Resilient Innovators
Unveiling the Transformative Entrepreneurial Odyssey of Gabriella and Christiana In the vivid tapestry of entrepreneurial ambition, Gabriella Ehiotoye Julius and Christiana Sorunke shine as beacons of determination and growth. Their journeys, interwoven with resilience, find resonance in the transformative chapters scripted within the SLA High Growth Program. As we embark on their stories, their remarkable feats redefine female entrepreneurship, showcasing a blend of innovation and perseverance that transcends boundaries and reimagines success in the business landscape. Unveiling Entrepreneurial Prowess Gabriella Ehiotoye Julius Gabriella’s journey as an entrepreneur blossomed from her family’s business background and a deep passion for culinary artistry. Raised in an environment where entrepreneurship was ingrained, her love for cooking alongside her mother fueled the inception of the African Pasta Hub (APH). This innovative venture, born during the pandemic, uniquely infuses African flavors into Italian pasta dishes, symbolizing her fervor for blending cultures through food. Christiana Sorunke Christiana embarked on entrepreneurship seeking expansion for her business. Encountering roadblocks in scaling her enterprise, she sought guidance through the SLA High Growth Program (HGCP). Her pursuit of mentorship became a transformative phase in her quest for knowledge, driving her towards achieving greater heights for her company. Nurturing Essential Entrepreneurial Traits Gabriella’s Vision Gabriella underscores the significance of problem-solving, resilience, and adept salesmanship. These qualities empower her to innovate, navigate challenges, and foster robust relationships pivotal to APH’s growth. Christiana’s Tenacity Christiana champions a growth mindset, grit, and resilience in her entrepreneurial journey. These traits fortify her against setbacks, enabling her to learn from failures and remain resolute in achieving her business aspirations. Wisdom and Coping Strategies Gabriella’s Insights Gabriella advocates valuing relationships, seizing opportunities, and embracing flexibility. She encourages sharing uniqueness while staying open to learning and adaptation, integral in the entrepreneurial realm. Christiana’s Coping Mechanisms Christiana’s strategy revolves around self-care, emphasizing rest and seeking support during challenging times. Acknowledging the importance of sharing struggles and maintaining distinct business finances, she navigates hurdles with resilience. Pride in Trailblazing Achievements Gabriella’s Trail of Success Gabriella takes pride in her team’s efforts and the joy they bring to customers. Strong relationships fostered through APH have led to serving clients and catering events, paving the way for new connections and opportunities. Christiana’s Global Milestone Christiana celebrates securing international clients, symbolizing the global reach of her business. This achievement showcases her company’s growth potential and its ability to transcend boundaries. The Transformative Journey with HGCP Gabriella’s HGCP Experience Gabriella expresses gratitude for the enriching HGCP experience. Despite occasional challenges, the stories and support from fellow entrepreneurs serve as an inspiring force, propelling her forward. Christiana’s HGCP Transformation Christiana’s resilience was tested, starting the program after childbirth. Despite hurdles, she values the program’s impact and credits her coach’s unwavering support for her growth. Envisioning a Bright Entrepreneurial Future Gabriella’s Vision Forward Gabriella envisions leveraging HGCP learnings for APH’s growth, foreseeing this phase as pivotal in the company’s transformative journey. Christiana’s Strategic Outlook Christiana plans to implement structured strategies and refine her pitch skills gained from the program. She sees these skills as instrumental for her business’s future expansion. Inspiring Pathways Forward Gabriella and Christiana’s intertwined narratives epitomize resilience, learning, and adaptability in entrepreneurship. Their experiences within the SLA High Growth Program illustrate the power of mentorship and perseverance in propelling women-led ventures towards success. As their journeys unfold, their stories stand as guiding lights for aspiring female entrepreneurs, showcasing that with determination, support, and strategic guidance, women can forge thriving entrepreneurial paths in any industry. Interested in reaching out to the ladies? Gabriella Ehiotoye Julius, founder of African Pasta Hub (APH) Gabriella Ehiotoye Julius, a chef and linguist, is the visionary founder of African Pasta Hub (APH). Prior to APH, she excelled as the Head of Operations at a family clinic, honing her customer success skills. Her entrepreneurial journey is fueled by a profound passion for reshaping the culinary landscape, particularly through pasta. Beyond work, she indulges in reading and immersing herself in K-drama series. Christiana Sorunke, Founder of Career Builder Consult Christiana Sorunke, a versatile figure, is celebrated for her dynamic expertise and passion for impact. Known for critical thinking and embracing innovation, she stands out across diverse fields. Her commitment to learning extends beyond her achievements, guiding her through an ever-evolving world. Engaging actively in philanthropy, she’s recognized for her compassion and social initiatives. Balancing work with hobbies like outdoor exploration and reading, Christiana prioritizes personal well-being. Her drive for growth ensures a lasting impact wherever she ventures.
Innovative Upcoming Icons
How Women Innovators are Reshaping Entrepreneurship Two exceptional women, Gabriella Ehiotoye Julius and Chioma Nnanna, are carving out unique paths and leaving an indelible mark on the country’s business landscape. Their remarkable journey from inception to success is a testament to the strength and innovation that characterize the Nigerian entrepreneurial spirit. Let’s delve into their extraordinary narratives, uncovering the triumphs, challenges, and invaluable lessons they’ve gained along the way. Gabriella Ehiotoye Julius: Mastering the Art of African Pasta The world of pasta takes on a vibrant African twist through the culinary prowess of Gabriella Ehiotoye Julius. Her brainchild, the African Pasta Hub, emerged during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, illuminating the culinary world with a unique fusion of African herbs and spices infused into the beloved Italian dish. Gabriella’s journey began with a childhood passion for cooking and evolved into a business venture that celebrates the rich cultural tapestry of Nigeria. Through her leadership, the African Pasta Hub continues to spread joy and delectable meals across the nation, embracing the essence of both Italian and African culinary traditions. Chioma Nnanna: Revolutionizing Fashion Production with Tech Chioma Nnanna’s foray into the fashion world was anything but conventional. Leveraging her innate entrepreneurial spirit, she transformed her early ventures into a groundbreaking digital production management platform for fashion businesses. Her brainchild offers an innovative solution that connects fashion brands directly to vetted tailors, revolutionizing the industry’s production landscape. Chioma’s resilient approach and unwavering commitment to sustainability have not only propelled her business forward but have also garnered international recognition, positioning her as a leading figure in the realm of sustainable fashion production. Nigerian Women Pioneering Change As Gabriella and Chioma continue to make strides in their respective industries, their stories stand as a testament to the limitless potential embedded within the Nigerian entrepreneurial spirit. Their unwavering determination, coupled with their innovative approaches, serves as a source of inspiration for budding entrepreneurs, encouraging them to pursue their dreams despite the challenges. Nigeria’s business landscape is evolving, and these two trailblazers are at the forefront, shaping a future that is both transformational and empowering. Interested in reaching out to the ladies? Gabriella Ehiotoye Julius, Founder of African Pasta Hub Gabriella Ehiotoye Julius is a chef and linguist renowned for her culinary expertise. She is recognized as the visionary founder of African Pasta Hub (APH). Prior to her venture with APH, she garnered extensive experience as the Head of Operations at a family clinic, where she excelled in customer success. Guided by her entrepreneurial spirit, she now devotes herself fully to her passion for pasta, aiming to leave an indelible mark in the food industry. During her leisure time, she indulges in reading books and immersing herself in K-drama series. Instagram: African Pasta Hub Lagos ™️ (@africanpastahub) • Instagram photos and videos Chioma Nnanna, Founder of OMZN Apparel Ltd Chioma is an entrepreneur, writer, and advocate. Having concluded a five-year career in marketing communications, she dedicated her focus to transforming her side-hustle into a thriving enterprise. Her educational background includes a degree in Psychology from the University of Lagos, and she is currently pursuing a diploma in Sustainable Marketing from the Chartered Institute of Marketing.
The Entrepreneurial Odyssey
Inspiring Stories of Tenacity and Triumph In the vast expanse of entrepreneurship, where dreams are nurtured and destinies forged, we find three extraordinary women who dared to turn their visions into reality. Priscilla, and Ubok, each with their unique stories and ventures, have embarked on a journey that is both exhilarating and challenging. Venturing into the Unknown For Priscilla, the spark that ignited her entrepreneurial journey was the desire to impact lives through idea development and business structuring. She founded Cylla Designs, a venture that enables other entrepreneurs to build sustainable businesses and brands. Priscilla emphasizes the importance of determination, grit, and resilience in the entrepreneurial game. Her journey from being a Newscaster to a tech-driven entrepreneur is a testament to her unwavering resolve. Ubok’s entrepreneurial adventure began during the COVID-19 pandemic. The isolation and loneliness she experienced led her to discover an untapped market for locally made bags. This discovery became the foundation for her business, where she leverages technology to design and produce custom bags. Ubok’s story underscores the significance of seizing opportunities and adapting to changing circumstances. Golden Nuggets of Wisdom One piece of game-changing advice Priscilla shares is the importance of market research before starting a venture. Knowing that there is a demand for your product or service can save valuable resources. For Ubok, separating personal and business accounts has been a golden nugget. It allows her to track her business’s profitability accurately. Navigating Stormy Seas In the world of entrepreneurship, challenges are par for the course. Priscilla’s secret sauce for handling tough times involves taking a break, reevaluating her steps, and indulging in activities she loves. Ubok, on the other hand, finds solace in family time, travel, movies, good food, and mentorship. Proud Moments and Achievements Priscilla takes immense pride in knowing that she has helped aspiring entrepreneurs turn their ideas into successful brands. Ubok’s proudest moment came when her business achieved its first million in income from bag production. These milestones validate their dedication and hard work. The She Leads Africa High Growth Coaching Program Both Priscilla and Ubok express their gratitude for their participation in the She Leads Africa High Growth Coaching Program. The program has equipped them with essential skills, from better negotiation to effective team leadership. The camaraderie among female entrepreneurs and the wisdom shared by mentors have been invaluable. As these women continue their entrepreneurial odyssey, they exemplify the spirit of resilience, innovation, and determination. Their stories serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs, reminding them that with the right skills and unwavering commitment, they can overcome any challenge and achieve remarkable success. Interested in reaching out to the ladies? Priscilla Chinekwe, Founder of CyllaDesigns Priscilla Chinekwe is a graduate of Communication and Language Arts from the University of Ibadan, Ibadan. She is passionate about building businesses, fostering communities, and making meaningful contributions to society. Priscilla is a staunch advocate for the empowerment and advancement of women and girls globally, recognizing the systemic challenges they face. Her extensive experience as a Broadcaster and On-Air Personality in various television and radio stations has provided her with a powerful platform to address pressing societal issues, particularly those affecting women and girls. Through her broadcasts, Priscilla has consistently lent her voice to highlight and combat these challenges, striving for a more equitable world. Ubok Ameh, Founder of Uban Leathered Ubok Ameh, a young, enterprising female lawyer with 8 years of post-call experience, is the founder of Uban Leathered, a technology-driven bag brand specializing in crafting premium corporate and casual leather products. Within two years of its inception, her business has generated nearly 5 Million Naira in revenue, a testament to her fusion of legal expertise and artistic flair. Beyond her business success, Ubok has trained over twenty individuals in the art of bag making and is deeply committed to empowering young people to transform their skills into sustainable wealth. Her weekly mentoring sessions for teenagers reflect this passion. Eager for continuous growth, Ubok pursues diverse knowledge, irrespective of the field, for its transferable value. To unwind, she immerses herself in music, mastering over five instruments, notably excelling in the saxophone and keyboard. Supported by her husband, Dr. Johnson Ameh, Ubok is dedicated to making a positive impact in both her personal and professional spheres, driven by her belief in the potential for meaningful contributions beyond the legal realm. Instagram: BAG FACTORY IN NIGERIA || Bag Maker (@uban_leathered) • Instagram photos and videos
Passion, Persistence, and Impact
Women Entrepreneurs Making a Difference In the world of entrepreneurship, where dreams are cultivated, innovations are born, and impact is measured in strides, two remarkable women, Oladunni Kafilah Olaide and Olawunmi Olasoju, have stood out as shining examples of what it means to be a resilient and impactful entrepreneur. Their journey is a testament to the power of determination, skill, and unwavering dedication to making a difference. Unveiling the Entrepreneurs Oladunni Kafilah Olaide, the founder of Ilorin Packaging Hub, embarked on her entrepreneurial journey during her university days. Faced with the challenge of limited funds, she took the bold step to establish her business, which specializes in procuring and supplying packaging materials to entrepreneurs in Kwara State. Her journey exemplifies the significance of resilience, consistency, and intuition in the entrepreneurial realm. Olawunmi Olasoju, the visionary behind Good Deeds Donation HUB Africa, embarked on her path of entrepreneurship with a passion for philanthropy and a deep commitment to impact. With a background in Mechanical Engineering and Global Business, she ventured into the world of donations, professionally handling and redistributing items such as clothing, shoes, and household goods. Her remarkable story underscores the importance of people management, persistence, and life balance in the entrepreneurial landscape. Essential Skills for Entrepreneurial Success Both Oladunni and Olawunmi stress the critical role of skills such as people management, persistence, and life balance in achieving entrepreneurial success. They emphasize the significance of managing diverse personalities, persisting in the face of challenges, and maintaining equilibrium in various aspects of life. Game-Changing Advice Olawunmi shares her game-changing advice, highlighting the power of targeted online advertisements to reach the right audience. In today’s digital age, leveraging social media platforms such as Instagram can be a game-changer for entrepreneurs. The key is to ensure that your content is not only attractive but also of high quality. Coping with Stressful Moments When it comes to handling stressful moments, Oladunni’s approach is simple yet effective – taking a break and offering yourself the needed respite. She emphasizes the importance of setting up structures that allow for business operations to continue smoothly even in your absence. This perspective challenges the notion that an entrepreneur must be constantly available and underscores the significance of maintaining a work-life balance. Proud Entrepreneurial Achievements Olawunmi takes immense pride in being nominated for the 25under25 awards by Future Forward Female and SME100 Nigeria. These nominations symbolize the recognition of her impactful work through Good Deeds Donation HUB Africa. Furthermore, she is thrilled about Good Deeds’ growth, reaching 15 states in Nigeria and involving over 400 volunteers. The She Leads Africa High Growth Coaching Program Both entrepreneurs attribute their growth and success to the She Leads Africa (SLA) High Growth Coaching Program. Oladunni learned the importance of building a sustainable venture, people management, and the significance of persistence. Olawunmi values the self-development skills, mindsets, and coaching she received from SLA, which helped her build a sustainable and impactful enterprise. Looking Ahead As they look ahead to the future, Oladunni and Olawunmi aspire to navigate their businesses more effectively, expand their reach, and make a more profound impact on their communities and beyond. Their stories serve as a source of inspiration, reminding aspiring entrepreneurs that entrepreneurship is not just a journey; it’s a transformational odyssey filled with challenges, triumphs, and the potential to create lasting change. As you embark on your entrepreneurial journey, remember the lessons of Oladunni and Olawunmi – resilience, consistency, people management, persistence, and life balance are your allies. Embrace them, and you too can write a story of passion and impact in the world of entrepreneurship. Interested in reaching out to the ladies? Olawunmi Olasoju, Founder of Good Deeds Donation Hub Africa Olawunmi Olasoju, also known as Ola, is a dynamic individual who wears multiple hats. With a background in Mechanical Engineering and a Master’s in Global Business, she is not only a Business Consultant and Engineer but also a successful entrepreneur. Ola founded Good Deeds Donation Hub Africa, a social donation company in Nigeria, and an African Career Consulting Firm called Linkfric. Her inspiration for Good Deeds arose from the absence of a formal system for safe and professional item donations in Nigeria. Under her leadership, Good Deeds has introduced item donation kiosks across Nigeria, expanded its team to over 400 volunteers, and made a positive impact in various communities. Ola’s mission is to inspire others, nurture their strengths, and foster connections on a global scale, bridging her experiences in Nigeria and the United States. LinkedIn: (50) Olawunmi Olasoju (Ola), CSM | LinkedIn Business Linked: (50) Good Deeds Africa: Overview | LinkedIn Oladunni Kafilah Olaid, Founder of Ilorin packaging hub Oladunni Kafilah Olaide is a dedicated postgraduate student at the University of Ilorin. She is not only a mother of two but also a passionate entrepreneur. Her mission revolves around reshaping the narrative for women who choose to cover up. Instagram: food and cosmetics packaging (@ilorinpackaginghub) • Instagram photos and videos