myEKI Marketplace, a leading hub for local and global commerce, has joined the Women of RubiesMedia Visibility BootCamp as a sponsor, reinforcing its commitment to empowering women in business and media.
The BootCamp, organized by Women of Rubies, is designed to equip women with essential skills to amplify their personal and professional brands through media exposure and strategic storytelling. The program will feature expert-led sessions on media strategy, public relations, and maximizing visibility in today’s competitive landscape.
Known as the #1 Largest Hub for Local & Global Commerce, myEKI Marketplace serves vendors, riders, shippers, and customers, offering a one-stop platform for everything from vendor listings to international shipping and classified ads. Their sponsorship of this impactful initiative highlights their dedication to community development and fostering opportunities for women to thrive.
“We are excited to have myEKI Marketplace on board as a sponsor for the Media Visibility BootCamp,” said Esther Ijewere, Founder of Women of Rubies. “This partnership is a celebration of shared values—empowerment, innovation, and the belief in the transformative power of visibility. With myEKI’s support, we’re creating a platform for women to amplify their voices and create lasting impact.”
myEKI Marketplace’s sponsorship also includes a special campaign, giving women the opportunity to win tickets to the BootCamp. This initiative not only supports women’s participation but also encourages a wider audience to engage with the mission of Women of Rubies.
“At myEKI, we understand the importance of visibility in driving success,” said [Spokesperson Name, Title]. “We are proud to sponsor the Media Visibility BootCamp and support women who are breaking barriers and redefining industries.”
About myEKI Marketplace
myEKI Marketplace is a full-service platform designed to meet the diverse needs of local and global users. From vendor listings and local deliveries to international shipping and classified ads, myEKI integrates these features into a seamless, user-friendly experience.
For updates on the BootCamp and details on how to win tickets, follow myEKI Marketplace and Women of Rubies on social media.
Hope Springs Women’s Ministries, in collaboration with Women of Rubies, hosted an inspiring women’s retreat at the Anglican Church of Annunciation in North York, welcoming attendees to an extraordinary journey of inner healing, reflection, and empowerment.
Held on November 2nd, this one-day retreat offered a serene and spiritually uplifting environment where women came together to “Unpack, Unburden, and Heal from Within.” Participants engaged in powerful teachings led by inspiring speakers, one-on-one counseling sessions with certified counselors, and self-care activities, creating an enriching experience focused on personal growth and spiritual renewal.
Linda Kelechi Eronmhonsele, Convener of the Hope Springs Women’s Retreat, shared her reflections on the event, stating, “This retreat has been a heartfelt journey of healing and empowerment for every woman present. We came together to unpack our burdens, embrace our faith, and connect with one another in a profound way. I am truly grateful to all our participants and support partners, Bisole Adebajo-Nathaniel and Peace Anyira, whose dedication made this event a remarkable success. Special thanks to our guest speakers, Christina Yan and Oyin Isaac, for their inspiring words that helped set the tone for healing and transformation.”
Esther Ijewere, representing Women of Rubies, added, “It has been a privilege for Women of Rubies to partner with Hope Springs Women’s Ministries for this extraordinary retreat. We witnessed the strength that emerges when women come together to lift each other up. We are committed to supporting women on their journey to freedom, healing, and personal growth.”
Highlights of the day included a session of refreshing worship, invigorating stretching exercises, and open networking that encouraged participants to connect deeply with one another. Every detail, from the personalized gifts to refreshments and supportive guidance, was thoughtfully designed to make each woman feel valued and rejuvenated. The retreat served as a safe space for all attendees, made even more welcoming with free parking and other conveniences.
This retreat has marked the beginning of a journey for many women in attendance, equipping them with tools to continue their healing journey and pursue a life of freedom and transformation. Attendees expressed heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to gather in such a supportive community, with one participant sharing, “This experience has given me the strength to move forward with hope and renewed faith.”
About Hope Springs Women’s Ministries and Women of Rubies Hope Springs Women’s Ministries is dedicated to creating safe, faith-based spaces where women can seek healing, support, and spiritual guidance. Women of Rubies empowers women globally through advocacy, media, and public relations, offering resources that inspire growth and amplify voices.
For more information, follow Hope Springs Women’s Ministries on Instagram.
Women of Rubies, a groundbreaking platform dedicated to celebrating and empowering women, is excited to announce the Media Visibility Bootcamp 4.0. This signature event, crafted specifically for female entrepreneurs and emerging influencers, offers essential tools and strategies to amplify their media presence and create meaningful impact in their fields.
The Media Visibility Bootcamp is more than a learning experience—it’s a transformative journey. With expert-led guidance, interactive exercises, and a supportive community, attendees will gain the skills to elevate their personal brand, amplify their voice, and create a lasting impression. The two-day program is designed to help women excel in media visibility, boost their credibility, and advance in today’s competitive landscape.
“We are thrilled to bring the Media Visibility Bootcamp 4.0 to life, offering an invaluable opportunity for entrepreneurs to learn from top industry leaders,” says Esther Ijewere, Founder of Women of Rubies. “At Women of Rubies, we believe in empowering women through strategic media visibility. This bootcamp is designed to provide participants with the tools they need to elevate their brands and maximize their impact. We’ve seen the transformative power of enhanced visibility, and we are here to help our community shine.”
Event Details:
Dates: December 7th & 8th, 2024
Location: Online via Zoom
Ticket: Grab it on our website or via Selar here and here on Strip
Enquiries, collaboration and sponsorship; mediabootcamp@womenofrubies.com
Join us to make your voice heard, grow your brand, and stand out in your field, all from the comfort of your own space.
Meet our 10 Inspiring Industry Speakers:
Esther Ijewere– Multi award-winning Media Strategist & Founder of Women of Rubies
Esther Ijewere is a multi-award-winning media strategist, founder of Women of Rubies, and passionate advocate for women’s empowerment. She convenes the Media Visibility BootCamp and Sip and Network and is a columnist with The Guardian newspaper. Through her platform, Women of Rubies, and The Guardian, Esther has featured over 1,000 inspiring women, amplifying their voices and stories globally.
Esther Ijewere, Multi Award Winning Media Strategist and Founder, Women of Rubies Inc.
Prudence Zoe Glorious is a Tanzanian thought leader and strategist, redefining public relations and strategic communications across Africa. As CEO of PZG PR and Strategic Advisor at The Foundation for Civil Society, her work spans youth empowerment, philanthropy, and sustainable development. With over 11 years of experience, Prudence is known for using strategic communications to bridge divides and drive social impact. She is also an accomplished author and philanthropist, dedicated to improving the lives of marginalized communities.
Sophia Etuhube is an award-winning journalist, storyteller, and entrepreneur dedicated to uplifting communities through human interest stories. Currently a reporter and editor at CBC/Radio-Canada, she highlights diverse experiences, particularly those of immigrants in Canada. As CEO of Softlanding Canada, she provides essential resources and guidance to newcomers, easing their transition into a new country. With a solid background in Nigerian media and a Master’s in Organizational Management, Sophia uses her voice to inspire and champion the underrepresented.
Heather McWilliam is an award-winning entrepreneur and changemaker who has redefined bravery through her journey of overcoming workplace abuse and advocating for mental health. After a decade as a police officer in Canada, she founded Brave Inspires Brave, a movement that empowers individuals to embrace leadership and foster conversations about trauma and resilience. Her landmark victory in a Human Rights case against a major police service has highlighted the need for systemic change in law enforcement.
Kesiena Edafiogho, known as Sena, is a trailblazer in the Canadian tech industry and an inspiring figure for immigrants. With a diverse academic background and over 15 years of IT experience, she has consulted for top banks and government offices, specializing in digital transformation and project management. As the founder of Synergy One Consulting Corporation, Sena empowers new immigrants and career changers through tailored training programs and mentorship. Her commitment to creating pathways for success and fostering an inclusive tech community highlights her dedication to uplifting others.
Kesiena Edafiogho, Careeer Coach and IT Consultant
Priscilla Iyari is a seasoned Brand and Marketing Communications professional with over 14 years of experience enhancing brand influence across 16 countries. Currently serving as the Regional Marketing and Communications Outreach Officer at FACE Coalition, she connects Black entrepreneurs to essential resources and support. An Executive MBA student at Queens and Cornell Universities, Priscilla is also the founder of The Actionable Visioning Scheme (TAVS), empowering minority women globally. Recognized for her contributions to gender equality, she is a dynamic speaker and advocate dedicated to fostering inclusive business environments.
Amaechi Omijeh, known as MRSOTHEBRAND, is a vibrant blogger and influencer dedicated to promoting small businesses and entrepreneurship, especially among women. Through her blog and social media platforms, she shares valuable insights, resources, and success stories that inspire and empower entrepreneurs. Her mission is to create a supportive community where business owners can connect, learn, and grow together.
Erica Ayisi is an international freelance journalist with a focus on human feature stories from the African diaspora and communities of color. Her work has been published in NBCNews.com, The Root, ESSENCE, and other outlets. Erica is also a two-time Pulitzer Center grantee and has taught media literacy and English in U.S. schools. She holds a master’s degree in Communication Arts from NYIT and is the founder of Akosua’s Closet, an African-sourced online boutique.
Victoria Nkong is a multilingual entertainment consultant and seasoned music business executive from Nigeria. With nearly two decades of experience in events production, she has established herself as a leading figure in the industry. Victoria is also a skilled talent manager, public speaker, and PR consultant, known for her work across events and TV production. Her expertise spans various sectors of the entertainment world, making her a sought-after professional in the African creative scene.
Blessing Okebe is a seasoned Media and Communications Professional, Personal Branding Strategist, and Corporate MC. She helps brands and individuals amplify their impact through strategic communication and personal branding. With a wealth of experience across various industries, Blessing is also a dynamic event host, known for engaging audiences and creating lasting memories
Sabine Soumare is the Executive Director of the Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub (WEKH) within the Diversity Institute (DI). In this role, she is committed to amplifying the impact of women entrepreneurs across Canada. Collaborating with ten regional WEKH hubs and over 250 partners nationwide, Sabine works to build partnerships, share knowledge, and promote best practices, advancing a more inclusive and supportive entrepreneurship ecosystem for women.
What You’ll Learn:
Media Visibility Strategies: Proven approaches to boost your brand’s recognition.
Storytelling Skills: Techniques to create engaging narratives that connect with audiences.
Personal Branding Essentials: Insights on how to stand out in your industry
Expert Media Strategies: Proven tactics to enhance your brand’s visibility.
Practical Growth Tools: Actionable insights for business expansion.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with industry leaders and like-minded entrepreneurs.
VIP Perks: Exclusive access to an in-depth class and feature on Women of Rubies.
Global Accessibility: Join from anywhere with lifetime access to valuable content.
Since its inception in August 2023, the Women of Rubies Media Visibility Bootcamp has supported over 300 women and featured more than 30 inspiring speakers. Don’t miss this chance to join an empowering journey and take your brand to new heights!
Taiwo Awojoodu is a dedicated fashion designer and serial entrepreneur with a passion for creating versatile and stylish clothing that caters to both men and women. As the founder of TML VENTURE (HOUSE OF TML), Taiwo is committed to offering high-quality, affordable, comfortable, and durable pieces that suit a wide range of styles and tastes.
Versatile Fashion for Everyday and Special Occasions
Taiwo’s expertise spans both everyday wear and custom bridal outfits, ensuring that each design is thoughtfully crafted to make customers look and feel their best. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of fabrics and trends, her collections are a reflection of style, elegance, and individuality. From the selection of materials to the final stitch, each product mirrors Taiwo’s passion for fashion and dedication to craftsmanship, making her brand a standout in the competitive fashion landscape.
Honored with the Sacred Motherhood Women of Rubies Shining Star Award
In recognition of her remarkable contributions and unwavering commitment to excellence, Taiwo Awojoodu was honored with the prestigious Shining Star Award at the maiden edition of the Sacred Motherhood Women of Rubies Shining Star Awards held in May 2024. This accolade, presented by Sacred Motherhood in partnership with Women of Rubies, celebrates Taiwo’s outstanding impact in the fashion industry and her dedication to empowering women through her work.
A Testament to Drive, Creativity, and Vision
Winning this award is a testament to Taiwo’s relentless drive, creativity, and vision as a fashion entrepreneur. Her journey from building a brand to being recognized on such a platform highlights not only her entrepreneurial spirit but also her commitment to making a difference in the fashion world.
Embodying Style, Quality, and Individuality
Whether it’s a chic everyday outfit or a stunning bridal gown, Taiwo Awojoodu’s creations embody style, quality, and individuality, making her a true leader in the fashion industry and a source of inspiration for aspiring designers.
A Fashion Trailblazer with a Lasting Impact
As she continues to expand her brand and influence, Taiwo is set to leave an indelible mark, inspiring many more with her journey and achievements.
Balancing a successful career with family life is a challenge that many women face, but with the right strategies, it’s possible to thrive in both areas. Canadian women leaders have set remarkable examples of how to achieve
this balance. From embracing flexible work arrangements to prioritizing self-care, these women demonstrate that it is possible to excel in both career and family life.
1. Embrace Flexible Work Arrangements
One of the key strategies for balancing career and family is embracing flexible work arrangements. For instance, Arlene Dickinson, a renowned Canadian businesswoman and star of Dragon’s Den, has spoken openly about the importance of flexibility in her career. She emphasizes how being able to set her own schedule allowed her to attend important family events while managing her business. Flexible work options, whether through remote work or adjustable hours, can provide the freedom to manage both professional and personal responsibilities effectively.
2. Prioritize and Delegate
Another critical aspect of balancing career and family is knowing when to prioritize and delegate. Indira Samarasekera, former President of the University of Alberta, has often shared how she learned the art of delegation. Understanding that she couldn’t do everything herself, she entrusted tasks to her team, freeing up time to focus on both her career and her family. Delegating responsibilities at work and home can help reduce stress and create more time for what truly matters.
3. Set Boundaries and Prioritize Self-Care
Setting boundaries and taking care of oneself is essential for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Michaëlle Jean, former Governor General of Canada, has been a strong advocate for self-care and setting boundaries. In her demanding role, she ensured that she took time for herself and her family, understanding that personal well-being is crucial for long-term success. Women in leadership positions can learn from her example by carving out time for relaxation and setting clear boundaries between work and personal life.
4. Foster a Supportive Network
Building and maintaining a strong support network is invaluable. Julie Payette, former astronaut and Governor General of Canada, often speaks about the importance of having a reliable support system. Whether it’s family, friends, or professional networks, having people to rely on can make a significant difference in balancing career demands with family life. These networks can offer emotional support, practical help, and advice, making it easier to navigate the complexities of both worlds.
5. Be Unapologetically Ambitious
Finally, Canadian women leaders teach us that it’s okay to be ambitious while managing family responsibilities. Heather Reisman, CEO of Indigo Books and Music, has been an inspiring figure in showing that ambition and family life can coexist. She has built a successful business empire while also being a dedicated mother. Her story encourages women to pursue their career goals unapologetically while also cherishing their family roles.
Balancing a thriving career with a fulfilling family life is undoubtedly challenging, but these Canadian women leaders show us that it is possible. By embracing flexibility, prioritizing and delegating, setting boundaries, fostering a support network, and being unapologetically ambitious, women can achieve harmony between their professional and personal lives.
In a remarkable act of generosity, Erelu Bisi-Adeleye Fayemi, former First Lady of Ekiti State, has donated N1 million to Women of Rubies through her Wrapper Network Initiativeof the Above Whispers Foundation. This donation is aimed at providing support and relief to women facing challenges.
Erelu Bisi Fayemi’s generous contribution underscores her lifelong commitment to feminist activism and women’s empowerment. As a Gender and Development Specialist, Policy Advocate, and Social Sector expert, Erelu Bisi has made significant strides in advancing gender equality and social justice. She has co-founded the African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF), led the African Women’s Leadership Institute (AWLI), and has been a pivotal force in enacting critical laws to protect women’s rights in Nigeria.
The Wrapper Network, established in October 2019, symbolizes solidarity, unity, love, protection, and care. Erelu Bisi Fayemi initiated this network to provide modest yet impactful support to women in need. Her motivation stems from a desire to empower women through small contributions that can make a significant difference in their lives.
“A lot of women need help with modest contributions that could make all the difference. That is why I decided to start The Wrapper Network, for women who need a wrapper and for women who are prepared to give wrappers to other sisters. I hope that the sisters who will benefit can go on to bless other sisters with a wrapper when things are good for them,” said Erelu Bisi Fayemi.
This marks the third time Erelu Bisi Fayemi has donated to Women of Rubies, further solidifying her commitment to our cause. “We are incredibly grateful for Erelu Bisi Fayemi’s continued support. Her generosity has significantly impacted our ability to assist women in need,” said Esther Ijewere, Founder of Women of Rubies Inc & Rubies Ink Initiative for Women and Children.
The Women of Rubies team will disburse the funds, ensuring the donation reaches the most vulnerable and needy women.
About Women of Rubies
Women of Rubies is a platform dedicated to celebrating and empowering women. Through various initiatives, including media strategy consulting, public relations services, advocacy programs, workshops and training, and campaign management, Women of Rubies aims to inspire and uplift women globally.
Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi, feminist activist, gender specialist, development specialist, policy advocate, social change, African Women’s Development Fund, Above Whispers Media Group, leadership development, women’s empowerment, gender equality, Ekiti State, African Women’s Leadership Institute, women’s rights, author
About Erelu Bisi-Adeleye Fayemi
Erelu Bisi-Adeleye Fayemi is a distinguished feminist activist, gender and development specialist, policy advocate, and social sector expert. With decades of experience and numerous accolades to her name, she has been a formidable force in advancing women’s rights and social justice across Africaand beyond. Her journey from academia to global advocacy showcases her relentless dedication to gender equality and empowerment.
A Sacredmotherhood is thrilled to announce the successful conclusion of the “Mom On Mission: Your Light Has Come, M.O.M. 3.0” Conference, held on Saturday, May 11, 2024, from 10 am to 1 pm at C Banquets, located at 300 City Centre Dr, 12th floor, Mississauga, ON L5B 3C1. This inspiring event brought together mothers from all walks of life to honor and celebrate their exceptional contributions to nurturing families and communities.
The conference featured insightful workshops, inspirational keynotes, and moments of reflection and worship, led by esteemed speakers Oyin Isaac, founder of A Sacredmotherhood; Tolulope Adejumo, Dere Akindoju, Dammy Aromiwura, Ally Yao, Elmien de Wet, and Adeola Abiodun. Attendees engaged in thought-provoking discussions received uplifting messages and found opportunities for spiritual growth and empowerment.
A highlight of the event was the presentation of the prestigious Shining Star Award, supported by Women of Rubies, to recognize a mother who exemplifies resilience, compassion, and dedication. We are delighted to announce that the winner of this year’s Shining Star Award is Taiwo Awojoodu.
Taiwo Awojoodu’s recognition as the Shining Star Award recipient includes extensive publicity over a three-month period, a feature on Women of Rubies’ blogpost, pinned to the Inspiration segment for two weeks, a pinned post of the feature on their social media pages for one week, event/product promotion on their Facebook page monthly for three months, and a live interview session with Women of Rubies’ founder Esther Ijewereon Facebook.
“This partnership with Women of Rubies underscores our shared commitment to uplifting and honoring mothers,” says Oyin Isaac, founder of A Sacredmotherhood. “We believe that every mother deserves recognition for her selfless love and devotion.”
Esther Ijewere, founder of Women of Rubies, adds, “We are excited to collaborate with A Sacredmotherhood to celebrate the strength and resilience of mothers. The Shining Star Award is our way of honoring their invaluable contributions to society.”
The M.O.M. 3.0 Conference successfully brought together mothers for a day of empowerment, reflection, and celebration, reinforcing the divine essence of motherhood and honoring the shining stars among us.
For further information or inquiries, please contact Oyin Isaac at 647-704-6804 or via Instagram: @_sacredmotherhood.
Sacredmotherhood and Women of Rubies are thrilled to announce their partnership to present the prestigious Shining Star Award at the upcoming “Mom On Mission: Your Light Has Come, M.O.M. 3.0” Conference. This collaborative effort aims to honor and celebrate the exceptional contributions of mothers and their unwavering commitment to nurturing families and communities.
Scheduled to take place on Saturday, May 11, 2024, from 10 am to 1 pm, at C Banquets, located at 300 City Centre Dr, 12th floor, Mississauga, ON L5B 3C1, the M.O.M 3.0 Conference promises to be an inspiring and empowering event for mothers from all walks of life.
The conference will feature insightful workshops, inspirational keynotes, and moments of reflection and worship, led by esteemed speakers Oyin Isaac, founder of Sacredmotherhood; Tolulope Adejumo, Dere Akindoju, Dammy Aromiwura, Ally Yao, Elmien de Wet, and Adeola Abiodun. Attendees can expect thought-provoking discussions, uplifting messages, and opportunities for spiritual growth and empowerment.
In addition to the enriching sessions, Sacredmotherhood and Women of Rubies will jointly present the Shining Star Award to a deserving mother who exemplifies resilience, compassion, and dedication. The award recipient will receive extensive publicity over a three-month period, including a feature on Women of Rubies’ blogpost, pinned to the Inspiration segment for two weeks, a pinned post of the feature on their social media pages for one week, event/product promotion on their Facebook page monthly for three months, and a live interview session with Women of Rubies’ founder Esther Ijewere on Facebook.
“This partnership with Women of Rubies underscores our shared commitment to uplifting and honoring mothers,” says Oyin Isaac, founder of Sacredmotherhood. “We believe that every mother deserves recognition for her selfless love and devotion.”
Esther Ijewere, founder of Women of Rubies, adds, “We are excited to collaborate with Sacredmotherhood to celebrate the strength and resilience of mothers. The Shining Star Award is our way of honoring their invaluable contributions to society.”
Registration for the M.O.M 3.0 Conference is now open, and attendees can reserve their spot on the official event website. Join us as we come together to celebrate the divine essence of motherhood and honor the shining stars among us.
To nominate yourself or someone you know for the Shining Star Award, send an email to oyin@sacredmotherhood.com
For inquiries or further information, please, contact Oyin Isaac at 6477046804 or via Instgaram: @_sacredmotherhood
Amidst the deluge of content and the clamor of brands seeking attention, storytelling has risen as a potent instrument for businesses to forge profound connections with their audience. During the Women of Rubies Media Visibility BootCamp’s second day, Damilola Ajibade, the visionary behind The Journey Amplified, took the stage to illuminate the profound impact of storytelling. Leveraging her own immigrant journey, Ajibade imparted priceless wisdom on crafting narratives that deeply resonate with your audience. Here are five key strategies she delineated for narrating your brand’s story:
Embrace Authenticity
Authenticity lies at the heart of any compelling brand story. Ajibade emphasized the importance of being genuine and transparent in sharing your journey. Authenticity not only builds trust with your audience but also sets you apart from competitors. By sharing the highs and lows of your journey, you humanize your brand and create a deeper connection with your audience.
Damilola Ajibade, Founder, The Journey Amplified
Find Your Unique Voice
Every brand has a unique voice that sets it apart. She encouraged participants to identify their brand’s voice and tone, whether it’s humorous, inspirational, or informative. Your voice should reflect your brand’s personality and resonate with your target audience. Consistency in tone across all communication channels helps reinforce your brand identity and fosters brand recognition.
Focus on Emotion
Storytelling is a powerful way to evoke emotions and create memorable experiences for your audience. Damilola emphasized the importance of tapping into emotions such as empathy, joy, or nostalgia to make your brand story resonate. By infusing emotion into your narrative, you can captivate your audience’s attention and leave a lasting impression.
Showcase Your Values
Your brand story should reflect your core values and beliefs. She
highlighted the significance of aligning your narrative with your brand’s mission and values. Whether it’s a commitment to sustainability, diversity, or social responsibility, integrating your values into your story can foster a sense of connection with like-minded consumers who share your ideals.
Engage with Visual Storytelling
Visual storytelling is a powerful way to enhance your brand narrative and captivate your audience’s attention. Ajibade stressed the importance of leveraging visual elements such as photos, videos, and graphics to complement your storytelling efforts. Visual content not only grabs attention but also conveys your brand story more compellingly and memorably.
In conclusion, storytelling is an essential tool for brands looking to connect with their audience on a deeper level. By embracing authenticity, finding your unique voice, focusing on emotion, showcasing your values, and engaging with visual storytelling, you can effectively tell your brand story and create meaningful connections with your audience. As Damilola Ajibade aptly demonstrated, your brand story has the power to inspire, resonate, and leave a lasting impact.
Connect with Damilola via her Instagram platform hereand here to learn more about her work;
On April 6th and 7th, a dynamic two-day event packed with inspiration and insights unfolded as the Women of Rubies Media Visibility BootCamp took participants on a journey of empowerment and education. Hosted via Zoom, this virtual gathering brought together women from diverse backgrounds, eager to elevate their brands and amplify their voices in the media landscape.
Day 1: Setting the Stage for Success
Patricia Bebia Mawa, Vice President, Afroglobal TV
The excitement was palpable on April 6th as Patricia Bebeia Mawa, the keynote speaker, shared her remarkable journey of building the largest Black-owned media outfit in Canada. With Afroglobal and Silvertrust Media, she charted a path of consistency, clear goals, and unwavering focus. Her message resonated deeply with attendees, setting the tone for the transformative day ahead.
Ruth Aliu, Founder, Techity Consulting
Ruth Aliu, founder of Techity Consulting, delved into the critical realm of cybersecurity and digital presence. She emphasized the importance of safeguarding one’s online assets and leveraging the right platforms to enhance brand visibility.
Councillor Cheraldean Duhaney, Ward 1, Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury
Councillor Cheraldean Duhaney, the first Black woman to hold her position in the Town of West Gwillimbury, inspired participants to claim their seats at the table and persevere in the face of challenges.
Career coach Chekwube Uchea captivated the audience with her personal narrative of career transition, offering a roadmap for those seeking to navigate their professional journeys. Through candid reflections and practical advice, Uchea underscored the transformative power of self-investment, urging participants to prioritize their personal and professional development.
Erica Effah, Founder, Erica Tiwaa
In another enlightening session, Erica Effah, a Toronto-based content marketing guru, shared her expertise on crafting effective content strategies and fostering community engagement. With a wealth of industry experience, Effah offered invaluable insights into the nuances of content creation and distribution, highlighting the importance of authenticity and audience engagement. Her actionable tips and strategies provided attendees with the tools they need to leverage content as a powerful tool for brand growth and community building.
Chiddie Anyasodo, Co-founder, Chotayah
Furthermore, relationship coach Chiddie Anyasododelved into the critical role of nurturing healthy relationships for both personal and professional growth. Through her engaging presentation, Anyasodo emphasized the interconnectedness of relationships and success, underscoring the importance of fostering meaningful connections in both professional and personal spheres. Her insights served as a reminder that cultivating strong relationships is not only essential for professional advancement but also integral to overall well-being and fulfillment. Attendees left the session equipped with practical strategies for cultivating and maintaining healthy relationships, poised to thrive in both their personal and professional lives.
Nike-Kay Okunubi of Niki Kay Clothing shared her expertise in fashion and encouraged women to embrace their unique style.
The day concluded on April 6th with heartfelt gratitude from Esther Ijewere, the founder of Women of Rubies, who expressed appreciation for the speakers and sponsors who made the event possible.
Day 2: Empowering Through Storytelling and Financial Education
Damilola Ajibade, Founder, The Journey Amplified
Day 2, which unfolded on April 7th, began with an inspiring session led by Damilola Ajibade, who shared her compelling immigrant experience. Through the lens of her own journey, Ajibade illuminated the transformative power of storytelling, particularly through the medium of photography. Her narrative underscored the importance of embracing one’s unique background and experiences as a catalyst for personal and professional growth.
Katrice Bent, Founder, Katrice Justice
Following Ajibade’s impactful session, financial educator Katrice Justicetook the virtual stage to impart crucial insights on financial literacy for business owners. With a focus on practical financial management techniques, Justice emphasized the importance of understanding cash flow, budgeting, and strategic financial planning. Her guidance provided attendees with actionable steps to strengthen their financial foundations and support long-term business success.
Fola Adegoke, Founder, Winfinite Consulting
As the day progressed, cybersecurity expert Fola Adegoke delivered a compelling message urging women to break barriers and explore opportunities in traditionally male-dominated sectors. Drawing from her own expertise, Adegoke highlighted the critical need for gender diversity in fields such as cybersecurity. She emphasized the value of women’s perspectives and contributions in shaping innovative solutions and driving industry progress. Through her empowering words, Adegoke encouraged women to embrace their potential as trailblazers and catalysts for change in traditionally underrepresented domains.
Esther Ijewere urged participants to leverage the knowledge gained to propel their brands forward and invited them to join the Rubies Collective community for continued support and resources. Emcees Ejiro Osakede and Oluwatoyn Ogunade kept the energy high throughout the sessions on April 7th, ensuring an engaging and empowering experience for all.
Participant Feedback:
Attendees raved about the wealth of knowledge and inspiration gained from the BootCamp. Many praised the diverse lineup of speakers and the practical advice shared, expressing eagerness to implement newfound strategies in their professional endeavors. The sense of community and support fostered throughout the event left a lasting impact, empowering women to strive for success and visibility in the media industry.
In conclusion, the Women of Rubies Media Visibility BootCamp on April 6th and 7th proved to be a transformative experience, equipping women with the tools and confidence to make their mark in the media landscape.
As we celebrate the achievements of these trailblazing women, let us continue to support and uplift one another on the journey toward gender equality and empowerment.
Stay Tuned:
For those who missed out or want to revisit the enlightening sessions, the BootCamp replay will soon be made available via womenofrubies.com/mvbc3.
