Growing up in Nigeria, I heard my mum one day after school talking about how the folks in the finance and accounting department at her work were making lots of money. The idea of working in a field that seemed to open so many doors stuck with me and led to me becoming an accountant. Later I became genuinely interested in how accounting shapes businesses and impacts communities.
I began my career in financial analysis. Hungry to learn more, I went into business analysis and project management and picked up several qualifications. Currently, as a business analyst at Saskatchewan Government Insurance in Canada, I lead projects across software development and stakeholder management. I enjoy what I do, streamlining processes and enhancing efficiency. I get to solve complex problems and collaborate with diverse teams, and ultimately it all benefits the community too.
Having to quickly adapt to a new culture helped shape me into a versatile professional
The Canadian insurance sector faces challenges. They include the need to adapt to rapid tech advances and digital transformation, and integrate technologies such as AI, machine learning and data analytics. Cybersecurity risks are also rising, as more sensitive customer data is stored digitally, while climate change is impacting the industry by introducing new risks in underwriting.
I stepped out of my comfort zone when I moved from financial analysis to project management and business analysis. This shift required mastering agile and scrum methodologies (ie face-to-face interactions with cross-functional colleagues and daily stand-up meetings). Another significant moment was moving from Nigeria to Canada in 2015, as I had to quickly adapt to a new culture, climate and professional landscape. It all helped shape me into a versatile professional.
‘If you can’t beat the fear, just do it scared.’ This quote, from the author Glennon Doyle, resonates with me. I think it captures perfectly the essence of courage – it’s not about an absence of fear, but the determination to act despite it. In both my professional and personal life, I’ve learned that taking action, even when you’re scared, is often the most important step towards success.
My biggest achievement is the work I’ve done with the StemHub Foundation. As a former finance director and now regional fundraising director, I’ve secured and managed funding for StemHub’s educational programmes, which empower underserved communities in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM). This has opened doors for many individuals who might not have had access to these opportunities, and it remains one of the most rewarding aspects of my career.
I am a volunteer with a charity that runs free tax clinics
I am heavily involved in community service. I am a volunteer with the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program in Canada, which runs free tax clinics, and on the editorial board for the International Journal of Core Engineering and Management, where I review papers. I enjoy mentoring young professionals in finance, guiding them toward fulfilling careers.
If I had law-making powers, I would mandate financial literacy education in schools. Understanding finance, budgeting and investment is crucial for everyone, yet often overlooked in education. Providing these skills early would empower young people to make informed decisions and achieve financial stability.
If I weren’t in finance, I would have pursued a career in science, particularly in medical science. I’m fascinated by how data and technology can advance industries, improve decision-making and address real-world challenges. The evolving nature of technology and medicine also aligns well with my passion for learning and innovation. Outside of work, I also love singing, listening to music, travelling and spending quality time with my family.
