11 Reasons India Should Be on Your Bucket List

By: Tope Fajingbesi

07:30 IST, Friday November 2, 2023, | On Board KLM Flight 880 BLR – AMS

I should probably be sleeping like every other normal person on this flight right now, not just because my total travel time from Bangalore Airport to Dulles International is 24 hours and 15 minutes, but because within 24 hours of landing in Dulles, I am scheduled to deliver a keynote address at the UMES Small Farms Conference. But my busy mind won’t allow my eyes close until I pour out all the emotions I have been bottling up since I arrived in Hyderabad, India last weekend.

After losing my dad in 2014, I decided that money would no longer be a major consideration whenever I want to decide whether to give any employer my time. My main criteria became (and remains) that I like and find the organization’s products useful and impactful. So, you can imagine how excited I was when Ashoka slid into my LinkedIn inbox in November last year during an extremely difficult period when my mom who was in what we now know were her final days on earth. The timing couldn’t have been more perfect, theirs was a “product” I could use, so I eagerly went through the 13 rounds of interviews and joined as CFO on April 3rd. One of the major advantages of working for an organization whose primary mission is to find, support and strengthen changemakers globally is that you will never go a day without feeling inspired.

After a few weeks on the job, I knew it was only a matter of time before I hopped on a plane to visit our extended accounting family based in Hyderabad India. There were major challenges the internet could not solve. I love to travel, and I keep an active list of countries I want to visit, and India had never shown up on that list. No, it was not the distance that kept India off my list, if I am to be honest, it was the horror stories I had heard about how 2 groups I identify with, Nigerians and Muslims are viewed and treated. My fears and anxieties became worse when my trip had to happen at a time when the massacre of innocent people is being celebrated and cheered in a world that is shockingly getting more and more apathetic to, and supportive of the sort of displacement and oppression that should break even the coldest hearts. But as we say in Lagos, we move. So, I hopped on the plane and arrived in India last weekend.

As my flight from Jeddah made its final approach into Hyderabad, I clarified my intentions and made peace with my 2 missions. Apart from meeting with our extended accounting team, I wanted to score an invitation to an Indian wedding. Yep! If you grew up like I did watching Indian movies before Bollywood was even a thing, you might understand my fascination with Indian weddings. My colleagues had told me that my trip was not happening during wedding season (who knew there was a wedding season?) So, I knew that an invitation to a future wedding was the most I could achieve on this short trip. My plans to just keep my stay limited to Hyderabad quickly changed when I told my colleague and friend, Yashveer, that I was coming to India. Tope, you must come to Bangalore to meet our team and some of our fellows. I am so thankful I listened to him.

As if the strange lady knew how anxious I was as I took short steps out of the airport with my luggage, she walked up to me, and said, “Welcome to my country.” A few minutes later, I saw my colleague, Sudha, her husband, and their beautiful aspiring space scientist 10-year-old daughter waiting with the most beautiful hand-made sign that said, “Welcome to India, Tope Fajingbesi.”

India had begun to disarm me right there at the airport. But I was not prepared for how much more there was to come in just 4 days. From the silly things to the deep lessons, here are 12 of the most heartwarming gifts India gave me.

1.      A place like home – You can’t convince me that India is not Lagos on another continent. And it’s not just because the buildings, streets and roads look so eerily alike, and that many Indian streets were filled with Okadas and Keke Marwas (motor bikes and tricycles) who were dragging the road humans, cars, and buses where 49 are sitting and 99 are standing. Nigerian drivers are some of the roughest drivers ever, but not when the boss is in the car. No, not Indian drivers, I truly believe that every Indian cab driver believes every car ride is an opportunity to train for the Dubai Grand Prix! The worst part of these rough rides that make Lagos drivers look like angels is that the only car I rode in, which had a functioning seatbelt was my colleague, Shruti’s car whose driving didn’t scare me. But guess what she did that left me breathless, she made me cross the street! I may or may not have been breathless during the ordeal, which could not have lasted for more than 15 seconds.

2.      People like us. Indians are Nigerians with lighter skin tones. The good – Nigerians are hospitable and warm people, and it is not uncommon to be friendly and very familiar with your colleagues. The bad – Indian drivers are also native horn speakers. Next time you are on the streets of Lagos, and you encounter that annoying driver who won’t release his grip on his car horn, don’t be angry, his spirit was born on the streets of Bangalore!

3.      The gift of food. Good food. Indians, whether in Bangalore or Hyderabad, don’t ever want to hear you are “not hungry.” They just ignore the “not” part of the sentence and keep piling your plate with more food. What do you mean, you are not hungry. Just when you finally manage to ward off the person stuffing the delicious main meal into your full belly, someone brings sweets and desserts. My spirit is calling for a 7-day fast, the challenge is my flesh is too weak.

4.      Indian dogs and their owners get it! Indian dogs won’t bother you, and their owners would not take it personally if you don’t wish to engage with their dogs. Dear Americans, please read this point as many times as you need to.

5.      A reminder not to let the modern-day colonizers steal the essence of who we are, and a resolve to retrieve the good in us, which yesterday’s colonizers told us was substandard. The British stole many things from India as they and their cousins did in Africa, but there were 4 things the Indians did not let them cart away - their identity through their local languages, which I noticed were alive and well in schools and public spaces; their beautiful cultural attires, which were normal to wear to work; the strength in their diversity, which I noticed every time I asked colleagues to tell me where they were from (I am saying this one “louder” for the Nigerians who only hire and associate with people from their tribe or religion); Another thing the bandits didn’t take away was their sense of hospitality and kindness! I thought Africans were the warmest and friendliest people until I spent these past 4 days in India. Dear Indians and Africans in the diaspora, please read this point as many times as you need to.

6.      Beautiful gifts: I arrived in India with a suitcase that weighed ~20kg and only one piece of carry-on item, which was my laptop bag. I left India with a suitcase that weighed 32kg, and 2 pieces of heavy carry-on items. No, I did not go shopping. The items I acquired were gifts. I got everything from beautiful clothing items, bags, sweets, artifacts, souvenirs, lovely books including a custom-made book about India, which Ravikanth’s son, a 7th grader made for me. Even though I did not show up in India empty handed, the chocolates I took for my hosts felt so little compared to all that they gave me with so much love and joy. I now understand what Yashveer and Sudha meant when they told me that Indians view their visitors as “gods.”

7.      India validated my belief: I knew my visit was not going to be one of those typical the “boss” is coming visit where I would sit on some high table commanding and lording over my imaginary subjects while on a scolding and blaming spree. Instead, I wanted to tap into my belief that good respectful relationships, validation, affirmation, vulnerability, storytelling and sharing experiences can help improve complex processes and make sense of jargon-like numbers. So, I enlisted the help of a member of my team in India, Venkata. I told him to help find an inspiring Ashoka Fellow who could host our extended finance team for a field visit. I wanted them to see an example of the mission they support. On Tuesday, 16 members of the Ashoka Global Finance and Oremus Corp teams were hosted by Dr. Evita Fernandez and her incredible team at Fernández Foundation. After listening to a powerful presentation that had me fighting back tears, we toured one of their hospitals where we noted that everything from word choices to space design, birthing positions, financial policy, avoidance of predatory pharmaceutical alliances, training programs and so much more, the foundation was indeed humanizing the childbirth process, the results were clear, and they had the numbers to prove it. The reaction from Team Oremus was amazing! None of them knew that Ashoka had any fellows in Hyderabad, and none had met any of my predecessors in person. They were inspired, they were determined. They could see the linkage between their work with the numbers and the inspiring mission of Dr. Evita and her team. From their feedback, which they gave so freely, I know that they now understand the Ashoka slogan, everyone is a changemaker better. I left Hyderabad confident of better days ahead, and a stronger believer in the power of human connection.

8.      A space for She-EO. One of the activities that Shruti, Venkata and Yashveer put together was a lunch session with Ashoka staff and a few of our fellows on Wednesday afternoon. After listening in awe to these incredible humans talk about their changemaking work, I soon realized the space was perfect for a She-EO style conversation. I was happy to see faces light up as we talked about the things that drain, and the ones that fuel us outside of work. It was a privilege to turn an office into a safe space to have important conversations.

9.      Humility and perspective. The moment you start believing your work is the most important in any space you occupy, is the time you need to step outside the bubble your ego created to meet more people. SunderRajan, Founder, INREM Foundation, taught me a lesson in humility when he said he never takes himself seriously or put himself on a pedestal thinking he is somehow saving the world. If this man who is doing life saving work does not see himself as more than a mere spec in the universe of changemakers, then who am I to feel like I am doing anything grand? As we say in Nigeria, Abeg, na who I be? Wetin I dey do, wey I dey carry shoulder?

10.      You are part of the solution you are looking for. I didn’t get a chance to ask him why he started the foundation, but when Ramkrishna NK, Founder, Rang de, an innovative peer to peer network that bridges critical funding gap farmers in India face by redefining the use of charitable dollars, a couple of light bulbs came on in the part of my head that manages a farm in the U.S. The more he talked about his work, the more I wish there were many more humans like him especially in America. I had no idea the capital constraints farmers face until I became an Ag. Entrepreneur (Dodo Farms).

11.      The future started yesterday. We are already late. Venkata, Shruti, Yashveer and I visited Vishwanath S., Founder Biome Trust early on Wednesday morning, and Ashoka Young Changemaker, Akarsh Shroff, Founder, Yuva Spark, who I cannot wait to introduce to my United for Kids Foundation team, joined us for lunch. From tackling the crisis of water shortage through 360-degree interventions that touch every critical part of the eco-system, to removing major barriers faced by children from socially disadvantaged backgrounds, these 2 inspiring changemakers are stopping tomorrow’s wars before they begin.

12.      Ask, and you shall receive. Remember I told you that my second mission was to score a wedding invitation? Well, yours truly has been invited to a 3-day wedding celebration in Goa India! Well, it turns out that my Indian cousin, Suresh’s nephew is getting married (didn’t I tell you Indians are Nigerians in lighter skin tones?)

 

Dear Family, India was beautiful thanks to my colleagues at Ashoka including Jayanti and Ganesh; Team Oremus family including Vijayaha who served me nice team with a smile that was soul deep; and to our fellows and changemakers and their community, you are the reason I am here. Thank you all for reminding me that the greatest gift of all is to see humanity in others, and that the most important religion is love.

Goodbye India, I look forward to seeing you again very soon at cousin’s nephew’s wedding, in sha Allah!

PS: The new Bangalore Airport is exactly the way visitors should remember a country when they are leaving it. So, beautiful, stressless and calming!

PPS: To learn more about Ashoka including our community of changemakers and how you can support our work, visit Ashoka.org.

SHE-EO 2.0

Meet Her. Make Her. Be Her

ANCHOR

 

GUESTS’

GUESTS’ BIOGRAPHIES

Karimat Toyin Kekere-Ekun

CEO at Lotus Financial Services Ltd

 

Tolu Jaiyeola FCA MBA

Director, Risk & Controls Expert, Business & Finance Leader and Business owner

 

Shola Soyele

Judiciary Correspondent at Channels Tv, Legal Practitioner, Moderator/Compere, Media Consultant/Influencer, Host, Law Weekly, Budding Entrepreneur.

 

Bolanle Shobowale

CEO and Group Chief Operating Officer of House of Diberr

 

Abisoye Akinola

Bisoye is a serial entrepreneur. She is the CEO of Siobhan Foods, which owns a couple of franchise restaurants of a top Quick Service Restaurant (Chicken Republic) in Nigeria and is the Managing Director of Tea for Two.

She is an engaging speaker who also loves to write. She was the pastor of Oakwood, a parish of the RCCG in Lekki, Lagos in 2015/2016. She graduated with a B.sc in Estate Management and an MBA from the University of Lagos. She also has a certificate in Business Sustainability Management from the University Of Cambridge Institute Of Sustainability Leadership.

She has authored an article for a women’s magazine and is also writing her own book, which will soon go to print. She is in training with the Coaching Academy in London for her certification as a Personal Performance Coach. She can be reached via any of her social media handles. She currently lives with her family in a suburb of Paris, France.

 

Ghaneeyyah Sulaiman-Olokodana

Trained Clinical Psychologist, a practicing Faith-based Psychotherapist/Relationship & Family Life Therapist, a passionate Speaker and Mental Health Advocate. Ghaneeyyah is passionate about all things healthy; body and soul. For the past 18+ years, her dedication to her Purpose of continuously generating promotions to a healthy lifestyle has seen her not only speaking at different fora; professional, religious or business, but also running a private therapy practice where she provides services in Individual and Relationship Education, Counselling & Therapy.

Ghaneeyyah is on a Mission:

1. To make people and relationships better

2. To make better people and relationships.

The first is about helping them to heal, and overcome the challenges they face, whenever they fall short.

The second is about teaching them the skills they need to continuously improve on themselves and their relationships.

To help her achieve these, she has earned a BSc (Hons.) Second Class Upper Degree in Psychology and an MSc Degree in Clinical Psychology. She also has Certifications in Entrepreneurial Management and Family Systems Engineering. Her focus on Mental Health and Interpersonal Relationships stem from her Research Works during both of her academic degrees. As an undergraduate, her BSc thesis was one of the pioneering studies in Nigeria advocating support for a two-dimensional approach in Mental Health Assessment.

She also pioneered research in Dating Anxiety Amongst Muslim Singles, during her Master's program. And as a lifelong learner, she continues to participate and train in several local and international Mentoring, Business Entrepreneurial and Networking Programs.

 

Toyin Gbagi

Partner and Head - Audit Consumer and Industrial Markets at KPMG Professional Services

 

Sasha P

Also known as the "First Lady of Nigerian Hip Hop", is a Nigerian rapper, musician, businesswoman, lawyer, and motivational speaker.

 

Tewa Onasanya

British-Nigerian publisher, mindset stylist, philanthropist and the Founder/CEO of Exquisite Magazine Services Ltd, the publishers of Exquisite Magazine and the organizers of EMAC Walk and ELOY Awards.

 

Bashirat Odunewu

Seasoned Corporate Executive; Experienced Independent Non-Executive Director; Banking & Financial services expert; Recognized change leader and Qualified Commercial ADR specialist

 

Nonye Nweke

Nonye Nweke is the founder and Executive Director of the Cerebral Palsy Center (CpCenter). She is a disability advocate whose passion is on the improvement of quality of lives of children with Cerebral Palsy (CP). Nonye holds a degree in Science Education and a diploma in journalism.

 

Dr Ukwuori-Gisela Kalu

Clinical Psychologist

 

Fatima Tolu Aregbe

Project Management | Risk Management | Operations Management

 

Aishah Adams

Human and Community Development Expert| Storyteller| Trauma Recovery Expert| Transformational Speaker & Coach| Emotional and Mental Wellness Advocate

 

Ngozi Adebiyi

Ngozi is a leadership/performance/career coach who leverages a combination of approaches depending on the situation in providing clarity to my clients including a unique Core Energy Coaching™ process that helps our clients achieve real, sustainable and transformation. She is also certified by the International Coach Federation as an ACC.

HR Executive turned HR Consultant & Leadership Coach whose goal is to revolutionize HR in Nigeria by developing business leaders & employees to achieve transformation from the outside-in. Her experiences with business leaders and employees across multinational organizations in Nigeria, USA & Brazil attest to her unique passion for Human Resources, Consulting & Coaching. In March 2019, Ngozi was featured in Forbes Africa’s list of top 20 wealth creators. She previously worked as the HR Director (Central Africa), Reckitt Benckiser; Head HR, KPMG Professional services Nigeria; and HR Manager at Guinness Nigeria Plc (a Diageo Company). Ngozi’s career began with Arthur Andersen. She later worked for Wal-Mart, USA after obtaining an MBA from Mercer University, Atlanta USA.

In her spare time, she enjoys providing better opportunities for underprivileged kids as a trustee of United for Kids Foundation. Ngozi enjoys reading and brisk walking 

 

Dr. Amina Aminu Dorayi 

Dr. Amina is a physician and public health professional with extensive experience in designing and managing health system and sustainable development programs funded by international and national donors and multilateral agencies. She is currently the Country Director at Pathfinder International where she provides overall strategic leadership and oversees the programmatic and operational management of Pathfinder activities in Nigeria. Dr. Amina served as the Employee Advisory Committee (EAC) Representative for the Africa Region of Abt Associates. She is a board member of Empowered to Empower Initiative, a member of the Nigerian Medical Association, Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria and the American Public Health Association.

Dr. Amina holds a Bachelor of Medicine; Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree from the Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Nigeria and a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from the University of Liverpool, UK. She has also attended various national and international professional development courses, including one on improving quality of health services at Harvard School of Public Health in Boston. She is married to Dr. Mustapha Jibril and they have three children. 

 

Ayisha Osori

Director, Open Society Foundations

 

Suruurah Olayinka Ogunfemi

Licensed Civil Engr, Passionate Family Life Engr, Speaker, Behavioral Therapist & Educator

SHE-EO 3.0

Health and Wellness, Mentorship and Empowerment, Self Love and Identity in Marriage.

ANCHORS

 

GUEST SPEAKERS

GUESTS’ BIOGRAPHIES

Abisoye Akinola

Bisoye is a serial entrepreneur. She is the CEO of Siobhan Foods, which owns a couple of franchise restaurants of a top Quick Service Restaurant (Chicken Republic) in Nigeria and is the Managing Director of Tea for Two.

She is an engaging speaker who also loves to write. She was the pastor of Oakwood, a parish of the RCCG in Lekki, Lagos in 2015/2016. She graduated with a B.sc in Estate Management and an MBA from the University of Lagos. She also has a certificate in Business Sustainability Management from the University Of Cambridge Institute Of Sustainability Leadership.

She has authored an article for a women’s magazine and is also writing her own book, which will soon go to print. She is in training with the Coaching Academy in London for her certification as a Personal Performance Coach. She can be reached via any of her social media handles. She currently lives with her family in a suburb of Paris, France.

 

Dr Rita Bailey Roland

Life Strategist and Founder of "I Am My Sister's Keeper

 

Douglas Eze, CFF

Certified Financial Fiduciary, Speaker, Author, Generational Wealth Expert and Insurance Broker

 

Najwa Awad

Najwa is a psychotherapist, certified perinatal mental health specialist and organizational mental health consultant that has provided services to individuals and families in the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area for over 15 years.

 She obtained a Bachelors degree in Psychology in 2005 and a Masters in Social Work, specializing in the clinical treatment of individuals and families, in 2007. She also has postgraduate certification in advanced trauma treatment and is an EMDR provider.

 

Kathy Hankins

Kathy is a Health and Fitness Instructor at KatTur LLC

 

Adeola Ariyo Enikanoselu

Adeola helps Women Experts and Entrepreneurs secure Corporate Clients and partnerships, and helps corporate executives retain GENXers and GENZers in the workplace. She is a Business and Brand Development Strategist, a Corporate Trainer, and a Founder

 

Kumba Daffeh-Kah

CEO Tresor Group// President of Tresorwomenwarrior , COO of KEO Foundation USA , Farmer, and Entrepreneur

 

Seun Obajolu

Seun Obajolu ls an ambulatory Care Manager and a Registered Nurse. She is an International Award Winning Motivational Speaker, Relationship Coach, and Women Advocate with a focus of empowering women and families through outreach programs, advocacy and literacy, and support groups 
Founder/CEO – Inspyred Hope - an Umbrella Nonprofit organization registered United States and Nigeria that caters toward empowering women and families through outreach programs, advocacy and literacy, and support groups.

Social Media Influencer with a focus on Life Coaching, Relationships, and Marriages.

 

Cordelia Gaffar

She is the CEO of Workout Around My Day Inc, a holistic healing practitioner certified in sports nutrition and a certified Movement 109 Facilitator.

 

Lolade Olayokun

Lolade Olayokun is the second to last of five children in her family. She is a first generation Nigerian American from her parents Kamorudeen and Abiola Olayokun. As fate would have it, the pressure for her to become a doctor or a lawyer had faded away by the time her parents were ready to raise her because they realized there is more to life than the professions that promises security.
 
Through her journey as a speaker, Lolade embraced her skill to entertain while on the mic, from there MC Lolahstic was born.

 

Funlayo Alabi

CEO at Shea Radiance, Global Beauty Brand, influencing the way women care for themselves and others

 

Tausi Suedi, MPH

Medicaid and CHIP Services Manager, Global Health Adjunct Professor, Maternal and Child Health Advisor, Women and Girls Advisor , Global Health Policy, Multilingual & Culturally Diverse and Volunteer

 

Funmi Williamson

Chief Customer Officer at PECO, an Exelon Company, Former Chief Commercial Risk Officer, Non-Profit Board Member

 

SHE-EO 1.0

Finding her, Making her, Developing her with Love, Money and Purpose

 

HOSTS

 

HOT SEAT GUESTS

 

HOT SEAT GUESTS’ BIOGRAPHIES

Dr. Sabrina N’Diaye

Dr. Sabrina N’Diaye is an integrative psychotherapist and founder of the Heart Nest Center for Peace and Healing in Baltimore. There, she lovingly serves women, couples, other healers, and small groups. Her approach to healing is a blend of wisdom, science, and ancient spiritual practices. She is a student of the late Sufi Master Sidi Muhammad al-Jamal of Jerusalem, and incorporates Sufi healing into her with individuals, families, and communities.

Sabrina received her PhD in Mind-Body Medicine from Saybrook University, where she studied the use of complementary and alternative interventions for physical, emotional, and spiritual growth. Her dissertation study focused on the use of guided imagery as a healing tool for African-American women with chronic STIs.

Sabrina has served as a guest lecturer for the Maryland University of Integrative Health, and adjunct faculty at Saybrook University. She is also a proud faculty member of the Center for Mind-Body Medicine, where she teaches the art of self-care to healthcare professionals around the globe.  She is currently serving the Center as a teacher and guide for Jordanian healthcare professionals who are in service to Syrian refugees.

Dr. Sabrina is a highly-respected member of the treatment community, and frequently lectures on cultural diversity, spirituality, stress management, self-care for healers, addictions, and the “magic” of connection. Her many audiences include police departments, flight attendants, healing artists, peacebuilders, and aspiring writers. She is currently writing her first book, The Laugh of Love, based on her maternal grandmother’s ability to transcend multiple traumas and chronic illness.

Dr. Sabrina is a devoted wife, mother, daughter, and life-long learner, who remains humbled by the healing power of compassion, love and forgiveness.

 

Shariea Shoatz

Founder of Buddy Speaks, Author, Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Educator, Teacher

 

Dr Rita Bailey Roland

Life Strategist and Founder of "I Am My Sister's Keeper

 

Aminah Gbajabiamila

Chief Transformational Life Stylist at Ginger Soul Lifestyle

SHE-EO 4.0 2019

You get on social media and everyone is merrily and thankfully rejoicing, and in the next couple of days, they kicked it up a notch celebrating life, blessings, and achievements in 2018. You wonder if there is something wrong with you. You glance at the unfulfilled requests, the delays, flat denials, and "unanswered prayers." Why was this the year you "lost or didn't get it"? Good news is you aren't alone my sister.

She-EO 4 themed “Thrive” was created and carefully designed to show how to use the challenges and struggles of 2018 to transform 2019. And it did just that.

 

ANCHOR

SPEAKERS

Bolanle Shobowale is the CEO and Group Chief Operating Officer of House of Diberr

 

Dr Ukwuori-Gisela Kalu is a Clinical Psychologist

 

Folashade Ambrose-Medebem is the Honourable Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment(CCT&I), Lagos State

 

Dr. Maymunah Yusuf Kadiri is a Dynamic Consultant Neuro-Psychiatrist and a Fellow of the National Post- Graduate Medical College of Nigeria

 

Nimot Muili MSc, PMP is an Associate, Civil Engineer, Programme & Project Manager for Arup

 

Rakiya Dhikru-Yagboyaju is Head of Public Relations at Nigerian Shippers’ Council

 

Maisie Dunbar is the President and Founder of Bluffajo Cosmetics

 

Tolu Jaiyeola FCA MBA is a Director, Risk & Controls Expert, Business & Finance Leader and Business owner

 

Tomi Rotimi is the creative director and founder of Xclamations

 

Atinuke Ngozi Babatunde MSc, MBA, Doctoral Research Candidate is a Content Acquisition Expert, Content Strategy, Talent Management, Film Business, Women and Youth Empowerment Advocate

 

“BARE” PARLOR

Abdullahi Jubril Saba a Certified Leadership Coach is the HR Director of IHS Towers

 

Tosin Thomas Okojie a Business Transformation Executive is the CEO of Total Ascent

 

Kamar Bakrin an Africa-Focused Investor is the CEO of VIOS Equity Partners

 

Amaechi Michael Okobi is the Group Head, Communications & External Affairs of Access Bank PLC

SHE-EO 12.0 2023

The 12th edition of the She-EO events, themed "Women on Purpose," was a resounding success with a significant impact. The primary objective of the event was to create a safe and empowering space online for women of African descent to engage in profound and meaningful conversations.

Success highlights include Empowerment, Meaningful Conversations, Community Building, Inspiration, Diversity and Inclusion. In summary, the event not only empowered people but also created a lasting impact on personal and professional lives, fostering a sense of community that will continue to resonate.

Dr. Temi Akinpetide is a board-certified doctorally prepared psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about helping clients lead healthy and happy lives. She obtained her Doctor of Nursing Practice at the University of Maryland, Baltimore, and she is well equipped to work on client's needs to provide sound clinical and positive outcomes. With over 17 years of nursing background, she has experience in treating mental health disorders in children and adults, and in different clinical settings. It is her purpose to serve her clients in a compassionate and caring manner without judgment.

 

Dr. Lande Giwa MD. is an Internal Medicine Specialist in Austell, GA. She has over 16 years of experience in the medical field. She graduated from Wright State University and is affiliated with Wellstar Cobb Hospital where she has worked for 14 yrs in capacity of internal medicine attending, medical director, stroke team representative and now, she’s more active in internal medicine residents education.

 

Mrs. Sharon J. Lawrence is the Founder of Selah Wellness & Therapeutic Services, and the CEO of SJL Professional Services, Inc. With licenses in multiple states, she is a Therapist for Therapists, Other Professionals, and Couples, focusing on improving their lives and relationships.

Mrs. Lawrence is an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Best Selling Author, and an International Speaker & Trainer. She offers counseling using various approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and EMDR. Her passion for helping others extends to her Adjunct Professor roles at Bowie State University and Prince George’s Community College, preparing the next generation of helping professionals.

 

Ms. Jibril has organized events such as The Peace Conference 2002; Survey Action Center Symposia (2003, 2004 & 2005); and several upscale cultural and musical events. The most notable event that LVG, LLC Consulting spearheaded under Ms. Jibril’s leadership was the 2009 “Africa on the Potomac” Inaugural Ball in honor of President Barack Obama. The 1000-person event included guests such as Actor Robert Deniro and his wife Grace Hightower (as well as a number of other Hollywood stars); and many more.

Her tireless work as Managing Director of LVG, LLC Consulting continues to enhance African prestige, presence, and image in the United States. Grace is also the Deputy Director and co-founder of Ettaleah Pride Children’s Home, an orphanage in the town of Shikunga, Kakamega in Kenya.

SHE-EO 2023 CALENDAR

Dear sister,

Are you ready to make the most of the year, 2023?

2023 is set to be an exciting year for us here at She-EO, and we’d like to take this opportunity to share with you all of the activities we have planned for the year. Kindly mark your calendars and join us!


SHE-EO 11.0 2022

You are welcome to the 11th edition of She-EO. For the first time in our history, She-EO will be a week-long experience open to women of African descent living in every corner of the world. This means that whether you decide to join us in person in Houston on Friday, 21st and Saturday 22nd of October; or you decide to join our lunch time conversations from October 17th to 19th, you can be rest assured that you will be a part of tough and difficult, but life changing conversations that will leave you inspired and empowered to grow.

Lynnette Khalfani-Cox, The Money Coach®, is a personal finance expert, speaker, and author of 15 money-management books, including the New York Times bestseller Zero Debt: The Ultimate Guide to Financial Freedom.

Lynnette has been seen on more than 1,000 TV segments nationwide, including television appearances on Oprah, Dr. Phil, The Dr. Oz Show, The Steve Harvey Show, Good Morning America, The TODAY Show and many more. A former financial news journalist for The Wall Street Journal and CNBC, Lynnette is the CEO of TheMoneyCoach.net LLC, a financial education company that she runs with her husband and co-founder, Earl Cox.

Lynnette earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the University of California, Irvine. She also holds a Master of Arts degree in Broadcast Journalism from the University of Southern California. She is a native of Los Angeles who spent 20 years on the East Coast, but now lives in the greater Houston area.

Lynnette and Earl are the proud parents of 3 children – including one recent college graduate, one current college student and one college-bound teenager.

To learn more about Lynnette, stop by her personal site, LynnetteKhalfaniCox.com, visit her financial advice blog, AskTheMoneyCoach.com, check out her video-based financial courses at MoneyCoachUniversity.com, or connect with Lynnette on social media via LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

Princess Ghaneeyyah Sulaiman-Olokodana is a trained Clinical Psychologist, a practicing Faith-based Psychotherapist/Relationship & Family Life Therapist, a passionate Speaker and Mental Health Advocate. Ghaneeyyah is passionate about all things healthy; body and soul. For the past 18+ years, her dedication to her Purpose of continuously generating promotions to a healthy lifestyle has seen her not only speaking at different fora; professional, religious or business, but also running a private therapy practice where she provides services in Individual and Relationship Education, Counselling & Therapy.

Ghaneeyyah is on a Mission:

1. To make people and relationships better

2. To make better people and relationships.

The first is about helping them to heal, and overcome the challenges they face, whenever they fall short.

The second is about teaching them the skills they need to continuously improve on themselves and their relationships.

To help her achieve these, she has earned a BSc (Hons.) Second Class Upper Degree in Psychology and an MSc Degree in Clinical Psychology. She also has Certifications in Entrepreneurial Management and Family Systems Engineering. Her focus on Mental Health and Interpersonal Relationships stem from her Research Works during both of her academic degrees. As an undergraduate, her BSc thesis was one of the pioneering studies in Nigeria advocating support for a two-dimensional approach in Mental Health Assessment.

She also pioneered research in Dating Anxiety Amongst Muslim Singles, during her Master's program. And as a lifelong learner, she continues to participate and train in several local and international Mentoring, Business Entrepreneurial and Networking Programs.


Femi Shabiolegbe is an Executive Director and leads HR for the Firm’s global Finance division.  She joined Morgan Stanley in 2017 and has held a number of HR and DE&I leadership roles during her tenure. Prior to Morgan Stanley, she worked at UBS for over a decade as a global HR Business Partner and as a Talent Development leader across the Americas, EMEA and Asia Pacific.

Femi started her career as an Auditor and then a People Consultant at PricewaterhouseCoopers Nigeria. She holds a BSc. in Economics from the University of Lagos, Nigeria, and an MBA from Howard University. She also holds a NextGen council position within a national non-profit focused on developing ethical leaders (FRED Leadership).

Femi is an accomplished speaker, singer and performer, and is actively involved within her local theater community – she can sometimes be seen on stage in revues, plays and musicals with local theater companies.

Abidat Lawal is a scientist with an interdisciplinary background in microbiology,  environmental science, and molecular pathology. She works as the Technical lead in the National wastewater surveillance project at the bureau of laboratory services in Houston. She strives to push boundaries and explore exciting ways of adding value wherever she is while staying true to her authentic self. She is married to Engineer Folorunsho Lawal with 3 children. Proudly an Ijebu woman of noble heritage from the Okusi family in Ijebu Ode, she has a passion for business, learning new languages, mentoring youths, and advocating for women. She enjoys reading and spending time with her family. She volunteers for youth development, public health and women empowerment causes. Abidat has lived in 6 countries, speaks multiple languages and aspires to impact West Africa on a large scale by creating science and technology-based opportunities that can help women and talented youth translate their intellectual capabilities into solution-driven enterprises. 


Munitrat Tam-Balogun is the Tax Managing Director at Deloitte Tax LLP. Prior to her current role, she had held the positions of Tax senior, Excise Tax Manager, Excise Tax Senior Manager and Tax Managing Director at Deloitte.

Dr. Jumoke Adedoyin was born in Nigeria. She attended Howard University College of Dentistry, graduating #1 in the class of 2001. 

She maintains an extraordinarily successful practice that is exclusively dedicated to Implant dentistry in Cartersville, Georgia and is the Director for Clinical Relations for Affordable Care Incorporated, a Dental Service Organization serving 700+ dentists with 382 locations. Dr. Adedoyin spends most of her time supporting dentists as they navigate through their career journey.

In addition to being a dentist, Dr. Jumoke is a speaker and a coach: She has maintained her presence on the national stage as one of the few Black female Key Opinion Leaders in implantology and continues to blaze the trail in teaching about practical Christianity in the workplace and in life! 

She is a serial entrepreneur, who scaled her dental practice to a 7- figure business just one year after opening her doors, Dr. Jumoke is passionate about equipping women, not only to show up in their feminine strength while taking their seat at the table in the workplace, but also encourages them to discover God’s purpose for their lives and how they can maintain a harmonious balance of work and life while living life at its best.

She currently resides in the Atlanta area with her husband and three sons. You can connect with her using social media handle @DrJumoke.

 



Judge Collier is the presiding Judge of 113th district, Texas. She is Board Certified in Civil Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and was recently awarded the 2021 Jurist of the Year for the Texas Chapters of the American Board of Trial Advocates. 

Judge Collier serves on the Curriculum Committee for the Texas Center for the Judiciary, which is comprised of approximately 15 judges that develop judicial education for all Texas judges. She also currently serves as an executive board member for the Association of District Judges and a board member of the Asian American Bar Association of Houston. 

Judge Collier believes that judicial integrity is the necessary requirement to uphold the sanctity of our laws. As judge, she demands that the law is followed in each case and judged on the merits of the case free from bias and prejudice.  As a native Houstonian, Judge Collier serves as the judge of the 113th Judicial District Court of Harris County.

She is a graduate of Kingwood High School in Houston, Texas. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Government from the University of Texas at Austin. She earned a Juris Doctor degree from Texas Southern University, Thurgood Marshall School of Law in Houston, Texas. Rabeea is married to Robert Collier, an attorney. They have two sons and live in North Houston.

Dr Stanley (Okey) Okpor is a pharmacist with the third largest retail pharmacy corporation in the US. He is also the creative director and brains behind Oktionz Images, a image, graphic design and publishing consulting company. He brings the concierge in photography to you as part of his mission to take your images to the next level.

He is the Co-Author, A Little Medicine for a Growing Marriage; and Co-hosts, Grey Couch Conversations with his wife Dr Otito Okpor.


Kola Fagbayi is the Vice President Strategy & Governance at BP America.

Prior to his current position, he was the VP Low Carbon 7 Sustainability at bpx energy and Vice President HSE and Engineering authority

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee is an influential and forceful voice in Washington. She is serving her fourteenth term as a member of the United States House of Representatives. She represents the 18th Congressional District of Texas, centered in Houston, which is the energy capital of the world. Considered by many as the “Voice of Reason”, she is dedicated to upholding the Constitutional rights of all people.

She sits on three Congressional Committees — a senior member of the House Committees on the Judiciary and Homeland Security  and appointed by the leadership as a Member of the crucial Budget Committee. 

In the previous Congress, she authored, introduced and saw passage of the re-authorization of the Violence Against Women Act. Additionally, she introduced several bills including the Juvenile Accountability Block Grant Re-authorization and Bullying Prevention and Intervention Act, H.R. 71, the Federal Prison Bureau Nonviolent Offender Relief Act of 2015, and H.R. 4660, an Amendment to the Commerce, Justice, and Science Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2015 affirming the authority of the Attorney General to reduce prison overcrowding by developing and implementing lawful policies relating to requests for executive clemency from deserving petitioners.

Dr. Adeola is a Sr. Director Contract Services, Pharmacy at Apexus LLC a subsidiary of Vizient Inc. She has a Doctor of Pharmacy and Masters in Public Health . She describes herself as a citizen of the world and a natural networker with over 15 years of experience building/optimizing organizational processes for business results.

Her intuition and genuine interest in others help her build long-lasting, fruitful relationships with her team, business partners and clients to drive consistent, recurring revenue for my organization. She values constant collaboration, different ideas and insights in our changing world.

Denrele Jimoh is a Houston Divorce & Family Law Attorney with over 15 years of professional experience as a family lawyer. Adenrele Oladapo-Jimoh takes her role very seriously as an advocate for the people. She is an ethical and responsive lawyer who handles cases efficiently and with great care.

Sanmi Segun-Oki is an ardent advocate of mental wellness. My journey unto its path, practice and promotion was inspired by a particularly turbulent period in my life marked by the loss of a close friend, and heightened pressure from life’s demands.

His background as an Engineer underpins my approach of self-inquiry to better understand and nourish the mind. He is enthusiastic about sharing my knowledge and experiences in the hopes of providing others with autonomous means of sustaining positive mental health. His principal focus is Mindfulness meditation. He is a certified Mindfulness teacher and have been a dedicated practitioner of this discipline for over half a decade.

He holds a BEng in Chemical Engineering and an MSc in Environmental Technology. He has over 17 years of experience in the upstream and midstream Oil & Gas industry in both operational and managerial roles, and have contributed technical publications to the Society of Petroleum Engineers’ body of knowledge.

Newsletter Volume 3

Hope you had a good summer break with your loved ones. It’s the third edition of our Newsletter and we’d be sharing more UnMask stories about brave women, tips on how to be mentally strong and an African kingdom you probably never heard of. Enjoy! Click here to read the full UnMask stories.

Newsletter Volume 2

It's the second edition of our She-EO 100 Club Newsletter where we share a new feature, UnMask (scroll down to find out what this is about) and simple tips to keep your mental health in check.

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She-EO 10.0 2021

It’s the 10th edition of She-EO! We would be having 15 amazing guest speakers, 10 hours, 10 segments over 2 days! It’s truly going to be a reawakening. Stay tuned as we reveal our speakers and unveil the brand new segments.

Maryam Bukar Hassan

A.k.a Alhanislam, is a renowned poet and an exponent of the spoken word, who has performed at major festivals and events both locally and internationally. An indigene of Borno state born on the 25th December 1996 in Kaduna State, Maryam has performed in a various high level events including the Ake Arts and Book Festival, the Kaduna Book and Arts Festival, TEDx Argungu, NEXT Level U.S.A and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) conferences. Maryam also recently performed at the African governance architecture conference and the African Union 8th high level dialogue conference 2019 which took place in Kampala, Uganda. She also performed at the Kaduna Economic and Budget summit, the Women in Government event by the PERL initiative, delivered a spoken word piece at the gubernatorial inaugural lecture in Kaduna. She is an activist on violence against women and children and has gained vast recognition for her video on domestic violence, titled: ‘VIOLENCE HAS NO RELIGION’, which hit over 3.2million views on YouTube. In 2017 she released her spoken word album “IN THE HEART OF SILENCE”. Aside from poetry, Maryam is also the founder of Alhanislam Tutoring Services which is aimed at life coaching, counseling, speech therapy, and poetry. She is the co-founder of creative kiddies Nigeria; A platform where kids are taught poetry, monologues, public speaking and spoken word. She is the C.E.O of VARIETEA which is a hand-made healthy tea brand with a special formula that gives clients a relaxing sensation and alleviates depression and high blood pressures.

Dr. Yetunde Adewunmi

She graduated from Babcock University in Nigeria with a distinction in Microbiology (B.S) and moved to the United States in 2015 to obtain a Ph.D. degree at The University of Southern Mississippi because of her keen interest in research about infectious agents and diseases. Her Ph.D. research was focused on improving the efficacy and elucidating the mechanism of action of plant-derived compounds in multi-drug resistant pathogens. In 2013, she received three academic excellence awards from Babcock University. During her Ph.D., she received eight awards and several research fellowships for her outstanding contribution to research, teaching, mentorship and science communication at professional conferences. Yetunde constantly participated in science demos for K1-12 (kindergarten 1-12) and high school students to get them excited about biology. As a member of the USM’s chapter of Women in Science and Engineering (WISE), she received an outstanding achievement award in 2016 for her mentorship efforts. Yetunde has published three research articles with one deemed of significant interest by the journal of Applied and Environmental Microbiology. In 2021, Yetunde started a community called StayInBio for Nigerian biology undergraduates and recent graduates with the overarching goal of helping them maintain confidence in their chosen career paths by providing relevant training, pertinent information on the most modern science, and available opportunities that will help them retain their biology degrees for the ultimate benefit of Nigeria and therefore Africa. Currently, Yetunde works as a research scientist at Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health; a research institute where she tests the efficacy and safety of vaccines against bacterial pathogens and toxins. Yetunde loves science and likes to teach it, she is also very passionate about tutoring and mentoring young minds for a brighter tomorrow.

Olukorede Demola-Adeniyi

She is the Head, Consumer Banking for Ecobank Nigeria, with over 30 years experience in the banking industry, out of which 18 years have been spent in Ecobank. She has deep knowledge in assets & liability management, trading, sales, and treasury management in African economies. She has also held various senior roles within Ecobank Nigeria and ETI including Group Head, Personal Banking; Head, Premier Banking & Treasurer all in Ecobank Nigeria. She was also the Group Asset & Liability manager in ETI. Prior to joining Ecobank, she held senior positions in other financial institutions. She is passionate about charitable causes that speak to women and children.

Funmi Bankole

Née Ogunbayo. Born on the 9th of September 1977 into a family made up of 3. She had her primary education at Staff School UNIFE and Secondary at FGGC Sagamu. She studied and has degrees from OAU Ife, OSU Ago Iwoye, LASUCOM Ikeja and Boston Univ School of Medicine, USA. She is currently working with a multinational in Lagos.

Summayyah Sadiq-Ojibara

She is Nigerian, African-Australian Muslim, Counsellor and Psychotherapist, Life coach, Mindfulness guide, Entrepreneur, Creativity consultant, poet and award-winning writer and author of several books and various literary works. She is the CEO/MD of ComXtra - a counselling, coaching and creativity consult in Australia and managing director of her private counselling practice; DEW Counselling - a service of ComXtra. Summayyah is a trained therapist with a Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling and a Masters in Counselling and Psychotherapy. She has several professional development certifications including; Anxiety Disorders in Children and Adolescents, Child Assessments and Therapy, Childhood Sexual Abuse, Family Approach to Family Violence; Working With Couples, Trauma, Attachment and Psychotherapy, Mindfulness and Relational Field; Mindfulness Teacher’s Training, Emotional Focus Therapy, Emotional and Social Competencies and Prevention of Anxiety and Depression; Grief & Bereavement, Difficult to Treat Depression. Energy Psychology - New Treatments for Anxiety, Life-Line PD on Suicide, Working With Trauma and Hope. She has more than two decades of combined years of experience in non-formal and formal counselling and coaching in Australia and overseas. She works with a diverse range of people across cultures and ages and in a number of areas. Some of the work includes school-based counselling, family relationship, domestic violence, anxiety and depression, grief and loss, workplace, premarital, couple’s, parenting, women, children and youth counselling Summayyah designed and delivers a self-awareness, personal and professional development programme; Aspire, in Australia and overseas. She has delivered and facilitated several personal and professional development, empowerment, leadership training, retreats for men and women, Life Skills, school holiday programmes, workshops and camps for children and young people in Australia and overseas through her agency and for various groups and organizations. She has also delivered lectures, talks and presentations at various conferences, seminars and events in Australia and overseas. Summayyah is the founder and CEO of Fitrah, a non-for-profit organization in Victoria, Australia that aims to help people find connection, meaning and purpose in their lives. She has and continues to work with various groups and organizations and is involved in several community initiatives and programmes. She is a fellow of the School of Social Entrepreneur, a Leadership Victoria, Australia Mentor, a board member of Africause in Victoria, founding member, Secretary and Programmes Director, Mumtaaz. Some of the organizations and groups she has and continue to work with include; National Zakat Foundation, Islamic Council of Victoria, Auspicious Arts Projects, The Venny, Australian Council For Multicultural Entrepreneurs, Incubate Foundation, Africa Day Australia, Australian Multicultural Foundation, OZ TV, Big West, Nigerian Society of Victoria, Yoruba Heritage and Cultural Association, City of Melbourne, City of Yarra, Hobson Bay City Council, Department of Health and Human Services, Moonee Valley City Council, Drummond Street Services, City of Yarra, Kensington Neighbourhood House, Women’s Health In The West - WHIN, East African Women Organization, AlRayhan, Ubuntu, Wyndham African Network, GRACE, 1Ummah Nig, Bountiis Organization, IScholars Academy.

Oluwakemi (Kemi) Okusanya

She serves as Country Manager for the West African region at Visa. Under her leadership, Kemi has recorded key milestones including the launch of Visa on mobile in Ghana and its expansion in Nigeria to more partners and thousands of new merchants across the country. Since she joined Visa in September 2017, Kemi has facilitated and expanded access to new strategic fintech partnerships including Flutterwave, Konga and Paystack and has been instrumental in the growth and adoption of Visa Direct by driving her team towards adoption of new use cases. Kemi’s career has been about bringing the benefits of financial services to more people and places in Africa. She joined Visa from MoneyGram International, where she was Head of Anglophone Africa, responsible for a 23-country region, comprising 18,000 locations and 5,000 automated payment points. Prior to this, she had a 10-year stint with Zenith Bank, where her responsibilities spanned sales and marketing strategy, oversight of strategic partnerships, as well as management of the branch liability and asset portfolios. Kemi not only has a huge amount of operating experience in emerging markets and payment systems, but she also demonstrates strong relationships with financial institutions, fintechs associations, regulators and government agencies

Bashirat Bello

She is an Alternative Medical Practitioner, traditional Fertility therapist and the founder of the Murabiyah Holistics, an advocate for healthy living and healing from diseases using traditional approach. They educate and empower Women with the knowledge of how the female body works. Women get the best therapy from the clinic while they walk them through the journey of healing using scientifically proven complementary therapies that work. They offer hijama Cupping Therapy, traditional reproductive massage and pelvic steaming services. Bashirat is a certified Hijama therapist and Mizan Practitioner that trained in both London and Yorkshire UK. She also trains students in the arts and sciences of traditional medicine, fertility massage and vaginal steaming.

Dr. Mustapha Mohammed Jibril

She is a politician and public health physician with more than 17 years of progressive experience in Nigeria’s public health and political sectors. Dr Jibril is the Niger State Commissioner for Investment, Commerce and Industry with a mandate to fast-track diversification of the economic resource base of the state through the promotion of trade and investment, with emphasis on increased production of export commodities. Prior to this role, he was the Commissioner for Health in Niger State where he implemented bold reforms to close longstanding gaps in health policy, infrastructure and human resources with a view to accelerating the attainment of universal health coverage (UHC) for the people of Niger State. As Commissioner for Health, Dr Mustapha Jibril introduced wholescale transformation of the primary health care system in the state. He oversaw the establishment of the state contributory health scheme; revamped the state drugs management agency; increased health worker recruitment and deployment, improved pay package and engendered inter-professional harmony through deliberate policy measures. He was also the founding Chair of the Nigeria Health Commissioners’ Forum and the forum’s representative on the National Steering Committee of the Basic Health Care Provision Fund. Before his appointment as the Commissioner for Health, Dr Jibril was the UNICEF State Coordinator for Niger where he led the design and rollout of the Hard-to-Reach (HTR) project, among other critical programmatic and leadership responsibilities. He worked previously as the Program Manager for the Global Fund Health System Strengthening grant to the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA), providing overall technical and programmatic leadership for the project team at the agency and in program states in collaboration with key partners. He also served as the Program Manager for Nigeria’s National Deworming Program at the Federal Ministry of Health. Prior to then, Dr Mustapha Jibril served as the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Governor of Niger State on International Affairs and as Director General (DG) for Volunteer Services and Diaspora Relations. In the latter capacity, he saw to the development of the first ever policy document and strategic plan on volunteerism for Niger State.

Dr Mustapha Mohammed Jibril holds a Bachelor of Medicine; Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) and a Master of International Affairs and Diplomacy (MIAD) degrees from the Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Nigeria. He also holds a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from the University of Leeds, United Kingdom, in addition to attending various professional development courses, including one on health care quality improvements at Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, United States of America. Dr Jibril is also a Fellow of the prestigious African Institute of Public Health Professionals. Dr Jibril has outstanding leadership and management skills, having had the opportunity to deal directly with national and international organizations, grassroots politicians, and members of various civil society groups. He is confident, articulate, proactive, and a dependable team player with high personal integrity and moral conduct. He has the technical expertise and passion for improving lives and livelihoods for his community.

Nojeem Jimoh

He is from Abeokuta, Ogun State. He retired as Chief Operating Officer in the Oil & Gas business in July 2020 - exactly 34 years after university and set up own Oil & Gas trading company, NJ Moloney Oil & Gas Ltd following his retirement. He graduated with a First Class Honours in Political Science from the University of Lagos in 1986 (a first for the department in the history of the university) and got a scholarship for MSc Political Science at the same university in 1988. He completed further studies at the College of North-East London (Middlesex University) and ultimately emerged First Nigerian to become a Fellow of the UK Chartered Institute of Housing (FCIH). He is a political scientist, a chartered housing practitioner, a writer, public policy analyst and social critic and officially appointed and turbaned as an Imam in Nigeria in 2016.

Lanre Akinbo

He is a corporate finance, transactions services and business strategy professional with extensive experience in financial analysis/modelling, business valuation, financial due diligence, business planning, feasibility studies, business strategy development, technology, capacity-building and research. He worked for about 8 years in the advisory and tax practices of Arthur Andersen and KPMG in Nigeria; where he completed several engagements in investment appraisal, business valuation, tax advisory, mergers and buyouts for various clients. These assignments involved several cross-border teams in Nigeria, South Africa, Ghana, the US and the UK. He is currently the Managing Partner and Managing Director of Wizer Resource & Advisory Limited and Wizer Consulting Services LLP, firms he founded in 2006 and 2013, respectively, specialising in financial advisory, business consulting, capacity development and technology software services. He has been a participant at several local and international courses on corporate finance, transaction advisory services, tax, data analysis, valuation and mergers & acquisitions and management. Lanre is a high-profile resource person for capacity-building programmes in various sectors including banking, private equity, professional services, telecommunications, etc. He is also the co-founder and Director of Beyond Credit, an organisation that provides much needed micro-loans to individuals and micro-enterprises; and a Director of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group.

Patrick O. Okigbo

He is the Founder of Nextier, a public policy advisory firm and think-tank, focused on improving governance and development outcomes in Africa. Patrick started his career in Nigeria in 1998 with Diamond Bank Plc. before joining Accenture where he worked with financial services clients across West Africa. He was part of the team that advised on the first electronic payment processing platform in Nigeria. Patrick joined the Management Associate Programme at Citigroup in New York City in 2003 and worked in different capacities including providing services to the U.S. government. He left Citigroup as a Vice President in 2007 to join Transcorp Plc. in Nigeria as the Chief Financial Officer. He led efforts to restructure the firm’s finances and to start-up two new ventures in agro-processing and hospitality. In 2010, Patrick served as a Senior Special Assistant to the President of Nigeria; focused on reforming the country’s electricity industry. In 2011, he founded Nextier. The firm works with major government institutions and international development programmes. It is the local implementing partner on the two largest infrastructure-focused development programmes in Nigeria. It has grants from top foundations (MacArthur Foundation and Open Society Initiative for West Africa) to support research and advocacy activities. Patrick has a Bachelor of Agriculture degree from the University of Nigeria, an MBA from Emory University, and an Executive Masters in Public Administration from the London School of Economics. He sits on the board of Tenece, a technology services firm with operations in four African countries and Dubai. He is a Global Advisor to Energy for Growth Hub, a Washington D.C.-based energy solutions institution. Patrick serves on several government committees and trusted advisor to several public officials. He writes a regular blog on public policy and is widely published in newspapers. Patrick is married to Awele and they are blessed with four children. As a Senior Fellow, Patrick’s research will be on Rebuilding the Falling House: Technology Innovations and Africa’s Renaissance. His faculty sponsor is John Haigh, Co-Director, Mossavar-Rahmani Center for Business and Government, and Lecturer in Public Policy at the Harvard Kennedy.

Hon. Justice Olusola Williams (Rtd.)

She is the founder of Institute of Paralegal Services and serves as a consultant to the Wey Practice Law Firm. With a proven track record in capacity-building, efficiency improvement and driving transformational social change, she brings a wealth of experience from her years of practice as counsel, law teacher and arbiter. As consultant, she provides early expert evaluation regarding disputes, qualified opinions on prospects of litigation or other dispute resolution mechanisms and acts as party-appointed arbitrator where required. She got her first degree (LL.B Hons) from University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife) in 1985 and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1986. She went on to obtain a Masters in Law from the University of Lagos in 1991. Since her call to the Nigerian Bar she has worn several hats and fully exploited career opportunities laden in the legal industry in Nigeria. She worked as counsel in the private law firms of Niyi Oyetunde & Co. and Chief Rotimi Williams Chambers, served as General Manager of United Investments Ltd, lectured at the Nigerian Law School and in 2001, she was appointed a Judge of the High Court of Lagos State where she dispensed justice without fear or favour for 18 years. She voluntarily retired in 2019 to pursue her dream of setting up an Institute to train administrative and support staff of the legal profession. She is the founder of the Institute of Paralegal Services, established to meet the need for training and raising professional paralegals to assist in effective and efficient legal service delivery and administration of justice in Nigeria. Also, in furtherance of her interest in aviation law, she has undertaken and passed the IATA International Air Law Course with distinction. She is the Presiding Judge in the reality Courtroom TV Show Judging Matters.

Ego Boyo

She is the MD/CEO of Temple Productions, a full service production company based in Lagos for the past 20 years. Most of her film works are seminal moments in Nigeria film history. She studied Theatre Arts with a focus on TV and film from the University of Benin. She made her professional debut in the critically acclaimed soap opera Checkmate, which ran for five years on NTA. Mrs. Boyo went on to a career defining lead role in the feature film Violated which was her debut as a Producer. She has worked extensively in Video Film production, Corporate Promotional Film Making, Television Series, Advocacy Films, Documentaries and TV adverts for various clients. She has been a member of the IWS for 18 years and joined because she wanted to give back and contribute to the advancement of women and children. She has worked as Assistant Secretary, Programmes Secretary, Chairperson Day Nursery (for three years 2013 – 2016) and Vice President.Mrs. Boyo set up her own foundation - Temple MAI Foundation under Temple Productions to work on advocacy around these causes. With the mandate to produce and present visual statements for advocacy groups and other foundations; Temple MAI Foundation will also inform and educate identified groups and the general public through visual media. She is a Global Rights advocate in the campaign against Sexual Violence, serves on the Advisory Board of Oando Foundation and is a Director at Lagos Preparatory School. She is particularly interested in advancing access for all children to early education, and in girl child education and empowerment. She is also a member of the Association of Movie Producers, National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP) and NEGB


Abiola Osibanjo

She is a US trained registered and certified wound/ostomy certified nurse. She is the CEO/Nursing Director of a nursing agency in Lagos, Bethcare Home Health & Nursing Agency.











She-EO 9.0

The pandemic has never stopped us from having conversations that matter and we’re keeping at it in 2021 and beyond. She-EO 9.0 started with a bang in January with these amazing speakers. It was a day full of laughter, lessons and sharing with the awesome women in our community. Although a virtual event, it felt like we were in the same room, the love and support we felt in that sacred space was next to none. We have so much more lined up for this year, we can’t wait share with you.

8R Masterminds Series

The She-EO Masterminds Series is the signature event of the 8R premium community. Every month from August until January, we will host masterminds and have important conversations that matter. Our main goal is to build and maintain a safe platform to have candid conversations that inspire us and lets us know we are not alone in our pursuit of happiness. Our guests will share the setbacks behind their victories, struggles underneath their successes, and sacrifices that have accompanied their most celebrated accomplishments. Not a member of She-EO 8R? Submit an application to join this invitation only group here.

She-EO 9.0 (Interview Edition)

She-EO 100 is honored to present our inaugural virtual conference titled Your Life on Purpose (YLoP), a series of deep and meaningful conversations that matter. Similar to in-person She-EO events we held in cities prior to the COVID lockdown, YLoP will feature inspiring guests whose vulnerability and authenticity will inspire attendees to live on purpose and to pursue endeavors that help them make profitable impact.

Admission to the general sessions of YLoP (10 a.m - 1 p.m. US ET) is free, but RSVP is required. However, only members of the She-EO 8R group may attend the mastermind sessions (2 p.m. - 5 p.m. US ET). To apply for She-EO 8R membership, please click this link.

YLoP 2020 Speakers

Ngozi Adebiyi is the CEO of OutsideIn HR - an innovative organization focused on developing people with a vision to revolutionize HR in Nigeria & impact Africa! She has 20+ years experience in HR & Consulting and was listed by Forbes Woman Africa as a new wealth Creator, female entrepreneurs who have created significant impact in their respective sectors by pioneering their organization in generating new untapped streams of income.

Afolake Adewumi is board certified, advanced practice provider who is passionate about providing quality, safe, and holistic care to clients across the lifespan. Afolake provides psychiatric diagnostic evaluation and on-going psychiatric care for patients of all ages. Afolake has experience working in various care settings, including inpatient, transitional, and outpatient populations.

Dr. Amina Aminu is a physician and public health professional with extensive experience in designing and managing health systems and sustainable development programs funded by international and national donors and multilateral agencies. She is currently the Country Director at Pathfinder International where she provides overall strategic leadership and oversees the programmatic and operational management of Pathfinder activities in Nigeria. She is a board member of Empowered to Empower Initiative, a member of the Nigerian Medical Association, Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria and the American Public Health Association.

Aisha Dahiru Atta is an Educator, Author and Premarital coach who facilitates deep, powerful conversations between couples to help them build stronger, more connected and blissful relationships. Aisha is also passionate about education, self-development and sustainable empowerment for communities. She is a co-founding trustee of Al-Amanah Academy, an innovative primary school in Kaduna State, Nigeria that provides integrated faith and educational excellence for children. She is also an active co-founder of a number of non-profit charity organizations in Nigeria such as F.R.E.E (Foundation for Refugee Economic Empowerment), a charity for displaced persons and SALKA ACADEMIES (free schools for underprivileged communities). 

 

Adeola Enikanoselu. With a distinct blend of executive, consulting, branding and nonprofit expertise, Adeola’s first foray into business and entrepreneurship was over 18 years ago through one of the nation’s most renowned women’s beauty brands, Mary Kay. Flourishing from a shy girl in her early twenties to an ambitious woman, while there, she cultivated her business and entrepreneurial acumen, learning everything from strategic networking to sales. Adeola rose to become one of the youngest top directors in the company’s history. From there, her career has been one bold leap after the next, eventually launching her own IT consulting company, a thriving women’s empowerment company, THE GENX Ladies Network, and a nonprofit, THE GEMZ, that mentors and develops girls into confident young women by teaching them the principles of leadership, self-esteem and entrepreneurship. 

 

Hajiya Maryam Lemu is an internationally sought-after motivational speaker, counselor and an accomplished facilitator of seminars and workshops. She began her career in Sales, Marketing and Management in 1991 when she relocated to the United States of America with her husband. Hajiya Lemu was appointed as the District Sales Manager for Avon Products in 1995 with a sales force of 320 sales representatives. In 1999, she was employed as an Executive Level Recruiter and Marketing Manager for Pro-Staff Employment Agency, coordinating the recruiting efforts and marketing plans for 4 branch offices. During her years in the United States, Hajiya Lemu undertook professional courses in Public Speaking, Human Resource Management, Business Administration, Sales and Marketing and Life Skills training.

 

Edith Umole is the Global Lead, Talent and Succession Management for World Bank Group. She has led the transformation of the Talent Review program and developed a succession framework for identifying and deploying senior leaders within the organization. Prior to the World Bank Group, she worked at Mercer in the UK, where she led various initiatives, including the design of the first Global Energy Trading Survey.

 

Dr. Lola Adeyemi is a "multipreneur” - a physician by profession, an entrepreneur by design, and a coach by choice. When she is not coaching or mentoring, or building her businesses - Mentoring Her, and Magna Carta Health, which she bootstrapped to success, and which currently services approximately 15k patients a year and counting, she spends her time speaking at events. She resides in the Baltimore, MD area with her husband and two children, and is always open to connecting with fellow entrepreneurs.

 

Summayyah Sadiq-Ojibara is a Nigerian, African-Australian Muslim, a wife, a mother, a counsellor and psychotherapist, life coach, motivational speaker, mentor, entrepreneur, creativity consultant, poet, and award-winning writer and author of several books including two children's book series.  She is the CEO/MD of ComXtra - a communication, counselling and creativity agency in Australia and private counseling practice; DEW Counseling - a service of COMXTRA. She is the founder of multiple non-for-profit organizations and serves on the board of organizations in Australia.

 

Tolu Jaiyeola is a British trained Finance, Risk and Controls professional. In her short working life, she has managed to achieve several firsts. These includes being the first ever Nigerian to be employed straight out of Nigeria from the Nigerian KPMG practice to the UK KPMG Office (i.e. no secondment). Following the wave of many firsts, Tolu founded The Shred Station (West Africa’s first and only mobile confidential document shredding company) in 2016.

 

Toyin Kekere-Ekun is the CEO of Lotus Financial Services. She has more than 15 years’ experience spanning financial strategy, treasury management, credit structuring, Islamic finance and operational risk management. She previously worked in the treasury and corporate banking group of Guaranty Trust Bank, and was the segment manager, Islamic Finance at Stanbic IBTC Bank, and was the GM Finance for Linetrale Petroleum Limited.

 

Toyin Bashir obtained a law degree from the University of Lagos in 1999 after which she was called to the Nigerian Bar in January 2001. Toyin is one of twelve (12) partners in the law firm of Banwo & Ighodalo. She joined the Firm as an Associate in November 2005 after which she rose through the ranks before being elevated to partnership in January 2016. She currently heads the Firm’s corporate offices in Abuja, Federal Capital Territory.

 

Stella Duru is currently the only female Partner in the Energy Practice Group of Banwo & Ighodalo (“B&I”). B&I is a top-tier and one of the biggest (in revenue and size) law firms in Nigeria, with two offices and about 100 lawyers. As a Partner in the Firm and part of the management of the Firm, Stella is responsible for the overall direction and growth of B&I including the implementation of the Firm’s strategic plan and delivery of the Firm’s annual business plan and achievement of the Firm’s financial and other targets.

Source: https://sheeo100.mn.co/events

She-EO {8.0} Abuja →

At last, the She-EO train is making its first stop in Nigeria’s Capital City! On March 21st 2020, the City of Abuja will celebrate Women’s History Month differently this year. To help make this our biggest and most impactful stop till date, we are honored to unveil our anchors and hot seat guests!

 

SHE-EO 8.0 SPEAKERS

AISHA DAHIRU ATTA {Segment Anchor}

Aisha is an Educator, Author and Premarital coach who facilitates deep, powerful conversations between couples to help them build stronger, more connected and blissful relationships. Aisha is also passionate about education, self-development and sustainable empowerment for communities. She is a co-founding trustee of Al-Amanah Academy, an innovative primary school in Kaduna State, Nigeria that provides integrated faith and educational excellence for children. She is also an active co-founder of a number of non-profit charity organizations in Nigeria such as F.R.E.E (Foundation for Refugee Economic Empowerment), a charity for displaced persons and SALKA ACADEMIES (free schools for underprivileged communities). Aisha’s debut book, ‘An Affluent Heart’ flows with evocative writing that draws from her personal experience, as well as that of many who have honored her with theirs. She considers every conversation a privilege and every interaction an opportunity for meaningful change. Aisha is a lifelong learner, a mum of 2, and her family motivate and inspire much of what she does. She works, lives and loves between the U.K and Nigeria.

 

DR. AMINA AMINU DORAYI 

Dr. Amina is a physician and public health professional with extensive experience in designing and managing health system and sustainable development programs funded by international and national donors and multilateral agencies. She is currently the Country Director at Pathfinder International where she provides overall strategic leadership and oversees the programmatic and operational management of Pathfinder activities in Nigeria. Dr. Amina served as the Employee Advisory Committee (EAC) Representative for the Africa Region of Abt Associates. She is a board member of Empowered to Empower Initiative, a member of the Nigerian Medical Association, Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria and the American Public Health Association.

Dr. Amina holds a Bachelor of Medicine; Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree from the Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Nigeria and a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from the University of Liverpool, UK. She has also attended various national and international professional development courses, including one on improving quality of health services at Harvard School of Public Health in Boston. She is married to Dr. Mustapha Jibril and they have three children. 

 

AMINAH GBAJABIAMILA {Segment Anchor}

Aminah is a qualified Speaker, Trainer, Coach and Mentor; who is particularly compelled to Youth and Women Self Leadership & Development, Holistic Wellness, Empowerment and Emancipation. This is evidenced via her multiple legacy projects, particularly ‘PINK Rocks’ the outcome of her long-term commitment to Breast Cancer Awareness and Advocacy; as well as various Youth engagement programs. She is skillful, entertaining and purposeful with anchoring events, moderating and/or conducting interviews in professional and private (social) settings. 

Prior to her relocation to Nigeria in 2008, she held roles with Fortune 50 entities in Atlanta, Georgia. Notable of which are United Parcel Service Inc and Goldman Sachs as she also began her early forays into Entrepreneurship and Community Service with the establishment of Nattieʼs One Stop Catering & Events Management - and the incorporation of La Femme Africaine (The African Woman) a 501 (c) (3) Non- Profit organization.

She holds a Bachelor of Science in Health Education (University of Lagos), and a Masters of Public Administration (The Ohio State University). Aminah obtained her Public Relations Officer Certification via the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) in Dubai. She has just recently concluded the reinforcement Public Speaking Workshop: ‘Speak for Ultimate Impact and Profit’, culminating in attendance of the riveting live ‘Motivate the Masses: Speak and Write to Make Millionsʼ Conference - by world renowned Transformational Coach, Lisa Nichols. Aminah is a Cherie Blair Foundation for Women Mentee.

 

BASHIRAT ABDULWAHAB

Bashirat is a trained journalist turned Helping Practitioner, Corporate Trainer and Social Entrepreneur. She holds an M.Sc. in Mass Communications and has evolved over the years with certifications and competencies in neuro linguistic programming, bereavement/grief counseling and management, emotional intelligence, mental health first aid, writing and self-publishing, community development and psychosocial work. Bashirat is an accredited practitioner by the Complementary Therapists Accredited Association (CTAA). She is the founder of “Hands for Life”, The Bashirat Abdulwahab TV Africa and The Purple Network for Muslimah – TPNM.

In 2017, she published her life's story titled “From Pain to Purpose”. She has since published several other books and e-books. Her new title - Dispossessed was published in November 2019. She currently hosts various master classes across Nigeria and teaches life transforming online course via her web-based platform. She also helps Corporate organizations and teams infuse Emotional Intelligence into their work ethics for improved performance and growth. 

She lives in the capital city of Abuja, Nigeria with her two adorable sons.:

 

BISI EMENANJO

Bisi is a Healthcare Provider licensed in the state of Maryland, U.S.A and has been practicing medicine for over 15 years. Dedicated and passionate about promoting the importance of living a healthy lifestyle through preventive medicine and wellness travel. Bisi’s work over the years spans 3 different countries, and she gains her inspiration through travel having visited over 15 countries. Bisi is the Founder of Community Health Advocate, (CHA) an educational not-for-profit organization dedicated to increasing awareness of chronic diseases, communicable and non-communicable, and promoting preventive medicine to young adults and communities. CHA focuses on health development and improving the quality of personal healthcare globally.

Bisi is also the founder of ÀJÒ, a Wellness Travel Company birth from her journey of finding balance as an individual, a career woman, a wife, and a mother trying to live a life of wholeness physically, spiritually, emotionally, socially and financially. She is also a firm believer in preventive medicine most especially heart disease prevention in women.

“I strongly believe looking after yourself, taking time out and developing your health and wellness IQ can make a huge difference in living a whole life”.

Bisi obtained her medical degree from Howard University, Washington DC and has a Masters in Healthcare Administration from University of Maryland, U.S.A.

 

EZIAFAKAKU NWOKOLO

Following a successful career in the Oil and Gas industry, in diverse roles, Eziafakaku retired from full-time employment and went back to school to pursue a newfound interest in developmental disabilities. This interest in autism and developmental disabilities stems from her personal experience of having a daughter with autism. She is currently the only Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA©) in Nigeria.

Eziafakaku is currently a full-time PhD student at the Tizard Centre, University of Kent Canterbury. Her PhD research interest lies in validating screening tools for Intellectual Disability (ID) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) for the Nigerian adolescent. She completed her MSc in Applied Behavior Analysis (IDD) at the Tizard Centre 2017 and her BSc with the University of Nigeria Nsukka 1990. She has three gorgeous daughters who are extremely brilliant and talented and a very loving and supportive husband.

 

FATIMA UMAR SHEHU

Fatima, the eldest of 12 children had the advantage of moving around Nigeria, because her father was in the armed forces. She later got the privilege to learn about various cities and cultures around the world while traveling with her expatriate spouse. Fatima is passionate about women empowerment through education and skills acquisition. She has also collaborated with female medical doctors, to perform free surgeries on women with different levels of VVF. Fatima, who enjoys dancing and yoga, is the Founder and CEO of Rhythm N Flow, a dance and yoga studio in Lagos, Nigeria.

 

GANIYAT OYESOMI DAIBU

Ganiyat, fondly called “Ogbonge” GNT is an ardent believer in the mantra: "Africa can feed herself healthily and be wealthy". She is on the journey of changing the narrative of the food systems and processing in Africa for a fair exchange of value, profit and wellness. She broke heavy brick walls and became a formidable leader in her industry when she launched GNT Spices in 2015. She is the Managing Director/Chief Formulator of a first of its kind premium, 100% Monosodium Glutamate free food Seasonings using African spices and herbs, the number 1 choice for consumers who want to ditch artificial food seasonings and cubes in order to embrace a healthy lifestyle. Ganiyat is also the brain behind the conversion of the body itchy plant called African Mucuna plant/velvet beans into a super-food supplement for sexual and body wellness.

 

MARYAM ALIKO MOHAMMED

Maryam is an accomplished professional with over 12 years experience in senior management and leadership positions. Her wealth of human resource experience in both private and public sectors, manufacturing, education services, oil and gas equips her with a unique understanding of the challenges of managing diverse groups. Maryam obtained an MBA with specializations in Marketing Management and Human Resource Management from the Cardiff Business School; and a certification in Coaching from the University of Cambridge with a specialization in Executive Leadership and Developmental Coaching. She is a member of the European Mentoring and Coaching Council, and the Chartered Institute of Coaching and Mentoring in Nigeria. She is also the Executive director at Mariacutty Empowerment Foundation (MEF), a Non- Governmental Organization whose objective is to create employment opportunities for the youth through a series of programs and interventions.

Maryam is a poet and fiction writer who has been named as one of Nigeria’s emerging female poets to watch. Her work has been published in local magazines in Nigeria, as well as internationally based online platforms including the ANA Review, Kalahari Review, and in Jalada Magazine’s 2015 “Language Issue.”

 

HAJIYA MARYAM LEMU

Hajiya Maryam Lemu is an internationally sought-after motivational speaker, counselor and an accomplished facilitator of seminars and workshops. She began her career in Sales, Marketing and Management in 1991 when she relocated to the United States of America with her husband. Hajiya Lemu was appointed as the District Sales Manager for Avon Products in 1995 with a sales force of 320 sales representatives. In 1999, she was employed as an Executive Level Recruiter and Marketing Manager for Pro-Staff Employment Agency, coordinating the recruiting efforts and marketing plans for 4 branch offices. During her years in the United States, Hajiya Lemu undertook professional courses in Public Speaking, Human Resource Management, Business Administration, Sales and Marketing and Life Skills training.

She has shared big stages with renowned speakers and scholars like Mufti Ismail Menk, Sheikh Muhammad Salah, Naima Roberts, Bilal Philips and many more. She is a regular on the Nigerian Television scene where she frequently speaks on personal development and marriage related topics. Hajiya Lemu who is an international consultant to private schools, is strongly committed to character development, social responsibility and value-driven leadership.

 

MOHAMMED MIJINDADI

Mohammed N. Mijindadi is the Managing Director of GE Gas Power Systems (GPS) Nigeria, responsible for driving the growth and development of the Nigeria power market while working with critical commercial functions to execute transactions and implement power projects.

With GE’s strong presence in the Nigeria Power Industry, Mohammed has led the development and support on several heavy duty IPP and distributed power plants in Nigeria leading to significant MW’s added to the Nigerian national grid. Prior to his appointment, Mohammed was the Regional Sales Director for GE Power Generation Products (PGP) in Africa and began his career with GE in the Transportation business as the Nigeria Country Leader. He has held several positions including Commercial Excellence Leader, Strategic Sourcing Leader and in Business Development, driving growth globally. Prior to joining GE, Mohammed worked in several US multinationals in the Transportation, Services, Construction and Entertainment industries.

Mohammed earned a Bachelor of Science degree (BSc.) in Civil Engineering from Temple University in Philadelphia and an M.B.A in Marketing and Strategic Leadership from Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) in State College, PA. He was inducted into the Nigerian Leadership Initiative (NLI) in October 2011, Institute of Directors in January 2014 and serves on the Board of Directors for GE International Operations Nigeria, Free Trade Zones and the ‘Kid for Kid’ foundation. In his spare time, Mohammed enjoys travelling, watching sports, and spending time with his wife, children and dogs.

 

NGOZI ADEBIYI

Ngozi is a leadership/performance/career coach who leverages a combination of approaches depending on the situation in providing clarity to my clients including a unique Core Energy Coaching™ process that helps our clients achieve real, sustainable and transformation. She is also certified by the International Coach Federation as an ACC.

HR Executive turned HR Consultant & Leadership Coach whose goal is to revolutionize HR in Nigeria by developing business leaders & employees to achieve transformation from the outside-in. Her experiences with business leaders and employees across multinational organizations in Nigeria, USA & Brazil attest to her unique passion for Human Resources, Consulting & Coaching. In March 2019, Ngozi was featured in Forbes Africa’s list of top 20 wealth creators. She previously worked as the HR Director (Central Africa), Reckitt Benckiser; Head HR, KPMG Professional services Nigeria; and HR Manager at Guinness Nigeria Plc (a Diageo Company). Ngozi’s career began with Arthur Andersen. She later worked for Wal-Mart, USA after obtaining an MBA from Mercer University, Atlanta USA.

In her spare time, she enjoys providing better opportunities for underprivileged kids as a trustee of United for Kids Foundation. Ngozi enjoys reading and brisk walking 

 

OSAI OJIGHO

Mrs. Osai Ojigho is a lawyer, gender equality advocate and human rights expert with a special interest in the African Human Rights system. Currently, the Country Director of Amnesty International Nigeria. Prior to joining Amnesty International, she served in various roles with Oxfam including as interim Pan Africa Director of Oxfam GB’s Pan African Programme. She was the Coalition Coordinator for the SOTU (State of the Union) Coalition, a human rights observer to the African Union Mission to Mali and the Sahel and Deputy Executive Director of Alliances for Africa. She is well travelled and widely published, contributing to various publications including the Commonwealth Law Journal, The AU ECHO (Newsletter of the African Union Commission), “ThisDay” Newspapers, The East African and Agenda. She is a member of the Association of Women in Development (AWID), the West African Women Elections Observation (WAWEO) team, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and a life member of the Pan African Lawyers Union (PALU). She is also a consulting editor with Open Global Rights and a mentor to Mandela Washington Fellows. She holds a Law degree from the University of Lagos, Nigeria and a Masters’ in Law degree from the University of Wolverhampton, UK. 

RUMUNDAKA WONODI

Mr. Wonodi is the Founder and CEO of ZKJ Energy Partners Ltd, an energy advisory, investment and power development firm. He was the inaugural Managing Director/CEO of the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc. (NBET). Among the highlights of his achievements at NBET are successfully implementing the trading and commercial arrangements for the Transitional Electricity Market and putting in place the first World Bank Partial Risk Guarantee for an infrastructure project in Nigeria and in the process developing bankable agreements for the sector through the Azura-Edo IPP and other front-runner IPP projects.

Prior to NBET, Rumundaka led the Regulatory & Transactions Monitoring team of the Presidential Task Force on Power (PTFP), charged with driving the power sector reform roadmap of the Federal Government of Nigeria. In that role, he led the teams of Bureau of Public Enterprise (BPE) and PTFP in establishing the Bulk Trader. Mr. Wonodi was a Director, wholesale power origination with Constellation Energy Commodities Group and subsequently Director, Commercial at Geometric Power Limited. He was also a J. Olin Research Fellow at Yale University where he studied the deregulation of North America’s power and gas markets.

Mr. Wonodi holds a Bachelors in Civil Engineering (B.Eng) from the University of Benin, Nigeria and an MBA from Yale University School of Management.

SADIQ ‘DIPO MUMUNEY

Dipo, a trained Engineer turned farmer and agri-business entrepreneur is the CEO of Yahfatmin Farms in Northern Nigeria. He obtained a Bachelors of Science degree in Engineering from the University of Lagos. Dipo is a proud #girldad, a supportive husband to his wife, Modupe; and a lover of Tennis. 

 

STELLA DURU

Ms. Stella Duru is currently the only female Partner in the Energy Practice Group of Banwo & Ighodalo (“B&I”). B&I is a top-tier and one of the biggest (in revenue and size) law firms in Nigeria, with two offices and about 100 lawyers. As a Partner in the Firm and part of the management of the Firm, Stella is responsible for the overall direction and growth of B&I including the implementation of the Firm’s strategic plan and delivery of the Firm’s annual business plan and achievement of the Firm’s financial and other targets. Prior to be being admitted into Partnership, in recognition of her stellar leadership and influence, she was made the Team Lead in Banwo & Ighodalo.Stella holds a bachelor’s degree in law from the prestigious University of Lagos (“UNILAG”) and was admitted to the Nigerian Bar in 2001. Prior to undertaking her law degree studies in UNILAG, during which time she held the office of the Vice-President of the Law Society. Stella attended the prestigious Queen’s College in Yaba, Lagos (“QC”). Stella is a member of the Nigerian Bar Association, the International Bar Association (Section on Energy and Natural Resources Law), and the Association of International Petroleum Negotiators. She is also an Associate of the Nigeria Leadership Initiative (a leadership development not-for-profit, affiliated with the Aspen Institute) as well as an Associate of “WimBiz” (An association of Women in Management, Business & Public Service).

 

SURUURAH YINKA OGUNFEMI {Segment Anchor}

Suruurah graduated from the University of Lagos with a B.Sc (Upper Division) in Civil Engineering and registered as a corporate member with the Nigeria Society of Engineers and Council for Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), Suruurah proceeded to acquire professional qualifications in Human Systems and certified as an Emotional Intelligence & Anger Management Coach, Master NLP Practitioner and a Certified Results Coach.

With over 15 years in the Public Sector rising to the rank of Chief Engineer, Suruurah has reinvented and carved a niche for herself in the practice of Life Coaching and Behavioral Therapy.

She has consulted and provided training extensively for individuals, families, schools and other groups on influencing behavioral change through process development or direct personnel interventions and solutions. Suruurah is also a Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) practitioner, a trained Social Sector Manager, a Purpose & Potential Discovery Specialist and author: “How to Raise Better-Behaved Children”.

She is very passionate about children and Education and she utilizes this tool as a regular columnist in the Leadership Newspaper where she writes on parenting and child development issues and also blogs on same at www.guidedbeginnings.com. Suruurah is the Director at “The Guided Beginnings School & Islamiyah”in Abuja, Nigeria and she is happily married to her greatest cheerleader- Adewale Sulaiman and blessed with children.

 

TOYIN BASHIR

Toyin Bashir obtained a law degree from the University of Lagos in 1999 after which she was called to the Nigerian Bar in January 2001. Toyin is one of twelve (12) partners in the law firm of Banwo & Ighodalo. She joined the Firm as an Associate in November 2005 after which she rose through the ranks before being elevated to partnership in January 2016. She currently heads the Firm’s corporate offices in Abuja, Federal Capital Territory.

Toyin has advised several local and international companies on matters pertaining to the legal and regulatory framework for doing business in Nigeria. Her core areas of practice include Corporate and Commercial Law, Investments and Divestments, Finance and Regulatory Compliance. 

Toyin supports the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), an initiative of the Federal Government of Nigeria, chaired by His Excellency, the Vice President, Mr. Yemi Osinbajo SAN GCON, on its mandate to make Nigeria a progressively easier place to do business. She provides this support by acting as a Reform Leader and Head of the Legal Cluster at the Enabling Business Environment Secretariat (EBES), the implementing arm of PEBEC, where she provides technical supportin implementing legal reforms involving the Judiciaryand Legislature; as well as regulatory reforms across select sectors of the Nigerian economy. These reforms include the establishment of Small Claims Courts in Lagos and Kano; and more recently Edo State. She was a key member of the team that supported the Federal Government in implementing reforms which has led to Nigeria moving upwards by thirty-nine (39) places in the World Bank Ease of Doing Business index since PEBEC was established by the President in 2016.

Toyin is a member of the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators and has authored several articles in the legal space. She loves to travel and continues to support several local initiatives aimed at improving the lives of women and children in Nigeria.

She-EO {7.0} Stage

The Stage is set. Here is our line up for what we know will be our most impactful She-EO to date, the 7th edition happening in Lagos Nigeria on January 25th, 2020.

Segment Anchors

Hot Seat Guests

HOT SEAT GUESTS’ BIOGRAPHIES

ADEJOKE ALLI

Adejoke Alli is the Head of Human Resources at Fidson Healthcare Plc. Adejoke started her career as a Pharmacist 14 years ago after obtaining a Bachelor of Pharmacy Degree from the University of Lagos. In addition to scoring major “firsts’ at Fidson, Adejoke has led the HR team and the organization to big stages winning awards, including two prestigious awards from the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM). In 2015, the Fidson won the CIPM HR Optimization Award for the Best Learning and Development Initiative. This was followed in 2018, by the award of Best Employee Engagement Programme by Future Workplace Awards organized by Informa Africa, a global HR consultancy firm. 

Adejoke Alli holds a Masters’ degree in Business Administration with a specialization track in Marketing from the University of Liverpool, United Kingdom. She is an Associate of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management, and a member of Nigeria Employers Consultative Association under the Corporate membership platform. Adejoke loves to read and write when she has the time to. She considers herself a creative person and in her spare time loves to explore interior design and aesthetics. Given the opportunity, she would love to travel more. She is happily married. 

 

AMINA OYAGBOLA

Amina Oyagbola is an innovative business leader. Her 30+ year career spans legal consulting, banking and finance, oil and gas and telecommunications. Currently, Amina is the managing consultant of AKMS Consulting Ltd (Business and management consultants). Additionally, she is a partner in Oyagbola Chambers and a Chevening Scholar.

Amina obtained her undergraduate law degree from Ahmadu Bello University. Afterward, she received her Masters in Law from Cambridge University and her MBA from Lancaster University. Furthermore, she is an alumnus of INSEAD, London Business School, IMD, and Harvard Business School. Amina is a member of numerous organizations and has earned various certification. Some Include:

Fellow and Chair of The Africa Leadership Initiative – West Africa. As a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusiveness, Amina founded and is currently Chairperson of, WISCAR (Women in Successful Careers). Amina’s hard work over the years has received her world recognition 

She is married to Bayo Oyagbola, Managing partner of Oyagbola Chambers and together they have 3 wonderful children.

 

AMY OYEKUNLE

Amy Oyekunle is an African feminist, an ardent advocate for gender equality and social justice. She has extensive experience working with female adolescents and women program designs across numerous international and national organizations in Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Ghana. Amy holds a MA in development studies from the University of Leeds, UK, postgraduate degree in management from the Leeds Metropolitan University, and a BS in sociology from the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.

 

DIMEJI SALUDEEN

Dimeji Saludeen has been a partner for the last 12 years at KPMG in Nigeria. He has led various business units, including Energy & Natural Resources, as well as Infrastructure, Government & Currently deals with the Deal Advisory practice. Dimeji was the head of the Oil & Gas practice in the Africa region for four years and built subject-matter expertise in business strategy articulation, corporate governance, operational restructuring, finance & risk management. He led complex, multi-disciplinary assignments, providing solutions to major organizations in the public and private sectors and made vast contribution to the reform and practice of corporate governance in Nigeria. He holds a first degree in Chemistry from the University of Lagos and a Master in Public Administration from the Harvard University and also a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria.

 

EYITAYO IYORTIM

Eyitayo Iyortim, a mother of three, is a rich mix of sweat, grit, tenacity and refreshing wisdom. She is called to minister truth and bring hope. Eyitayo is a teenage mom who went on to build a successful career spanning more than 20 years as a trainer, ICT professional, project manager and businesswoman. She is a versatile writer who has published poems in an international anthology as well as articles for local magazines. Eyitayo currently serves as the Chief Operating Officer of the Nigeria Internet Registration Association. She serves as member of the Life Coaches Association of Nigeria (LCAN) as well as the British Psychological Society (BPS). Eyitayo holds a BSc and MSc in Psychology and is an alumna of the University of Jos, Nigeria, the University of Manchester, UK and the Olusola Lanre Coaching Academy.

 

EZIAFAKAKU NWOKOLO

Following a successful career in the Oil and Gas industry, in diverse roles, Eziafakaku retired from full-time employment and went back to school to pursue a newfound interest in developmental disabilities. This interest in autism and developmental disabilities stems from her personal experience of having a daughter with autism. She is currently the only Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA©) in Nigeria.

Eziafakaku is currently a full-time PhD student at the Tizard Centre, University of Kent Canterbury. Her PhD research interest lies in validating screening tools for Intellectual Disability (ID) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) for the Nigerian adolescent. She completed her MSc in Applied Behavior Analysis (IDD) at the Tizard Centre 2017 and her BSc with the University of Nigeria Nsukka 1990. She has three gorgeous daughters who are extremely brilliant and talented and a very loving and supportive husband.

 

FATIMA UMAR SHEHU

Fatima, the eldest of 12 children had the advantage of moving around Nigeria, because her father was in the armed forces. She later got the privilege to learn about various cities and cultures around the world while traveling with her expatriate spouse. Fatima is passionate about women empowerment through education and skills acquisition. She has also collaborated with female medical doctors, to perform free surgeries on women with different levels of VVF. Fatima, who enjoys dancing and yoga, is the Founder and CEO of Rhythm N Flow, a dance and yoga studio in Lagos, Nigeria.

 

FLORENCE (FLO) OKOLI

Flo is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from the University of Lagos and an MBA from the prestigious Harvard Business School. Flo has over 20 years rich and varied, cross-functional and multi-industry experience spanning Energy, Telecommunications & Advisory Services with a focus on Energy and Infrastructural Development. She commenced her training as an Accountant in Arthur Andersen, a leading professional services firm, and has worked in reputable organizations like MTN (as a pioneer staff), ExxonMobil and Shell. Her most recent role was the Chief Investment Officer role for All On, a start-up impact investment firm, set up by Shell to accelerate access to energy for off-grid communities in Nigeria. 

Flo is a person of strong faith and considers herself a product of grace. She is married and has 3 amazing sons who she likes to describe as ‘for signs and wonders’ children! She enjoys reading, watching movies and football, and listening to music. Believing it is never too late to learn something new, Flo intends to pick up where she left off with piano and golf lessons soon.

 

ITORO EZE-ANABA

Itoro is a lawyer and the founder of the Mirabel Centre, Nigeria’s first-ever Sexual Assault Referral Centre. She has been actively involved in the promotion and protection of women’s rights in Nigeria for over 20 years. She participated in the US Department of State International Visitors Program on Trafficking in Women and Children and in the exchange program of the Law Society of England and Wales.

A graduate of the University of Calabar, she received her LLM Masters in Law from the American University, Washington College of Law, Washington DC where she specialized in Gender and the Law. With much diligence and sincere hard work, Mirabel Center has helped over 4,600 survivors including girls, women and boys to get over the trauma of rape. She drafted the first ever Domestic Violence Bill in Nigeria and campaigned for its passage into law in 12 states and at the National Assembly. 

She has received several awards including the Commonwealth Point of Light Award by Her Majesty the Queen of England in February 2018. Itoro is the Managing Partner, Partnership for Justice and a member of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Team.

 

LERE BAALE

Lere Baale, a distinguished Fellow of the Professional Excellence Foundation of Nigeria is happily married to his childhood friend, Ife and blessed with two children. He is an Associate Professor with over three decades of business management experience in leading world class global firms including – Pfizer Worldwide Biopharmaceutical Businesses and Center for Management and Organization Effectiveness (CMOE).

Currently, Lere is the CEO of Business School Netherlands (BSN), Nigeria and serves as Regional Director of CMOE Inc (USA) in Middle East and African Region. He serves on the board of directors of firms in various sectors.

 

MUTI’AT OLARONKE OBA

Muti’at Oba is a Chartered Accountant with one of Nigeria's leading indigenous investment companies. Muti’at is also a a warrior mom who has fought hard to break boundaries, create opportunities and provide resources that aren’t readily available in Nigeria.

 

NIHMATALLAH (NYMA) AKASHAT-ZIBIRI

Nyma an avid advocate about the development of both genders and a strong believer that the society can get better with each person’s positive contribution. Nyma serves as ambassador for numerous reputable  NGOs and Social Impact groups. She was called to the Nigerian Bar in February 2012 as a solicitor of the Federal Republic of Nigeria after she completed further education at the Nigerian Law School, Abuja.

She partners with several agencies such as Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Team (DSVRT) to fight for the rights of victims of Domestic Violence and get justice for victims of sexual harassment. She is also a part of The Boy Advocacy, an organization that raises awareness about the neglect and abuse of the boy child.

Nyma is a Muslim and a public advocate of Islam. She is a member of the Hijab Right Advocacy Initiative, an organization that stands against the harassment of Muslims wearing hijab. Nyma is a founding partner at Cynosure Practice Barristers and Solicitors and she is a co-host on one of the most viewed TV programs in Africa, “Your View” on Television Continental. (TVC).

 

NONYE GOODIE-OBI

Nonye, an incurable optimist and ardent believer in ‘’everything is possible to him that believes is an experienced banker with over 17 years of cognate banking experience gained across multiple functions, prior to starting her own businesses. She is a Managing Director/Chief Executive of the clothing brand, Nonnistics and the Consulting firm, Gnebbb Projects Ltd. 

She loves sharing knowledge with intention of influencing people to become a better version of themselves irrespective of their situations. She is an ardent believer in ‘’everything is possible to him that believes” . Her educational background is Mathematics and Computer Science from Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria and a Master of Science in Corporate Governance from Leeds Beckerth University in the United Kingdom. Nonye loves fashion and loves making people look good, stylish and timelessly beautiful. As a Fashion Designer, Nonye has taken her brand to the global stage having showcased at the prestigious New York Fashion Week and also at Continental Shows. She is happily married to her best friend, Goodie and they are blessed with three excellent children.

 

ALHAJA SINATU OJIKUTU

Alhaja Sinatu Ojikutu is a woman of many parts, resolute in thoughts and vigorous in actions. She was the first female Nigerian to be appointed as an Executive Director in any bank in Nigeria, and the first female elected as a Deputy Governor in Nigeria. 

She holds a Bsc from the University of Lagos, and a Masters from Long Island University, New York, USA. Many of her accomplishments include the first female Vice-President of the University of Lagos student Union, the first female Executive Director of Operations for Nigerian Bank of Commerce and Industry in 1970. Research Economist of The Central Bank of Nigeria 1966-77, Controller of Estates, Land Use and Allocation Office, Lagos State, 1982-1989, French Interpreter, Nigerian High Commission, Britain 1969, Vice President, Grey stroke Inc. USA 1993, among other notable achievements.

 

SUMMAYYAH SADIQ

Summayyah Sadiq-Ojibara is a Nigerian, African-Australian Muslim, a wife, a mother, a counsellor and psychotherapist, life coach, motivational speaker, mentor, entrepreneur, creativity consultant, poet, and award-winning writer and author of several books including two children's book series.  She is the CEO/MD of ComXtra - a communication, counselling and creativity agency in Australia and private counselling practice; DEW Counselling - a service of COMXTRA. She is the founder of multiple non-for-profit organizations and serves on the board of organizations in Australia.

 

TEJU AJANI

Teju Ajani is an avid learner, a self-professed information junkie who loves to ideate across topics ranging from digital content, artificial intelligence and machine learning to human capital development, organizational health and strategy. She is a strong advocate for women in leadership. She currently serves as the Country Manager with Android Partnerships for Google in Nigeria. Teju’s is passion about technology and its potential as an economic equalizer and ability to open up opportunities for people. She has an extensive background in business development, content sourcing and development and in the enterprise software space with experience in development, customer support, systems engineering and marketing plus a strong focus on customer advocacy and management.

 

TEMITOPE JEMERIGBE

Temitope Jemerigbe is a happily married another of two, a motivational speaker, and a strong believer in building the next generation of women. Temitope is the Chief Executive Officer of DKK Nigeria with over 20 years of experience with some of Nigeria’s biggest advertising agencies. She is member of several organizations and currently serves on the Board of organizations focused on empowering women. Temitope holds a MA degree from University of Liverpool, UK. 

As a mother of a child living with sickle cell, Temitope joined the Sickle Cell Advocacy to be able to assist less privileged mothers and people living with sickle cell.