women of rubies Archives

In self development May 16, 2018 By Women of Rubies

BRIGHT AZUH: QUIT ACTING STRONG AND LET LOVE IN

The rare feeling you get about realizing that you occupy a space on someone’s mind even for a second is matchless. However some “Strong” women find it very difficult to let their hearts encounter love. This is because of some viewpoints that all men are not to be trusted; a man can only be with you for one thing, your body; all men are cheats, men are all the same, the list goes on. However, researches have shown that the excuses mentioned above are not the major fears of the “Strong” woman. Some of her fears include the Fear of being vulnerable, her problem of trusting a bit more, she is comfortable in her small cubicle and does not want to be exposed to hurt; she loves her sovereignty and does not want to be subjected to unnecessary commitment.

Behind these fears, the “strong” woman craves for love and affection but finds it uneasy to get, this is because her fears have become barricades to catching the fresh air of love.
The feeling of love opens you up to a total new experience that you never knew existed. It relieves your nerves and sometimes saves you from stress by letting you overlook issues. Love makes you feel this overwhelming rush of endorphin and adrenaline that fill you with so much joy and fulfillment. Weigh it any how you deem fit, love is such a beautiful thing that you must experience.
If you are one of the strong women that relent on love, I strongly advice that you give love a chance because it might just happen when you least expects it and when it hits you, you might not be wearing the most suitable protective measure so please stop nursing your fears and let your heart love and be loved.

In Interviews&profile January 20, 2018 By Women of Rubies

“IN FIVE YEARS I SEE MYSELF SURROUNDED BY MORE FEMALES IN TECH” – SOPHIE OBOMIGHIE, 18YR OLD TECH ENTHUSIAST

18 years old Sophie Obomighie is a student of human anatomy and a budding software developer, Her story went viral on Facebook few weeks back when one of her mentors shed more light on her achievement. She is also the Brand partnership Development Manager for Girl Lead ; an enterprise involved in training girls with the aim of encouraging more girls to venture into tech and entrepreneurship. Sophie also values volunteerism and female education.

In April 2017, her team came second at NASA space apps challenge in Benin, a feat that also brought her into limelight. In her words “I am still growing and still a student so I believe my story is still being written. I believe that at the time of my graduation, I would be invaluable to the biomedical engineering/technology sector. The young tech enthusiast shares her story with me in this exclusive interview.

Growing Up

My childhood prepared me in many ways for what I do now. I am blessed with parents that are innovative, broad-minded and hardworking all of which reflected on the decisions they took on behalf of my sisters and I as regards choice of school and other activities. I grew up with my Mum actively volunteering for the society of Saint Vincent the Paul among other commitments. She is presently the international twinning coordinator for Africa. I’d say I learnt how to volunteer from her. My dad was and still is very involved with my sisters and me. He tries to be as available as possible which has contributed to my increasing self-esteem, self-worth and self-knowledge. The elementary school I attended, Trinity Foundation School and Dominican nursery and primary school, encouraged extra-curricular alongside academic excellence. I was involved in ballet, African Dance, swimming classes etc and still topped my class. My secondary school; Regina Mundi Girls’ Secondary School also contributed in that we were trained in our spiritual, intellectual and social aspects, hence, coming out ready to take the world. I am presently studying human anatomy in the University of Benin and that story is still being written. I also had an early exposure to computers. My dad once got me a laptop in primary 2 as a gift for topping the class. That was my first major exposure to computers outside computer classes in school. My sisters and I always assisted my mum in typing and creating excel sheets on her laptop. It was an exciting experience for us. My mum also enrolled us for computer trainings during the holidays. These and the friends I had and have contributed and are still contributing to what I do now.

The “GirlLead “ Initiative

The Girl LEAD project is a Social enterprise founded by Dr. Enodiana Augustine on November 2016. We are a group of like minded and innovative individuals who are causing groundbreaking change in our environment and the world at large by our actions and words. Our mission is to empower girls of college age (15-24) with entrepreneurial and technological skills to develop their potentials and enable them in their unique capacity to change the world positively. We believe women are nurturers by nature. The major reason why women in our immediate environment do not contribute substantially to technology and solving world problems is because they don’t have the required skills to do that and even when presented with the opportunity to do so, they do not still do much usually because of societal stereotypes they have come to accept especially in places like Edo State my immediate environment where girls travel overseas in search of greener pastures and I’m sure you know the story that follows. We have broken that status quo and are raising university girls to be changemakers by equipping them with the needed skills. We have had 2 sets of bootcamps now and aim to continue training more girls. I am presently the Brand and partnership manager for the GirlLEAD. I am in charge of sourcing for sponsorships and partnerships.

Gathering momentum at 18

I’ll like to say that one of my intention is to make beyond the classroom activities a norm for teenagers and youths in Nigeria. That being said, I am usually driven by different things. I get very excited when I fix bugs while programming. I also enjoy volunteering because I know I learn a lot of things through it, I get to network with people and it makes me very happy. I also treasure self development as I am aware that I can’t give what I don’t have. Long term, volunteering and self development benefits both myself and the people I come across. I am also innovative and usually have a lot of ideas and I am satisfied when I am able to bring those ideas to life. The fact that my actions will inspire others is also a great push. Lastly, stories of people that have done things I want to do also push me to do more.

What and who inspire you?

Different people for different areas of my life. My parents inspire me by their actions and words, my sisters even though still young, inspire me to do more. Many of my friends inspire me too by their actions and words. I have very awesome people as friends. I also inspire myself too. My team coming second at NASA space app challenge in April 2017.

Other Achievements

The NASA Space Apps challenge Benin regionals was a wonderful experience for me. . My team which consisted of Chudi Nwanna, Stephen Alexander Gabriel, Caleb Ikhuohon-Eboreime, Philip Obosi and I with Stephen as team lead coincidentally all students had to really work for the few days we had to complete our project. We built a repository of space terms that would enable a layman contribute substantially to space tech advancement. There is a lesson here. At that time, I did not have as much technical skills as I do now but I didn’t give that as an excuse to not participate. Eventually, I contributed more than I thought I could. Most of the excuses we have in our head don’t hold much water. Sometimes, it’s just us being lazy. We eventually qualified for globals but didn’t go so far due to insufficient votes. My family and friends and those of my team mates did a splendid job in contributing votes. I am grateful for that. The regional organisers also did a great job of bringing it to Benin because many of such events are not usually extended to Benin. Recently, there have been more of such events and startups even having headquarters in Benin. One of such is Mobicure the makers of Omomi maternal care app whom I interned with some time ago. Since I am a biomedical student, I realized the best way to balance the two was integrating it, the reason why I interned with Mobicure. It was another wonderful experience I had.

I was also a student ambassador for a Canadian based Medical tech company called Figure 1. It’s basically an instagram for medical students. A wonderful implementation of technology to the medical field. I was recently on the panel of judges for Aiesec Benin chapter’s slush with mac hackathon.

Greatest Reward
Recently, the GirlLEAD project won an award on Kampus tv. That was an indication to me that we were being noticed and were contributing substantially to our environment. I also recently got access to some very strong networks mainly because my mentor pushed me out to the world. I am happy to be making her and others proud.

Challenges

Epileptic power supply and the terrible internet access is a major problem I have. As a programmer, I usually need these for my work . At the end I still can’t give myself that excuse so I make do with what I have.

For GirlLEAD, we had a problem of convincing girls to participate, a problem I experienced first hand. Many of the girls I approached could not See themselves succeeding in tech careers hence, were uninterested in participating. The girls we have trained so far have served as tech evangelists both by words and actions to other girls.

Projection in five years

In the next 5 years, I see myself surrounded by more females in technology having influenced many of them to pursue tech careers. I also see myself contributing substantially to the software development sector as related to my course of study/area of interest . I have a global mindset and local perspective hence, in 5 years, I would have contributed substantially to my immediate environment making myself world class, hence my country. I would also at that time have concluded my undergraduate studies and started my research work in biomedical engineering which is part of my long term goals.

Do you think women in Tech have been given enough room to soar?

Yes they have. Being a woman in tech ( Using freelancing as a case study), you have more advantage to succeed reason being that you’re a minority, everybody wants you especially when you know your onions. You become invaluable. But there is a problem. Society is wired to prevent us from going far in the tech industry and any other male dominated field. We have to spend time learning how to cook, tidy the house, take care of the home etc. That is normal, it is our duty but the problem comes when girls are told to learn how to bake and boys are told to play video games hence exposing them to technology. It’s stereotypical. Why can’t they both learn the 2 or either of them but not assigning which is for who. You can be a great mum or caterer or fashion designer as a female and still find a way of implementing technology to it. We should understand also that technology is not limited to programming alone. We have graphic deisgners, technical writers, mechanical engineers, etc.

So I’ll say yes Women in Tech have been given enough room to soar because you are the only one who can give yourself permission to succeed amidst all the challenges you face. You owe that to yourself. Your actions should make so much noise that would inspire others to venture into such fields.

Other projects and activities

I am a fellow at WAAW foundation ( Working to advance STEM in African women), Uniben Chapter. It’s one of my volunteering activities. We go to secondary schools to train girls with hands-on engineering skills in energy, robotics, programming etc. I attended a 4 weeks bootcamp organized by WAAW foundation called shehacks Africa. Due to the fact that I facilitate sessions at girllead, I believe it’s important I develop myself as I can’t give what I don’t have. I was also a participant at a summer bootcamp last year called Impact labs. It was organized by students and graduates of MIT and Harvard. We were taught a lot from innovation to design process, arduino programming, rloop ( Elon Musk’s transport system) etc. I personally gained some skills as the group scribe for my team like teamwork, patience, documenting building process, hardwork etc. I am also a member of the Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental students Uniben Chapter and we usually organize annual rural outreaches. Bottom line, the ability to multi task and survive under pressure have helped me succeed.
I have also worked on a few side projects.

Giving Up

Many times. It’s very rare for ladies in fact youths generally with my kind of background to do things I do hence sometimes, I get negative responses from a few people but I have come to the realization that I am the only one that can give myself the permission to succeed. Managing all I do with my studies has also not been a bed of roses but the higher I go, the more clarity I acquire which eventually helps me in succeeding in my medical science career, programming career and volunteering activities. Having mentors and role models has also been of great help.

I am Awesome, I am a Woman of Rubies

I am a WOR because I am aware of how awesome I am and embrace that awesomeness. I use my influence to bring about positive change in the lives of others. I help others embrace their awesomeness too by means of mentorship and inspiration by my actions and words. I am a WORrior because I handle setbacks with elegance and amplify my strength.

Final word for young women who want to go into Tech
Never be deterred ladies. You have too many opportunitites to facilitate your success hence, you have no excuse. The world is waiting for you to build that app, learn that programming language or work on that website and trust me the world is not very patient. If you don’t do it, someone else will so why not fail and stand up again. You might say you’ve attended trainings and unsure if where to start from. I’d say you should find a problem in your immediate environment and solve it using technology. Do enough research on the best language or skill you need and get to work. You’ll eventually find your footing thereafter. As a programmer, you usually have to start from the top then down meaning you eventually take time to learn the basics or principles of a language having being exposed to it or having worked with it. You don’t necessarily need to be a programmer. You can be a data analyst, graphic designer, technical writing or even be in charge of project management. Go out there and break the ceiling!!!!!.

In Interviews&profile December 30, 2017 By Esther Ijewere

BEING A WOMAN DOES NOT LIMIT YOU IN ANYWAY – IFEYINWA JACINTHA, FARMER & AGRICULTURAL ADVOCATE

Ifeyinwa Jacinta Eze, founded The Green Generation Initiative in 2011 with a seed funding from ExxonMobil. The Agricultural Advocate, Educator, Scientist, and a Global Shaper of the World Economic Forum holds a Bachelors degree in Soil Science and Land resource management from the Obafemi Awolowo University and a postgraduate student on food security at the Business School Netherlands. While setting up “The Green Generation Initiative” she worked as Supply Chain at AACE foods between 2013-2015, facilitating at least 1,500 farmers to supply indigenous spices and grains to the processing factory as well as access to storage and finance.

Ifeyinwa Jacinta Eze’ work has made significant contributions to improving the livelihood of smallholder farmers in Nigeria. With over 8years of experience in agriculture, business and management, her unparalleled success as an educationist propelled the organization in training teachers and students in practical vegetable production skills. Today through Funding under the MicroVeg project from Global Affairs Canada, over 120 schools on climate-smart agricultural practices have set up gardens in two geo-political zones of the country.

Jacinta is the co-author of the book “School Vegetable Garden Manual for Secondary schools”, a practical and inspiring book for the younger to love agriculture that is funded by the MicroVeg Project. On pro bono basis, she advocates for the inclusion of children, women and youth in agriculture, Jacinta has also been a guest speaker in many agricultural workshops and conferences both locally and internationally. She shares her inspiring story in this interview.

Childhood Influence
My childhood was full of flowers and vegetable gardening. At home, my dad grew all kinds of vegetables and flowers. He also always had a small poultry he kept all the time, rotating different kinds of birds. Even when we moved houses, he took his farm with him. The only thing that changed was that we started from scratch to build a new garden. It wasn’t funny when I was a kid because these activities always stole into my playing time, and Daddy would never allow me join my friends until I was done with my lot. And then high school time, I had this fantastic agric teacher (Mr Muhammed at FGGC, Oyo) that used scientific names of crops to make jest in class. He would say things like: “Look at your head like Carica Papaya.” This means “look at your head like Paw-paw. His style of teaching was so humorous that it captured my attention to knowing most of the plant names by heart, and then practical agriculture on the field in school became my best time as it just felt like home, before I knew it, growing plants became a lifestyle. Little did I know that I was being prepared for the future, that i would grow up to become an advocate for quality agricultural education, production and sustainability

Meet Jacintha

Am popularly called “Bose Elefo” by rural vegetable farmers as vegetables is my key expertise and that’s what I talk about everywhere I go. I am a social entrepreneur, a trainer, educator and promoter of sustainable vegetable production, marketing and consumption. I am a Global Shaper of the World Economic Forum (WEF)-Lagos Hub, a fellow of the African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD). I am an advocate for quality agricultural education and a strong believer that this will bring a transformational change for the next generation of agricultural experts and enthusiasts. I have 8 years experience in farmers engagement, rural development and youth empowerment. Everyday, what keeps me going is more engagement with women and youth for agricultural development. I hold an MBA in food security from the Business School, Netherlands and a Bachelors degree in Soil science and Land resources management from the prestigious “Great Ife”

Inspiration behind The Green Generation Initiative
While I was an undergraduate at Great Ife, I noticed a trend among my colleagues, medical and biological science students were regarded as the professional students with bright minds. Every session, I watched most of my colleagues struggle to change their courses “trying to cross from agric to health or biological sciences” departments until they got tired. So I started a personal research into finding out factors responsible and among all of them, what stood out was poor foundational skills. Many undergraduates had little or no direct encounter with agriculture before Uni, they saw no future with their studies and couldn’t wait to just graduate and do something else with their lives. I could say categorically that at least 50% of my colleagues in my set (B.Agric) are into other careers today. So when these findings became crystal clear to me, I sought ways to bring a solution to this. And when I got an opportunity to present my ideas (a platform that will boost young people engagement with agriculture from early education years to increase their interests, help them appreciate agriculture and prepare them for the challenges ahead), I did and in 2009, I won the firstprize on the Womenterprise Awards funded ExxonMobil Nigeria through Ideabuilders Initiative. The seed funding that came with the Award helped me establish school gardens in 6 chosen schools in Lagos and since then its been growing. Now through the work, we have trained as at today, teachers and students on practical agriculture skills in 123 schools in 2 geo-political zones in the country.

Challenges

A lot of times I receive unexpected looks and judgement. Many people hardly believe I can hold a hoe talk more of talk about agriculture because of my looks, light skinned and fragile looking. It’s only after several encounters that they believe I know what I am doing or talking about. It’s not been an easy time over the years, I must say. I have worked myself to the bone proving myself.

Poor Motivated teachers: Some teachers have low motivation to drive practical agriculture, they feel like its an extra burden. Its hard to sustain gardens in such environments when the leader isn’t passionate about it. So what happens is that after we have handed over the project to the school, they do not take care of the garden, and it usually ends there after we handover school projects to school

Co-authoring the book “School Vegetable Garden Manual for Secondary schools

The manual is a must-read for every school. It holds practical step –by-step guide for growing green leafy vegetables from planning for the garden up to harvesting the produce of 3 kinds of vegetables. The techniques also show environmentally smart techniques for production like the use and application rates for biologically derived insecticides to reduce/prevent insects invasion. It was fully sponsored under the Global Affairs project: MicroVeg so it’s not for sale.

Other project and activities

Our scope covers sustainable development through intensive collaboration with young people interested in agriculture, support and train smallholder farmers in climate smart technologies, land resource management, biodiversity conservation, agricultural entrepreneurship and nutritional education.

We are working with a Global Affairs Canada sponsored project to disseminate technologies to 21,000 farmers on Vegetable production technologies and innovations. This is in partnership with Osun state University and other partners like the University of Manitoba, Canada and University of Saskatchewan, Canada, Obafemi Awolowo University and University Of Parakou, Benin republic

We have also had successes in training rural women on integrating fresh vegetables into confectioneries. We linked over 200 farmers in Ogun and Ekiti state to receive over 30 million naira which they fully repaid back and this is bridging the gap between finance institutions and farmers

To increase youth engagement and empowerment, we launched “Grooming Leaders For Agriculture” also called GLA in 2017 creating a platform for young people interested in agriculture to sharpen their skills, develop their career path and grow.
We match young people with mentors (professionals) sharing similar careers and also give hands-on training on vegetable production and agribusiness skills. We are using this to help fast-track their careers, expose them to opportunities and help them become better positioned. We now have 35 young people in the program. Read more..www.glainitiative.org

Greatest reward you have ever gotten for what you do?
My greatest reward isn’t in awards or funding. It has been in building people. The day I started receiving reports that our GLA volunteers had started adopting schools. I felt the best feeling in the world. Do you know what it means to see yourself replicated in others. You know if I were to die today, am certain that the dream will not die. The vision of reaching the younger generation and preparing them for the future is rolling and will reach every corner of Nigeria and this has been my greatest reward.

Where do you see your brand in the next five years?
A hub for professionals working together and shaping agribusiness that is moving forward the agenda of food security and wellness for all in Africa

Was there ever a time you feel like giving up?

No. Thankfully I haven’t.

Who and what inspire you to be better?
I have quite a number of people who stand out in inspiring me in my journey. They constantly keep at it and ever encourage me to keep being better: Prof Clement Adebooye, Lucy Kanu, Ndidi Nwuneli

Being a Woman of Rubies

I am a woman of rubies because I am living my life for the sake of the next generation. I am playing my part in contributing to the next generational leaders in food security, we cannot afford to make the mistakes our father made and have the same challenges we are facing today.

Final word for young women all over the world?

Do not just live your life waking up in the morning, cleaning, cooking, serving or watching TV. Live a purpose-filled life, a life that leaves a positive legacy in your family and community. Your being a woman does not limit you in any way, if you cannot find energy within you to pursue this, find the right support group that works on this and collaborate with them to create that impact that’s needed. We need all women working together to make our world better. All women have this ability, lets use it wisely.

In Career Gems May 5, 2017 By Women of Rubies

ACTRESS, WRITER & TALK RADIO HOST -ALEX OKOROJI TO RECEIVE ICONIC WOMAN AWARD AT WEF 2017 IN INDIA

Nigerian Actress, Writer & Talk Radio Host – Alex Okoroji who was recently ranked one of the Top 250 Most Influential Women Leaders in the World by Richtopia, will be receiving the prestigious WEF17 ICONIC WOMAN AWARD for “Iconic Women Creating a Better World for All” at the 2017 Annual Global Women Economic Forum (WEF) in New Delhi, India.

Alex who recently ‎appeared in a special edition of the Television Game Show “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire”as a Celebrity Guest on the HOT SEAT played alongside Tosin Ajirire, Entertainment Editor at The Sun Newspaper on behalf of Charity – for Mama Dada and the Dada Marquis Foundation to win 2 Million naira. She is also nominated to receive a Nigeria Goodwill Ambassador Award “For Agent of Positive Change in Nigeria” in July – is one of the WEF 2017 Speakers and will be speaking on

Day 1: The NAKED Road To Personal & Business Success

Day 3: Understanding Business Globalization, Creativity and Innovative Leadership

Day 5: Hosting a Lunch Roundtable – Topic: The NAKED Philosophy for Success.

The Gala Annual Women Economic Forum gathers women leaders from 100+ countries at its mega marathon spectacular conference in New Delhi spread over 6 days.

In just few days from now India will be abuzz with the energy of passionate women leaders and entrepreneurs from different countries across the world gathering together for the marathon 6 days of the Annual Women Economic Forum.

From May 8th to 13th , a rich confluence of leaders and achievers from a 100+ countries will empower one another by sharing and speaking across 520 sessions and workshops under the overall bold theme of “Women: Creating, Innovating, Understanding and Driving the Future”.

What is most unique is that the extensive program across 41 theme verticals and 520+ sessions has been built over the past year with the committed participation of a widely constituted Advisory Board and Advisory Executive Council (AEC) of over 500 people from the world. This is to ensure meaningful dialogues on topics that engage the needs of All the participants from different fields, cultures and backgrounds.

The vibe of the conference is interactive. Power points are not encouraged; whereas open hearted sharing is celebrated. Apart from the fact that this format enhances engagement of all in the audience.

Over 2000 delegates and speakers representing experiences from 150 countries, are joining. Countries include, Albania, Argentina, Australia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belgium, Benin, Botswana, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, China, Colombia, Cote D’Ivoire, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Egypt, Ethiopia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Ghana, Guinea, Hungary, Iceland, India, Iraq, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Korea, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Lebanon, Lesotho, Lithuania, Louisiana, Malaysia, Maryland, Montenegro, Morocco, Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway, Oman, Pakistan, Panama, Philadelphia, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Russia, Rwanda, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Singapore, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Sweden, Switzerland, Syria, Togo, Turkey, Turkmenistan, UAE, Uganda, UK, USA, Zambia, Zimbabwe.

In addition, companies, institutions and startups are sharing their ideas and initiatives; like BMW financial services, Fortis Escorts); Facebook, Google, Teach India, and many start-ups like in 3D printing, genomics, crafts etc. Countries and embassy representatives are also presenting opportunities therein for business, education and tourism, and special outreach for women.

Confirmed ministers & dignitaries:

International Ministers and MPs:

Dr. Anja Kopač Mrak, Minister for Labour of Labour, Family, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities, Slovenia.

Ms. Alenka Smerkolj, Minister responsible for Development, Strategic Projects and Cohesion, Slovenia.

Ms. Shamma Sohail F. Al Mazrui, Minister of State for Youth Affairs, UAE

Sara Dowie, MP, New Zealand

Ms. Marija Pavilioniene, MP, Lithuania

Cabinet Ministers from India:

Mr. Suresh Prabhu, Union Minister for Railways; Mr. Thawar Chand Gahlot, Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment.

Expected Dignitaries

Invited and confirmation awaited for: Ms. Draupadi Murmu, Hon’ble Governor of Jharkhand; Dr. Harshavardhan, Union Minister for Science & Technology; Prakash Javadekar, Union Minister for Human Resource Development. Mrs Lamia Zribi, Minister of Finance, Tunisia, Ms Hela Cheikhrouhou, Minister for Energy, Tunisia

Speakers & Awardees:

The forum will also felicitate inspiring women and men with WEF 17 awards for Women and Leaders of the Decade in various fields from across India and other parts of the world, as also iconic leaders making a difference to society. These are in Business, Entrepreneurship, Startups, Technology, IT, Celebrities, Education, NGOs includingMr. William Bissell , MD at Fab India,

Ms. Despina Panayiotou Theodosiou , MD at Tototheo Maritime Group, Cyprus

Ms. Vandana Luthra, Founder and Vice Chairperson at VLCC Health Care Ltd, India

Ms. Gina Rinehart , MD at Hancock Prospecting, Australia

Ms. Jyoti Deshpande, CEO at Eros International, India

Ms. Sulajja Firodia Motwani, CEO, Kinetic Green Energy & Power Solutions, India

Ms. Nishi Vasudeva, ex Chairman & MD of Hindustan Petroleum Corporation, India

Mr Harsh Mariwala, Chairman at Marico Limited, India (v)

Ms. Betty DeVita , Chief Commercial Officer at MasterCard Labs, USA

Ms. Agatha Amata, CEO of Inside Out Media LTD, Nigeria

Ms. Cathy Engelbert, CEO, Deloitte LLP USA, USA

Mr. Umang Bedi, MD, Facebook, India and South Asia

Ms. Kamila Rubaninska, Director of Operations, AT&T, Czech Republic

Ms. Susan Pointer, Head, Government Relations, Google Inc., USA

Sandy Carter, ex GM, Ecosystem Development and Social Business, IBM, USA

Ms. Nancy Valentinio, COO, Julien’s Auctions, US

Mr. Nikhil Kumar, Time Magazine, South Asia

Ms. Ellen Barry, New York Times, South Asia

Mr. Vikram Chandra, NDTV, India

Mr. S.M. Khan, DG, Registration for Newspapers of India

Ms. Dragana Djermanovic, Social media influencer in South East Europe

Ms. Sabina Chopra, co-founder,Yatra.com

Mr. Bhavish Agarwal, founder, Ola cabs

Ms. Nikki Giant, MD, Full Circle Education Solutions, UK

Mr. Subhash Ghai, Veteran film director,

Ms. Betty Young, President at Hocking College , USA

Ms. Chiara Hensley, Assistant Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs, Eastern Michigan University, USA

Ms. Penny Simmonds, CEO of the Southern Institute of Technology, New Zealand

Ms. Lila Poonawalla, Lila Poonawalla Foundation, India

Ms. Ofra Abramovich, Founder of Mamanet, The Mothers’ League, Israel

Ms. Nisha Agarwal , CEO at Oxfam India, India

Ms. Revathi Roy , CEO-HeyDeedee , India

Mr. Anshu Gupta, Founder, Goonj

Dr. Ashok Seth Chairman – Fortis Escorts Heart Institute Chairman – Cardiology Council, Fortis Group of Hospitals, India

Mr. Kapil Sibal, former Union Minister, India

Mr. Lalit Bhasin, President, Bar Association of India

Ms. Pinky Anand, Additional Solicitor General of India

H.E Ambassador of Iceland

H.E Ambassador of Poland

H.E Ambassador of Macedonia

Ambassador of India to Angola

Ambassador of India to Cyprus

Distinguished Legendary Leaders Award to Mr Ratan Tata, Chairman of the Tata Group, India

Quotes:

Dr Harbeen Arora, Founder and Global Chairperson, ALL Ladies League (ALL) and Women Economic Forum (WEF) said: “WEF is a supportive platform where women from All walks of life can come and empower their skills, attitudes and networks. This year almost 18 Women Economic Forum events would get organized across the world; with the purpose of giving women worldwide greater voice and visibility.” “The response and affection we receive across these forums is overwhelming.

Support is also growing now from other stakeholders in society as All are now recognizing the power of women unfolding and strengthening.” “This is indeed the Century of Women, and the caring and cohesive spirit they bring. We need to celebrate the spirit and values of women and we need those in our troubled times to regain our balance and drive our future with sustainability”.

WEF events are about Conversations, Collaboration and Celebration:

One feels a vibe of authentic sharing and humane connection at the WEF events. In addition empowering business knowledge and networks, WEF is also a platform for open hearted peer learning and generous mentoring. People also share moving personal stories and experiences on a range of subjects on how one can deal with emotional grief, mindsets and cultural influences impeding or enhancing personal leadership, how one can master fears and doubts within, dealing with work-life challenges, overcoming trust deficit so that women can be women’s best friends, dealing with emotional and physical abuse, parenting and its challenges, putting an end to child trafficking, commitment to a healthy lifestyle, and processes for community and society building; challenges of leadership for fostering creativity and collaboration; and tapping into the power of education to make a positive change in the world.

In Interviews&profile May 5, 2017 By Women of Rubies

RUKE ASAGBA , THE YOUNG WOMAN USING HEALTHCARE AND EDUCATION TO CATER TO AFRICANS IN NEED

Four years ago, Ruke Asagba established CAIN (Catering to Africans in need) – a non-profit organization that seeks to improve healthcare in Africa and alleviate poverty by creating better educational opportunities.

Born out of a strong need for tangible development in Africa, Ruke’s main target areas are healthcareand education – because at the heart of her foundation is the belief that “education is the key to development while healthcare is the key to longevity.”

In her words:

“The vision for CAIN was born during my final year in high school when I was testing and interviewing high school graduates and OND holders for a minimum wage job.

I was bothered by the inability of many candidates to write and think coherently despite their qualifications.

I decided that one of my future goals would be helping less privileged children access quality education.”

“In my opinion, this was outright injustice because I strongly believe quality education is a right and not a privilege.

This experience coupled with my immense passion for health care influenced the mission of CAIN, which is to improve the quality of education and healthcare received by the less privileged in impoverished African societies.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/BLM28PIgXit/

Since it’s establishment CAIN has been involved in a bunch of projects like donating books, mounting whiteboards and providing markers to community schoools.

CAIN also helped build a healthcare clinic in Jeida, a small village on the outskirts of Abuja, and recently purchased a building for creating a multi-purpose learning centre.

You can learn more about CAIN on their website

In Interviews&profile April 29, 2017 By Women of Rubies

I’M INSPIRED BY THE FEARLESS WOMAN WHO BELIEVES SO MUCH IN HERSELF AND HER VISION – CHIKA ILANG

Chika Ilang is a Mass Communication graduate from Caritas University, Enugu. She’s the founder of Chika Ilang International, a personal development company, which she launched in 2016, with key focus on helping women gain the clarity to build the life and career they truly love.

She believes everyone has equal opportunity to achieve greatness if you show up for yourself, It’s her earnest desire to teach more women how to live a happier, wealthier and fulfilled life. She shares her inspiring journey and some success nuggets in this interview.

Wanting to start a smoke fish business as a child

Not exactly because I was a very carefree child with no worries whatsoever. I wasn’t the very coordinated child who led other children to live right.

I was rather the love child, who got almost all her little request to the best she knew, so there was really nothing pushing me to focus better as a child.

But on the other hand, I was enterprising at heart as a child. I wanted to earn my own money at a very young age. I remember a time my cousin and I saved up our small allowances to start a smoked fish business. You can tell my parents didn’t allow this idea see the light of the day, else, maybe, just maybe, I would have blown in that area. But why smoked fish though? I truly don’t know *laugh*

The “Evolving” Woman

I’m Chika, I’m the last of my parents 6 children, I’m married to my amazing pillar of support, I’m an ambivert, I’m a dreamer and an achiever,I love colours, music, food, positive people, the good but simple life, and all things in between.

I’m an evolving woman, always open to opportunities that would help me become the best of my version.

Chika Ilang International

In 2014, while in my paid employement, I started my side hustle with fruit art and display, sale of gift items and smart kitchen tools; under the name Ore Services on instagram.

Prior to this, I had so many ideas but I didn’t know what or how exactly to launch any.

So I started this business when I desperately needed to do something with my life, beside my 9 to 5. I needed to occupy myself while I figured out what I truly wanted to do with my life. The beginning was intriguing, as it was my first time making money from any business. I made mistakes here and there and always came back stronger with the lessons.

Few months on, I lost interest in my business. I was still very much hungry for more growth. The business just didn’t fit perfectly into the picture I had in my head. So I closed down the business to seek what would give me the answers I sought for.

This self discovery and harnessing stage led to the birth of Chika Ilang International, a personal development company dedicated to help other women who want to live out their passion, who are in a job they do not like, who are desirous of life above average, but are confused on how to launch out.

They like I was, don’t know the exact WHAT and HOW to achieve their desired

result. Chika Ilang International is focused at helping them define what exactly they want, help them create a map that will guide them to achieving this and actually hold their hands on their journey to success and fulfilment.

Inspires by Success

I am inspired by every person who dares to show up for themselves and get things done.

I’m inspired by the woman who against all odds, chose to raise her standard and chase her greatness. I’m inspired by the fearless woman who believes so much in herself and her vision.

Success of one is my biggest inspiration. It reminds me that if one person can do it, I too can do mine.

Reward

My greatest reward is always the opportunity to do more when I deliver on value promised.

Challenges

When I started out, I had struggle distinguishing myself. You know when you start a new path with little or no experience, with no result to show for your amazing idea and expertise, you could easily be mistaken for a sham. Until I started achieving results, I had to deal with this.

Projects and activities

Presently, I work with clients on different stages, depending on each person’s level on their journey. I also get involved with voluntary work where I can contribute optimally.

Giving Up

Oh yessssss, I have felt like giving up on few occasions when my business was still taking shape. I had done all I thought there was to be done, yet I wasn’t getting the result I wanted.

But somehow, I was able to persevere on the last tiny hope, and today, I’m glad I did.

Being a Woman of Rubies

I believe success is sweeter when we all win. Whenever I’m in the position to lift another woman, I feel a great joy within me.

Final word

Hey Queen, give yourself the permission to succeed. Be inspired by all the amazing women who have gone ahead to live their personal legend. Like I always say, SUCCESS OF ONE, IS AN EVIDENCE THAT IT IS POSSIBLE, BE INSPIRED NOT ENVIOUS!

Live, love, laugh, support, dream, and become!

In Interviews&profile April 17, 2017 By Women of Rubies

“SUCCESS IS HELPING SOMEONE WHO CAN NEVER PAY YOU BACK” – ESTHER IJEWERE

Esther Ijewere is an enterprising social activist, youth advocate, Columnist, author, mother of two and the Executive Director of Rubies Ink Initiative- a social enterprise outfit devoted to youth advocacy, public relations and social enterprise solutions among others. An Olabisi Onabanjo University-trained Sociologist, as a social advocate, she is the brain behind W.A.R- Walk Against Rape, an advocacy initiative created to lend a voice for the victims of rape and demand justice for the perpetrator’s, an initiative endorsed by the Lagos State Ministry Of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. She is also a columnist with The Guardian newspaper with her page Women of Rubies, a platform used to celebrate exceptional women with inspiring stories. The page is a sequel to her award-winning blog www.womenofrubies.com, which is fast becoming the one stop blog for the everyday woman. In this interview with NIKE SOTADE, she talks about the strides she has made in her passion to fight against rape in the society

Tell us about yourself, education, growing up etc.
I am Esther Ijewere, the Founder of Rubies Ink Initiative for Women and Children, Convener of the Walk Against Rape Campaign and also, Editor-In-Chief of Women of Rubies, a blog aimed at celebrating exceptional women with inspiring stories. I sit on the board of The African Development Imperative (TADI) and also, a fellow with Hillary Clinton’s founded Vital Voices Global Leadership. I have been into advocacy and development work since 2010. I am the recipient of many awards – notable among them are the ‘Wise Woman in Media Award’ I received last year and my recent recognition as one of the ‘100 Most Inspiring Women in Nigeria’ by Leading Ladies Africa. I had my Primary and Secondary education in Lagos and graduated from the Olabisi Onabanjo University with a BSc in Sociology and Diploma in Marketing. I am also a certified ‘On Air Personality’ but that’s one of the many caps I am yet to explore. I believe in learning and acquiring knowledge as much as one can in any field of interest – if you can think it, then you can do it.

Any experiences in life that propelled you into sexual violence or anti-rape advocacy? You’re a mother of two girls, are they your inspiration too?
At the time I started the anti-rape campaign, I realised a lot of people were scared of reporting cases of rape out of fear of being stigmatised and judged. The number of reported cases was very low. This propelled me to start the sensitization awareness and lend my voice while complementing the work of the Government in curbing rape and other forms of sexual violence. Being a mother of two girls also deepened my passion for the cause, as I can’t imagine any of them having to go through such ordeal in life.

You’ve been working with government agencies in what capacity? Do you think Lagos State government is doing enough in its anti-rape campaign?
I have been working with the Lagos State Government through its Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation since 2010; we partner with them annually to organise our Walk Against Rape Campaign and also refer cases of rape and domestic abuse to them, while we follow it up to a justifiable end. As such, I’d emphatically say that Lagos State is the only State that has shown the most concern on issues that affect women, particularly rape. The Governor, for example, has a zero tolerance policy for all forms of violence against women, and he works hand in hand with the necessary government agencies to make sure offenders are prosecuted. The Lagos State Government is doing enough at the moment; I just hope they can create more Help Centres in every local council across the State to help victims get help faster. This is one thing I have been advocating for since 2010.

Have they prosecuted any offenders? Kindly give figures if you have them.
In 2016, 4, 035 cases ranging from rape, child abuse, sexual assault, sexual abuse to defilement, were handled by the Lagos State Ministry of Justice; this, being a cumulative figure alongside the previous year. The number of unreported cases is obviously higher than that as 140 offenders were prosecuted last year. I believe the figure will increase as time goes by.

What kind of advocacy do you take to the schools?
Sensitisation and Awareness through our College Acquaintance Rape Education workshop (C.A.R.E) where we educate these young kids on how to identify an abuse and the need to report such cases to the necessary authority. I also wrote an information Handbook on Rape called “Breaking the Silence.” We use it as a toolkit to sensitize them – a book that contains all the necessary information they need; from help lines to help centres across Lagos. The feedbacks from the kids in the last few years have been great; we have more kids reporting such cases in confidentiality now.

Who are the potential or likely rapists?
Undisciplined men, who do not have self-control, are potential rapist.

Kindly share with us some of the tips you’ve offered school children on defending themselves against predators.
I have a personal code I teach them with called L.I.E.S: L stands for ‘Learn to say NO’, I – ‘Identify the situation’, E – ‘Expose the perpetrator’, S – ‘Say it as it is without conceding information’. I encourage them to write this in their exercise books or we give them stick on papers they can paste on their wardrobes.

More rape cases are being reported in the news nowadays. What do you think could be responsible?
It’s still indiscipline and lack of self control. There is no justification for rape or any form of sexual abuse. Some have argued that the economy is one of the reasons but I beg to differ: how will raping or defiling a child change your financial status? It’s also good we have more reported cases lately – this goes to show we have not been lending our voice in vain.

Do you counsel rape victims, too? What advice do you have for them to move on with their lives?
Yes, I do. First, I take them through a healing process; the biggest stage of healing is ‘breaking your silence’ and I also encourage them not to ever blame themselves for getting raped or dwell on it.

You’re also a blogger and columnist with the popular Women of Rubies interviews. How do you go out of your way to get these exceptional women?
Blogging, through the Women of Rubies Platform, has been very interesting. It avails me the opportunity to be more inspired and challenges me to even do more. We often have people nominate women they feel are worthy of being celebrated; we get nominations weekly for a ‘deserving woman’ whose story deserves to be brought to the front-burner.

What’s relaxation for you?
Sadly, I hardly relax but lately, I’m beginning to learn how to have some time for myself. I go out to see an interesting movie or just stay indoors and watch one – zero-attention to social media; just that alone-movie time to relax the head.

Who are your role models?
My mum, because she had every reason under the sun not to bring me to the world, but against all odds she did and made sure I become the woman I am today. Another person is Kate Henshaw. She is one of the very first people who believed in me, she made sure I got more tutelage from more experienced women in my line of work and she also became a mentor in the process. Aunty Kate as I fondly call her is one of my biggest support systems in the industry. Her selflessness and humility inspire me a lot. I also admire Remi Shonaiya, the presidential candidate for KOWA Party for daring to be different and standing up tall, for showing that a woman can contest and one day sit at the highest level of authority in this country. I am inspired by her courage and the way she has positioned herself even after losing the election. I also admire Ini onuk and Betty Irabor. On the International scene it’s Oprah Winfrey and Hillary Clinton.

You’re the daughter of a renowned accountant in the country, why didn’t you follow daddy’s career? What life’s lessons have you learned from your dad?
For me, this is what God wants me to do; this is the path He wants me to toe – I am living my own purpose. My dad’s purpose is in accounting and other fields he has excelled in; he respects my vision and is very supportive of my aspirations in life. One life lesson he taught me is to always stay and think positive, no matter what life throws at me.

What’s your philosophy of life?
I am not scared of lifting other women up; I am not afraid to help other women and see them succeed. My thing is: “as long as I wear the crown, no one can take my throne”. You can’t boldly say you have succeeded in life till you help someone who can never pay you back.

Advice for young women out there
Women, stand up! Go out there and be all you want to be. Be strong and bold, do all you can to have a voice and an identity. Let your name be the solution to a problem you solve.

Interview originally published by Guardian

In self development April 9, 2017 By Women of Rubies

WOMEN OF RUBIES PARTNERS YABA LCDA TO SENSITISE GRASSROOTS WOMEN

The third edition of the Women of Rubies sensitization tagged “Sensitizing Grassroots women on domestic abuse and lifestyle issues “ was held on Friday 7^th of April in partnership with the Yaba Lcda at the Oluremi Tinubu Hall within the council.

Women came out enmasse from different spheres of the community to be part of the workshop. The women were not only sensitized on the need to be empowered but also encouraged to “Do Something” by Chinyere Anokwuru of Self-worth Organisation, the hostand Sole Administrator of the Local Government ; Hon. Bayo Adefuye encouraged them to attend more of such programmes to be enlightened and have a voice in the society, while Nollywood Actress Doris Simeon encouraged them to speak up when they are being abused, she also made them realise Help is near an shared some helpline numbers of different Helpcentres with them, The founder of Morna International Foundation ; Bukola Ogunyeyealso buttressed on the issue of Domestic abuse , while sharing stories of women who have died in abusive relationships because they refused to speak up, Sandra Orgah from Access Bank W Community spoke on “Why women should save” the women were educated on financial independence .

Participants listening attentively as Chinyere Anokwuru speaks n “Do Something” at our grassroots sensitisation workshop ongoing at the Oluremi Tinubu hall, Yaba Lcda
#Womenofrubies

Four women were given empowerment opportunity by Chinyere Anokwuru to learn Tailoring, Catering and Computer at the Selfworth Organisation skills acquisition centre for free.

According to the Founder of Rubies Ink Initiative for Women and Children and Editor-In-Chief of Women of Rubies ; Esther Ijewere; the workshop once again was an impactful learning experience for the women in Yaba Lca and we thank the Sole Administrator for hosting and collaborating with us to add value to the lives of women in his Local council.

The next edition will be held at the Igando-Ikotun Lcda on the 13^thof April, while Kosofe Lcda and Ikeja Lga is slated for 19^th and 24^threspectively.

The workshop is supported by Access Woman, Power Oil, Bellanaija, Wfm917, Guardian Newspaper, Nta and Goldmyne Tv and powered by Rubies Ink Initiative for Women and Children.

Speaker and CEO of Selfworth Organization Chinyere Anokwuru encouraging the women to do something .
#Womenorubies

Grassroots women sensitisation workshop
One of our speakers and Ceo of Selfworth Organization; Chinyere Anokwuru at the event.
#Womenofrubies

Our Founder and editor in chief @estherijewere with Sandra Orgah (Access Woman) and Bukola Ogunyeye flanked by some of the participants at our grassroots women workshop earlier today.
#Womenofrubies

Sandra Orgah from Access Woman @thewcommunity sensitising the women on “Why you should Save”,at our grassroots sensitisation workshop today.
#Womenofrubies

Women Sensitisation Workshop The Power oil health camp team at the event #Womenofrubies

In Career Gems April 8, 2017 By Women of Rubies

HIV POSITIVE HORCELIE SINDA WA MBONGO CROWNED MISS CONGO UK 2017

Twenty-two year old Horcelie Sinda Wa Mbongo discovered at 11, she was HIV positive from birth.

She won the 2017 Edition of Miss Congo UK and plans to return to Congo to carry on campaigning on HIV and AIDS.

“I’m happy I’ve won at least something in my life. My story has warmed people’s hearts and that’s the most important thing,” she says.

Horcelie, who is originally from the Democratic Republic of Congo, is studying for a fine arts degree in London.

Source: Bellanaija

In Career Gems April 8, 2017 By Women of Rubies

THE WAIT IS SEXY – NIGERIAN-AMERICAN ACTRESS YVONNE ORJI ON DATING & VIRGINITY

“You cannot date until you get married.”

Born to strict Nigerian parents, Yvonne Orji was determined to get married and intimate at 18 but her enthusiasm was diminished by her friends’ low expectations of sex. After getting “bamboozled by Jesus” in college, today Yvonne is a 33-year-old virgin. Suddenly her parents want her to meet someone.

Yvonne gives 5 suggestions for finding love – regardless of your beliefs, values and choices because when you find the right person, the wait is worth it.

Yvonne Orji is a Nigerian-American actress, comedienne and writer who continues to display her versatility and passion with each project she takes on. On television, she stars in HBO’s new comedy series “Insecure”. The show follows the friendship of two modern-day black women and all of their uncomfortable experiences and racy tribulations.

Orji stars as one of these women opposite Issa Rae, who is executive producing the show along with Prentice Penny and Melina Matsoukas. She is also currently developing a half-hour sitcom, based on her life entitled “First Gen”, that Oprah and David Oyelowo are executive producing. The show is a comedy about a Nigerian girl who trades medical school for a career in stand-up comedy and the adventures that ensue after her strict African mother discovers her plans.

This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organised by a local community. Learn more at http://ted.com/tedx

source: Bellanaija

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