personal development Archives

In Career Gems January 2, 2025 By Esther Ijewere

How to Build a Sustainable Business: A Guide for Women Entrepreneurs

Building a sustainable business is a journey that requires careful planning, persistence, and the ability to adapt to changing market conditions. For women entrepreneurs, the road to success may come with unique challenges, but the rewards of creating a thriving business that lasts for years are well worth the effort. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to build a sustainable business and ensure long-term success.

1. Start with a Clear Vision and Purpose

A strong business foundation begins with a clear vision and purpose. As a woman entrepreneur, it’s essential to define what your business stands for and how it contributes to the world. Ask yourself:

What problem does your product or service solve?
How does your business align with your personal values and goals?
Who is your target market, and how can you serve them better than anyone else?

A well-defined vision will guide your decisions, help you stay focused, and motivate you through tough times.

2. Conduct Thorough Market Research

Before diving into business operations, it’s important to understand your market. Research is key to identifying trends, opportunities, and potential gaps in the market that your business can fill. This is especially important for women entrepreneurs who may face competition in male-dominated industries.

Ask yourself:

Who are your competitors, and what are they doing well?
What are the unique needs of your target audience?
What can you offer that will set you apart from the competition?

Market research will provide valuable insights and help you refine your business model.

3. Create a Solid Business Plan

A business plan acts as a roadmap for your venture. It outlines your goals, strategies, financial projections, and growth plans. A solid business plan is essential for attracting investors, securing loans, and staying on track as you grow. Your business plan should include:

Executive summary: A brief overview of your business.
Business description: What your business does and its market position.
Market analysis: An overview of industry trends, competitors, and target market.
Marketing and sales strategies: How you plan to attract and retain customers.
Financial projections: Expected income, expenses, and profitability.

Your business plan will evolve as your business grows, but it’s an essential starting point.

4. Focus on Building Strong Relationships

Networking and building relationships with other business owners, customers, and mentors is crucial. As a woman entrepreneur, forming a support network of like-minded individuals can provide invaluable advice, opportunities, and moral support. Here’s how to build meaningful relationships:

Attend networking events, both online and offline, to connect with other entrepreneurs.
Join industry-specific groups and communities to share ideas and resources.
Find a mentor who can guide you through challenges and offer insights based on experience.

Strong relationships will not only help your business thrive but also create a sense of community that fosters growth and collaboration.

5. Manage Your Finances Wisely

Financial management is at the core of building a sustainable business. Many women entrepreneurs struggle with securing funding or managing their finances effectively, but with the right tools and strategies, you can ensure long-term profitability. Consider the following tips:

Create a budget and track your expenses to ensure you’re staying within your financial limits.
Build an emergency fund to cover unexpected costs.
Seek out funding options such as grants, loans, and investors, but ensure you understand the terms and risks.
Regularly review your financial statements to monitor cash flow and profitability.

Responsible financial management will keep your business afloat and ensure its sustainability in the long run.

6. Adapt to Market Changes and Embrace Innovation

The business world is constantly evolving, and it’s crucial to stay ahead of the curve. As a female entrepreneur, you need to be flexible and open to change, whether that means adapting your products, services, or business model. Stay informed about industry trends, new technologies, and customer preferences to keep your business relevant.

Here are a few ways to embrace innovation:

Invest in technology to streamline operations and improve efficiency.
Continuously seek customer feedback to improve your offerings.
Be open to pivoting your business model if needed to stay competitive.

By staying adaptable and forward-thinking, you’ll ensure that your business remains viable and ready to tackle future challenges.

7. Prioritize Work-Life Balance

Sustaining a successful business is not just about financial growth—it’s also about personal well-being. Women entrepreneurs often face the challenge of balancing their business responsibilities with personal life, which can lead to burnout if not managed carefully.

To maintain a healthy work-life balance:

Set clear boundaries between work and personal time.
Delegate tasks when possible to avoid overwhelming yourself.
Take time for self-care, whether it’s through exercise, hobbies, or spending quality time with loved ones.

Taking care of yourself will ensure that you remain energized, focused, and able to lead your business with clarity.

Conclusion

Building a sustainable business as a woman entrepreneur requires dedication, resilience, and a strategic approach. By starting with a clear vision, conducting market research, creating a solid business plan, and managing finances wisely, you can set a strong foundation for long-term success. Remember to network, stay adaptable, and prioritize your well-being to ensure your business continues to thrive for years to come.

At Women of Rubies, we are committed to empowering women entrepreneurs by providing the tools, resources, and support needed to build sustainable businesses that make a lasting impact. Keep striving, and together, we can create a future of limitless possibilities.

In Interviews&profile September 19, 2024 By Women of Rubies

Amaechi Omijeh (MRSOTHEBRAND): Transforming Support for Small Businesses

Amaechi Omijeh, also known as MRSOTHEBRAND, has emerged as a prominent figure in the constantly changing world of social media. As a vibrant blogger and influential figure on social platforms, Mrs. Omijeh has established her own unique space by dedicating herself to the promotion of small businesses and entrepreneurship. Her purpose is evident: to champion creative ventures and inspire entrepreneurs, especially women, to expand their brands and connect with wider audiences.

A Passion for Innovation and Empowerment

Amaechi’s platform is a beacon of support for small businesses. Through her blog and social media channels, she shares her unwavering passion for entrepreneurship, offering valuable insights and resources to her audience. Her dedication to promoting innovative ventures is evident in the diverse range of content she produces, aimed at helping entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of building and sustaining a business.

Highlighting Success Stories

One of the standout features of MRSOTHEBRAND is her in-depth interviews with successful entrepreneurs. These interviews provide a behind-the-scenes look at the journey of various business owners, highlighting their challenges, triumphs, and the strategies they employed to achieve success. By showcasing these stories, Mrs. Omijeh not only provides inspiration but also practical advice that her audience can apply to their own entrepreneurial endeavors.

A Treasure Trove of Resources

Her blog is a treasure trove of resources on essential topics such as marketing, productivity, and personal development. Her articles are meticulously crafted to address the needs of small business owners, offering tips and strategies to enhance their marketing efforts, improve productivity, and foster personal growth. Whether it’s through detailed how-to guides or motivational pieces, she ensures that her readers have access to the tools they need to succeed.

Creating a Supportive Community

Beyond her content, Amaechi aims to create a supportive community for entrepreneurs. She fosters an environment where business owners can connect, share their experiences, and learn from one another. This sense of community is invaluable, providing a network of support that helps entrepreneurs overcome obstacles and celebrate their achievements together.

Inspiring Others to Pursue Their Passion

At the heart of MRSOTHEBRAND is a desire to inspire others to pursue their passions. Mrs. Omijeh believes that with the right support and resources, anyone can turn their dreams into reality. Through her platform, she encourages her followers to take bold steps towards their goals, reminding them that they have the potential to make a significant impact in their chosen fields.

Join the Movement

If you’re an entrepreneur looking for inspiration, guidance, and a supportive community, MRSOTHEBRAND is the place to be. Join Amaechi Loretta Omijeh on her journey as she continues to empower and uplift small businesses, one post at a time. Follow her on social media, dive into her blog, and become a part of a movement dedicated to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.

In the words of Mrs. Omijeh herself, “Empowerment begins with a single step. Let’s take that step together.”

In Career Gems February 6, 2024 By Esther Ijewere

Fantasia Barrino: A Career Journey of Resilience and Growth

Fantasia Barrino, the acclaimed American singer, actress, and author, has captivated audiences worldwide not only with her remarkable talent but also with her inspiring life journey. From humble beginnings to Grammy-winning success, Barrino’s career trajectory offers invaluable lessons for anyone navigating their own professional path. Let’s delve into some key career lessons we can glean from her remarkable story.

1. Resilience in the Face of Adversity

Barrino’s early life was marked by numerous challenges, including financial struggles and personal hardships. Despite facing setbacks, she never allowed adversity to define her. Instead, she channeled her resilience into her passion for music, using it as a driving force to propel her forward.

2. Embrace Your Unique Talents

Barrino’s distinctive voice and electrifying stage presence set her apart in the music industry. She teaches us the importance of embracing our unique talents and leveraging them to carve out our own niche. By staying true to herself and refusing to conform to industry norms, Barrino solidified her position as a powerhouse vocalist.

Take Risks and Pursue Your Dreams

Barrino’s decision to audition for the third season of American Idol proved to be a pivotal moment in her career. Despite doubts and uncertainties, she took a leap of faith and seized the opportunity to showcase her talent on a national stage. Her courageous decision paid off, ultimately leading to her victory on the show and launching her into stardom.

Continuous Growth and Learning

Throughout her career, Barrino has demonstrated a commitment to continuous growth and learning. Whether through vocal training, acting workshops, or personal development initiatives, she remains dedicated to honing her craft and expanding her skill set. Her journey reminds us that success is not static but rather a journey of ongoing improvement and evolution.

Stay Grounded and Grateful

Despite achieving immense success, Barrino remains humble and grounded, never forgetting her roots. She frequently expresses gratitude for her fans, mentors, and supporters who have played a crucial role in her journey. Her humility serves as a reminder to stay grounded and appreciative of the opportunities and blessings that come our way.

Use Your Platform for Good

Fantasia is not only known for her musical prowess but also for her philanthropic efforts and advocacy work. She uses her platform to raise awareness about important social issues and to give back to her community. Her commitment to using her influence for positive change serves as a powerful example of the impact one person can have in making a difference.

In conclusion, Fantasia Barrino’s life journey offers a wealth of valuable career lessons for aspiring professionals everywhere. From resilience and embracing uniqueness to taking risks and continuous growth, her story serves as a source of inspiration and motivation for anyone striving to achieve their dreams. As we navigate our own career paths, let us draw upon the wisdom gleaned from Barrino’s experiences and forge ahead with passion, determination, and unwavering belief in ourselves.

In Editor's Choice December 16, 2023 By Maggy Rosiji

Women Of Rubies Media Visibility BootCamp 2.0 Recording Now Available

Navigating the dynamic landscape of personal and professional growth, the Women of Rubies Media Visibility BootCamp emerges as a powerful force for empowerment. The reverberations of enlightening sessions, expert guidance, and transformative conversations endure, and we’re thrilled to announce that the long-awaited BootCamp recording is now available!

What to Expect:

Relive the Insights: The recording encapsulates the essence of the empowering BootCamp, featuring expert insights from industry leaders; Sola Adesakin, Esther Ijewere, Mayowa Adegoke, Adeola Osideko and Funmi Ajala on building a strong online presence, crafting a personal brand for leadership, shaping narratives, leveraging financial literacy, mastering public speaking, content creation, brand sustainability, and intentional visibility.

Diverse Perspectives: Join the Fireside Chats where Chinaza Favour, Wendy Nwajiufor, Azeezat Adejare, and Rinret Gofwan discuss content creation, building sustainable brands, and intentional visibility. Gain diverse perspectives to enhance your personal and professional journey.

Why Grab Your Copy:

On-Demand Learning: Access the invaluable sessions at your convenience. Whether you missed a masterclass or want to revisit a favorite, the recording puts the knowledge in your hands.
Practical Strategies: Each session is packed with actionable strategies that can immediately elevate your media visibility and professional impact.
Diverse Insights: Benefit from a diverse range of topics and speakers, ensuring a holistic approach to your personal and professional development.
Invest in Yourself: Your personal and professional growth is an investment. The Women of Rubies Media Visibility BootCamp recording is a valuable resource that continues to provide returns on your commitment to self-improvement.

How to Access

Visit our Selar page and unlock a treasure trove of knowledge and wisdom from industry experts. Your journey to enhanced media visibility and success starts with a click!

Don’t miss this opportunity to empower yourself. Grab your copy of the Women of Rubies Media Visibility BootCamp recording today and step into a future of limitless possibilities!

For further enquiries, reach out via info@womenofrubies.com

Grab our free PR guide E-book here for enhanced visibility!

In Career Gems October 24, 2023 By Esther Ijewere

Bidemi Mark-Mordi’s Exclusive Meet & Greet Event In Toronto Leaves Attendees Inspired And Transformed

Bidemi Mark-Mordi, the distinguished Wisdom Coach and Kingmaker, recently graced Toronto with her inspiring presence at an exclusive meet and greet event on October 21, 2023. This highly anticipated gathering provided attendees with a unique opportunity to connect with Bidemi Mark-Mordi and gain invaluable insights from her extensive wisdom and leadership experience.

The event, which was held in Toronto, saw an enthusiastic turnout of individuals eager to engage with Bidemi Mark-Mordi. Her remarkable two-decade ministry and profound impact on over a million individuals through her daily broadcast “Commanding Your Morning” added to the anticipation of the event.

Bidemi Mark-Mordi’s affiliation with the John C. Maxwell Founder’s Circle Coaching team, where she delivers transformative workshops, was also a focal point of the event. Her Verbatim Communications methodology, designed to enhance effective communication in all aspects of life, resonated with the attendees.

As the visionary behind Dukia Radio, a platform dedicated to family, purpose, and leadership empowerment, Bidemi Mark-Mordi’s mission is clear: to empower others to become the best versions of themselves. With 23 published books to her name, she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her audience.

To ensure an organized and enriching experience for all attendees, registration for the event was mandatory. Attendees who secured their spots had the privilege of connecting with this inspiring leader and learning from her wisdom.

Bidemi Mark-Mordi’s Meet & Greet event lived up to its promise of being a transformative experience. Attendees left the event inspired and equipped with new insights on wisdom, leadership, and effective communication.

Bidemi Mark-Mordi continues to impact lives and empower individuals to reach their full potential. Her commitment to guiding individuals toward a path of wisdom and purpose was evident throughout the event.

For media inquiries or additional information, please contact:

Email: Info@estherijewere.com

Follow Bidemi Mark-Mordi on social media for event updates and inspiring content:

Instagram: @BidemiMarkMordi

Twitter: @BidemiMarkMordi

Facebook: /Bidemi-Mark Mordi

About Bidemi Mark-Mordi

Bidemi Mark-Mordi is a Wisdom Coach, Kingmaker, and Apostolic Lead for The Well Oasis International. With over two decades of ministry, she has profoundly impacted individuals through her daily broadcast “Commanding Your Morning.” As a member of the John C. Maxwell Founder’s Circle Coaching team, Bidemi delivers transformative workshops and uses the Verbatim Communications methodology to enhance effective communication in all aspects of life. She is also the visionary behind Dukia Radio and has authored 23 books dedicated to empowering individuals to become their best selves. Bidemi Mark-Mordi’s mission is to guide individuals towards a path of wisdom and purpose.

In Career Gems October 22, 2023 By Esther Ijewere

Omobabinrin Adeola Osideko: Charting New Paths In Finance And Personal Development

Omobabinrin Adeola Osideko (MSc, FCCA, CPA), a multifaceted professional, defies the confines of one professional niche, seamlessly blending her career as an accountant with a passion for personal development and branding. Her journey is nothing short of extraordinary, demonstrating the boundless potential of embracing diverse skills and passions

A Multifaceted Professional

At the core of Adeola’s professional identity is her prowess as a triple-certified accountant. With qualifications in Nigeria, Canada, and the United Kingdom, she boasts a global perspective that enriches her approach to finance and business. Her academic journey took her to the University of London, where she earned an MSc in Accounting, equipping her with a strong foundation for her career.

Yet, Adeola’s story extends far beyond the world of finance. She possesses a profound passion for personal development and branding. This drive has led her to become a personal development coach and branding expert, helping individuals unlock their full potential and present their best selves to the world. Adeola’s extensive experience and expertise in these areas set her apart, as she’s successfully trained over 10,000 people in personal development and branding.

An Inspirational Speaker

Adeola’s influence is not limited to her career; it extends to the global stage. She’s an international speaker whose words have resonated in different countries, both online and offline. As the Licensed Organizer of TEDxBingerville, she played a pivotal role in bringing the renowned TEDx experience to the city of Bingerville in Cote d’Ivoire. Her commitment to sharing ideas and inspiring change has been celebrated in the organization of this TEDx event, a testament to her dedication.

A Prolific Author

Adeola is not just a speaker; she’s also a prolific author. Her literary contributions include six published books and an impressive collection of 17 e-books. Her written work delves into personal development and branding, sharing insights and strategies that have the power to transform lives. The reach of her books extends far and wide, with a profound impact on over 15,000 readers who have found inspiration and guidance within their pages.

Principal Partner of Crystal Edge Professional Services

In her role as the Principal Partner of Crystal Edge Professional Services, Adeola has embarked on a mission to empower individuals and businesses through training and brand consultancy. This Lagos-based company focuses on enhancing the skills and capabilities of professionals and organizations, reflecting Adeola’s commitment to the betterment of others.

Awards and Recognition

Adeola’s contributions have not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by the numerous awards and honors she has received. As a multi-award-winning coach, she’s celebrated for her significant achievements in the personal development and branding spheres. Among her accolades are two international awards that recognize her expertise and impact.

Media Presence

Adeola’s voice and insights have reached a wide audience through her media appearances. She’s been featured on various platforms, including Arise News London, TVC Nigeria, WEB-NG TV, Galaxy TV, Girls Show RTV on GOTV, Nigeria Tribune, Style-born Magazine, Jidekaiji Magazine, and more. Her ability to communicate effectively and connect with diverse audiences is a hallmark of her influence.

Initiatives and Events

Adeola’s commitment to inspiring positive change and empowerment has led her to initiate and lead significant events. These include The Global Brand Summit, The Branded Woman Awards, The Iconic Brand Awards, and the Personal Branding Affirmation Challenge (PBAC). These platforms are designed to amplify the voices of individuals and businesses, showcasing their unique strengths and contributions.

A Mentor and Role Model

Adeola’s role extends to being a mentor to some and a role model to many. Her impact reaches beyond her professional achievements, as she serves as an inspiration for those who aspire to blend diverse passions and skills into a meaningful and fulfilling career.

Embracing Life Beyond Work

While Adeola’s professional life is undoubtedly impressive, she also values the importance of a balanced and fulfilling personal life. Her love for music, fashion, and the arts adds depth and richness to her identity. Above all, she treasures quality time spent with her family, underlining the significance of embracing all aspects of life.

Omobabinrin Adeola Osideko’s journey is a testament to the boundless potential of embracing diverse skills and passions. She stands as a beacon of inspiration, illuminating the path for others to follow. In a world teeming with specialists, she reminds us that there’s value in crafting a unique, multifaceted journey.

If you want to connect with Omobabinrin Adeola Osideko and follow her journey, you can find her on her social media platforms:

Facebook: Omobabinrin Adeola Osideko
Instagram: @adeolaosideko
LinkedIn:Omobabinrin Adeola Osideko
YouTube: Adeola Osideko

So, here’s to the multi-talented, inspiring figure who proves that a multifaceted approach to life can lead to extraordinary accomplishments. Omobabinrin Adeola Osideko is a name to remember and be inspired by.

In self development November 13, 2019 By Esther Ijewere

5 CHALLENGES IN LIFE YOU MUST OVERCOME TO BECOME A BETTER PERSON

Life is an uncertain roller coaster. You can choose to embrace it and enjoy the ride, joyfully learning from your experiences along the way; or you can choose to rebel against all of life’s challenges, resenting every moment of your journey. The latter robs you of any growth or development, while the former gives you the opportunity to learn from those challenges and become a better person for having experienced them.

While “better” may be relative, one thing is certain – “better” means improved. No matter where you find yourself, there is always room for improvement. Even a monk strives daily to improve himself, striving always to become a better person.

Challenges in life are a given, and they can be used to your advantage. Each one is an opportunity for personal growth and self-improvement. Ultimately, the goal is to use what you learn as you grow to become the best version of yourself.

Here are 6 common challenges in life you must overcome on your road to becoming a better person:

1. Loss

Whether you lose your job, an opportunity, or a relationship – loss is an inevitable part of life.

Regardless of how it happens, loss is one of the life’s biggest challenges. It can feel abrupt and disruptive. However, loss gives you the opportunity to reflect on what is truly important so that you to keep moving forward.

Losing something that you had, or really wanted, can be a welcome wake up call. Loss forces you to ask yourself, “What about what I lost was valuable to me?” and “What am I willing to do to get what I want?”

Choosing to examine your loss through the lens of these questions causes you to assess the true value of what you lost, as well as why you value it. Having a clear understanding of what you value and why you value it, is key to becoming a better person because it gives your words & actions integrity.

2. Failure

There is not a single person alive who hasn’t experienced failure. To grow, you must fail. Failure offers a natural checkpoint on your journey, one that allows you to evaluate your recent behavioral choices so that you can make improvements. When you fail, you get the chance to review your decisions and behaviors, like an athlete reviews the taped footage between games.

Reviewing the decisions and actions that lead you to fail is an invaluable exercise. Understanding how the decisions you made led to certain behaviors and actions can prevent you from making the same mistakes again. Such a review can also reveal important details you missed the first time that would allow you to take a better and more informed approach the next time.

The experience of failure causes you to develop compassion, empathy and sympathy. Your experience gives you a point of commonality with anyone who has had a similar experience. Those three emotions are essential tools on your journey to becoming a better person because they allow others to feel safe and seen around you.

3. Setbacks

They have many names: missteps, monkey wrenches, unforeseen circumstances. But setbacks are ever present on our journey to becoming a better person.

We have all experienced a slow in progress, hindrance or delay on our journey. The challenge is understanding why the delay happened. What caused our progress to slow down or plateau?

You can intellectually know all the right things to do or say, but there are those moments when your humanness gets the best of you. Despite your best efforts to be a better person, you suddenly do or say something you regret. Perhaps you react in a way that is negative or out of alignment with your desire to become a better person. ITS OKAY!

Setbacks are learning opportunities. Having a firm understanding of the types of things that slow your progress will allow you to both avoid and preempt them.

Resilience is one positive side effect of overcoming setbacks. The journey to becoming a better person requires that you be mentally tough. Setbacks are an organic way to build that mental toughness while still maintaining integrity in your actions, and a sense of emotional awareness that promotes a safe environment where others feel seen.

4. Establishing Your Moral Compass

Distinguishing right from wrong for yourself is an ever present life challenge. You may agree with one ideology today, and another tomorrow. Changing your mind is your right, and deciding where you stand is your responsibility. The two go hand in hand.

Deciding what you believe is important on your road to bcoming a better person. Self-improvement is anchored in your own personal sense of right and wrong.

Most people act in accordance with their values and beliefs. Giving yourself permission to grow as person means taking time to reexamine them both. It is possible you will discover that your values and beliefs are no longer in alignment with your end goal.

Thankfully, your assessment of the misalignment will lead you to do what is necessary to once again find your true north. The ability to self-correct will serve you on you journey.

5. Mastering Your Mind

Your mind can be a formidable opponent on your path to becoming a better person. It can pipe up with all kinds of negative commentary when things are not going well, and can have the power to derail you with doubt and fear – if you let it. Mastering your mind is one of the greatest life challenges of all.

Your mind controls your perspective, it informs how you receive and process your interactions with the world around you. Unlike other things you can claim mastery over after a finite amount of time, the mind can take some a lifetime to master. The challenge is showing up willing to do the work of mastering the mind everyday, while having a complete awareness of the infinite nature of this work.

Where ever you go, there you are; thus it’s impossible to hide from yourself. If your mind is unruly and unkind, then it will be hard for you to become a better person, primarily because you are not being better to yourself.

Luckily, there are a myriad of ways to begin the work of mastering you mind. The key is to create space for you to be with yourself in a healthy way that promotes growth. Some common methods to facilitate focused personal time are therapy, meditation, self-reflection, prayer, intentional silence, journaling and being out in nature.

6. Overcoming Your Story

Everyone was once a child. There are things you experienced that were outside of your control, regardless of their severity those experiences stay with you. Those experiences become part of your story. Overcoming the story you tell yourself about your own experience can be quite the life challenge.

Whether you grew up poor, didn’t have a lot of love in your house, or didn’t feel seen, it affects the way you move through the world. There are the facts of these experiences and there are fuzzy edges where our minds fill in the blanks.

For Example: if you say “I grew up poor and I am always going to be poor,” that is an example of your story taking control.

Comparatively, if you said “I grew up poor, but I am working hard now. I’m doing whatever I can to make sure I have all the things I need and am comfortable”– even if it’s hard, that is still an example of overcoming your story.

Author: Awilda Rivera

In Interviews&profile August 24, 2025 By Esther Ijewere

Toke Makinwa on Healing, Purpose, and Her Journey “On Becoming”

Toke Makinwa is one of the most popular media personalities in Nigeria. She recently became an author with the unveiling of her new book “On Becoming”, in which she shares her story and pain to inspire women who have gone or are going through similar situations.

Penning the book was informed by her decision to document some of the personal losses she has suffered over the years and how she successfully made it through the most difficult time of her life.

In this exclusive interview with Esther Ijewere, Toke reveals why she wrote the book and her aspirations.

Childhood Influence

I like to think that we are the sum of all our experiences and the past definitely is the bedrock which the future is born. So, yes I will say my childhood played a vital role in the woman that I am Becoming. I learnt independence at a very young age, I watched things quickly change with the loss of both my parents at a very tender age, I became very aware quickly of how things can quickly change and not until recently did I realise that I held on to the familiar and feared change and change should be embraced not feared. In the book “On Becoming”, I share my journey to overcoming that fear.

Inspiration behind the book

It is important to tell your story or else the world will tell it for you. There was a lot of mystery around the Toke Makinwa brand and last year I had my life thrown into a storm that shook my very core. My journey to healing and getting my life back in order was not an easy one, In my pain, I found purpose and the message of “On Becoming” was conceived. My faith was questioned but looking back now I see that it has all worked out the way God ordained that it would.

In the fire I had a peace I could not explain and that could only come from God, I knew somehow that there was a message in all of the mess and when the word came to write a book, I was weary, confused, unsure, scared but I thought about the million and one women out there and men who are currently or at some point have dealt with a setback of some sort and it made me feel like i had a mission to spread the word, to share their pain and make see reason to get up and fight the urge to give up! It is very easyto let go, there is a lot of pain in the world today we need more successful stories of survival to encourage everyone who reads ‘On Becoming’.

Marital challenge as a propeller

The thought of writing a book never crossed my mind, I wish I could take credit for it all but a book was the last thing on my mind. I thought maybe when I am old and about to retire, I didn’t think my life was interesting enough. At the start of every year I usually talk to God about the past year and my plans in the New Year and in 2015 it was no different. I heard the word to write a book but I quickly dismissed it.

I would meet people who would mention the idea of a book and I knew it was no coincidence. It would make me toy with the idea but I wasn’t sure still what the idea was and then June came and everything changed. While i was trying to find my way out of the murky waters, writing became a way out and I would document how I felt everyday. On Becoming was a message from God and sometimes all has to fall apart so things could come together again so beautifully, so it had to happen.

Every woman deserves to “Become”

I think every woman who reads On Becoming will have different emotions at different times. It is honest, it discusses so many things that we do not talk enough about and It is my belief that women need to speak more. To share more, It is my hope that anyone who reads the book will have the courage to Become and that is why the title is open “On Becoming……’ I want people to fill in what they are becoming after they read the book.

Nervous while writing

Writers block, there were times I just didn’t know how I felt and I would leave the project to nurse myself and get back into it again. I went through a lot of emotion, it was as if I was reliving certain events and it was difficult. I was also nervous about sharing intimate parts of my life but that was quickly replaced with the purpose I felt beat through my heart. It had to be done. I want people to read the book “On Becoming” and know that its ok whatever way life has dealt with you.

Giving up

Yes, I had a lot of moments where I felt like running away but something inside of me kept pushing me. They say where God leads he provides, even when we encountered so many hiccups, God showed up all the time. It became clearer as we progressed and at some point fear turned into excitement. The book is going to change lives and It is not because I wrote it, well….Maybe, but in all honesty, it will leave you determined to make the changes that you need to, it will also bring healing and closure and it will help anyone on a journey to discover themselves

Being an Author

I’m only just getting comfortable with my new status as an Author, I am excited and also ready to fill in the big shoes. To whom much is given, so much more is also expected so I am looking forward to becoming a bigger brand, I like how I am doing so many things and they flow into themselves. I cannot wait for the world to see the major plans we are working on.

Do women really support other women?

To be candid, we have come a long way but there is still so much to be done. We can tolerate each other less and love more. Support more, be a source of inspiration to another woman today, look out for her, share her pain and rejoice in her joys. The Book “On Becoming” shares some insight on this particular issue

Toke Makinwa On Becoming — Toke Makinwa, Author- Becoming

Rising above Controversies

When you find your purpose, you are pretty determined to pursue it like your life depends on it and on that journey, it is a special journey (walking in purpose), you drown out the noise and stay focused on becoming more. I am so passionate about my platform and how It can inspire a lot of people out there, I don’t dwell on the negativity. It comes with the territory so I don’t lose sleep over it.

The Movement “On Becoming”

Every woman should get ready for some honesty, I shared to encourage you to also get the courage to speak up, I hope the book encourages you to take a chance. The movement of ‘On Becoming’ is only just beginning, 2017 is looking like a very busy year already and I am ready. The 6 months tour will take ‘On Becoming’ to different countries and I cannot wait to meet so many people and hear their stories too.