How has your story motivated you on days when there seems to be nothing to keep you going?
On challenging days, I draw motivation from my journey’s milestones, reminding myself of my resilience and the barriers I’ve broken as well as past achievements that I didn’t even know were possible at the start of my journey. But more importantly, knowing my success inspires others, especially my teen daughter as well as fellow Black women, fuels my determination to keep pushing forward. My story serves as a reminder that obstacles are temporary, and with perseverance, I can overcome anything.
In what ways, if any, did you have to pivot to ensure your vision was well executed?
To ensure my vision was well executed, I had to be adaptable and willing to pivot when necessary. This often involves staying open to new ideas, feedback, and market trends. Whether it’s adjusting my business model, refining my product or service offerings, or exploring new target markets, I’m always looking for ways to innovate and stay ahead of the curve. Additionally, I prioritize building a strong team and network, as collaboration and diverse perspectives are key to overcoming challenges and finding creative solutions. Overall, flexibility and a willingness to pivot have been essential in navigating the ever-changing landscape of entrepreneurship and ensuring that my vision remains on track.
How do you showcase the empowerment of Women’s History Month every day?
As a Black female multi-hyphenated entrepreneur, I showcase the empowerment of Women’s History Month every day by showing up as my full and authentic self. I actively mentor and support other Black women by sharing my knowledge, experiences, and resources to help them succeed in their entrepreneurial endeavors. I am also very much about collaboration and partnership especially teaming up with other women-owned businesses and organisations. I truly believe that together, we can achieve so much more.
Additionally, I engage in continuous learning and self-improvement, seeking out opportunities, books, and podcasts to expand my skills, knowledge, and perspective on issues related to gender equality and women’s empowerment. By incorporating these beliefs and values into everyday practices in both my personal and business activities, I strive to celebrate and honor the empowerment of women not just during Women’s History Month, but every day of the year.
Who are some lesser-known female entrepreneurs from history that you admire and believe deserve more recognition?
Folashade “Shade” Thomas-Fahm who was Nigeria’s first fashion designer. I admire that despite originally moving to England in 1953 to train as a nurse, she changed her path completely and studied fashion at St Martin’s School of Art (now Central Saint Martins) in London.
Chief Nike Davies-Okundaye is one of the most renowned pillars of African arts and culture. I love that she has created a lane for herself as not only a textile artist but also as an entrepreneur and cultural ambassador through her expertise in traditional Nigerian textile arts such as adire, a resist-dyed cloth often in indigo, a color that represents ‘Love’ to her people, the Yoruba and batik. She is also the founder of the Nike Art Gallery in Lagos, through which she has created a platform for Nigerian artists and artisans to showcase their work and preserve indigenous art forms. Through her entrepreneurial efforts, she has empowered many artisans, particularly women, providing economic opportunities and promoting cultural heritage.
Reflecting on your own experiences, what are some effective ways that male allies have supported you in your career journey?
In my experience, male allies have played a valuable part in supporting my career journey. They’ve advocated for me in professional settings whilst still respecting my autonomy over my career and business decisions. Through collaborative efforts, they’ve provided valuable mentorship and guidance, helping me expand my vision and navigate challenges along the way.
How do you strike a balance between ambition and self-care as a woman in a demanding business environment?
I truly believe that balancing ambition and self-care in a demanding business environment is major key in my entrepreneurial endeavors. I prioritize self-care by setting boundaries and ensuring that I allocate time for relaxation and loved ones. I have also found running to be a great way to boost my mental health whilst also giving me a surge of energy to keep going. While ambition drives me, I remain realistic and flexible. Delegating tasks and seeking support are essential so I very much lean into both my professional and personal network as required. I embrace imperfection and practice self-compassion in always giving myself the grace to be still or sit in whatever emotions or feelings I am having in any given moment. Regular reflection helps me maintain balance and alignment with my well-being which I practise through journaling and meditative practices.
BIO: Tokunbo is a vibrant, passionate and driven entrepreneur who is often described as ‘fearless’. Her background in social work, personal styling and entrepreneurship has given her a myriad of experiences in building community, scaling businesses, and creating lasting impact. Tokunbo believes our lives are ours to be created and lived fully. She is on a personal mission to help others in becoming the best version of themselves whilst living a full and unapologetic life.
Photo Credits: Alexander Pemberton
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