized communities make Jasmine Uboma a role model and a beacon of hope for aspiring changemakers.

In this exclusive interview with Esther Ijewere, she shares her story.

Inspiration Behind Creating BeyondMath

During COVID, my mom encouraged my brother and me to do something meaningful instead of spending all our time on TikTok. She tasked us with finding something we cared about. Math has always been a passion for me, so I wanted to give back in that space.

Reshaping Math and STEM Learning

The books and the workshops we run as an organization are geared towards presenting math differently to students. As the world evolves, so do some of our teaching practices. Ultimately, our goal is to breathe life into STEM, especially where kids might think it’s boring or too difficult for them.

Needed Changes in Education for Equity

We need to see more after-school programs presenting math in a fun, unique, game-like way. Each generation has different learning needs, and making math more accessible will build resilience in kids to continue in STEM. Black kids have often been channeled into athletics, and I want to advocate that they can excel in STEM too.

Overcoming Challenges in Self-Publishing

One of the challenges was getting that first investment. Self-publishing and printing is a tall order, but we had a Kickstarter to raise some funds. I was also blessed to have a mother who saw the vision and contributed financially.

Role of Mentorship in STEM Empowerment

It’s important for students to see representation of themselves at higher levels because it tells them that they can achieve the same. I count myself privileged to have a mother in STEM, which has inspired me greatly.

Most Rewarding BeyondMath Initiatives

Our yearly math competition is always exciting! It shines a spotlight on kids who want to be challenged. I also really enjoy our end-of-year events, where we recognize students’ efforts and just have a great time together.

Advice for Aspiring STEM Entrepreneurs

Reach out to a teacher or guidance counselor who may know about STEM pathways and the steps to get there. My email is always open for questions from kids or parents: beyondmatheducation@gmail.com.

Leadership and Advocacy as a Young Black Woman in STEM

How has your experience as a young Black woman in STEM shaped your approach to leadership and advocacy?

I see the disparity in higher-level STEM, especially in math. There are very few women, let alone Black women, in my classes. I’m often the only Black student. This drives me to push more Black students into STEM.

Memorable Moments and Recognition

The provincial scroll and the CBC article are tied as my most memorable moments. Seeing the article reposted on my school website, hearing friends play it on the radio, and getting a letter from my university president were surreal. Receiving recognition from the provincial government through my MPP was also amazing.

Lasting Impact of BeyondMath

I want to see more Black students entering STEM-related fields. We are incredibly smart, and our fresh perspectives are needed in STEM. I also hope for an attitude shift in students when it comes to math—it’s challenging but extremely rewarding.

Being a Woman of Rubies

I have grown as a leader and shown younger kids that there’s a way through challenges. My journey emphasizes that they don’t have to do it alone, which makes me a Woman of Rubies.

Inspirational Women

First, my mother, Dr. Nnenna Uboma, who paved a huge path for me. Second, Beyoncé, for always striving to be the best version of herself. Finally, Olamide Olowe, the founder of Topicals, built an empire catering to POC—it’s so inspiring!

Learn more about Jasmine’s work here; Beyond Math

Gusi Tobby Lordwilliams, popularly known as the LORD T OF IMPACT, is on a mission to revolutionize the executive assistant profession. In the fast-paced world of business and leadership, executive assistants have often been seen as essential yet overlooked support staff. With the launch of the School of Service, she is reshaping this narrative by equipping executive assistants with the skills, mindset, and influence to become strategic powerhouses.

A Visionary Leader in Executive Service and Volunteerism

With a background in law, Gusi Tobby has spent years transforming individuals into high-performing executive assistants and service professionals. Her expertise in volunteer management, leadership development, and executive support systems has positioned her as a leading authority in the field.

Having coached over 500 executive assistants (EAs) into high-paying roles, she has become a sought-after mentor, helping professionals connect with high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) and advance their careers. Beyond training, she is the founder of Girl Hub Africa, Nigeria’s largest all-female volunteering network, dedicated to bridging the gender gap through volunteering, training, and advocacy.

Gusi Tobby Lordwilliams

The Game Changer: The School of Service

Launching on February 10, 2025, the Executive Assistant Mastery Course at the School of Service is designed to shatter outdated perceptions of executive support roles. This program will mold participants into strategic thinkers, trusted advisors, and indispensable partners to high-performing executives.

“This isn’t just another training program,” says Gusi Tobby. “It’s a movement to dismantle the tired narrative around executive assistants. They’re not ‘just’ anything, they’re powerhouses, and we’re here to amplify that truth.”

World-Class Faculty for a Transformative Experience

The School of Service brings together an all-star lineup of industry disruptors and experts, including:

  • Jimi Tewe – Career Success Catalyst and Leadership Coach
  • John Obidi – Digital Leadership Expert and Founder, Headstart Africa
  • Esther Ijewere – PR Consultant, Award-winning Social Activist, and Advocate for Women
  • Dr. Linus Okorie – Leadership and Organizational Development Strategist
  • Carisa Caleb – Global Leadership Expert
  • Aproko Doctor – Digital Health Advocate
  • Praise Fowowe – Family Life Coach and Visionary Consultant
  • Belinda Enoma – Data Privacy Consultant and Speaker
  • FII Stephen – AI/Business Strategist
  • Patience Olusuyi – Legal & Entrepreneurship Efficiency Specialist

Beyond Training: A Pathway to Certification

The School of Service is not just about training—it’s about transformation. Alongside the Mastery Course, the institution is introducing a Diploma in Executive Services and Management, offering a pathway for professionals who aspire to become certified Executive Service Coaches.

“The School of Service is for the bold,” Gusi affirms. “It’s for those who are tired of mediocrity, for those who see themselves as more than a title, and for those who know that service is a superpower.”

Why This Matters

For too long, executive assistants have been undervalued. The School of Service is here to change that by empowering professionals to claim their space as key players in leadership and business success. With a curriculum designed to foster strategic thinking, personal branding, and career growth, this launch marks a seismic shift in how EAs are trained, valued, and positioned in the corporate world.

Gusi Tobby Lordwilliams

Join the Movement

If you’re ready to elevate your career, step into leadership, and make a lasting impact, the School of Service is your gateway to transformation.

For enrollment or partnership inquiries, contact: 📞 +234 707 997 7003
📩 Josephine Opene-Terry, Head of Administration
📧 Hello@schoolofservice.com
🌐 www.schoolofservice.com

About Gusi Tobby

Gusi Tobby is an Executive Service Coach, Volunteer Management Consultant, and Founder of Girl Hub Africa. Renowned for her unapologetic passion and groundbreaking initiatives, she continues to inspire and empower professionals to break barriers, rise above limitations, and create transformative impact.