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Meet Udunma Nnenna Ikoro, a powerhouse in the communication, education, and empowerment sector. Hailing from Lagos, Nigeria, Udunma’s journey is nothing short of inspirational, marked by a fervent dedication to uplifting individuals and communities through education, advocacy, and entrepreneurship.

A Visionary Leader in Communication and Education

Udunma’s journey began with a strong educational foundation in Linguistics and Communication Studies from Abia State University, Nigeria. Armed with a thirst for knowledge and a drive to make a difference, she embarked on a path that would ultimately lead her to become a trailblazer in her field.

With over 18 years of experience as an English language teacher, Udunma’s expertise extends far beyond the confines of the classroom. She has leveraged her knowledge to establish an online English Learning Academy and virtual consulting business, bridging the gap between traditional education and digital innovation.

Pioneering Change Through Advocacy and Empowerment

Udunma’s impact transcends the realms of education and communication, as she is deeply passionate about advocacy and empowerment. As an advocate for gender equality, youth empowerment, and sustainable environmental practices, she has spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at creating positive change in her community.

Through programs such as the TIWA SUMMIT, The Intentional Women Africa Conference, and The Intentional Girl Emergence Bootcamp, Udunma has empowered countless women and girls to embrace their potential and pursue their dreams with confidence.

A Catalyst for Literary Success and Entrepreneurship

In addition to her work in education and advocacy, Udunma has made significant strides in the world of literature and entrepreneurship. Rising from a “clueless writer” to a Multiple Amazon Bestselling Author and Publisher, she has authored 12 books, including bestsellers like “Author’s Compass” and “The Intentional Woman.”

Through her consultancy firm, Communique ResourceHub, Udunma has provided invaluable support to professionals and entrepreneurs, helping them navigate the complexities of book publishing and content strategy. Her impact has been felt not only in Nigeria but also in countries around the world, where she has consulted and published books for individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Udunma Nnenna Ikoro
Udunma Nnenna Ikoro

A Legacy of Empowerment and Excellence

As Udunma Nnenna Ikoro continues to champion change and empowerment in Lagos and beyond, her legacy serves as a beacon of hope for future generations. Through her unwavering commitment to excellence and service to others, she exemplifies the transformative power of education, advocacy, and entrepreneurship.

In a world where challenges abound, Udunma’s remarkable journey reminds us all of the potential for positive change and the importance of lifting others as we climb. As we celebrate her achievements, let us be inspired to embrace our own potential and work together to create a brighter, more empowered future for all.

In the heart of New York City, amidst the towering skyscrapers and bustling streets, the incredible journey of the Lawrence siblings is a testament to resilience, determination, and unwavering faith. Six sisters, once homeless, are now on a remarkable journey to fulfill their dreams of becoming nurses, and their story is nothing short of inspiring.

The Lawrence Siblings’ Journey: Overcoming Homelessness and Hardship

Back in 2013, the Lawrence family faced a devastating turn of events when they lost their home in Queens, New York City. David and Yonette Lawrence, the parents of the six sisters, found themselves confronted with the harsh reality of homelessness. Their family’s life took a dramatic turn as they moved from one relative or friend’s house to another, seeking shelter and stability, as they later shared with People magazine.

“It was challenging,” recalls 24-year-old Lauren. “There were a lot of very bumpy, depressing times.” The struggle to find a place to call home was a constant battle, and it took a toll on the family.

Educational Pursuit : From GEDs to Bachelor’s Degrees

Two years into this gruelling ordeal, their father, David, made a courageous decision. He refused to let their circumstances hinder the education and dreams of his daughters. The Lawrence sisters, who had been grappling with disrupted schooling due to their ever-changing living situation, enrolled in a homeschool program. Their goal? To earn their GEDs and ensure their education remained on track.

“He didn’t want what we were going through to hold us back,” explained 25-year-old Dominique. This decision marked a turning point in their lives, as they embarked on a path filled with challenges but brimming with determination and hope.

Unyielding Faith : The Driving Force Behind Their Success

The Lawrence sisters defied the odds and shattered the barriers in their way. In 2019, all six of them successfully earned their GEDs. Their journey continued as they enrolled in Nassau Community College and, later, proudly graduated from SUNY Old Westbury with bachelor’s degrees in public health in May.

“It’s been quite an adventure,” shared 22-year-old Danielle. “But what really pulled us through is our faith in God and in each other.” Their unwavering support for one another, coupled with their unshakable faith, carried them through even the darkest of times.

Future Prospects: Master’s Program in Public Health and Beyond

Today, these extraordinary siblings, aged 19 to 25, declare that this is just the beginning of their remarkable journey. In August, they embarked on a master’s program in public health at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University. Their eyes are set on the future, as they plan to attend nursing school to further their education and expertise.

Father’s Pride : A Proud Parent’s Perspective

Their father, David Lawrence, couldn’t be prouder of his daughters, who have defied adversity to chase their dreams and emerge stronger than ever. “I’m so happy that they’ve done this together,” he said, beaming with pride. “I always tell them, ‘Life’s not fair. And when it throws you a curveball, you’ve got to adjust to it and keep going.'”

An Inspiring Story of Triumph

The Lawrence sisters’ journey is a powerful reminder that with determination, a strong support system, and unwavering faith, one can overcome even the most challenging circumstances. As they continue to pursue their dreams in the field of healthcare, their story serves as an inspiration to us all, demonstrating that resilience can lead to incredible achievements.

Oladiwura (’Diwura) Oladepo, the Executive Director and Co-Founder of the Technology for Social Change and Development Initiative (Tech4Dev), is a remarkable leader with a profound impact on the technology landscape in Africa. Her journey is a testament to her unwavering commitment to creating access to decent work, entrepreneurship opportunities, and gender equality on the African continent through digital skills empowerment and advocacy. Let’s delve deeper into her inspiring story and the transformative initiatives she has pioneered.

Empowering through Digital Skills

At the heart of Oladiwura’s mission is the belief that technology can be a powerful force for positive change. She recognized that, to uplift underserved communities and promote gender parity, it was essential to equip individuals with the digital skills needed to thrive in the 21st century. Tech4Dev was born out of this vision.

Under Oladiwura’s leadership, Tech4Dev has directly impacted the lives of over 120,298 beneficiaries in more than 30 African countries. Through various programs and initiatives, the organization has provided crucial training and resources, enabling young Africans to access better economic opportunities and improved livelihoods.

Championing Gender Parity in STEM

Oladiwura’s passion for gender equality and her vision for a brighter future led her to champion the cause of advocating for more women in STEM fields. Her drive culminated in the creation of the Women Techsters Initiative, a groundbreaking program that aims to bridge the digital technology knowledge gap between men and women in low-income communities across Africa.

This initiative has grown to become Africa’s largest women-in-tech tuition-free program. It focuses on not only empowering women with essential digital skills but also ensuring that women have equal access to the opportunities that technology can provide. As a result, countless women have been given the tools they need to succeed in the tech industry, furthering the cause of gender equality in the digital age.

Educational and Professional Excellence

Oladiwura’s educational background is as impressive as her achievements. She holds a Master of Advanced Management from Yale School of Management, a testament to her commitment to continuous learning and her desire to be at the forefront of change. Her MBA from Lagos Business School, Pan-Atlantic University, equips her with the business acumen necessary to lead and innovate.

Global Recognition

Oladiwura’s exceptional work hasn’t gone unnoticed on the global stage. She was named a United Nations Solutions Summit Solution Maker in 2019, reflecting her significant impact in driving social change through technology. As a member of the Forbes Non-profit Council and a Social Entrepreneur Fellow of Jacobs Foundation, her influence extends far and wide.

She has also served on the Executive Board of the Lagos Business School Alumni Association, showcasing her dedication to both education and community development.

Diwura Oladejo Tech4DevDiwura OladejoDiwura Oladejo Tech4Dev

Awards and Accolades

In 2022, Oladiwura received a series of prestigious awards, further highlighting her status as a pioneering leader in the tech and social change sectors. She was named the winner of the Waislitz Global Citizens’ Choice Award and awarded Female Innovator of the Year at the 2022 Africa Tech Festival Awards, underscoring her significant contributions to the tech industry and her dedication to empowering others.

In addition, she was acknowledged as one of the 10 most outstanding young persons in Nigeria by the Junior Chambers International Nigeria (JCIN). Her efforts were also recognized as a finalist in the Global Citizen Prize: Cisco Youth Leadership Award, and she secured the position of first runner-up for the BudgIT Active Citizen’s Women Advocacy Award.

Oladiwura (’Diwura) Oladepo’s journey is a testament to her dedication to empowerment, leadership, and gender equality in the tech world. Her work at Tech4Dev and the Women Techsters Initiative continues to break down barriers and provide opportunities to countless individuals across the African continent. She is a shining example of how one person’s vision and dedication can make a profound difference in the lives of many, underscoring the importance of striving for a more inclusive and technologically advanced future for all.

Work-from-anywhere jobs employees have the freedom to work from any location, independent of time zones or geographic boundaries. While some companies are urging their employees to return to the office, those in marketing, tech, and video game design are doubling down on remote work, prioritizing flexibility and location independence.

If you’ve ever dreamed of working from a beachside cafe in Toronto or a cozy cabin in Bali, your dream could be closer to reality than you think. A recent study by FlexJobs has revealed that careers in marketing, tech, and video game design continue to offer some of the most flexible remote job opportunities. This trend, which began with the onset of the pandemic, shows no signs of slowing down.

work-from-anywhere

FlexJobs identified the top companies currently hiring for work-from-anywhere positions by analyzing its database of job postings from January to June 2023. These companies offer both full-time and part-time remote positions with no location restrictions, meaning you can work from anywhere you desire. Here are seven companies with a high volume of work-from-anywhere job openings:

  1. The Wikimedia Foundation
  2. Invisible Technologies
  3. Cash App
  4. Yodo1
  5. Finixio
  6. Chainlink Labs
  7. Magic Media & Entertainment Group

You can exploremore remote jobs here

The growing popularity of work-from-anywhere jobs is driven by the increasing demand for flexibility among professionals. According to Flexa Careers, the percentage of job seekers interested in “work from anywhere” roles has risen from 80% in April to 88% in June—a significant increase since tracking began last year.

Many work-from-anywhere positions come with competitive salaries, often exceeding $100,000. For instance, a job posting for a senior site reliability engineer at the Wikimedia Foundation offers a salary range of $105,309 to $163,646. Similarly, a payment operations manager position at Cash App guarantees a minimum salary of $156,400 to $184,100, depending on the employee’s location.

Black woman working remote
Image: SamsonKatt

Several companies on FlexJobs‘s list have reported that offering location-flexible jobs has allowed them to attract top talent from around the world. Approximately half of the Wikimedia Foundation’s staff is based outside of the U.S., and Invisible Technologies boasts employees on six continents.

As the demand for flexible work arrangements continues to rise, the prospect of working from anywhere in the world is becoming increasingly attainable. Whether you’re in marketing, tech, video game design, or other fields, the opportunities to work remotely and on your terms are more accessible than ever. So, pack your laptop, choose your dream destination, and embark on your work-from-anywhere adventure.

Few individuals are inspiring and impactful in the dynamic world of entrepreneurship and career coaching. Still, Rukayat Alabi is a shining example of passion, dedication, and the unyielding pursuit of excellence. Rukayat, popularly known as “Ruky,” is a serial entrepreneur and a seasoned Banking and Tech Professional. Her journey from the world of banking to becoming a serial entrepreneur and a beacon of hope for immigrants navigating the job market is a story worth celebrating.

As the founder and CEO of RKY Group of Companies, comprising RKY Careers, RKY Digital Solutions, and RKY Consulting Services Ltd, she has carved a niche for herself by passionately supporting migrants in navigating the job market, securing their dream positions, and achieving excellence in their careers. Let’s dive into her remarkable story.

The Multi-faceted Rukayat Alabi

At first glance, Rukayat may seem like an ordinary entrepreneur, but a closer look reveals a remarkable woman who effortlessly juggles multiple roles. Apart from being the driving force behind the RKY Group of Companies, she also holds a senior Finance Analyst position at a prominent bank in the heart of London. Amid her professional success, she proudly wears the hat of a loving mother to two adorable children. Rukayat’s life is a true embodiment of balance and achievement.

Rukayat’s Journey: A Fusion of Finance and Tech

Rukayat Alabi

Before venturing into career coaching and entrepreneurship, Rukayat Alabi had a successful career as a finance professional. She spent over eight years making her mark in Guaranty Trust Bank Plc in Nigeria, gaining valuable insights and skills that would later prove invaluable in her entrepreneurial journey. Her financial understanding and passion for technology set the stage for her transition to the vibrant world of career coaching.

An Impressive Academic Background

Rukayat Alabi’s academic journey is as impressive as her professional one. She holds a BSc in Accounting from Crawford University and is an Associate Chartered Accountant. Her pursuit of knowledge didn’t end there; she obtained an MSc in Financial Technology from the University of Stirling in the UK. Her commitment to continuous learning and professional development reflects her dedication to excellence.

A Glimpse Into Rukayat Alabi’s Daily Routine

A typical workday in Rukayat’s life is a whirlwind of activity and purpose. Her mornings often kick off with strategizing sessions alongside her team leads, where they set clear goals for the day and week ahead. These meetings set the tone for a day filled with consultations, collaborations, and interactions with her clients and the dedicated trainers at RKY Careers. Each day is an opportunity to positively impact the lives of those seeking to excel in their careers.

Overcoming Challenges with Tenacity

In any field, challenges are inevitable, and Rukayat’s journey has been no exception. She identifies one of the most significant hurdles as ensuring that immigrants don’t settle for less in their job pursuits. She tackles a challenge head-on by providing the necessary support, training, and services through RKY Careers. Her determination to make a difference and the countless success stories that follow are her driving force.

 A Passion That Ignited RKY Careers

Rukayat’s journey into career coaching and entrepreneurship was ignited by a profound passion for supporting immigrants in navigating the global job market. Her brainchild, RKY Careers, is more than just a company—it’s a beacon of hope for countless individuals seeking fulfilling employment opportunities.

RKY Careers has extended its impact across borders, reaching immigrants in the UK, the US, Canada, and beyond. Rukayat’s unwavering dedication stems from the transformative effects she witnesses daily, as lives are changed, and possibilities become realities through the services and training provided.

Rukayat Alabi’s Remarkable Achievements and Milestones

A series of impressive achievements and milestones mark Rukayat’s career. One that particularly stands out is her recognition as the Ed-tech CEO of the year—an accolade that speaks volumes about the impact she and her team are making in the lives and careers of immigrants worldwide. With over 500 success stories and countless professionals positively impacted, she’s a true game-changer.

Exciting Projects on the Horizon

Looking forward, Rukayat and her team at RKY Careers are embarking on an exciting journey of expansion. They are bringing their renowned career support services and career and tech transition training to North America, specifically Canada and the United States. Registering their business in Canada is underway, and the United States is next on the horizon. This move promises to extend their transformative impact even further.

The Powerhouse of RKY Careers

Rukayat Alabi

To truly appreciate Rukayat Alabi’s impact, it’s essential to delve deeper into the incredible work being done at RKY Careers. The company projects Rukayat’s vision and commitment to supporting individuals in reaching their fullest potential. Here are some of what the company offers:

Comprehensive Career Support Services

Its comprehensive career support services are at the core of RKY Careers’ offerings. Whether you are an international student looking to land your first job in the UK or a seasoned professional seeking a career change, RKY Careers has tailored services to address your unique needs. These services cover everything from CV optimization and interview coaching to personalized career planning and development strategies.

Transformative Training Bootcamps

RKY Careers doesn’t just stop at providing services; it goes a step further with its transformative training bootcamps. These bootcamps are designed to equip individuals with in-demand skills and certifications that open doors to lucrative career opportunities. From Project Management to Business Analysis, Scrum Master, Product Owner, Data Analysis, and more, these bootcamps are a launchpad to success.

Personal Branding Expertise

Personal branding is crucial in today’s competitive job market, and RKY Careers excels in this arena. Rukayat and her team specialize in helping individuals craft compelling private brands that make them stand out to potential employers. They understand the nuances of creating a powerful online presence that attracts opportunities.

Visa Sponsorship Strategies

For international students and professionals seeking employment in the UK, visa sponsorship can be a challenging hurdle. RKY Careers provides invaluable guidance and strategies to navigate this complex process successfully. They have a track record of helping individuals secure employment that offers UK visa sponsorship, both within the UK and from their home countries.

Career Transition Support

Changing careers can be daunting, but RKY Careers simplifies the process. Their career transition expertise empowers individuals to shift seamlessly to new roles and industries. Whether transitioning to a tech career or pursuing a different field, RKY Careers has the tools and knowledge to make it happen.

Unparalleled Success Stories

The success stories that emerge from RKY Careers testify to their effectiveness. With over 500 success stories in 2022 alone, the impact is undeniable. These stories represent transformed lives, career clarity, promotions, and individuals gaining the skills to excel in their chosen fields. Her expertise has earned her multiple awards and invitations to speak at prestigious Tech Summits, Career Webinars, and Universities across the UK. Her insights are sought after by those looking to unlock the doors to career success.

The narrative of Rukayat Alabi’s life and career has a common thread—transformation. RKY Careers’ transformative impact on immigrants worldwide stems from the founder’s journey transitioning from finance to entrepreneurship and career coaching, driven by a core focus on change. Rukayat’s vision to empower individuals to excel in their careers and reach their fullest potential has made her a prominent figure in career coaching and entrepreneurship.

As she looks ahead to expanding RKY Careers into North America and beyond, there is no doubt that her influence will continue to grow. Rukayat Alabi and RKY Careers offer top-notch career support, training, and branding expertise to help individuals succeed. It doesn’t matter your background; RKY Careers has a way of helping you excel in the global job market.

 

In the ever-changing landscape of education, there are exceptional individuals who go above and beyond to make a difference. Banke is one such individual—an exceptional educator, visionary leader, and relentless advocate for educational empowerment. With an unwavering passion for learning and a profound commitment to transforming the educational landscape, Banke is dedicated to bridging the gaps faced by today’s learners. Let’s delve into the inspiring journey and transformative initiatives of this remarkable education advocate.

Naijatutors Konnect

 

The Family Legacy

Banke’s roots in education run deep. Coming from a long line of educators, with her mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother all pursuing careers in education, Banke carries on the family legacy of inspiring and nurturing young minds. From an early age, she witnessed the transformative power of education and was inspired to follow in the footsteps of her predecessors.

Academic Excellence and Leadership

Banke’s pursuit of educational excellence led her to obtain a Masters in Education and International Development from the Institute of Education, University College London (UCL), and a distinction in Master of Public Administration from Queen Mary University of London. These achievements, combined with her exceptional leadership qualities, establish her as an authority in the field of education. Recognizing her potential and contributions, Banke was awarded a prestigious Ph.D. scholarship from Queen Mary, University of London, further cementing her dedication and expertise.

The Entrepreneurial Spirit

Banke’s journey as an educator began at a young age when she started tutoring at her mother’s school at the age of 16. This early experience ignited her passion for teaching and laid the foundation for her remarkable career in education. However, Banke’s entrepreneurial spirit didn’t stop at traditional teaching methods. She recognized the need for innovative solutions to bridge the gaps in the Nigerian education system.

My Tutor and I (MTI)

Recognizing the plight of exceptional Nigerian teachers who were unfairly compensated, Banke conceived the groundbreaking idea of My Tutor and I (MTI). This initiative aimed to revolutionize the education landscape in Nigeria, focusing on empowering Nigerian teachers. However, the COVID-19 pandemic presented unforeseen challenges that ignited Banke’s entrepreneurial spirit and propelled her dream to new heights.

Naijatutors Konnect

In response to the pandemic-induced learning challenges, Banke adapted her vision and founded Naijatutors Konnect—an innovative online platform harnessing the power of technology. Naijatutors Konnect connects the finest Nigerian tutors with students abroad, transcending geographical barriers and revolutionizing access to quality education. With this platform, Banke is not only empowering deserving educators but also ensuring that children everywhere receive the academic support they need, regardless of their physical location.

NaijaTutors Konnect

Empowering Students and Addressing Learning Gaps

Banke and Naijatutors Konnect are equally dedicated to bridging the learning gaps faced by migrating students. They understand the unique challenges these students and their families encounter when adapting to changing curricula. Banke’s personalized approach provides the necessary support to ensure a smooth transition and continuity in their education. By adapting quickly and thriving academically, these students can embrace change and reach their full potential.

A Transformative Force

Banke’s dedication, expertise, and unwavering passion continue to drive her forward as a transformative force in the field of education. She inspires others to join the movement and create positive change in the lives of students and their families. Through her innovative spirit, Banke is shaping the educational landscape and leaving an indelible mark on the lives of countless students and teachers alike.

Banke’s exceptional journey from educator to entrepreneur showcases the power of passion, determination, and innovation in transforming education. Her initiatives, such as My Tutor and I (MTI) and Naijatutors Konnect, are revolutionizing access to quality education, empowering educators, and bridging educational gaps. Banke’s unwavering commitment to educational empowerment serves as an inspiration for all those seeking to make a meaningful impact in the lives of learners worldwide.

Connect with Banke:

Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn: @naijatutorskonnect

Website: www.naijatutorskonnect.com

If you want to change people’s economic and financial status, it’s essential to give them the skills they need to access jobs or start their own businesses. In South Africa, Makhosazana Megan Ngubane has built a highly effective, specialist education business, Makhophila Training, to provide those essential skills, particularly to people in rural areas.

My business started with passion, then accreditation, and then completing courses in Business Management, Skills Development Facilitator, Assessor and Moderator. Nothing beats on the job training and experience.

Makhosazana Megan Ngubane co-founded Makhophila Training in 2010 in South Africa after being retrenched from her former place of employment. Since she is passionate about skills development and has a strong dedication to empowering people in rural areas, she started the business of training people in relevant skills.

Her background is more educational than entrepreneurial. She was raised by parents who were both in the educational sector. This contributed to her intense passion for education and informed her decision to seek accreditation so she can start up her business, Makhophila Training.

In her own words, “My business started with passion, then accreditation, and then completing courses in Business Management, Skills Development Facilitator, Assessor and Moderator. Nothing beats on the job training and experience. Over the years we have developed systems and policies we apply in our daily operations and continue to adopt innovative ways of meeting our objectives. Challenges over the years have surfaced but I have never given up on the vision.”

To further ease the learning process and accessibility, she is working on an e-learning platform as well as extending the teaching of robotics and coding to rural areas.
She is proud of how much her business empowers people to the point that they can graduate and be employed through the skills gained at the training.
This is why she advises young women to never be afraid to start on a small scale but have the bigger vision. Have a mentor. They should also have a strong passion for what they do as it is that passion that makes the tough days better.

Makhosazana Megan Ngubane understands the difference she can make in people’s lives and in the society as a whole through the business she has built. She believes strongly that by providing quality skills development, education and training, every individual who graduates from her programmes can take their place in the society and go on to make meaningful contributions.

Like a phoenix, Jennifer is rising from the ashes of adversity and inspiring others to do so through her story. As a survivor of Domestic Violence, she believes that girls and young women access to education and health service is fundamental for sustainable development in Nigeria. Jennifer grew up in a broken home with rough experiences of abuse and neglect. Her parent divorced Nine months after her birth in Eastern Nigeria. Her Father showed no interest towards her education.

She was raised by her single mum, grand mother, uncles, aunties, and people. As a girl filled with many ambitions despite her experiences. she was determined to further her education. Today, Jennifer Umeh is a graduate of Mass communication from The Federal Polytechnic Offa. The pioneer of Hope for African Girls Initiative (HAGi) an organisation founded to Educate Girls to be empowered enough to stand up for themselves and to discover their self-identity through quality education and empowerment. She is also the founder of a fast-growing clothing brand that has received massive support from Nigerians on social media since inception .  A vision that was born out of her bullying experience as an undergraduate. She shares the story of her rise from the ashes to glory in this interview

Growing up

I was raised by my single mum, grand mother, uncles, aunties, and people. As a girl filled with many ambitions despite my experiences. I was determined to further my education. With my decision making ability, i believed that if i could go to school, I could gain knowledge and skills access limitless opportunities and reach my potentials in life. As a survivor of Domestic Violence, I believe that girls and young women access to education and health service is fundamental for sustainable development in Nigeria. I grew up in a broken home with rough experiences of abuse and neglect. My parent divorced Nine months after my birth in Eastern Nigeria. My Father showed no interest towards my education, Coping With the Status Quo. I must say that even though my background is not pleasant, it stirred up such compassion for those from similar backgrounds. When I was 10years, I finally went to stay with my mum and her husband (step father) supporting her with my siblings as the eldest. All of this built a resilience within me, strengthened my heart and reminds me daily that ‘I can’! I can do anything I set my mind to. I can be the best version of Chinonye that there will ever be. I can achieve. I can inspire. Regardless of my background. We know that seeds grow best in the dirt. My background may have been messy, dirty, whatever we want to call it, but it provided the best environment for the seed within me to grow and produce more seeds to encourage others! I learnt never to allow my circumstances to inhibit my growth as a person at all! If I have a goal, I will go for it.

Meet Me!

I am a 23 year old lady,  I recently graduated from The Federal Polytechnic Offa, Kwara with a Higher National Diploma in Mass communication. I am now a corps member serving at Umuokanne Comprehensive Secondary school, Ohaji, Egbema in Imo State.

I am the pioneer of Hope for African Girls Initiative (HAGi) an award winning Organisation founded to Educate Girls to be empowered enough to stand up for themselves and to discover their self-identity through quality education and empowerment.

My skills include Public speaking, Teaching, Writing, Counselling and Leadership. I am a Campus Correspondent with The Nation Newspaper and  Mentor a Girl Child Fellow , Educate a girl Scholar and a fellow of  Nigeria students leaders program. In 2016, my projects won the best community development project of the year organized by SLAM initiative. Recently, I was awarded the African Youth Academy Service Award, for my selfless service and  contribution towards the development of young African Leaders and was granted the designation of a FELLOW of African Youth Academy. I recently launched a clothing line called Blinky Creative Collections.

 

H.A.G.I

I started a non-profit organization called Hope for African Girls Initiative in 2016 to transform the lives of marginalized community girls through quality education and empowerment.  Our work is to promote creative learning by providing platforms for girls and young women to explore and develop their innovative ideas. Since inception, we have been able to groom young women to be responsible citizens who can actively participate and communicate with the world in a spirit of compassion.

My mission is to foster an educated and compassionate new generation of young African Girls who will use their education to improve their lives, help their country and contribute to the world to help maintain peace and prosperity for all. My focus is on educating the girls and also educating their families and communities and improving their support system.

 

My Inspiration

The inspiration was after I attended the ‘Educate a Girl Nigeria’ workshop in Lagos. The workshop was an eye-opener for me as I became aware of too many illicit behaviours bedeviling the girl-child around the world such as child marriage, sexual assault, violence against girls, and lack of access to education, among others. I saw the need to help young people, I desired to speak out so that my voice to be heard. I said to myself, if only my voice could change the status quo of girls in Africa, why should I hold back. I approached some NGOs indicating my interest to serve as a volunteer. But to ensure I have a louder voice and a wider reach, I founded Hope for African Girls Initiative (HAGi) at the beginning of this year. As an undergraduate then, I was motivated to work in places where I could contribute and provide value. I have performed excellently in different roles like taking care of children in my church, and taking up leadership positions in my school and any organization I found myself.

Launching a clothing line

As an undergraduate, life was good. I was more extroverted, I made new friends. Although, it was also a time of bullying for me. I blink frequently when I speak. I never got bullied over it. People who know me or have met me before understand how my eyes work while I talk, even if most times, I try to control it.

In my 300 level in school, I was faced with the challenge of speaking up for what is right, even when over 200 students in my class refused to talk because of fear and intimidation from lecturers. But I decided to speak up that day to the chagrin of the naysayers even if my voice made no difference to the situation.

After that, the friends of the guy who was involved in this case formed a gang against me. They made mockery of me in class. I couldn’t walk in peace on campus without being bullied by those guys. And as days passed, their gang multiplied with fans. The bullying continued in different WhatsApp groups and while lectures went on.

The group dissed me right in my face. I was heartbroken and I didn’t know what to do. But it was only the beginning. The group tormented me. They named me Blinky-Blinky. They called me terrible names – some, curse words – and spread sexual rumours about me. I almost became insane that when I got back from school one day, I ran to my room and cried. I stayed in my room and drowned in tears for hours. That was when I decided to take the law into my hands with the help of a friend who stood up for me whenever I was bullied. He encouraged me to report to the security unit before it went out of hand. I did so and the guys were picked up by the school security. It was never intentional but these things were out of my control. Many students face trauma like this but they have no way of handling it; they end up becoming losers.  I finally felt good knowing that I had a voice. Most of my course mates were so proud of me for the move. I was with new friends who liked me for who I was. But I knew the fight was not finished. One day the worst happened; I was bullied right in the lecture hall when a lecture was going on. As one of them shouted ‘Blinky,’ they laughed and distracted the lecture. I could do nothing but allow the tears from my eyes. When I got home that day, I thought of the best way to deal my bullies.

I customised T-shirts and wore them to school. I gave some to my friends to put on. On the T-shirts read, Blinky Smart, Blinky Beauty, Blinky Money, Blinky Blinky, Bullying Ends With Me, Blink Against Bullying, etc.

My T-shirts garnered some fans. I sold them not only to my course mates but to my friends on Facebook. Boom! It became a business. I was happy as I was making money from it. I started helping people to customise their shirts for free. I did both free and paid jobs depending on who I was dealing with.

I went the market where they sold hand-me-downs and selected the good ones. At home I washed them, ironed them, customised and sold to friends. The demands got higher as people asked for something better. I pitched my idea on Facebook about my interest in shirts business and I was lucky to get selected by Edu Shine Foundation. I was funded with fifty thousand naira to support my business. I registered for printing training where I learnt more about shirt printing and branding. I graduated from using hand-me-down T-shirts for my customers to using jersey. But today, my shirts are brand new, 100% cotton material with warranty.

The business helped me a lot to overcome my bullies. I did not just overcome them; I have made money to pay my remaining fees and for my needs as a student. I have assisted two of my friends to pay their tuition, too.

When I got bullied then, I got offended and asked God to take my life. Do you know how it feels to be bullied by the same group of people with a specific motive? Most nights I felt like crying my eyes out. I asked myself, Just because I blink my eyes frequently when I talk, does that mean I am not equal to others?  I tried to control the blinking but I can’t cheat nature. I never created myself. God did.

Blink against Bullying Project

I recently launched a campaign Blink against bullying. It’s a campaign to eradicate all forms of bullying and empower the victims with knowledge as weapons to fight back against oppression. I am currently running a 30 days self-esteem challenge for Students of Umuokanne Comprehensive Secondary School in Imo State, the program is designed to raise the self-esteem of young females in Africa and around the world. It is aimed at emboldening females to self belief, imagine and pursue a future of greatness. To achieve this goal, we have developed a 30 day self esteem handbook containing 30 inspiring stories of African Females from different ages, background and cultures who defied odds and societal stereotypes to achieve greatness and their dreams.

 

My brand in the next five years..

In five years, I want to be able to get bigger contract from big companies and organisations. I want to own a big fashion house, where I can print all kind of T-shirts, Polos , Hoodie with no restrictions. I want to champion the war against bullying by making different designs of beautiful Tees that people can order on our website and rock to promote the fight against bullying.

 

Challenges

I had many challenges running my new enterprise, from being confused about if my business was worth focusing on to how to get new customers and grown the business larger, to dealing with branding with people’s feedback on what I was going.

 

 Tara Durotoye is my biggest Inspiration

Tara Fela Durotoye inspires me. She started house of Tara in 1998 at the age of 20 from her living room, as an undergraduate at Lagos State University. Sometimes she would go from house to house to makeup for brides. But today she has one of the biggest and the first makeup  school in Nigeria. She worked hard for it. I am really inspired by her story.

 

Being a Woman of Rubies

I am a woman of Rubies because I share similar stories, challenges, pains and scars with other women in Africa trying to make a difference and live a life of true meaning. I am a woman of rubies because I care about helping girls and young women to be better

 

Advice to young  women

I just want to encourage women who are going through some similar experience. It gets better. It can be hard. You want to give up. But you have to be confident. Don’t let it get to you. If you’re suffering, it will get to the time that you’ll be proud of yourself for all that you’ve been through. If anyone judges you, it is their own problem. They have no idea what you go through. Do they even care? They probably can’t even handle what you deal with. But you can. And you’re still here going on with your life. That’s why you can be proud of yourself.

 

 

 

 

Business line : 08139743651

Facebook : Blinky Creative Collections

Twitter and instagram : @Blinkycollections

Email : Blinkycollections@gmail.com

Website : www.blinkycollections.com

Adeyoyin Adesina is an experienced educator and Chief Executive Officer of Corona Schools’ Trust Council. She has built her career in the educational sector where she has been impacting the lives of students and teachers alike for over 18 years. A degree holder in English Studies from the University of Ife, a Post Graduate Diploma in Education from the University of Lagos and a Post Graduate Certificate in Education (International) from the University of Nottingham, she is a mentor, coach, public speaker and very passionate about educating young minds. In this interview, she talks about the state of the country’s education, her journey into the world of education, amongst other things.

As a seasoned educator of several years, does the country’s present standard of education give you cause for concern?
Yes, but it is not enough to just say ‘yes’. I acknowledge we have come a long way and even with the worries and concerns I have, I know the educational system in Nigeria has made some progress from where we were before. However, if you measure it with the lightning speed at which things are improving and changing globally, we are still a very far cry from where we should be in the education industry. What makes it more painful is that not only are we aware of this, sadly, our government has not seen the need to attach due importance to education policies and infrastructure. There is so much more we need to do in terms of improving educational standards in Nigeria. As a nation, we are educated, we travel to other countries and see the way things are done but never replicate it back home. Our tertiary education requires a lot more attention than it is presently getting. Our children, because of their exposure, do not want to remain in Nigeria and it is becoming an endemic problem and the government should wake up to its responsibilities before it is too late.

What attracted you to the world of teaching?
I wasn’t always a teacher; I used to work in a bank. Before working in the bank, I worked in the print media for a while and I loved it. I served in Jos and did my youth service at Standard Publishing Company, publishers of Standard Newspapers. I actually stayed on after service because I was very interested in what I was doing then. I did this for about a year before coming back to Lagos and got a job in the bank and that started my journey in the banking sector. Somewhere along the line, I discovered I wasn’t finding fulfillment in what I was doing. Around this period, I was teaching a pre-marital/counseling class in my church and I knew I had found my niche as I enjoyed it thoroughly. I took further classes in counseling to brush up my skills and this spurred my interest in teaching and that was how it all started, and I have never looked back since then.

Take us through your career journey over the years
I started teaching at a private school in G.R.A, Ikeja and within a couple of years I rose to become the academic superintendent of the primary section. In that time, I had the opportunity to travel in the Summer of 2002 for an education development programme for teachers in the U.K and it was there I was introduced to the then Educational Administrator, Corona Schools’ Trust Council. We hit it off and she offered me a job. I came back and resumed at Corona and started work as a teacher and my journey progressed quite rapidly. I started as a teacher in Corona School Victoria Island in 2002 and by April 2003, I had risen to become the Deputy Head of School in Victoria Island. I was D.H.S for three years and in 2008, I rose to the position of the Head of School. A few years after that, I was asked to start the Corona School, Lekki, the newest of the Corona Schools. I was the pioneer Head of School at the Corona School Lekki where I worked for another six years before being moved to Corona Secondary School, Agbara where I worked for another three years as Principal and in April 2017, I was promoted to the position of Chief Executive Officer, Corona Schools Trust Council.

Looking at the constant strikes that affect students in Federal universities, what would you suggest as the panacea for this age-long problem?
I think it is important to look at the reasons for the strike, which is oftentimes, a clamour for better pay, welfare for the lecturers amongst other things. Rarely do the students go on strike, it is usually the lecturers that embark on strike actions. This is why I said we need to place a premium on the education sector. In some advanced countries, teachers are rated as highly as doctors and other professionals unlike what obtains here in Nigeria and if the right priority is given to the sector, I doubt we would have these strikes coming up so often. The government needs to pay attention to their welfare, provide a conducive environment for the staff and students and generally upgrade the infrastructure. I graduated from the University of Ife many years ago and when I went back to my alma mater recently, I almost wept. Instead of things getting better, there is decay and erosion of values. When I was a student in the university, I was so proud of the school. We were just four in our rooms then but what do we have now? Everything is falling apart. What is the welfare program available for lecturers? How often are they paid and how often are their salaries reviewed? These are the major issues we have to consider. I am not saying the strike is the solution because as they are in a standoff with the Federal Government, the students are stranded at home and when they resume, the issues are not fully resolved so another strike is imminent. If the government has a roadmap for education for say, 10 or 20 years and is systematically working to achieving this, it would give us hope. But nobody makes any plan in this country and for the few that do, these plans and projects are not sustained by the incoming government as they roll out their own plans and agenda. Education shouldn’t be politicised.

As CEO, what does your job entail?
(Laughing) I call myself the Chief Executive Messenger because I seek, more often, to do what makes for the progress and satisfaction of all our stakeholders. My role is simply to actualise the strategic imperatives of the Trust Council. Corona Schools’ Trust Council will be 64 years this year and we are still evolving. As a leading educational institution in Nigeria, we hope to translate this to other parts of the world. My role is to ensure we deliver what we promise to our customers, which is to deliver world-class education. As a leading educational institution in Nigeria, we strive to ensure our relevance and influence, not just in the private sector, but also within the government and public sector.

This school has produced so many big names in Nigeria today, how does this make you feel?
I can tell you that there is a feel-good factor in seeing that you are doing something well, that after so many years down the line, the products of the schools can and do acknowledge the quality and pedigree of their early years education at Corona as what has set them off well on the path of life. It is gratifying to see all of our alumni doing well and excelling in their areas of chosen endeavours. We are currently working on bringing our alumni together and we know this would be a great motivator and influence factor for people to see the outcome of quality education. Seventeen years of my life have been given to this great establishment and I am proud and happy to be a part of it.

Running a private school can be very challenging, what are some challenges you face?
Living in Nigeria itself is challenging. Running a technology-based school where power is not guaranteed is a huge challenge. We all know the cost of diesel and the huge cost centre it represents. Excelling at running a school with the standard or quality of available workforce in the market is challenging. How do you deliver on your promise? As we see, our tertiary institutions are churning out half-baked graduates yearly, this is a huge problem. Many parents are facing uncertainty now because of the unstable economy. Many are not able to give their children the quality of education they desire. Amidst all of these, we must find a way to move on and excel. These challenges give us the opportunity to think of creative ways to pull through and overcome.

As a teacher, counselor and shaper, do you take special care in guiding young female students?
We are dedicated to turning out well-rounded young women and men and for every stage of their progression, we know they will be faced with fresh challenges at every developmental stage of their lives and we try to prepare them for these; we teach them about their physical make up, about life, the birds and the bees, monthly cycle, sex education, the do’s and don’ts of their bodies and so on. This is more necessary in this day and age where children are under attack, living with paedophiles and all. We have created an environment of trust in our schools and children can freely disclose to us if they are touched inappropriately in any way. Children do not lie mostly and when a child opens up to you, do not make them feel like they did something wrong. We also try to educate parents who might expose their kids to danger unknowingly.

Tell us something that has influenced your life and career positively?
I would say God, unequivocally. I am a Christian and, in every situation, I ask for God’s help and guidance irrespective of where I find myself. I always pray in every situation and ask that the essence of who I am shines through. I am an influencer and I am conscious of this and this guides me in how I act and speak. There are so many people looking at me and emulating me that I am not aware of and this influences everything I do. I look up to a lot of people and believe I should learn lessons from other people’s experiences.

What advice would you give a woman starting out on this career path?
Be true to yourself and who you are, do not try to walk in anyone’s shoes. Integrity is something we have sadly thrown away these days, but it is the one distinguishing factor that would help you irrespective of your position in life. No matter what you do, your integrity is the only thing that would stand for you and whatever you do, ensure you do it with all your heart, this is the only autograph you can leave. Do not let one part of your life suffer at the expense of another, find that balance and give everything a 100 percent.

What are three life lessons you have learnt and want to share with us?
One is to be yourself. The second is to have and maintain integrity at all times because that is what will help you sleep at night. The third, love people, help people. Take them as they are, as you are going up in life, take others along with you.

CEO Corona Schools’ Trust Council, Mrs. Adeyoyin Adesina.

You do so many things at the same time, work full time and are raising a family. How do you make them all work?
It hasn’t always been easy and I must confess that when my family was still very young, I had to put career on hold for them. All my children are grown and have left home now so that is no longer a problem for me. I had a meeting that ran late yesterday and I couldn’t go home so I stayed with my son in Dolphin estate. My husband thankfully understands and knows this is my passion. When I was still having children, I left paid employment so I could devote time to my growing children. It requires delicate balancing, but it has to be done. There was a time I used to go home with my laptop every night and work late into the night but I realised this wasn’t the best, so I only go home with it now when very necessary. This was what worked for me and while there may be a general principle there, I also realise that one cap does not fit all at the end of the day and what works for me might not work for the next person.

As a mentor, what would you say is the importance of mentoring for women?
Nigerian women need to support one another especially those juggling home and careers. It is even harder for single mothers and we have all realised that we need two incomes to support a home. We need to create effective support systems for one another especially if you have a broad experience and can guide younger women just coming up. I mentor several teachers, counsel a couple and encourage my managers to do same for other people. In church, I lead a group of women that support one another and what we are doing now is supporting young wives that are struggling with wifehood, motherhood and career. We pray for one another, help one another financially or just offer advice and guidance. I have three biological children and uncountable other children that I support, guide and mentor.

What is next for you?
(Laughing) Retirement and enjoyment of life. A lot of us don’t plan for retirement when we are young, and this would be a problem when you get to that stage. I used to think I would open a school when I retire but I have changed my mind, I am not doing that again. I would always be a teacher, educate and train others as long as I have the strength but this wouldn’t be the core of what I would do in retirement. I would do the things I love that I have been unable to do all these years including traveling, spending more time with my family, give my services out to those who need it. In my church, we recently organised a programme where we gathered the teachers in the community and held a workshop on capacity building at no cost to them; I would do more things like this and also make time for food business. I love to cook.

So how do you relax and unwind?
My routine now doesn’t allow for as much rest and relaxation, sadly. The horrendous traffic also contributes to this. My unwinding, for now involves not taking my laptop home from work and after eating at night and sorting myself out for the following day, I basically become a couch potato, watching T.V before going to bed. I try to read as much as possible. I have books everywhere; in my car, on my phone, by my bed, I try to read even if it is a page per day. I also try to make time to see my children when I can.

What is the one thing you want women reading this to take away?
Be you, take the time to know yourself and regularly introspect, place value on yourself always. It’s very important that a second party does not dictate the value you place on yourself. Finally, exercise utmost integrity in all you do. When you place the right value on yourself, it is easier to act with integrity because it becomes easier to see yourself above certain things and situations.

Interview by: Tobi Awodipe for Guardian

Singer, Niniola has bought JAMB forms for 30 students, a gesture being carried out through her foundation “Adopt A Child’s Education”.

According to Niniola, buying JAMB Forms for 30 students was her way of `stepping into her late father’s shoes, a man who was known for his advocacy for standard education for every child’.

 

Niniola wrote on Instagram;

I promised to do more and Walk in my Late Dads shoes…
In continuation 2day I through my foundation @adoptachildseducationprovided 30 jamb forms for some students.
Lets Put some smile on the kids faces.

 

Credit: Yaba Left