Women of Substance

Temitope Akinsemoyin is one of the leading women inspiring positive change in Africa. She is a chartered human resources analyst, a leading woman in tech, a management consultant, an academic, a writer, and a serial entrepreneur. She has held various positions on multiple boards, showcasing her expertise in operations, administration, human resource management, capacity development, and project management. 

The doctoral fellow of the Institute of Leadership Management and Manpower Development (DFILMMD) and a doctorate of Strategic Management and Leadership from the NYLH, New York, is making a difference in the continent through her books and company, Stanchion TM Consults NG. Her company where she is the Founder, Principal Partner, and CEO provides innovative solutions through technology to firms, and institutions in Nigeria and beyond.

Temitope is also passionate about empowering women through education and entrepreneurship.  In this exclusive interview with the Women Times team, she shared insights on how women can grow their businesses, thrive in male-dominated industries, redefine their careers, and achieve work-life balance.  Excerpt:

You wear many hats; you are an academic, writer, author, serial entrepreneur, administrator, consultant, and one of the leading women in Africa changing the business landscape, what inspired you to follow this career path?

My journey has been driven by a profound desire to create meaningful change. Growing up in my local community, I witnessed firsthand the challenges our communities faced. This inspired me to pursue academic excellence and develop skills that could address these issues. My roles as an academic, writer, and consultant allow me to influence governance, human capital development, and socioeconomic progress. I believe in the power of education and entrepreneurship as vehicles for empowerment, especially for women in Africa.

Studies show that women operate over 40% of small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) in Africa, but access to finance remains a challenge with a US$42 billion financing gap. How can women surmount this challenge?

The financing gap for women-led SMEs is indeed a significant challenge. To surmount this, women can leverage networks and coalitions that focus on financial literacy and access to funding. Collaborating with microfinance institutions and angel investors who prioritize women-led initiatives can also help. Additionally, government policies that promote grants and low-interest loans for women entrepreneurs can make a substantial difference.

What are some of the challenges you faced setting up your company, StanchionTM and how did you surmount them? Also, share with us your career trajectory and some of the things you experienced in your career as a young professional that have shaped your life.

Setting up Stanchion TM was not without its hurdles. I faced challenges such as securing initial funding, establishing a client base, and navigating regulatory frameworks. To overcome these, I focused on building a strong network of mentors, partners, and collaborators. My career trajectory has been shaped by diverse experiences—from my academic pursuits to hands-on roles in various sectors. Each position taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of continuous learning.

Your company in partnership with Fola Financial, a company also owned by a woman, launched an apprenticeship program to equip young Nigerians with essential financial and business skills for global competitiveness. What inspired the initiative and what has been the impact?

The partnership with Fola Financial to launch the apprenticeship program was inspired by the need for practical skills among Nigerian youth. We recognized that equipping young people with financial and business acumen is vital for their competitiveness in a global market. The program has positively impacted participants, enhancing their employability and entrepreneurial skills, and fostering a culture of innovation.

Also, Stanchion TM and Fola Financial are co-hosting the Fola Fin Conference. Tell us what the forthcoming event is about.

The Fola Fin Conference aims to unite thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and aspiring professionals to discuss financial literacy and business strategies. We will focus on empowering participants with actionable insights and networking opportunities that can help them thrive in today’s dynamic business environment.

Some of your books and articles, like ‘Women Don’t Need to See Men as Their Meal Ticket,’ and others, are focused on women believing in themselves and excelling without depending on the opposite sex for survival. Why the focus on women and what are some of the initiatives you are doing to support women?

My yearly publications emphasize women’s independence and self-belief because I believe that empowering women directly contributes to societal progress. I am actively involved in mentorship programs, workshops, and initiatives that support women in entrepreneurship and leadership roles. Through Stanchion Institute of Development which, we are launching soon, we provide resources and training tailored for women to excel in their careers.

The dearth of female professionals in some sectors is still a major concern; what can the stakeholders (the Town and the Gown) do to bridge the gap?

To address the shortage of female professionals in certain sectors, stakeholders in education and industry must collaborate. Universities should offer programs that encourage female participation in male-dominated fields, while companies can implement policies that promote gender diversity and inclusion. Mentorship programs connecting young women with established professionals can also be invaluable.

Kindly share with us some tips on achieving work-life balance based on your experience.

Achieving work-life balance requires intentionality. I recommend setting clear boundaries for work and personal time, prioritizing tasks, and practicing self-care. It’s important to delegate responsibilities and seek support from colleagues and family. Regularly reflecting on your goals can help maintain focus and balance.

What would you advise the government and other stakeholders to do to support women-owned businesses and women generally?

Governments should implement policies that provide funding, tax incentives, and training programs specifically for women-owned businesses. Creating platforms for networking and mentorship can also foster collaboration and growth. Moreover, promoting the success stories of women entrepreneurs can inspire others.

What would be your advice to younger female professionals on how to get to the top of their careers?

To younger female professionals, I advise being proactive in seeking opportunities and building a diverse network. Embrace learning and stay adaptable to change. Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself and pursue your ambitions relentlessly. Surround yourself with mentors who encourage and challenge you, and remember that your unique perspective is invaluable in any field.