Canadian Business

In Interviews&profile November 14, 2024 By Women of Rubies

Veronica Oluwatoyin Oyewumi: CEO of VeragoldO, Pioneering Gold Investment and Empowerment

Veronica Oluwatoyin Oyewumi, CEO of VeragoldO, has built a successful gold business that spans two continents. With roots in Nigeria and a new life in Canada, Veronica has turned her passion for gold into a thriving brand, offering high-quality 18-karat Italian gold. Her journey is one of resilience, education, and dedication—a story that reflects the hard work and vision she brings to VeragoldO.

Early Life in Kaduna: Laying the Foundation for a Business Career

Veronica’s story began in Kaduna, Nigeria, where she was born and raised. She completed her primary and secondary education in Kaduna before pursuing higher education at Kaduna Polytechnic, earning OND and HND degrees in Marketing by 2010. She furthered her studies at Lagos State University (LASU), obtaining a degree in Business Administration in 2014. Her love for business and learning set the stage for her career.

Balancing a Corporate Career and Continued Education

Alongside her education, Veronica built a decade-long career with GT Bank, where she honed her skills in a professional environment. Not one to rest on her laurels, she pursued a Master’s degree in Marketing from Ladoke Akintola University in 2015. This blend of work experience and education equipped her with a strong foundation for future ventures.

Gold Trading: Learning from Family and Building Expertise

Gold trading runs in Veronica’s family—she learned the business from her mother, who was a successful gold trader. Inspired by her mother’s expertise, Veronica began buying and selling gold and clothing while balancing her career and studies. These early experiences laid the groundwork for her eventual business, VeragoldO.

A New Chapter in Canada

In 2018, Veronica relocated to Montreal, Canada, where she began working as a Personal Support Worker (PSW). Over the past five years, she has served in this role and volunteered for a year at a local food bank, reflecting her commitment to community and compassion.

Founding VeragoldO in Canada

Veronica launched VeragoldO in 2019, bringing her gold trading experience from Nigeria to a new market in Canada. VeragoldO specializes in 18-karat Italian gold, aiming to make high-quality gold accessible and create opportunities for others to become wholesalers. Her brand’s mission is to help clients invest in gold, a valuable asset that appreciates over time.

Why Gold? The Value of a Timeless Investment

At VeragoldO, gold is seen not only as jewelry but as a lasting investment. Gold remains one of the few assets that consistently appreciates, making it an ideal choice for those looking to secure their financial future. Veronica has crafted her business model to emphasize this value, encouraging clients to view gold as a “money-back” investment.

Connect with VeragoldO

Veronica’s journey from Kaduna to Canada reflects her commitment to quality, growth, and community. VeragoldO continues to grow as a brand, with Veronica’s passion and dedication driving its success. Whether you’re looking to purchase quality gold or explore wholesale opportunities, VeragoldO is ready to serve.

In Interviews&profile September 17, 2024 By Esther Ijewere

Stacy Irving: From Fashion School to Founder of Shandina Organic Hair Care

When Stacy Irving boarded the plane from Jamaica to Canada at just 10 years old, she was filled with excitement and anticipation. Little did she know, this move would set her on a path that would lead to entrepreneurship and the creation of Shandina Organic Hair Care, a business built on her personal experiences, her love for natural beauty, and her commitment to helping others reclaim their hair health.

A Jamaican Foundation

Growing up in Jamaica, Stacy learned the importance of resilience, resourcefulness, and creativity. “In Jamaica, we had to make the most of what we had,” she reflects. “We didn’t always have everything we wanted, but we learned to be innovative and find solutions.” These values became foundational in her life, especially after moving to Canada, where new opportunities and challenges awaited her.

Canada offered a different landscape—culturally, economically, and socially. “Canada exposed me to new ways of doing business and helped me understand the power of diversity, not just in people, but in ideas.” Combining her Jamaican roots with Canadian perspectives shaped Stacy into a flexible, innovative entrepreneur determined to make an impact.

From Fashion to Hair Care

Stacy’s love for creativity led her to fashion school, where she learned to channel her artistic energy. However, it was in this environment that she first experienced issues with hair health. The stress of deadlines, the constant hustle, and the rigors of daily life began to take a toll on her hair. “I struggled with thinning hair and receding edges,” Stacy shares. “It wasn’t just me—many of the women around me were facing the same challenges.”

This shared struggle became the spark that ignited Stacy’s passion for hair care. She began researching natural solutions to address these issues, diving into the world of herbs, oils, and remedies passed down through generations. Her goal was simple: to heal her own hair and empower other women dealing with the same frustrations.

The Birth of Shandina Organic Hair Care

Fueled by personal experience and a desire to offer real solutions, Stacy officially launched Shandina Organic Hair Care 10 years ago. The brand was born out of a need for natural, organic products that catered to diverse hair types and addressed issues like hair thinning, hair loss, and damage. “I saw a gap in the market,” Stacy recalls. “There were plenty of products out there, but not many that used high-quality, natural ingredients specifically designed to nourish and heal.”

Her background in fashion, coupled with her passion for natural beauty, influenced her approach to hair care. Each product in the Shandina Organic line is meticulously crafted to promote healthy, vibrant hair using ingredients that are as gentle as they are effective.

One of the standout ingredients in her products is Cupuaçu butter, a rich, natural emollient known for its powerful moisturizing and healing properties. “Cupuaçu butter has been a game-changer,” Stacy explains. “It restores the natural moisture barrier in hair, enhances elasticity, and repairs damage. It’s perfect for a wide range of hair types and helps address everything from dryness to breakage.”

Building a Community of Confidence

Stacy’s personal experience with hair loss has allowed her to build strong connections with her customers. “I’ve walked the same path they have,” she says. “I know how frustrating and self-conscious it can make you feel. That’s why I’m so passionate about creating products that truly work and providing the support people need to feel confident in their hair again.”

For Stacy, Shandina Organic is more than just a hair care brand—it’s a community. Through her products, she hopes to inspire self-care, self-love, and confidence in others. “I want my brand to help people embrace their natural beauty and take control of their hair health. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about feeling good from the inside out.”

Looking to the Future

As she continues to grow Shandina Organic, Stacy remains committed to making a lasting impact. “My goal is to create a space where people feel supported on their hair journey,” she says. “I want my products to make a real difference in people’s lives, helping them restore and maintain healthy, beautiful hair.”

Stacy’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and passion—a journey that started in Jamaica and found new life in Canada. Through Shandina Organic Hair Care, she’s empowering people to love their hair and themselves, one natural ingredient at a time.

In Career Gems March 4, 2024 By Women of Rubies

Nike Kay-Okunubi: Redefining African Fashion With Global Appeal

Nike Kay-Okunubi, the visionary force behind NIKI KAY, has reshaped the landscape of African-inspired fashion through her unique blend of tradition and modernity. Since its inception in 2013 in Nigeria, and later registration in Canada in 2020, NIKI KAY has emerged as a symbol of elegance and refinement, captivating audiences worldwide. Nike’s journey is a testament to her dedication to quality, her cultural roots, and her commitment to empowering both her customers and fellow entrepreneurs.

Evolution into Ready-to-Wear

Transitioning from its roots as a bespoke clothing brand, NIKI KAY has evolved into a sought-after Ready-to-Wear label under Nike’s adept leadership. With a background in Business Management and Finance, Nike has applied her expertise to propel NIKI KAY’s growth, understanding market demands and customer preferences with precision. Each NIKI KAY piece is a masterpiece, meticulously crafted to embody the essence of African heritage while embracing contemporary fashion trends. From intricate Ankara prints to minimalist silhouettes, every garment reflects Nike’s dedication to merging tradition with modernity, offering women globally a taste of African elegance.

Empowering Small Businesses

Beyond her success, Nike is deeply committed to uplifting small businesses within the fashion industry. Leveraging her expertise in business development and marketing, she provides invaluable support to entrepreneurs, helping them navigate the complexities of the industry and achieve sustainable growth. Nike’s dedication extends beyond financial assistance; she actively collaborates with artisans and suppliers across Africa, fostering ethical and transparent partnerships that prioritize fair trade practices and community empowerment. Through NIKI KAY, Nike not only celebrates African culture but also advocates for the preservation of traditional craftsmanship and the empowerment of local communities.

Nike Kay-Okunubi’s journey with NIKI KAY is a testament to the transformative power of fashion as a tool for cultural expression and economic empowerment. With her innovative approach and unwavering commitment to quality and ethics, Nike continues to redefine the narrative surrounding African fashion, inspiring women to embrace their heritage with pride and confidence. As NIKI KAY continues to flourish, it serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring entrepreneurs and a celebration of African creativity and resilience.

To learn more about Nike’s work, visit her website: https://nikikay.com/

Instagram: @nikikayclothing

Facebook: Niki Kay

In Career Gems June 19, 2023 By Esther Ijewere

Women of Rubies: Showcasing Empowerment at Canada Vendors Brand Expo

We are thrilled to share some exciting news with our valued supporters and the community at large! Women of Rubies has been selected to participate in the highly anticipated Canada Vendors Brand Expo. This remarkable event will take place on July 15th at the Century Gardens Recreation Centre in Brampton, Canada. Join us as we showcase our work, connect with like-minded individuals, and make a lasting impact in the lives of women.

A Platform for Empowerment

At Women of Rubies, our mission is to uplift, inspire, and empower women from all walks of life. The Canada Vendors Brand Expo offers an invaluable platform for us to share our vision with a broader audience. We are incredibly honored to be chosen as one of the businesses highlighted at this prestigious event. This recognition further validates our commitment to making a difference in the lives of women.

Network and Discover

If you are attending the Canada Vendors Brand Expo, we encourage you to seek out our stand and take the opportunity to connect with us. Our dedicated team will be present to provide insights into our work and engage in meaningful conversations. Whether you have questions, ideas, or simply want to learn more about our initiatives, we are excited to connect with you.

Volunteer with Women of Rubies

We firmly believe that collaborative efforts are key to driving meaningful change. That’s why we are actively seeking passionate volunteers based in Canada to join our cause. If you know someone who would like to make a difference in the lives of women and contribute to our empowering projects, kindly have them reach out to us. They can contact us directly by on Whatsapp at +16136047472. Together, we can create a transformative impact and empower women across our community.

The Canada Vendors Brand Expo is a momentous occasion for Women of Rubies. We are honored to be among the businesses selected to showcase our work and inspire change. We invite you to join us on July 15th at the Century Gardens Recreation Centre in Brampton, Canada, to learn more about our initiatives, engage in valuable discussions, and be part of a movement that empowers women. Let us come together, create lasting connections, and shape a future where every woman can thrive and succeed. We look forward to seeing you at the expo!