Wana Udobang’s guide to balancing side and main hustles
[bctt tweet=”Working in full-time employment helped in many ways – @MissWanaWana” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Wana Udobang is a producer and director of the documentaries; “Sensitive Skin” a documentary film about the skin condition Psoriasis; “Nylon” a short documentary on memory, trauma, and loss; and the documentaries-series “Warriors” exploring the lives of people with sickle cell disease. She also is the creator of the poetry series “Words and Inspirations” and the interview series “Culture Diaries”. Wana wrote and directed the web series “Room313” and the short film “Shrink”. She plays Visha in the award winning Burkinabe film “Frontiéres”. Wana has worked with the BBC Radio4, BBC world service, 92.3 Inspiration FM and Resonance FM. Her work has appeared on Aljazeera, Guardian UK, Guardian Nigeria, Index on Censorship, and Brittle Paper. She graduated from the University for The Creative Arts with a first class degree in Journalism. Wana is creative director of WanaWana productions and hosts the television show Airtel Touching Lives. Interested to know how this media lady keeps all her creative work in equilibrium, SLA contributor Anuli interviewed Wana for some insider tips. [bctt tweet=”I don’t think I ever saw myself as a celebrity and I still don’t. I have always focused on the work and that is what I continue to do” via=”no”] Tell us how your journey began? I wrote poetry as a teenager. It became a source of catharsis for me. I studied journalism at university and I always enjoyed cinema and documentary so I decided to try my hand at it as opposed to talking about it so much You have been in employment before launching out to create your own niche. Would you say employment helped hone some, if not most of your skills? Working in full-time employment helped in many ways. Whether it was pitching ideas or having a 360 view of how the media worked and of course the general discipline of managing your time. On Air Personalities (OAP) in Nigeria are seen or celebrated as celebrities. How do you keep evolving and stay relevant? I don’t think I ever saw myself as a celebrity and I still don’t. I have always focused on the work and that is what I continue to do. Make sure that my work is getting better, I learn more interesting ways to engage and connect with audiences but I think what drives me stays the same. Which is how I can tell powerful and meaningful stories that can make an impact. While working as an OAP on Inspiration FM, where you also doing other gigs? Please tell us what they are. I was mostly writing and performing poetry. So I was a columnist at NEXT newspapers, wrote for Bella Naija and other platforms. I was also hosting events and moderating panels and discussions at conferences. Also, I worked with brands on marketing campaigns as an influencer. I did a bit of TV presenting but none of it was a conflict of interest to my full-time job You currently host Airtel Touching Lives. Were you holding down a day job when this opportunity came? What would you say was the x-factor that made you the preferred choice to host this show? Yes, I still worked on the radio whilst I shot both the first and second season. I really can’t tell you if there was anything special but I hope that my genuine interest, commitment and need to connect came through and fingers crossed that was something that stood out So which of your roles or jobs would you say are main and side hustles? I think hosting events are a side hustle but everything else is part and parcel of my career. I think when you see things as a side hustle then they become that. [bctt tweet=”I think when you see things as a side hustle then they become that – @MissWanaWana ” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] How do you give your all to your hustles and still deliver top quality work? I don’t really approach anything as important from the other. I see it all as one entity with myself as project manager. This for me means that adequate planning, time management with expectations and deliverables go into everything that I do. You just aired a Youtube Series called Warriors. Before that, you aired Culture Diaries and Room 313. Tell us about any challenges or obstacles in shooting these series and how you overcame them, please? Money is the main obstacle. These projects have all been self-funded which means a lot of the time, you are pulling in favours so you have to work around other people’s time as they are helping you out. So you don’t have as much control as you would like because you are working around other people’s schedules and dependent on their goodwill. Now, let’s talk finance. How have you been able to get your work (side and main hustles) out to the world without going bankrupt? I really take advantage of the internet and social media. It has been quite revolutionary in helping to not just share my work but in building a community and audience for the work. And most of that takes my work than money. I literally live online. Please share 3 quick rules in ensuring one stays on top of their hustles I would say Planning, Time Management and Create value (be the best at it) If you’d like to share your story with She Leads Africa, let us know more about you and your story here.
SheHive London: September 21st – 24th 2017 at The Africa Centre
[vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1448373453827{margin-top: -30px !important;}”][vc_column][vc_column_text]After heading to Lagos, Accra, Abuja, NYC, Nairobi, London 2016, Lagos, Joburg, Cape Town, Washington DC & Toronto, The SheHive came for round two in LONDON!!!![/vc_column_text][vc_raw_html]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[/vc_raw_html][vc_single_image image=”20179″ img_size=”full”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1448373453827{margin-top: -30px !important;}”][vc_column][timetable id=”6″][/vc_column][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][instagram-feed type=hashtag hashtag=shehivelondon][/vc_column_text][vc_column_text] Thanks to our amazing #SheHiveLondon partners and sponsors! [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”43209″][vc_column_text]Our official venue sponsor The Africa Centre[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”42796″][vc_column_text]Our official catering sponsor Papa L’s Kitchen[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”42795″][vc_column_text]Our official drinks sponsor The Hunters Cocktail[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”35699″][vc_column_text]Our official accommodation sponsor Westmont Hospitality Group[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”43284″][vc_column_text]Our official media sponsor Bella Naija[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”43309″][vc_column_text]Our official alcohol sponsor J&B Scotch[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Public Relations vs. Advertising
[bctt tweet=”In PR, The “public” is anyone who ever has/will form an opinion about the client” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] What is Public Relations? Public Relations is a strategic communication process that builds and manages mutually beneficial relationships between Organizations and the Public. The “public” is anyone who ever has or ever will form an opinion about the client. These could include clients, potential clients, members of the community, the media, online fans etc. Public relations success requires a deep understanding of the interests and concerns of each of these and how to effectively address them through Publicity. What is advertising? Advertising is the act of announcing, praising or drawing attention to a product, service or event in a public medium in order to promote sales or attendance. What are the similarities between Public Relations and Advertising? PR agencies and advertising agencies share the same goals: promoting clients and making them seem as successful, honest, important, exciting or relevant as possible. But the paths to achieving this are different. [bctt tweet=”PR & advertising agencies share the same goals but different paths to achieving them” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] How is Public Relations different from Advertising? Newspapers, radio and TV stations (especially local ones) are always looking for fresh story ideas, particularly those with a “human interest” angle. A PR professional crafts press releases resembling a compelling news story, making it clear why his client’s product, service or personal history is important. The goal is to fulfill the journalist’s requirement for news while enhancing the client’s image in the public eye. PR agencies, as opposed to advertising agencies, promote companies or individuals via editorial coverage. This is known as “earned” or “free” media stories appearing on websites, newspapers, magazines and TV programs as compared to “paid media” or advertisements. Since advertising is paid for by the client, it is thus viewed with skepticism. Articles or TV appearances in respected publications have the advantage of third-party validation and are generally viewed more favourably. Another huge difference is the price. Public Relations in the media is free if done directly by the company. PR firms also charge monthly retainers or can be hired for specific projects. Advertising can be very pricey when you figure the cost of the space or time plus the creative designs and production costs. And most advertisements need to be repeated several times before the consumer can be influenced. Publicity has greater longevity than advertising. An article about your business will be remembered far longer than an advert. Publicity also reaches a far wider audience than advertising generally does. Sometimes, your story might even be picked up by the national media, spreading the word about your business all over the country. [bctt tweet=”An article about your business will be remembered far longer than an advert” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Advantages of Public Relations over Advertising Advertising builds exposure whilst Public Relations build trust. Advertising leaves a sceptical audience whilst public relations because of its endorsement by the media, validates and legitimises the audience. Because it’s in their best interest to sell you more ads, advertisers tell clients what they want to hear whilst PR people who deal with crises, image enhancement and creation of long-term relationships, where your story often must be accepted by others (the media) before you obtain recognition, will tell you what you need to hear. Advantages of Advertising over Public Relations Advertisers maintain creative control of output whilst Public Relations has no final say in output which rests in the hands of the media. Advertising uses visuals whilst Public Relations use language for persuasion. With Advertising, you are guaranteed of a placement in the media platform but with Public
Facebook Live chat with Anita Ottenhof: How I built a world class hospitality business(Aug 23)
It’s certain that one thing that can make or break your business, is your approach to customer service. Gone are the days of saying “This is Africa” as an excuse to mediocre and bad service delivery. It’s all over Jackie. Join us for a Facebook Live discussion on Wednesday, Aug 23rd, with hospitality and customer service expert – Anita Ottenhof, who will teach you how excellent customer service can help you build a world class hospitality business. [bctt tweet=”Learn how to build a world class hospitality business with excellent customer service(Aug. 23)” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Anita Ottenhof operates a luxury boutique hotel in Ghana – Villa Monticello which has a 100% female management team and has recently been nominated by the World Travel Awards in the category of Africa’s Leading Boutique Hotel. Being in operation for 6 six years now, Anita wants to prove to the world that excellence can be achieved in Africa by an African woman. Register below to join this session and ask Anita all your pressing questions. Some of the topics we’ll cover Breaking into the Hospitality Industry How customer service can make or break your business Training your staff to be customer service champions 5 steps to having a customer service focused culture Facebook Live Details: Date: Wednesday, August 23rd, 2017 Time: Accra 1 pm // Lagos 2 pm // Joburg 3 pm Where: facebook.com/sheleadsafrica/ Watch video here: https://www.facebook.com/sheleadsafrica/videos/1929206840635960/ About Anita With almost ten years of extensive experience in the hospitality and travel industry within Europe and Africa, beginning her career in Amsterdam with KLM, Flying Blue, Anita Ottenhof has a natural flair and passion for exceptional customer service, and for the past three years has been a part of the management team at Ghana’s premier luxury boutique hotel Villa Monticello. Stemming from a credible background, she holds a degree in Travel and Hospitality Management from ROC College Leiden- Netherlands and a certificate for strategic marketing for hotels and restaurants from the Cornell Hospitality School in Ithaca, New York. Having completed first class training at Africa’s leading boutique hotel – “The Saxon” and various hotels within the continent, Anita is well equipped to take on a challenge. She is an innovative and versatile professional with excellent interpersonal skills and a drive for consistency with an eye for detail. With a profound understanding of the hospitality industry, Anita foresees the need and acquirement for quality-trained hospitality personnel’s within Africa. She is currently studying a HR course at the International Hotel School in Johannesburg, which will enable her to facilitate programs that will support the Human Resource division in her industry.
How to land a job in the (Kenyan) public sector
[bctt tweet=”It’s easy to get a job in the public sector, provided you’re is confident, a go-getter and have experience ” via=”no”] When it comes to landing a job with the government, many people think it is a tall order that can’t be achieved by common citizens. According to Aziza Said, a communication professional working under the presidency, it is easy to get a job in the public sector, provided one is confident, has a go-getter mentality and experience in a related field. Here’s a summary of what the young Kenyan lady believes propelled her into getting a job in the public sector and keeping it so far. Confidence and immeasurable experience Working in the public sector is like working in any other job. As such, an interested candidate should have the common and necessary qualities such as relevant education and experience in the field. Above all, one needs confidence and a belief in self- qualities that push one to seek opportunities that will help them to grow in that field. Prior to working with the government, Aziza was a radio program host for two local stations. Here, she had an opportunity to put into practice her acquired skills. She expanded on people skills, a quality that is crucial, especially, while working in a government office. Excellent communication skills It is Aziza’s duty to ensure that information from the government reaches the public. Information is important in improving the lives of the citizens. “I am also keen on informing Kenyans about the country’s performance in the global market,” she adds. Communication skills are vital when it comes to performing these duties, as well as interacting with the public. This does not apply to communication professionals alone. All public servants should be able to communicate and interact well with colleagues and the general public at large. [bctt tweet=”All public servants should be able to communicate and interact with their colleagues & the public” via=”no”] Know what the Constitution says about your duties as a public servant The Constitution stipulates what public servants should and shouldn’t do. It is therefore important for government officers to know what the Constitution says about their field of work. As a media practitioner, the constitution has separate clauses that inform us how information should be collected, reviewed and shared with the public. Articles 31, 33, 34, and 35 of the Kenyan Constitution give a guideline on how to handle and disseminate information. [bctt tweet=”The good thing about the government is that there are training opportunities for every employee” via=”no”] Be on the lookout for opportunities to advance self The good thing about the government is that there are training opportunities for each and every employee. It is the duty of the particular public servant to identify and attend such training opportunities to increase their knowledge on a specific area. Public servants are also encouraged to go back to school for higher education. The good thing is when there are promotions; those with more experience and education are considered and rewarded. Aziza believes she’s grown immensely in the past two years since joining the government. She advises citizens to be on the lookout for job adverts in the Kenya Gazette, local dailies, and relevant websites, as well as keep tabs with those working in such offices, also known as networking. “Look at the requirements for every posting and avail all the necessary documents, as this is where the initial short-listing process starts,” Aziza advises.
Mary Njoki: Glowing from the inside out
[bctt tweet=”I had an idea of starting a company that embraced clear communication with its clients & employees” via=”no”] Mary Njoki is a young leader in the entrepreneurship industry in Kenya. Unemployment is a major challenge faced by Kenyan youth but Mary Njoki defied the odds and began her own company. Glass House PR was created with a starting capital of around Ksh. 6,000 (around $57). Having studied a different course work in college, she gained her first experience in the media when she interned with K Krew. Her internship ignited her love for Public Relations. Later, she secured a job with an Information Technology company that absorbed her as a marketer. In August 2012, she decided to begin her journey as an entrepreneur. Her contribution to the media industry has been impactful since then. She admits that starting the company was not an easy and a smooth road. The first year of business was rough because she could not make money. Mary realized that there was a lot of groundwork needed for her company to gain establishment in the industry. Presently, her company has worked with the big companies such as Google and Facebook. Her company is award winning in Kenya and Africa. Mary has won an award in South Africa as a young female entrepreneur. Who is Mary Njoki beyond Glass House PR? I am a young woman who is a sanguine-phlegmatic. I seek to serve others while finding fulfillment. My temperament enables me to be social with people and learn from them. I love prayer. I am a church leader and a sibling of one. Also, I am a leader of different associations in Africa in line with entrepreneurship like Africa Rise. My temperament comes in handy for her career because I able to be articulate and relatable to while addressing people on stage. How did you create the name of your company? When I planned to create my own company, I opted for expert opinion about my decision. I approached a brand manager who I told that I had an idea of starting a company that embraced clear communication with its clients and employees. I was asked by the brand manager what I had in mind and I said, “I wanted clarity and transparency”. This was because of my previous experience at work where I consistently saw this as a challenge. The manager wrote a list of names that brought out clarity and transparency. Once I saw Glass House PR I instantly realized that this would be the name I would work with. [bctt tweet=”The first year of Mary Njoki’s business was rough, she could not make money” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] How have events impacted Glass House PR? I keep myself updated on the events that can develop the company. I also create events in line with marketing for our company which enables the company to grow. What is the most important aspect of your life? I think it is growth. I am actively seeking to grow mentally, physically and spiritually. Growth is key in developing a person holistically. What is your advice for young people? Always understand that life is about learning. This will help you grow. It is challenging to live in a world that is information centered. Our generation has a weakness of thinking that we know everything because there is a lot of information released for us. But learning to have an attitude of learning and interacting with people who can mentor you enables a person to grow. Also, understanding that we live from the inside out. We ought to be people who feed ourselves from the inside out. We cannot give what we do not have. However, learning how to live from the inside out by feeding our souls and spirits makes us live as complete human beings. [bctt tweet=”Our generation has a weakness of thinking that we know everything because there is a lot of information” via=”no”] How has Glass House PR impacted the society? Glass House PR has developed a hangout for young entrepreneurs dubbed a billion start-up. A billion startup is a network of 100 entrepreneurs which enables people to learn and interact with other entrepreneurs for development of their company. It has created a network for young entrepreneurs. Glass House PR is teaching young entrepreneurs on different levels without a fee. It is offering training for free for young entrepreneurs. What is the future of Glass House PR? Glass House PR will be the ultimate outlet for content in Africa. It will build more products to integrate the company as a content hub in Africa. I think that the world offers a platform for everyone to use their skills and improve the world. This gives everyone an audience of their own to become the best in their industry. If people will live a life on the inside out they will achieve satisfaction. It will make people live true to themselves and the world. The attitude of living a life from the inside out will make a person glow. It will make them glow genuinely without faking anything as opposed to the common belief in the society. This will make people live honest lives that reflect who they are from the inside out. If you’d like to share your story with She Leads Africa, let us know more about you and your story here.
How to balance multiple jobs
[bctt tweet=”Be honest with yourself and what you can and can’t handle” via=”no”] These days, side hustles are the new hobbies and working more than one job is pretty much expected. Between paying off student loans and getting the rent check in on time, it’s no wonder more working class people leave their 9-5’s and clock in for a 5-9 right after. Although working those long hours can be vigorous, it’s commendable. One trait that highly successful people share is that they’re persistent, meaning grind until your goals are reached by any means. Oprah didn’t become Oprah by showing up to work and then kicking her feet up afterward, so why should you? Stick to a schedule Since your time is now limited and especially precious, every minute counts. Staying on schedule will make your tasks flow more easily and relieve you of the stress of forgetting to complete something. Although it seems obvious, keeping a calendar with your tasks detailed by day will be extremely helpful. Keep your calendar in a place where you are productive and visit often such as your desk. Prioritize If you’re busy at job 1 planning an annual fundraiser, it’s probably not the best time to pick up an extra shift at job 2. Be honest with yourself and what you can and can’t handle. [bctt tweet=”Staying on schedule will make your tasks flow more easily ” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Be realistic with your time Stretching yourself too thin isn’t beneficial if you work a full-time job and have clients to please for your personal business. Therefore, be realistic and don’t sacrifice sleep in the meantime. Know when it’s time to throw in the towel Letting something go doesn’t mean you quit, it means you’re changing strategy. When one job doesn’t fit your lifestyle don’t be afraid to move on. Be honest with your employers By not being upfront with your employers about other jobs, you welcome easy opportunities to cause a rift in the workplace. Chances are, after being open with your boss they’ll understand and be receptive to why you’re drinking 3-4 cups of coffee a day. [bctt tweet=”Be realistic and don’t sacrifice sleep in the meantime ” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] How to plan a productive day with multiple hustles Wake up on time Every second counts when you’re attempting to balance multiple gigs. This means the snooze button is no longer an option. Set your day up where every moment is valuable. Meditate/Set your intentions Whether you do this in the morning or before you go to bed, it’s important to take time to centre yourself and stay focused in the midst of being busy. There are several apps that make meditation easy whether you’re at home, on your lunch break, or on the train home. Both Simple Habit and Headspace provide users with free customizable opportunities to wind down with meditations ranging from 5 minutes to half an hour. Make your lunch productive Although it’s important to take a break during your lunch time, if your mind has been focused on multiple projects, take your lunch to hash out your thoughts or get some work done. Also, make sure you’re eating a healthy lunch that will give you energy. Keep a notebook throughout your day You know that thought that pops into your head about job 2 while your at job 1? The same thought you forget about once you actually get to job 2 and now it’s driving you crazy? Avoid the hustler haze and carry a notebook to write down your random thoughts throughout the day. [bctt tweet=”Instead of getting flustered with everything you need to get done, plan out each task one by one” via=”no”] Schedule your post-work personal tasks It can be overwhelming working several jobs and still having to be concerned with making dinner, washing your hair, or cleaning the bathroom. Instead of getting flustered with everything you need to get done, plan out each task one by one. Wind down Always take time to yourself. Whether it’s having a glass of wine, watching an episode of your favorite show, or taking a nice bath. It’s crucial to maintain your sanity and mental health while you’re busy. Practice Gratitude Writing down everything you’re thankful for will ground you and put everything in perspective especially if you’ve had a bad day. When you visualize what you’re grateful for you’re able to appreciate everything you have and stay motivated while you grind. Get a good night’s sleep You can only be so productive without a healthy amount of sleep. It’s a fact!
Morongwa Maifo: You are never too old to learn or too young to teach
[bctt tweet=”Mo combines her love for chemistry, fashion, and literature in her daily life and hustles” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] It is a public secret that the future of the Africa we envision lies solely in the hands of each and every young individual who dares to dream. The inclusion of women in various decision-making positions has better positioned and equipped young women to step up in their entrepreneur journey. Barriers are continuously being smashed, as the African girl dares to take over, below is an interview with Morongwa Maifo, the owner of VintageKlozet. Morongwa, aka Mo, is a young woman determined to let her passion become her success ladder. Hi Morongwa can you briefly tell us who you are and what you are currently up to? I’m a young dynamic phenomenal woman named Morongwa Nesly Maifo. I’m just an ordinary person who grew up in a normal background. My journey has been very challenging, especially not growing around parents. I spent most of my growing years with my brother, as my parents were at home in the village. I can say that I started learning responsibilities of doing things by myself at an early age. Growing up I had low self-confidence, I have always been that young girl who would do anything to buy a friendship or try harder to make sure people accept me. Nobody ever taught me it should start with you. But these happened for a purpose as it’s now revealing itself. I enrolled for my first degree at the University of Witwatersrand in Chemistry, am currently in the completion of my honors degree in Chemical engineering. I also obtained a certificate in sales and marketing with Unisa. All I’m up to right now is the new baby VintageKlozet and Club Readership. Chemistry, fashion, and literature are worlds apart, tell us how you manage the playing field you have occupied? In my growing up journey, I realized I get bored easily with routine. I’m an explorer, a huge fan of learning, and I’m more progressive when I learn various aspects of content. At the at the end, I noticed how everything is interconnected. I enrolled for Chemistry with Chemical Engineering because I have always been fascinated by science. I want to become an engineer. My most motivation in obtaining this degree is to contribute back to society by using the knowledge I have gained to solve daily problems. Growing up, I suffered a lack of confidence in speaking, reading, and writing, specifically in English. Because this bothered me a lot, I started reading books from high school, and slowly I found reading fascinating. This hobby continued until varsity, I started reading a lot, especially motivational books. I have always loved clothes, initially, I underestimated it because I thought it was just a women’s thing. It became unique when I would play with my mother’s wardrobe. That lead me to notice that I’m not a fan of trendy fashion, then I finally figured my sense of fashion is vintage. [bctt tweet=”I’m not a fan of trendy fashion, my sense of fashion is vintage – Morongwa Maifo ” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] As VintageKlozet aptly describes, what motivated you to start your own vintage retailing business and how responsive has been your target market? I have always been motivated by Bonang Matheba especially when she said, “If you love something, get someone to pay you for loving that thing, then you will never work in your entire life”. I started VintageKlozet because of my passion and love for old style, and how I have found myself through this styling sense. As a final year student, I have never believed I was sent to college so I can work for someone else. I have always believed as African men and women, we all have the skills to start our own companies and improve our economic status as well as that of the future generation. As the business just recently started, the response has been good so far, most people seem to fall in love with the culture of vintage, how unique it is and how it tells the story. So far, I have got responses as far as Cape Town, and few people from Zimbabwe. How important has social media been to your business and what lessons can other aspiring fashion retailers get from you? I’m still in the journey of learning and exploring diverse ways to market the business and establish it. There is so much power in social media because so far 80% of sales VintageKlozet has made are from social media, particularly Facebook and Instagram. Obviously, there are many ways to advertise, but so far these have shown a positive response to the business. [bctt tweet=”I have never believed I was sent to college so I can work for someone else” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] You mentioned that you are also CEO of Club Readership, briefly tell us what it is all about? Club Readership it’s a book club before everything. It is created for readership in Africa, focusing on African literature, of course by African authors. This is the institution that noticed a gap of reading outside academics in Africa and is determined to bring back the culture of reading in a fashionable manner. It believes we all have stories to tell and to embrace. It would like to improve and celebrate the culture of reading mainly in black communities. As it promotes this culture of reading, it ensures to produce relevant material for Africa, therefore it publishes books. Club Readership encourages people to write and makes it easy for them to publish, for more info, people can visit our website. How challenging have all your roles been? Honestly, challenges serve an opportunity to grow you as a person. I have found myself doing uncomfortable things but turned my being into effective. It is challenging, but it is the enthusiasm of learning that keeps me pressing forward each day, therefore I embrace challenges. Aspiring young business women out there are dying to know
Grace Ouendo: Promoting creativity and innovation in Africa
[bctt tweet=”To develop a unique voice, blog your passions – Grace Ouendo” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Beninese Grace Ouendo is very passionate about Blogging and Technology. When she founded the LadyGracious blog, her aim was to promote creativity and innovation in Africa. The plan was not just to have a blog but Grace also thought it would be life changing to enhance African girl’s tech skills. So this #MotherlandMogul is a Founding Member and Communications Manager of the NGO, Access to Computer for Every Girl. To top it off Grace Ouendo is also a community manager. Grace was interviewed recently and this is what she had to share with us… What do you find the most frustrating aspect of blogging? There are two things that are quite frustrating in blogging. One is generating ideas when your inspiration is gone but you still have to produce content for your website it is quite frustrating. The second thing is chasing your interviewees, when you have to get the information out of a resource person, sometimes you have to comply to the availability of your resource person and it gets frustrating when your meetup rendezvous is not working you just feel like giving up. What type of networking do you think is better to enhance your traffic to the LadyGracious website? To enhance traffic to the LadyGracious website it’s all about networking with the category of people who are passionate about the development of Africa in every domain, broad-mind people who like discovering things happening on the African continent, and there is currently a wave of proud African youths that are trying to make Africa proud. Can you tell me some of your strengths that really helped you in blogging? Reading: Having a journalism background, one thing I loved doing since childhood is reading. I read a lot about blogging on the internet. He who reads cannot run away from writing. So knowledge acquired from reading was translated in writing for the web. Curiosity: I single-handedly learnt how to start a blog, I have never received any training till today, just because curiosity is what is helping me come this far. Observation: I observe a lot my environment, my circle of friends and things around me, so I try to learn from others by observing and thinking through what they do and pick the good from it. [bctt tweet=”Grace says, ‘The best thing a blogger can give his/her audience is added value’” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] What’s the best thing a blogger can give to their readers? The best thing a blogger can give his/her audience is added value. When your audience reads from you and goes back with new knowledge or information they will always come back because you give them value. I must say there are quite a lot of blogs these days showing almost the same thing, do you have any tips for the newbies on how to develop a unique voice? For the little I know, to develop a unique voice, blog your passions. In reading, readers will feel that this is something you love and are passionate about. Another, is to be creative, bring out something that is particular to you, by observing other blogs you can easily find something they don’t have that you can offer your audience. Great! So now moving on to the NGO, Access To Computer For Every Girl. How did it start and did you have a blueprint? It all started with a text message, a male friend had the idea and was like, ‘Lets do this together’ and I was like, ‘Why not’. With my knowledge in ICT, it’s the best way for me to share what I know. Yes, we did have a blueprint. Our blueprint is dynamic, we adjust it seasonally as we are growing in number, in years and in credibility. How is the organization funded? Currently, the NGO is funded by ourselves, family and friends. We are also actively applying for grants and funds offered by international structures. What’s a typical day like training the girls? It’s always exciting because we get to meet new faces. On a typical day the group of trainers assigned for that particular training go to the school to set-up the computers, there is a maximum of 4 trainers present. We roll out the lesson and then move to the practicals, whereby you have to monitor if the girls have understood the assignment given or not. [bctt tweet=”Grace Ouendo says, Women should level up and take their businesses international.” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] With the future in mind, why do you think its important for women to embrace technology now? Technology is ruling the world, its a fact. To be successful, popular even professional you can’t get far without technology being involved. Therefore women have to level-up, because international business opportunities are online which I often published on my website. Any woman’s dream or business can go international with the right use of technology. Grace, what’s your vision for Access to Computer for Every girl for the next few years? The world of technology is quickly advancing and our aim is to break the digital divide by giving girls technology at a very young age. In the next few years we want to get to the level where we are able to give out free computers to schools, communities and more especially to girls leaving in remote villages. Basically with LadyGracious it’s just you and when it comes to the NGO, you are working with other people who are your co-founders. What do you find different working in both setups? With the website, I have a team as well, my chief-editor, graphic designer, photographer etc. The difference is that with the website you go and search for the information and deliver it to the world whereas with the NGO its more like giving out your knowledge to a group of people. When it comes to team work it’s always tough but the job gets done anyway. Tell us, would you rather
How to effectively manage contracts in freelancing
[bctt tweet=”3 tips on how to beat procrastination as a freelancer” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Once in a while, a freelancer finds herself under the obligation of completing contracts for a period of months. Usually, emotions go from really excited (about that money of course) to interesting, to daunting and finally, to lethargic. As is human nature, procrastination creeps in, like a thief in the night. (Okay, that last bit was too much, but you get the point). So, below are tips on how to crush your contractual freelancing gig like a #MotherlandMogul. Bullet journals Yes, I know, journaling is a task on its own, but bullet journaling helps greatly when it comes to actually doing your job. It basically consists of to-do lists organised on a daily basis. All you need to do is tick off each item on the list at the end of each day. This helps you cover every detail on the job. It also forces you to think about the development process of the task ahead. Think I am kidding? This is one of the most agreed upon activities to increase productivity. Set an agreed time to update your client Usually, a client that has no time during the entire contract, or one that has no idea of what is required, will start pushing you around at the last minute. They will then get to asking the most ridiculous questions, which can turn into a circus, to put it gently. We also cannot fail to discuss a particular nagging client that lives to terrorise your sleep, and operates in opposite time zones. For such clients, it is necessary that you provide updates as regularly as possible. Agree upon a date that works for both of you. This way, if you go off-track from the results expected, your client can easily guide you to what is required. [bctt tweet=”Contractual jobs in freelancing should not cause chaos, handle them by managing your time & client” via=”no”] Money upfront Usually, you will not miss a particular client that will ask that you complete a portion of the work without pay ‘just to see how you would fare’. What happens is that such a client will take your work, approach another freelancer, and go ahead and ask her to ‘show him/her what they can do’ without pay as well. If such a client approaches you, provide a sample of previously done work that is similar to what is required. Always agree on being paid a portion of money before you start off. Alternatively, have a third party withhold the money until various obligations are met. Other than managing your time and client, contractual jobs in freelancing should not cause chaos. These are actually some of the most envied jobs in the freelancing world so, eat your cake Mogul.