There are different angles to it depending on the paradigm you are looking from. When I think of how I started in banking as a teller and how I have risen in the ranks, as well as how the banking industry has evolved, I am grateful for my journey but more importantly for the experience to be able to contribute and influence people via impactful banking. There have been tough seasons inundated with challenges but in all, it has been a tasking yet enjoyable and rewarding experience. I have learned, grown and love what I do which has truly been fulfilling.

I never wanted to be a banker. My sister was a banker and I had experienced how the demands of the job took over both weekdays and weekends so it was not something I looked forward to, somehow I found myself in banking which has evolved over the years and along with that comes the need to come up with new solutions for new challenges. My understanding of banking and the mode of banking has changed which has made it more meaningful to me.

To be honest, I have never faced major challenges in this regard. I have always been very hardworking and rise up to the task even when I was pregnant. I have also been fortunate to work with good people who did not stereotype me. I must add though that a lot more can still be done to close gender gaps and promote gender parity in the workspace. I also feel we are somewhat on track with the women representation in banking and foresee a steady increase for women in leadership positions as well.

I think Women entrepreneurs need to rise beyond timidity and stop seeing their businesses as a small venture. It is so important to properly position from the onset on how to build global brands. Sadly, our upbringing has not trained us to identify opportunities and how to expand these opportunities. Women are built for businesses and are rightly wired for it and there is a clamor from the society for more to be done especially regarding Capacity development and low-interest credit.

Not working blindly or on assumptions. One of the things I have learned is to understand the target market and market segments. It is also really important to address the issues where it is needed. One woman is about impactful banking which means how to make the life of the Nigerian woman more meaningful and fulfilling beyond the provision of financial services.

I think they should focus on building their confidence, how to leverage visibility, networking, recognition and accepting credit for great work. I will also encourage them to embrace authenticity in leadership, speaking up and sharing their ideas which is an important skill for any individual. Aspire to be better in terms of knowledge and quality of work done. Lastly  infuse your feminine gifting into your leadership style.

I have phenomenal support structures starting with my husband, my nanny, my driver and just recently a virtual assistance. I need to reiterate that we did not start out like this as a young couple but time, life, experiences and the need to be there for the children has really helped us to grow. Lastly, the work policy at my organization has also contributed to my balanced outlook and approach to work life

Dream big, travel more, invest wisely, network better, learn more about visibility and celebrating your achievements.

Cornwall in the Uk and Cape Verde. The landscape at Cornwall is out of this world and the beach and water at CapeVerde is incredibly beautiful.

Aduke Designs and Aso Gidi. They are extremely creative and their stitches are really neat.

Asides lots of personal development and adding a few certifications to myself, it would be to reach as many women as possible with new offerings and products that will change their lives and impact the bottom line of the bank. I intend to spend more time with my family in between all these.