Oluwatodimu Oluwole-Oni
have left their jobs to take care of the home front. Most of them are unable to save or invest and that’s because funds are channelled to make ends meet. The low level of financial literacy amongst women poses a great challenge as women facing such challenges are not equipped with the required knowledge and did not make adequate plans to handle such unexpected situations.
3. The theme for International Women's Day is #ChooseToChallenge. Personally & in your career how have you challenged your financial situation and worked to improve it?
I have reviewed and revised my budget, outlined my financial plan, cut down on some expenses, increased my investment outlets to help maximize my gains.
4. Do you have a personal story of triumphing financially or life in general that you can share with us?
My personal mantras are ‘’Save & invest wisely’’ and ‘’Always live and spend below your limits’’.
5. What would you say is the biggest misconception around wealth and being financially stable?
I would say the biggest misconception is the idea that people need to be wealthy before they start saving or investing.
6. What are 3 Finance Rules you live by?
Save or invest 20-30% of any income I receive. Ensure I can live comfortably for a year if I am out of job.
Focus on the long term and not immediate returns!
7. If you were to give a room full of women any advice regarding their finances, what would that be?
Change the narrative, being a woman does not place a lid on what you can achieve, start saving and investing NOW, no matter how little.
On the Job
1. What does a successful career in the finance industry look like to you?
Ability to add value to the clients, my organization and the economy.
2. What would you say has been your main motivation in terms of achieving the success you've achieved till date?
God, then my ability to set smart, realistic and achievable goals. I surround myself with like-minded individuals so I can compare notes and strategize and I have mentors from whom I seek growth advice.
3. Have you had a worst day? If yes, what was it and how did you overcome it?
Some days can be so challenging. However, if you can remember to look on the bright side, the difficult days can be just another way to grow in both your career and life in general.
4. What does International Women's Day stand for to you as a career woman?
International Women’s Day is a day set aside to celebrate all women globally and amplify our voices to challenge status quo.
5. Can you share a major life lesson you've picked up on the job?
The greatest success often comes when you create and work with a network of like-minded and forwardthinking people, quickly identify the weakest link and work together to firm up that link. Everyone in your network is a valuable member of your team and adds invaluable quality to your life in various ways.
6. If you were not working in the finance industry, where would you be working and why?
Fast Moving Consumer Goods. They have a direct impact on consumers and I like to see increased and measurable impact of what decisions made at a table of few affect millions of lives positively.
I also believe I can add my quota in driving the affordability and accessibility of basic consumer goods by shaping the face of this industry.
7. What projects, personal and work-related, do you have in the works?
Currently seeking partnerships with institutions and privately managed Investment Clubs to drive financial literacy awareness amongst women.
8. How are you and your organization helping women and their families challenge their finances?
We organize financial planning sessions to educate and handhold them through the process of setting up a financial plan.
9. If you could change one thing about the current state of Nigeria's money situation, what would it be?
Increase focus and support for Small and Medium Scale Enterprises, access to loans and capital at next to zero interest rates with a moratorium of 6 months to 1 year.