You have a diverse career that spans broadcasting, acting, and advocacy. Can you share with us how you got started and how you’ve managed to excel in these different fields?

I’m deeply appreciative of this question, as it provides an opportunity to reflect upon the incredibly diverse and meaningful journey I’ve undertaken throughout my career. The majority of my professional experience has been rooted in the dynamic world of broadcasting and communications, which has been the canvas upon which I’ve painted my story. This diversity enriches my storytelling, infusing it with authenticity and purpose.

My foray into the realm of TV and Radio Broadcasting initially stemmed from necessity. After completing high school, I found myself without the academic qualifications to gain entry into a university. However, I did possess a natural affinity for the camera and the microphone. This realization prompted me to incorporate an internship in television and radio into my national service year. To my surprise and delight, those internships swiftly evolved into fully-fledged, paying positions, and from that point onward, I never looked back.

Throughout my journey, I’ve adhered to the principle of dedicating myself wholeheartedly to one field at a time, with broadcasting serving as the bedrock of my career. It was during this time that I began to recognize that simply excelling in my craft wasn’t enough; it had to transcend the realm of skills and make a meaningful impact on the world around me.

Personal experiences guided my path toward advocating for Women Empowerment, which naturally led me to champion Girls’ Education, Sustainability, Entrepreneurship, and Digital Technologies for Education. This evolution in my advocacy mirrored my personal growth and the evolving priorities I held close to my heart.

Today, whether I’m conducting interviews with some of the world’s most outstanding women on Anita Erskine’s Sheroes, hosting the thought-provoking community development game show “How Can We Help You,” engaging with Africa’s most innovative entrepreneurs on “Africa’s Business Heroes,” or moderating events centered around sustainability or tech innovation, one common thread unites them all—advocacy. Advocacy is intricately woven into the fabric of my career, providing me with a plethora of platforms to apply my skills and wield my influence in service of positive social change.

This role of advocacy has seamlessly integrated itself into my work as a live event and broadcast host, providing me with immense satisfaction as I use my voice and agency to advance the greater good. As I continue to work toward expanding my global footprint, advocacy has grown to become an indispensable and intrinsic component of my professional journey. It empowers me to leverage my talents to champion vital causes and actively contribute to the advancement of a more equitable and compassionate world.

I remain steadfast in my commitment to excellence, recognizing that it demands unwavering dedication, a commitment to continuous learning, and an unshakeable passion for one’s chosen path. I am resolutely committed to harnessing the diversity of my career to leave an indelible mark on the world, aspiring to create a future defined by positive change and empowerment.

Broadcasting in both English and French is quite unique. Could you tell us about your experiences and challenges in bridging language barriers to reach a wider audience?

Indeed, the opportunities to use my bilingualism have been more prominent in live event hosting than in broadcast hosting. While it’s true that there are numerous highly skilled professionals in Africa who seamlessly navigate between French and English, I find that the beauty of this experience lies in the cultural appreciation and understanding that it demonstrates.

Language isn’t just about words; it’s a reflection of culture, history, and identity. Being able to communicate in both languages allows me to connect with a wider and more diverse audience, bridging cultural divides in the process. It’s a glorious aspect of my work that I truly cherish.

Of course, there are moments of challenge, especially considering that my first language is English. There are times when I find myself searching for the French equivalent, and it doesn’t always come to me as quickly as I would like. However, what I’ve discovered is that in those instances, there’s always someone eager to assist, whether it’s a colleague, a guest, or even an audience member. It’s a testament to the power of collaboration and the shared goal of effective communication, regardless of language.

In the end, these challenges only serve to enrich my experience and reinforce the importance of bilingualism in our globalized world. It’s a journey that continually reminds me of the value of linguistic diversity and the connections it enables! Next language? Spanish!

As a professional compère and talk show host, what do you believe are the essential qualities or skills necessary to engage and entertain an audience effectively?

As a self-taught professional compère and talk show host, I’ve learned that certain qualities and skills are essential to engage and entertain an audience effectively. First and foremost, it’s crucial to understand your audience’s needs and emotions. This means being in tune with how they feel at different times of the day for example. 

At a conference for instance, knowing that in the morning, when they’re likely to be more energetic, I aim to tap into that enthusiasm, getting them hopeful and eager for the day ahead. At an awards show there is generally an air of drama, excitement and anxiety. it’s essential to keep things light, precise, and spontaneous to maintain their focus and keep things moving smoothly. 

In the realm of talk television, transparency, authenticity, and simplicity are key pillars to keep your audience hooked. They appreciate honesty and genuine conversations.

Regardless of whether I’m hosting a live event or a talk show, being well-prepared is paramount. This preparation involves having the right information, the right energy, and setting the right expectations. 

Audiences can discern when a presenter is unprepared or just ‘fluffing around,’ and they value their time. Therefore, it’s essential to provide them with the content and engagement they came for.

In essence, understanding the audience, adapting to their moods, maintaining authenticity, and thorough preparation are the key qualities and skills I’ve found crucial for effective engagement and entertainment.

You’ve had the opportunity to interview many influential individuals. Is there a particular interview or moment that stands out to you as especially memorable or impactful?

Let me start off by saying a massive thank you to any and everyone who has agreed to be interviewed by me! Yes, I’ve had the privilege of interviewing numerous influential individuals throughout my career, and I must say that collectively, these experiences have left an indelible mark on me. Each interview, without exception, has imparted something valuable and ignited a profound desire within me to do more.

Currently , I’m engaged in three exciting projects—a documentary, a podcast, and a new TV talk show. Accumulatively, they give me hundreds of people to engage with. I’m genuinely blown away by the depth of experiences, wisdom, and sheer determination that my guests carry within them.

The thing is, every guest and every conversation, without fail, reaffirms why I’ve chosen this path. It’s a reminder that narrative is an incredibly potent tool for driving social change. These interactions have reinforced my belief that storytelling, in all its forms, has the power to inspire, educate, and transform. It’s a constant reminder of the impact we can make when we share the stories and experiences of those who are working tirelessly to make a difference in the world.

So, while I can’t pinpoint a single interview or moment as the most memorable or impactful, I can confidently say that the collective wisdom and passion I’ve encountered through my interviews have only fueled my commitment to using narrative as a force for positive change.

Your advocacy work focuses on girls’ education. What inspired you to become an advocate for this cause, and why do you believe it’s essential in today’s world?

My inspiration to become an advocate for girls’ education was ignited by my involvement with Discovery Communication’s Impact(Ed) initiative, which leverages the power of media to transform education and empower young individuals. Through this project, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in marginalized communities in Northern Ghana, where I gained firsthand insight into the myriad barriers that hinder girls’ access to education.

The experience was nothing short of humbling and eye-opening. I was profoundly moved by the exceptional brilliance and potential of the girls I interacted with, and simultaneously, my heart ached as I witnessed the heartbreaking reasons that prevented many of them from attending school.

It was an experience that fundamentally changed my life and steered my focus toward using my voice as a tool for advocacy in the realm of girls’ education. I firmly believe that promoting girls’ education is not just essential; it is imperative in today’s world. It is the key to unlocking the untapped potential of countless young girls and ensuring that they have the opportunity to thrive and contribute positively to society. 

When we empower girls through education, we uplift entire communities and pave the way for a more equitable and prosperous future for all.

In your experience, what are the key challenges that girls face in accessing quality education, especially in Ghana and other parts of Africa?

I appreciate this question, as it allows me to shed light on the critical issues that my work and mission aim to address. In my experience, there are several key challenges that girls face in accessing quality education, not only in Ghana but also in various parts of Africa:

• Limited Access to Schools: Geography can be a formidable barrier. Many schools are located at a considerable distance from girls’ homes, making it logistically challenging for them to attend regularly.
• Gender Discrimination: Deep-seated gender biases persist, and in some cases, girls are expected to prioritize household chores or early marriage over schooling, denying them the opportunity to learn and grow.
• Poverty and Economic Hardship: Economic struggles often force families to make difficult choices. In some instances, they prioritize the education of male children over females, perpetuating a cycle of inequality.
• Inadequate Resources: Many schools lack essential resources, including textbooks, safe classrooms, and proper water and sanitation facilities. These deficiencies hinder the quality of education available to girls.
• Cultural Norms and Traditions: Cultural practices and traditions, such as early marriage, can lead to girls being pulled out of school prematurely, limiting their educational opportunities.
• Migration: Economic migration is a significant factor. Girls often migrate to urban areas like Accra in pursuit of jobs, diverting them from educational paths.
• Early Pregnancy: Adolescent pregnancies can disrupt education. After childbirth, young mothers may struggle to return to school due to childcare responsibilities or the stigma associated with reintegration into the school community.

In my opinion addressing  these multifaceted challenges requires a concerted effort from various stakeholders. While progress may be slow, it’s essential to remain hopeful. 

Every step forward, no matter how small, contributes to the broader goal of ensuring that girls have equal access to quality education. This mission fuels my energy and determination, as I firmly believe that education is a powerful tool for positive change and gender equality.”

Can you share the story behind the creation of your company? What inspired you to start this venture?

I co-founded the company in 2012 and the story behind the creation of Africa Communications Group was based on making a meaningful and impactful difference in the public relations industry and bringing untold stories to light, especially those in the Pan-African context. storytelling and communications are my passion and sharing that with clients, has been one of the driving forces or inspirations in creating this successful venture.

Being a female founder in the African business landscape, what unique challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them?

I would say some of the challenges I have experienced are not necessarily unique to me, as most women especially in Africa face lack of funding opportunities, legitimate networking opportunities and proper entrepreneurial development and guidance. Personally, I have faced similar circumstances, however I have managed to navigate these challenges successfully with some help along the way from wonderful people! One tip I can share with aspiring female entrepreneurs is find a way to overcome whatever challenge you are facing, even if that means asking for help. 

What challenges and opportunities do you see in the communications industry within the African continent?

Two of the best opportunities I see in the communications industry within the African continent is the rise of youthful creatives, specifically young women who are using the tools available to showcase their abilities and talents (social media) and more courageous decisions being made in business endeavors or content creation businesses. We are storytellers and entertainers by nature and showcasing our talent and capabilities is important. One important challenge that still needs to be addressed is the investment in our people in the communications industry. We are diverse and we speak diverse languages, more funding, investment in digital and physical infrastructure and mentorship in stimulating the growth of the industry will be beneficial for the industry at present and in the near future. 

Balancing work and personal life can be demanding for founders. How do you manage to maintain that balance, especially as a woman entrepreneur?

It is challenging and very demanding! But what I have found that works for me is regularly meditating, journaling or spending time in nature to destress has allowed me the flexibility of spending time with my family and maintaining the proverbial “work/life” balance scenario. This allows me time for myself, which is highly important in any person’s personal life. Having a great team that can take care of business when I cannot, is one of the contributing factors in my ability to handle any challenge that comes my way. 

Mentorship and role models play a significant role. Have you had any mentors who guided you, and how have they influenced your approach to leadership?

A great question! Yes, through my personal and business/career journey I have been fortunate enough to have some of the best mentors/role models guide me and offer me a helping hand. One would be the film director Spike Lee, who played an integral role on my storytelling journey , when I first explored the communications and media industry and Addis Alemaheyou who is an integral and successful businessman in the communications industry in Ethiopia. Both have taught me the importance of humility, stewardship and vision in leadership. Leading is an important aspect in entrepreneurship and knowing one’s strengths is important. 

How do you balance the need for innovation with the necessity of providing reliable and affordable communication services?

Another great question! Reliability comes with being innovative and creative, we can not do things the same all the time and expect different results! What we focus on is bringing value through innovation whilst being affordable. We are one of the best agencies around and quality cannot be emphasized more!

How do you maintain a consistent and authentic personal brand across your LinkedIn content?

One of my strengths is a keen eye for unique and impactful stories within Africa as a whole. As I am a huge advocate for African development and Africa first, shaping the narrative by being truthful and engaging has helped me achieve the consistent and authentic personal branding I enjoy on LinkedIn and other social media platforms as a whole. Promoting the interests of Africa and creating content that resonates and aligns with most of my audience is another important factor. Authenticity and storytelling are important in the arsenal of a personal or corporate brand and their communication platforms!

As a female founder, how do you see yourself as a source of inspiration for other women aspiring to become entrepreneurs in Africa?

Firstly, I must say it starts with YOU! Knowing yourself, believing in yourself, knowing that you are capable and being comfortable with the idea of failure. Yes, you will experience failure at some point in your journey, but do not let that get you down! Personally, I believe that once my audience (specifically women) understand my story and have seen that it is possible, inspiration will naturally gravitate to them. Being authentic and showcasing my capabilities in entrepreneurship, attests to the level of achievement and success a women can enjoy as an entrepreneur in Africa. 

What advice do you have for aspiring professionals looking to make an impact in the industry in Africa?

Do not be afraid, take that leap of faith and trust yourself! You will not have the answers all the time, however you will have the ability to learn and discern. Be authentic, be yourself, connect, respect and innovate! Cultivate a niche that nobody else is investing in, craft your own story and be proud to be in the communications industry in Africa! Networking is important!! 

Can you tell us about your journey and background in the financial industry? What inspired you to found FinTribe?

If someone asked you the kind of relationship you expect Accountants to have with money, you would probably say they are the Pro. If only! When it comes to dealing with corporate finances, we hold our own, but for personal finances, many people are just winging it. That was me back then, a trained Chartered Accountant, doing a brilliant work as the Treasury Accountant in a FMCGs compay, but my own personal finances was a mess. I have always loved money convos. In fact, my friends come to me when they want to brainstorm on money and business-related matters.

At a point, I said enough was enough. I need to do better with my own money. That one decision changed my life. I started learning things that would make better financially. It was at that period I made another important decision I am so grateful for, I decided to share my journey. I started writing about the little steps I was taking to better my finances. Interestingly, many women could relate, both with my money struggles and how I simplify the finance lessons without jargons. Little by little, we became a community on social media. That was the making of the Financial Jennifer brand, the women money Cheerleader.

It was at the time I made the switch from Accounting to Investment banking and became a certified Financial Educator. This even made me more equipped to guide others in their financial journey.

For many people, there is nothing you will tell them about managing their money better that they haven’t heard before. They just needed that push to jump into action. When I was still struggling with money, I belonged to a couple of communities that teach about finances, still I wasn’t taking action until I pushed myself. I decided to do same for other women. What if we came together to become one another’s Accountability partner, no more excuses for not saving and investing. Action women only, that was how FinTribe was born. A women only finance community. We are big on financial literacy, saving/investing together and being one another’s cheerleader. The goal is to build an army of more empowered African women who are intentional with their finances, leveraging the power of community. At the moment, we are over 5,000 women in over 25 countries, doing this money thing together. Looking at figures we have done so far, and the heart warming testimonials from our members on how FinTribe has impacted their lives and families, I just knew that, This is the IT!

As a Female African financial instructor, what unique perspectives or experiences do you bring to your role?

People wonder how I built a relatively large engaged audience in little time, I credit it to my simplicity and relatability. The ability to deliver key lesson in very simple and relatable fashion is a talent I wish for every Finance Instructor. Understanding your environment and speaking to your audience in the language they understand. 

Women are my focus. I understand the struggles of the everyday African woman, both self and societal imposed limitations. I have been through the phase of struggling with money. I am a trained Accountant and certified instructor, combined with my work in Investment industry. All these contribute to how I relate and impact people in my work.

What specific challenges or barriers have you faced building FinTribe, and how have you overcome them?

Over the years, women have been made to believe that they need not be that intentional with their finances, there is a husband/partner to take care of stuff. Then you come along and start to tell them that the indoctrination they received all these years is a lie, that everyone should be the CFO of their lives. Be ready to face challenges getting them to see your point of view. Thankfully, we know better now. And there are so many amazing finance teachers breaking down the mentality of women being the “Oriaku”

Something else that has been a challenge is Trust issues. Ahh, how do you convince someone that has been burnt in the past from Ponzi schemes to consider investments again. Or get someone that has had bad money experience with loved ones to come make money moves alongside other women. Partnering with credible institutions both as custodians and investment partners helped.

We know how powerful what we are building with FinTribe is, we expect challenges, they come, we have amazing women as community members, we remain resilient.

In your opinion, what are the most important financial skills or knowledge that individuals, particularly women, in Africa should possess to achieve financial empowerment?

It’s the simple things really. Always remove a portion of your income for savings/investment. Take time to understand the different investment options you can explore with this fund and take advantage. Money in the bank is idle money. Learn to send your money to work to build wealth for you through investing. It’s a simple formula, live below your means and invest the difference, consistently. Working with a budget helps with this. And if you can, engage a Financial expert for guidance. Think multiple income streams sis. One is usually not enough. To keep you accountable, a community like FinTribe will help you smash your financial goals. 

In your experience, what are some of the common misconceptions or myths about finance that you often encounter, and how do you address them?

Investing is for the Rich. No please. It’s for you and me. Yes, in my work as an Investment banker, I can tell you that Investing is the open secret for the Rich. That’s how they grow their wealth. Why not you too? There are investments you can make with as little as N5,000. In fact, most of the stocks in the Nigerian market cost less than N1,000 per unit.

Another popular one is that a good salary equals financial security. No sis! There are so many High Income-Low net worth individuals. They make good money but spend it all on bills and discretionary purchases. Someone that earns less than they do but saves and invests a portion of their earnings will definitely be the wealthier one. Earning good money is cool, but it’s not only a function of how much you make, but how well you manage and grow it. 

Can you share any success stories of individuals or groups that you have worked with, and how your financial instruction has positively impacted their lives?

In the FinTribe community, we have a testimonial session. Hundreds of women sharing how our guidance has impacted them. Most of them are shareholders in global companies. We have people who believed they are bad with money now saving like Pros. Women buying property, starting businesses. Stay at home mums becoming investment enthusiasts. Students making financial moves a regular working-class person could not. One of our student members recently got 2 properties in her name. Working class women building robust investment portfolios. The list goes on.

There is this drive that comes from being in the midst of other money minded women, the conversation is different, the energy is different. How can you slack with your financial goals when you have over 5,000 other women cheering you. We share some of our members stories on our Instagram page, you can read them here https://www.instagram.com/thefintribe/

What strategies or initiatives do you think can be implemented to improve financial literacy and inclusion, specifically for women in Africa?

Let’s start with dismantling some cultural restrictions on women that limit their earning potentials. Many African culture still see women only good as home makers. In Nigerian alone, financial exclusion for women stands at about 36% according to an EFInA Report. It’s about 245 for men. This is not a surprise when we still don’t value women’s education, some parents don’t invest that much in their daughter’s education, land ownership system that excludes women. And early marriage is still a thing. We need to make away with these gender issues. 

We need to do more on Financial literacy. This is key. Government and organizations should design programs targeting women on Financial education. FinTribe for one look forward to partnerships like this.  

What advice would you give to aspiring female financial professionals who are looking to make an impact in the industry?

We need more people preaching the finance gospel. One advice, keep it simple and relatable.

How do you prioritize self-care and maintain work-life balance in a demanding role as an Investment Banker and FinTribe Founder?

This made me laugh because I know I need to do more in striking a balance. Add the one on one sessions I offer, it can be a whole lot. For starters I outsource the things I can. I have a great team working with me at FinTribe. I continuously find more efficient ways to manage my role at work. Sleeping more and saying No to somethings and persons help a lot. This is a note to self and every woman out there, learn to rest and ask for help. ‘Sufferhead no dey pay.’

Lucy Quist is a Managing Director at Morgan Stanley serving as the Global Head of Firm Resilience. She is the author of the book, ‘The Bold New Normal’.

She is a thought leader and the first Ghanaian woman to head a multinational telecommunications company as the former CEO of Airtel Ghana. She is a co-founder of the Executive Women Network. She served as the Vice President of FIFA’s normalisation committee in Ghana.

She is a member of the boards of INSEAD, Mercy Ships and Margins ID Group. She also serves on the advisory board of Yemaachi Biotech.

Lucy is a chartered electrical and electronic engineer with a first-class honours degree from the University of East London. She is a member of the Institute of Engineering and Technology (UK) and holds an MBA from INSEAD in France. She has decades of corporate experience with blue chip companies starting at Ford Motor Company. She has held senior leadership positions at Millicom, Vodafone and Airtel. Her career spans manufacturing, telecommunications, banking and automotive industries in Europe and Africa.

In this inspiring conversation she takes us through her journey!

So many young women see your life as an inspiration, but did you see yourself in this picture 5 years back, and what was the motivation?

5 years is an interesting timeframe. I started my career in the 1990s. I have been working a long time. The motivation we need is not for the short term but the long haul because this is a long journey. My motivation started in my childhood. It was a motivation to become a leader who positively impacts lives. My journey is far from over and I am grateful that I have had the opportunity to impact lives…more to come.

What’s your take on the inclusion of African women in global organizations?

Not sure what this question means. Global businesses by definition, play across the globe. So quite rightly we should be included. But, we should be included not just because we are African women but first for our competence and then for the fact that we offer an African perspective based on our lived experiences.

As an author, what would you say that the African writing industry is lacking generally?

Lacking? The African writing industry is vibrant making great strides. I read books from the African Writers series as a teenager. Now we have more choice and I would encourage young people to read more books from African writers.

Do you believe that the world will be a better place if women are given the opportunity to lead in the political system?

Women should stop waiting to be given permission to lead politically and go ahead and lead! Our politics needs greater balance, in gender and other aspects of diversity especially in professional and socio-economic backgrounds. That is what will create leadership that makes the world a better place.

Hello Toyosi, thank you for having this conversation with us, tell us about yourself.

I was born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria to easy going parents. I believe I got thrown in their mix to add some excitement. I was a handful. You would always find me where the action was happening. I went to Corona School Victoria Island, Queen’s College, Yaba, Bowen University where I graduated with a 4 point GPA in Economics before going to the University of Nottingham for a Master’s degree in Economic Development and Policy Analysis. 

Post-Nottingham, I came back to Lagos and got a job in the Internal Audit department at a bank which was one of the worst experiences of my life. I, a staunch lover of joy, fun and laughter had no business being in Audit. I found it boring and excruciatingly monotonous and after a very long 3 years, I resigned and moved to New York to study Broadcast Journalism and later Producing at the New York Film Academy. It was during this period I started to write for BellaNaija as a guest contributor. 

 I interned at Complex at the Rockefeller Center for a few months and got a job with Sahara Reporters in the Entertainment Department where I produced and presented a show called, “The Gist with Toyosi Phillips”. I tried to join the US Army when my visa was expiring, alas it wasn’t to be. So, once again, I moved back to Lagos. 

 My first job back in Lagos was as a Production Manager on an NdaniTV series before I joined “ARISE News” as a producer and presenter. I then joined “Folio by CNN” as a Publishing Editor where I was responsible for creating and overseeing the production of short-form content for the Folio Platform. I eventually produced my talk show, “As Toyo Sees” which was licenced by Africa Magic. I then went on to produce shows for other people including Aunty Betty Irabor, Linda Ikeji and the Adefarasins before setting up my company, That Good Media.

 That Good Media is a media solutions company specializing in Talent Management and International Strategic Partnerships amongst other media-related things. 

 What birthed That Good Media HQ, what was the idea behind it?

 I had been consulting unknowingly since 2016 for family and friends. I noticed that people kept coming back for one idea, one advice here and there especially as it pertained to branding and media positioning. I did this for a few years till 2020, COVID year when everyone suddenly wanted digital visibility and strategic placement. It was that year that I decided to put some structure to what was already looking like a business. 

How did you grow your self-confidence to this stage?

 I attribute this quality to my dad. He affirmed me a lot and had all these praise chants for me growing up and these were seeds that grew into this beautiful, fruitful tree of self-confidence. My dad also showed up to defend me multiple times so I never felt like I was doing life alone. Of course, all of that was attacked when he died and I went into self-defense and self-preservation mode. For some people, this mode makes them timid and shy away from any external issues, for others it makes them ready to confront anything head on. I was in the category of “others”. However, over time, as I grew in faith and in the knowledge of GOD, I handed over the reins of my life to HIM, understanding that He would do a better job of defending me than I could myself so, my self-confidence is now rooted in knowing that I cannot fail and that GOD’s got my back. 

What are the major challenges you’ve faced as a young female entrepreneur?

The major challenge for me would be closing my knowledge gaps. I understand that everything I would ever need is on the other side of knowledge and knowledge being so broad can be scary. It’s like where I start? So, when I face anything showing up as a challenge, I immediately move to the, “What do I need to know?” question because I know that the solution to the challenge is in the knowledge I don’t yet have.

 As Africans, we don’t fully appreciate the benefits of female media companies that encompass us, what’s your take on that?

Hmm… I’m not sure I share this same perspective. There are a lot of women leading the conversations in media particularly in Film and TV and I believe that they are being appreciated. I’m inspired by many of the major players in the space. People like Aunty Mo (Abudu), Busola Tejumola, Chioma Ude, Ijeoma Onah, Aunty Bolanle Austen-Peters. We also have Kemi Adetiba, Zulu Oyibo of Inkblot, Aunty Biodun Stephen, Jade Osiberu, Linda Ikeji, Uche Pedro, Aunty Betty Irabor, Stephanie Busari, Tosin Ajibade of Olori Supergal… I mean the list goes on. These women either own or spearhead companies that have made tremendous impact in the media and entertainment space. Can they get more support? Absolutely but you could say that for just about any company.

What was your drive when you started out in this field?

 My drive was telling our stories as authentically and as globally relatabl as I could. It’s one thing to have your nuances as a people, it’s another to relay those nuances in a way that the rest of the world can appreciate and look forward to more of it. So I started off wanting our stories told and understood.

Congratulations on your partnership with Essence, particularly Essence Film Festival, how do you feel about this?

Essence is a 55-year-old brand that continues to stand the test of time. I don’t know that I have the right words to describe exactly how I feel about being in partnership with such a brand. Last year alone, there were half a million people daily at the convention center where Essence Fest holds and over 40 billion digital impressions… 40 billio!. A partnership to promote Nollywood on such a platform is… wild!

While I see the value that a Nollywood presence brings to a stage like Essence, I’m still excited that it’s finally happening. This is a beautiful opportunity for Nollywood to connect with her global counterparts particularly Hollywood. 

Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?

I see myself in the middle of more facilitations for this industry that is now so dear to my heart, Nollywood. Our movies and media content are our biggest exports, and my desire is to see commensurate returns for the players in the industry, from the writers to directors, to cinematographers, to the actors and even the distributors. I want to see a well-paid, overtly lucrative industry over time and in the next 5 years I’ll be facilitating strategic partnerships to make that happen. 

So many young individuals look up to you, what’s your advice to them?

 First and foremost, settle any identity issues you have first before seeking platforms or pedestals because once you’re high up, there’ll be varying opinions of who you are, who you should be and what agenda you should push and If you’re not rooted in the knowledge of who you really are and what you are here (on earth) to do, chances of suffering a crippling, excruciatingly painful identity crisis are high. 

So, find yourself first and there’s no better place to search than within the One who made you.

Everyone knows Francesca Uriri but not everyone knows who Francesca Uriri is, tell us about yourself.

Haha! I like that not everyone knows the “who,” and it’s deliberate.  In a world of social media and rapid-fire consumption, there’s always the danger of being over-exposed, and I think it’s important to keep some parts of yourself quietly tucked away. 

That being said I see myself as a Corporate Communications Leader, Gender Equality Expert and Inclusion & Equity Advocate. I also love jollof rice, moi-moi, taking long walks, reading, praying, journaling, dreaming, and traveling — in no particular order.  

It’s really amazing seeing a woman get up and decide to do what you do, what was the inspiration for Leading Ladies Africa?

I wanted to see a space where African women especially were celebrated and highlighted for their impact and achievements. I wanted to tell the stories of these women, and use that as inspiration to motivate the generations coming behind them. At the time I had this vision, there wasn’t a platform doing that sort of thing, so I decided to create one. 12 years later, after many iterations, this is where we are today. 

Building Leading Ladies Africa you must have faced some challenges, talk us through them.

We’re still building! 

It’s a challenge to have a dream and achieve it. It’s a challenge to get people to believe in and support that dream. It’s a challenge to keep going when you encounter disappointment, delays and obstacles. It’s a challenge to not have the right team to support certain goals and objectives. It’s a challenge to expand and grow, when you want to remain the same. At every given point of our journey as LLA, we’ve witnessed challenges, but all of those (in hindsight) have been opportunities to build muscle and become even more resilient. 

It’s a good thing that you picked a niche obviously to focus on but why African women?

Why not African women? Who is telling our stories? Who is amplifying our impact and achievement? Who is reminding the world that we have been rulers, queens and warriors for centuries? Who are those solving some of the continent’s most pressing challenges? It’s African women. So when you ask why us, I say, why not us? If not us, then who?

What is the idea behind LLA 100 Women Most Inspiring Women in Nigeria List ?Talk to us about your consistency in curating this list consecutively for 9 years.

The idea of the list really came from wanting to highlight and showcase the achievements and impacts Nigerian women make and continue to make all over the world. We have Nigerian women scientists, artists, politicians, astronauts, stylists, doctors, musicians, civic sector leaders, public officials, etc who are making a positive impact, not just in Nigeria, but all over the world. So this list is our way of showcasing and celebrating their work and of course showing how incredibly diverse and unique they are. And we’ve done it for 9 years consecutively because we believe it’s important to keep telling these stories. I’m also glad that several other women-led organizations now have some version of their own #100Women list. We were the only ones doing it when we started 9 years ago. 

Now the world is slowly beginning to see the importance and the roles African women can and will play in all sectors of life but when it comes to leadership positions in politics most African countries are still doing poorly at that, what’s your take on why this is still the same and how it can be solved?

As women we have to play the long game and stay focused on the goal. There’s still deeply rooted cultural, religious, political and systematic bias against women, not just in politics, but in business and in the workplace. So we must keep pressing forward, keep showing up, and keep pulling up to the proverbial table, even when we are not invited.

Men must also do a better job of being allies and advocating for women as well, because that is an element that proves incredibly important. 

Congratulations on being named as one of the Most Influential People of African Descent, how did it feel? 

It felt really good. To be recognized by a platform that recognizes the impact of Africans on Africa and beyond. I was really honored and humbled to be named in the company of those changing the world. 

When you’re not working hard, what would you be caught doing?

This is a very good question. One that I’m now determined to have a better answer for in future. I like to read – all kinds of things, travel, take walks, enjoy nature, spend time with family and friends, and eat. So I’m being more deliberate now about pausing to smell the roses. 

Ndidi Okonkwo Nwuneli is an expert on agriculture and nutrition, entrepreneurship, social innovation, and youth development. She has over 25 years of international development experience and is the founder of LEAP Africa, Changing Narratives Africa and African Food Changemakers. She is also the co-founder of Sahel Consulting Agriculture & Nutrition Ltd. and AACE Foods Processing & Distribution Ltd.

Ndidi serves on the boards of the Rockefeller Foundation, the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), AGRA, Nigerian Breweries Plc. (Heineken), Godrej Consumer Products Ltd. India, the Young Global Leaders of the World Economic Forum, and the Bridgespan Group.

Ndidi holds an M.B.A. from the Harvard Business School and an undergraduate degree with honors from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. She was a Senior Fellow at the Mossavar-Rahmani Center for Business & Government at the Harvard Kennedy School, a visiting Scholar at Max Bell School of Public Policy at McGill University, an Aspen Institute New Voices Fellow, and an Eisenhower Fellow.

Ndidi is TED speaker, was recognized as a Schwab Fellow and a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum and has received numerous awards and recognitions including a National Honor by the Nigerian Government and the 2021 Harvard Business School Distinguished Alumni Award. She is the author of “Social Innovation in Africa: A Practical Guide for Scaling Impact,” and “Food Entrepreneurs in Africa: Scaling Resilient Agriculture Businesses,” both published by Routledge and “Walking for God in the Marketplace.”

In this inspiring interview she speaks to us on her journey through career. Read and Be Inspired!

It’s such an honor to be sitting with you again, please tell us what embodies Ndidi Okonkwo Nwuneli

I am the daughter of the most High God, a wife, mother, daughter, sister, auntie, friend, social entrepreneur, author and public speaer. I am proudly Igbo, proudly Nigerian, Proudly African!

How did the desire for quenching hunger in Africa come about?

Agriculture was my favourite class during my secondary school years as a student at Federal Government College Enugu. However, it was really my encouters in the United States that propelled my passion for transforming the food ecosystem in Africa. At dinner parties and events, people would tell me that their parents always insisted that they finished their dinners because they were starving children in Africa. The realization that the face of Africa was a hungry child and the face of poverty was a female farmer from the Continent made me angry. It was a dangerous single story which the media had perpetuated and I decided to commit my life to changing that narrative. Through my work with Sahel Consulting Agriculture & Nutrition Ltd, AACE Foods and African Food Changemakers, we are addressing critical bottlenecks in the food ecosystem, enabling the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises and launching and scaling sustainable solutions.

There must have been a drive, tell us your secret.

My primary motivation for life and work is my faith in God. I rely on this foundation of faith as the source of my vision, passion and strength, and this has helped me overcome obstacles in my career. I also stay focused on the impact I am having in my journey, including small milestones and quick wins, which keep me motivated to keep pushing forward. I am very disciplined about how I spend my time and juggle my various roles as a serial social entrepreneur, Board member for local and international organizations, wife, mother, sister, auntie and friend. I also work extremely hard and have high expectations of myself. I invest in building and sustaining strong networks and relationships. I am not afraid to ask for help from other entrepreneurs or experts when I need it. I am prepared to learn from others and to begin again.
My mantra steams from a popular African proverb which I have adapted: If you want to go fast, go alone, if you want to go far, go with others. My version is – If you want to go fast and far, leave your egos and logos at the door, and work with humility, integrity and excellence – focusing on a shared vision and goals!

As a female entrepreneur, can you highlight some major challenges you’ve encountered?

Women still face immense struggles in their efforts to achieve their highest potential in many sectors in Nigeria. I have encountered obstacles related to gender roles, stereotypes and expectations. Everyday, I have had to prove myself over and over again. 

I would like to encourage young women to recognize three things:

First to be recognized as an equal in the work place, and to receive your fair share of the income and profits that you generate, manage your time and resources effectively. You must put in your best and ensure that your voice is heard, loud and clear. You must never use your role as a wife, mother, sister, or daughter, as an excuse for underperformance. Invest in life-long learning, always upgrading your skills and surrounding yourself with at least three critical people – a mentor, a champion and a critic. A champion serves as your biggest cheerleader, encouraging you to dream big and achieve results. A critic tells you the truth about your short-comings and provides constructive feedback. A mentor shows you what is possible through their life example.

Second, women are natural givers. Giving opens your heart to the needs of the world and also takes your eyes off your own lack. However, you also have to be prepared to ask for help when you need it, especially as you embark on the journey of marriage and motherhood. Your vulnerability makes you human and does not detract in any way from your self-worth.

Third, as you rise in your profession or industry, leave the door open for other women to enter. Be the first woman president, CEO, leader of an organization, but never the last one. Ensure that you are mentoring and grooming other women to take over from you. Fight against the stereotype that women do not support other women. Instead be recognized as an individual who supports others. Madeline Albright has a quote which I love – “There is a special place in hell for women do not support other women!” I know you want to go to heaven…so start today to serve as an advocate and champion for other women.

Would you say that Africa is slowly coming to terms that women should be involved in every sector, especially in the area of having their own businesses?

African women have always been entrepreneurial, diligent, resilient and hardworking. The major barriers that we face are linked to systemic biases and discrimination that persist and the limited financial and human resources, networks and support systems available for scaling the women led-businesses on the Continent. As a result, most women-led businesses remain micro or small, operating in sectors such a retail, beauty, fashion and primary production. The World Bank Gender Report on Nigeria revealed that female farmers generate 30% less output than their male counterparts and 60% less profits. These gender gaps are unacceptable, and have to be changed urgently through the design and implementation of clear policies that close gender gaps, and the insitution of clear quotas in the areas of financing, market access and support that ensure equity.

Tell us about LEAPAfrica and how it all started.

I established Leadership, Effectiveness, Accountability & Professionalism (LEAP), Africa, in May 2002 based on two convictions. Firstly, Africa desperately needed a new generation of visionary, ethical, creative and disciplined servant leaders; secondly, a small group of people who shared the same vision could work together to change their communities, countries, and the Continent.

Since its inception, LEAP has pioneered leadership, employability, civics, ethics, governance and succession training programmes for youth, teachers, business owners, and civil society. The organization has impacted over one million people indirectly in eight African countries. Its annual Social Innovators Programme and Awards has supported 250 social innovators to scale their work. LEAP Africa has also published eleven books and introduced an eLearning curriculum on ethics, leadership and personal development, which are widely used.

In addition, it has recently launched the LEAP Leadership Institute (LLI) to reach 10 million youth organizers and teachers. Beyond the indicators of our impact and reach, I am most proud of the institution that we have built, synonymous with good governance and ethical leadership.

I am also proud of the alumni of LEAP’s programs who are now leaders in Africa’s private, public and nonprofit sectors. They credit LEAP with providing the foundation for their success. For example, Amal Hassan, founder/CEO of Outsource Global, was a beneficiary of our 2006 program in Kano. This program equipped her with the skills and tools to establish a thriving ICT company that employs over 1,000 young Nigerians. Mosun Layode, one of our pioneer staff who served as my successor at LEAP, is currently the African Philanthropy forum’s executive director. She remains an active supporter of LEAP and credits the organization with providing a conducive environment for her to learn and grow into a leader in the African nonprofit landscape. Behind these two stories are countless other young Africans who challenge the status quo, run for public office, and break barriers in their communities.

I am excited about LEAP’s future as it focuses the next decade on utilizing a systems-level approach to transform secondary education in Africa and raising change agents by facilitating the scaling of social enterprises and nonprofits working to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal (SDGs).

What is Africa going to be looking like in the next 5 years in the area of hunger?

As a continent naturally endowed for agricultural excellence, Africa holds significant potential to not only feed itself but also attain food self sufficiency but also nourish the world.

The Covid-19 pandemic coupled with continued impact of climate change and the conflict in Russia/Ukraine has further highlighted the fragility of the African food ecosystem and the urgent need to look inward to invest in ensuring food self-sufficiency. These shocks have also reinforced the importance of human diets in boosting immune systems and ensuring food security and nutrition.

The reality is that there will be future shocks linked to climate change. As critical stakeholders, we must collaboratively and urgently rebuild the African agriculture and food landscape. This will require a concerted effort to support Africa’s youth entrepreneurs engaged in the agriculture landscape. We must invest in private-public partnerships to create an enabling environment for enhanced value chain competitiveness, transitioning our subsistence farmers to thriving agribusiness entrepreneurs, leveraging digital tools, and climate adaptation strategies. We must also unlock catalytic financing mechanisms, infrastructure including roads, rail, storage, and sustainable energy solutions, which are critical to reducing post-harvest losses, and fostering local value addition and a vibrant ecosystem for nutritious food. Also, we will need to invest in food safety and high standards for our products and build more robust market and trade linkages on the Continent, leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (ACFTA) to ensure greater regional and international trade. Finally, we must prioritize the agency, resources, assets, and skills for women as critical stakeholders in this ecosystem.

No external force can fully address Africa’s agriculture and food challenges. Africans must drive and own the transformation required in the sector. Second, entrepreneurs across the different value chains in Africa must be at the forefront of this transformation; they are the lifeblood of this sector. These African entrepreneurs require support, knowledge, financing, and tools to scale their businesses and leverage the available technology and innovation to leapfrog. They must effectively position and prepare themselves to maximize the opportunities in this sector, projected to exceed $1 Trillion in market value by 2030.

I hope that my work through Sahel Consulting, AACE Foods and African Food Changemakers will inspire more young people to engage in building the food ecosystem. I also hope that my recent book – “Food Entrepreneurs in Africa: Scaling Resilient Agriculture Businesses” will inspire, equip, and support African entrepreneurs to build successful agribusinesses and transform the landscape. It will also inspire policymakers, development partners, and researchers to create an enabling environment for agribusinesses to thrive.

Tell us 5 fun facts about you.

• I was born in a car.
• I have the best siblings in the world and I am a middle child, which has also made me a freedom fighter.
• I love singing and listening to Gospel music.
• I love historical novels and movies.
• My two children light up my life and also challenge me to be a better person on a daily basis.

]]> https://leadingladiesafrica.org/founder-of-leap-africa-ndidi-nwuneli-shines-on-lla-spotlight/feed/ 0 https://leadingladiesafrica.org/gina-din-at-the-fore-front-of-the-public-relations-industry-in-africa/ https://leadingladiesafrica.org/gina-din-at-the-fore-front-of-the-public-relations-industry-in-africa/#respond Wed, 01 Mar 2023 08:29:10 +0000 https://leadingladiesafrica.org/?p=23379  

Gina Din is a Kenyan businesswoman specializing in strategic communication and public relations in Kenya. She is best known as the founder and executive chair of Gina Din Corporate Communications, which she started after leaving her job as a Communications manager at Barclays Bank of Kenya in 1997.

In honor of Women in Public Relations we had this insightful conversation with her. Read and Be Inspired !

Please tell us about the Queen of PR – you pretty much created the PR industry on the continent. Tell us about yourself 

I am definitely not a Queen! I am an authority in the PR space and have been fortunate to work with a number of experienced qualified professionals to develop the PR industry in Africa. Fortunately I have worked with governments, captains of industry and humanitarian organisations who have trusted me with their brands. I built Africa’s most awarded PR agency over a period of 23 years following on from a successful 14 Year career as head of PR for Barclays Bank. My business was acquired by an international communications company three years ago. I currently chair the Brand Leadership Group and together with another outstanding African, Thebe Ikalafeng are helping businesses on the continent by providing African solutions to businesses. I am an entrepreneur, a humanitarian, a wife and my most important role is being a mother. 

From the brands you handled, it’s clear you took your role as an advisor very seriously. What was it like to handle so many brands on a pan African basis?

It has been a magical and fascinating journey. My business has been collaborative and reciprocal. The brands have been premier brands who understood the value we brought to their businesses. It was also, at times schizophrenic, with us having to take on the persona of the brands, be it in the financial, aviation, energy, real estate or telecoms industry. To understand and represent these brands one has to learn and become an expert in the various fields. I feel very satisfied in the way we impacted so many brands in so many countries. I am proud of the business we created and as a pioneer we definitely disrupted the PR industry on the continent. 

There are so many businesses and in particular women around the continent who want to be the next Gina Din. What would you say to them?

That’s the reality of being a pioneer. We lead, others follow. It’s an enormous compliment. What I think is hard to imitate, or copy is someone’s internal vision and I am happy that we weren’t simply a copy and paste of something that already existed. Once you show the world around you that it can be done, you realise and appreciate you can’t capture all the value for yourself and you welcome and encourage others to find their niche. I would hope that the women creating their own businesses want to be the best version of themselves and not the next Gina Din. 

You recently wrote a book, your autobiography, Daughter of Africa that’s already creating conversations in many different rooms, including the prestigious Oxford University, about the need for more African women to tell their story. Tell us about that. 

Yes indeed. The book, Daughter of Africa, is about my life but the purpose is much bigger. As I was writing, I realised so few of us African women tell our stories. Too often our stories are told about us but, not by us. Through a different lens. Very often it’s not our story. 

Women of the continent don’t need to be saved or rescued, they simply need knowledge of their own power and how to access it. I hope by having these conversations I can encourage more women to tell their stories in their own words. 

We must never forget, the story of the African woman is a strong story and we know the stories of some of our greats. 

Let’s, for a minute look at the story of Taytul Betul, the third wife of Emperor Menelik of Ethiopia who led the anti-resistance during the 19th century scramble for Africa that ensured that Italy doesn’t colonise Ethiopia – the only country that wasn’t colonised because of her. 

In my very own country, Kenya, we look at Wangari Mathai, who had the vision and the foresight of climate change before most of the world did. Who went on to win the Nobel peace prize. 

In South Africa we look at Winnie Mandela, who for 27 years showed the strength of women by fighting the apartheid era and, many would argue, kept the Mandela name alive in South Africa and around the world. 

In Nigeria the story of Chief Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti the Nigerian educator, political campaigner, and human rights advocate who was the power behind her great son Fela Kuti and who supported her son’s criticism of Nigeria’s military government, before succumbing to wounds after a tragic military raid on family property. 

These are some of the stories that, luckily were told. There so many untold stories of strong, resilient African women that are doing incredible things every day and we don’t hear of them. My vision and my dream, is for other Daughters of Africa to tell their story. 

From what we read or hear when you are speaking, you are consistently challenging the status quo 

That is true. As women we must keep pushing the women agenda forward and challenging the status quo because we rarely are the status quo. It’s important not just for me but for so many women around the continent that want to leave strong legacies. I want to continue to move the ball forward for women on the continent in business and political spheres. Alone, as African women we have power, together and collectively we have impact. I want to live a life of impact. 

Are you happy with the progress so far. Is there progress in the women agenda on the continent. 

I actually don’t think the women’s agenda is simply women’s issues. They are issues of national importance and we simply can’t be arguing about that in the year 2023. There’s progress but it’s slow. In Kenya we have seen in the new administration more women in government and at policy level which is very good news. In Rwanda, Namibia, South Africa and Senegal there’s also been encouraging progress. We are still a long way away from an equal and level playing field. We must ensure women are at all tables where decisions are being made. As women we must raise our voices until that happens. 

In your view, is Africa held to a different standard both politically and in the business world?

There’s no doubt in my mind we are definitely held to a different standard. The global narrative is often about the threat of Africa as opposed to the opportunity on the continent when in fact there has been remarkable progress. The continent is enormously diverse with a growing population and substantial resources, it’s sad that in the international media there’s often an oversimplified and distorted version of who we are. As someone who has run and built a business I have first-hand experience of being held to a different standard to someone who has built a business in a different country. Part of my reason for encouraging more Africans, in particular women, to tell their stories is so we can ensure there’s more equality and for us to realise the responsibility of shaping the African narrative lies with us. If we don’t take up that responsibility, we will continue to be treated differently. Similarly in the political sphere there has been more improvement than we often get credit for. There’s more political participation, enhanced adherence to the rule of law and improvement in transparency and accountability. There’s been democratic decline in Central Asia, Eastern Europe and Asia Pacific and in parts of Latin America and the Caribbean, yet too often we only hear about the fragile democracies of the continent. 

What do you enjoy doing when you aren’t writing books, advising businesses and winning awards? 

I like to read, spend time with my family and travel. I really enjoy experiencing new places and am always in awe of the beauty of the world. 

You have scaled many mountains in your life. What’s next for you. 

Yes I have scaled many mountains. After climbing one, you suddenly find another one to climb and you train for your next mountain. What I had forgotten, was the climb I had climbed, the beautiful and sometimes challenging terrain. I am excited for my next climb. The unknown has never let me down. 

Tokunboh Ishmael is Co-Founder and Managing Director of Alitheia Capital, an investment management and advisory firm focused on channeling private equity investments into businesses and real estate assets to enhance access to finance, energy and housing for the excluded at the base of the economic pyramid.

She is a global voice for creating wealth and impact by unlocking the potential of businesses that provide access to essential goods and services that address the needs of ordinary folk in Africa to enable them to reach their full potential while driving for superior financial performance and shared prosperity.

In her  previous roles as Managing Director of Avante Capital Ltd she advised on a number of acquisitions in the oil and gas sector including the acquisition and financing of a government-owned refinery and led the first secondary listing of a Nigerian company on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange.

We had the pleasure of having this interview with Ms Tokunboh. Read and Be Inspired!

Tokunboh Ishmael is definetly a global name, give us an insight about yourself.

I am a global voice for creating wealth and impact by unlocking the potential of businesses that provide access to essential goods and services that address the needs of ordinary folk in Africa to enable them to reach their full potential while driving for superior financial performance and shared prosperity. I am a pioneer ESG and impact investor, and an innovator in investing with a Gender Lens to proactively finance female founders and businesses that impact on the livelihoods and wellbeing of women. I am passionate about shared prosperity and the role of gender consciousness in the investment process to achieve higher than normal returns. 

I am a wife, mother, and triathlete. I scale mountains on bike and foot, swim in lakes and the open wild.

Over 15 years ago, I co-founded Alitheia Capital, a female-led pioneering impact investing private equity firm that embodies the philosophy of true profit with purpose. With Alitheia’s support, several of the firm’s portfolio companies are solving some of Africa’s intractable problems using innovative business models, services, and products. In 2015, I also co-founded Alitheia IDF (AIF) Fund, a $100m gender smart investing fund, investing in women-led, women-focused, and gender diverse businesses in sub-Saharan Africa employing gender factors as a source for superior returns. AIF is Africa’s first and largest gender smart private equity fund.

Beyond the above, I am a Yale World Fellow, a CFA Charterholder, a member of the inaugural class of the Aspen Institute’s Finance Leaders Fellowship, and the immediate past chair of the African Private Equity and Venture Capital Association (AVCA). I sit on several corporate boards – including the Earthshot Prize (a charity launched by the Prince of Wales, Prince William, and David Attenborough), Endeavor Nigeria, Paga Group, First City Monument Bank (FCMB), amongst others. I was a panellist on the Dragons Den Nigeria TV show and the founder of Yellow Cowries, a platform that employs gamification to teach financial literacy to young people and entrepreneurs.

As a dynamic speaker I share my over two decades of knowledge on topics including Private Equity and Venture Capital in Africa; ESG and Impacting Investing; Gender Lens Investing; and Diversity and Inclusion. 

Wow, amazing!! How did you decide to tow this path? 

My mother influenced my career path from an early age. She was a computer programmer in the late 60s and so introduced me to the power of computing from an early age. I also inherited my persistence and resilience from her. In fact, she used to joke that my stubborn streak has its provenance in the first waters I drank as a baby in my birthplace, Hamburg, Germany. So, it was no surprise to my parents when I chose to study Computer Science and Economics despite my top grades at a time when computing was not in fashion and only pursued by those who did not make the grades required for their first choice course. This was my first foray on the path less travelled, a trait that has been a reliable backdrop of my career.

Post, my First Class Combined Honours degree in Computer Science and Economics (Ife), I went on to achieve a Masters in Advanced Computing Methods (London) and an MBA in Finance and Strategy from the London Business School (London). These qualifications provided the bedrock for an interesting and varied career including programming software and building computers for companies and banks in the city of london, advising companies on mergers and acquisitions strategy as an investment banker on Wall Street (where I executed transactions valued at over $5billion), and developing financial technology businesses in Silicon Valley in the late 90s. Collectively, these stents prepared me to be a private equity professional and Fintech investor in Africa as early as 2009. In particular, my Computer Science background and time in Silicon Valley deepened my interest in venture capital and private equity investing, especially in harnessing technology to enable shared prosperity through inclusion and access to affordable essential services. As a pioneer Impact, Fintech and Gender Smart investor, I have witnessed, up close and personal, the growth and digital transformation of essential sectors such as financial, energy and health in Africa.  

In 2003, I moved to Nigeria to take up an opportunity as the first Country Partner for Aureos Capital where I successfully raised funding to complete a $50mn fundraising exercise for the Aureos West Africa Fund – the first of its kind at the time. Following my time at Aureos, I led Avante Capital, a boutique investment advisory firm, where I advised on several transactions including the acquisition and financing of a government owned refinery and the first secondary listing of a Nigerian company on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. Over the course of my career as a corporate financier, investment banker and private capital investor, I have worked on transactions across the United States, United Kingdom, and Africa, and acquired extensive experience on business development, the business of technology, and development finance.

In 2007, I co-founded Alitheia Capital in Lagos.

As the current Managing Director and Co-founder of Alitheia Capital, a women-led firm. Can you tell us a bit about Alitheia Capital and the work that is being done?

Alitheia Capital is one of the few female-led fund management firms in Africa. I co-founded Alitheia with the vision of providing catalytic capital for businesses that drive access to essential services and inclusive prosperity by addressing business, social, and environmental needs in Africa. Alitheia’s investment thesis is embodied by the principle of doing well by doing good. That is to say that Alitheia Capital’s investments seek to generate financial, social and developmental returns, which we achieve by investing in inclusive business models.

Alitheia prioritises agribusiness, financial services, and other essential consumer goods (technology, health, energy, and education) where certain products, services and population have been underserved. We are one of the few impact investing funds active in Africa and are focused on driving economic prosperity for all stakeholders – especially those at the bottom of the economic pyramid.

Over the years, Alitheia has invested in several innovative enterprises driving inclusion – be it financial, gender, energy – and enabling access to essential services and products. Our portfolio companies include Paga, Tomato Jos, Lidya, Oradian, SKLD, Mainstreet Microfinance Bank, ReelFruit, SparkMeter, Baobab Microfinance Bank, Jetstream Africa, Innovative Microfinance, and Chikas. Crucially, Alitheia invests in businesses or sectors that engage a significant percentage of women either as entrepreneurs, producers, distributors, or consumers.

The African Economic Sector is one which has been for years dominated by the men in the society. What are your thoughts on this and how can more African women take up space here?

Africa is a continent with potential and it presents savvy investors with an opportunity for generating a multiple fold return on investment. Through the Africa Free Trade Continental Agreement (AfCFTA), the continent is the largest free trade area in the world bringing together a fast-growing population of over 1.3 billion people, with a projected spending power of $6.7trn and GDP of $3.4 trillion. The implication is that consumer goods and other essential services and products will continue to witness significant growth in terms of consumer spending and investor funding because they serve the basic needs of most people. Indeed, investing in Africa with an eye on of the quadruple bottom line of purpose, people, planet, and profit has the potential to unleash significant economic and social growth for Africa and Africans. 

However, to unlock this growth and unleash prosperity for all, we must engage all Africans by investing in underserved markets and historically underfunded segments of the population – specifically, women. The reality is that small businesses are the engine of economic growth with female entrepreneurs running over 40% of businesses on the continent, controlling an estimated $40 trillion in spending power globally, and enabling access to essential services and products as cross border traders, informal traders, and critical players in the value chain of businesses. Despite their strategic presence in the economy as entrepreneurs, distributors, and consumers, women are underfunded with only about 2% of female entrepreneurs receiving formal funding. This represents a significant loss of economic and social potential for Africa’s economy – in other words: gender inequality is costly, economically and socially. To solve for this and stir inclusive economic growth, more gender lens investing funds like Alitheia IDF are needed to continue driving funds into women-led, women-focused, and gender diverse businesses.

Although more investors and policy makers are increasingly gender conscious, there’s still much work to be done. However, to repair this historical underfunding of women, Africa also need more women as decision makers at the investor side of the table. Currently, women make up less than 25% of the fund managers active in Africa. One could easily draw a connecting line between female underrepresentation on the fund level with the underinvestment of female entrepreneurs because factors like (un)conscious bias and lack of access to female network, amongst other things, means that the private capital investment sector – historically dominated by men – are unaware of and/or uninterested in products that serve women or the economic imperative of female entrepreneurs. Therefore, to effectively support women-led and women-focused businesses, Africa needs more female fund managers who are themselves adequately supported and empowered to identify and support other women. Ultimately, diversity in investment and in representation is good for the economy and will ultimately unleash economic prosperity for all Africans. 

Building a career like this must have been a very challenging one, can you highlight some of these challenges and how you were able to deal with them.

I have faced discrimination and exclusion in addition to being overlooked to the benefit of male colleagues, and sometimes Caucasian female colleagues, on a number of occasions. Nonetheless, I have not allowed this to deter my personal and professional pursuits. Rather, I have used my unique capabilities and differences as leverage for differentiation and innovation. Also, when I have encountered roadblocks whether in fundraising or other endeavours, I have listened to the feedback and employed this to develop more powerful, innovative and attractive propositions. My guiding light has been my spiritual compass and my quest to prove the naysayers wrong!

What is one rule you swear by? 

Intentionality is necessary for the successful pursuit of your dreams and purpose.

What advice would you give to the younger generation who see you as an inspiration? 

Believe in yourself. Be intentional. Do not let ‘No’ stop you from pursuing your dream. 

What would you say to your younger self? 

Trust your instincts!

Check out Tokunboh Ishamael:

Twitter: Tokunboh Ishmael

LinkedIn:Tokunboh Ishmael 

Website: Tokunboh Ishmael

Abai Schulze is founder of the creative, new Afro-luxe brand ZAAF who create handcrafted luxury leather handbags and accessories produced by artisans in Ethiopia.

 Abai, born in a remote village in Ethiopia, has had a truly remarkable life journey. Her journey has taken her from an orphanage in Addis Ababa to the United States where she was raised, and back to Ethiopia. The Ethiopian-American entrepreneur has been able to combine her background in economic development and love for fine arts and creativity into a successful brand. Through ZAAF, she seeks to create unique products, open up avenues of opportunity for talented local artisans, and promote brand Ethiopia.

Today, she passionately uses her background in economics and fine arts to create unique and practical expressions of beauty, and to open avenues of opportunity for talented artisans in Ethiopia and the rest of Africa. Her designs draw upon precious cultural relics and allow them renewed expression through fresh, uplifting and modern designs.

Schulze graduated from George Washington University where she majored in Economics and minored in Fine Arts. At the core of her entrepreneurial journey, which she terms as an exciting adventure, is to be able to impact people on an individual level.