Empowering the female gender one stride at a time
Interview by
ACollege, Kano, Government Girls’ Secondary School, Dala, Fatima Mohammed Girls’ Secondary School, Gyadi Guardian, Kano Capital School and Dala Secondary School. Since inception, the programme has benefitted over 2,000 girls in Lagos, Oyo and Kano states.
I think this programme is an excellent example of the power of collaboration between the private and public sectors. Also, the 25 Big Sister mentors and 10 volunteers were also critical to making this a reality. They offered their time, energy and financial resources; investing several days in the process, including attending the ‘Train the Trainer’ programme, preparing for the mentoring day and delivering the programme at the schools.
We are finalising plans to deliver the programme in Niger and Rivers states. We also have approval to execute the third edition of the programme in Lagos State later this year. Our objective is to influence over one million girls across West Africa by our 25th anniversary. There has been indicative interest from other states in Nigeria and possibilities to collaborate with a number of international organisations to further enhance the programme. There are definitely exciting times ahead.
The entire programme is memorable and life-changing; starting with the visit to the historic palace to the training of trainers and the actual programme at the schools. However, perhaps the most inspiring aspect of the programme is the feedback we received from the girls and the Big Sisters. I felt a deep sense of satisfaction to see the girls engaged and animated as they performed the activities and completed the workbook and to hear afterwards the Big Sisters talk about their experiences. I only wish more girls could benefit from the programme. It was truly an amazing experience.
The opportunity to meet new people, help them solve problems and share my financial expertise for their benefit. The opportunity to learn new things and the chance to express my creativity everyday also strongly resonates. I feel fortunate to work in a constantly changing context where technology, globalisation and increasingly integrated economies are turning almost every industry on its head. Sometimes the most challenging situations are the most rewarding because they ensure we evolve.
In addition to working hard and having a personal commitment to very high standards, I have been lucky to work with bosses who have challenged me, offering opportunities to take on responsibilities that accelerated my development and progression. Networking and building relationship with colleagues and clients have also played a very vital role in shaping my career. Life is a journey and not a destination, thus I am still learning, working hard, seeking opportunities while staying humble and looking to accomplish much more.
“Trust and take your problems to God.” My mum has also greatly influenced me through her very strong work ethic, positive attitude and selfless generosity to others. I come from a long line of very accomplished women within my family who have distinguished themselves across sectors. So I was lucky to have early positive role models of women making a big difference in their careers. My grandmother had a distinguished career in nursing, being one of the early recipients of an international education, and I have many aunties on both sides of my family doing great things where they are. My mother has been successful at multiple careers in pharmacy, accounting and hospitality; including managing a family.
Several quotes resonate with me depending on what I am focusing on at the time. I tend to favour classic quotes that speak to our humanity, developing courage or choosing to live a full and happy life. A few quotes, which come to mind, include ‘fortune favours the brave’ - Latin proverb, ‘That which does not kill us makes us stronger’ - Friedrich Nietzsche, ‘Be tolerant with others and strict with yourself ’ - Marcus Aurelius.
Be prepared to work very hard consistently. Resist the urge to feel entitled or complain. The best way to broaden your experience is to try different things. Believe in yourself. You will make mistakes and sometimes things will not work out, but do not let that stop you from taking action. Stay humble and hungry. Pursue success but check often to ensure that you feel fulfilled. In the words of Anthony Robbins, “Success without fulfillment is the ultimate failure.”