Abiola Adewusi - NEW's Employment Intake Coordinator
INTRODUCING OUR SECOND NEW STAFF SPOTLIGHT
Meet the Bold and Brave Abiola Adewusi, NEW’s Employment Intake Coordinator. Abiola is an inspiring individual whose personal and professional experiences continue to shape her purposeful journey not only as a Black immigrant woman but as a mother.
What Black History Month Means to You
Black History Month provides an opportunity to celebrate the rich cultural heritage, delve into the stories of Black leaders and unique individuals, and acknowledge their pivotal role in shaping history. It's a reminder of the ongoing journey toward equality, social justice, and the collective pursuit of greatness despite historical challenges. It also serves as a platform to shed light on the struggles, triumphs, and extraordinary achievements of individuals of African descent.
Accomplishments: A Symphony of Professional and Personal Milestones
My proudest personal accomplishment is being able to maintain a strong awareness of my core values from a young age and staying true to them. In addition, I take pride in making a positive impact on society by raising children who embody kindness and intelligence.
On the professional front, growing a successful business in my home country; Lagos, Nigeria, and immigrating to Canada to launch my career from scratch despite various challenges, adds another layer of accomplishment to my professional journey.
Community Engagement and Passions
Outside of my work at NEW, I have a sincere desire to volunteer in various community settings such as shelters, schools, and libraries. I am also passionate about interior decoration and event planning, allowing me to express creativity and contribute to creating aesthetically pleasing environments.
Black Leader(s) you Admire
A Black leader I admire greatly is Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO). I draw inspiration from her remarkable achievements, unwavering perseverance, distinctive fashion style, successful family life, and relentless drive.
Advice to Black Professionals
A piece of advice I would give to aspiring Black professionals entering the workforce or seeking advancement is to always strive to gain knowledge. The professional landscape is ever-evolving, and embracing challenges while consistently gaining knowledge will provide a competitive edge. I believe these will propel one's desired growth in any work environment.
Looking Back: Wise Words to Your Younger Self as a Black Immigrant Woman
Reflecting on my journey as a Black immigrant woman, I would urge my younger self to make the bold move of immigrating earlier. Such a brave move at a younger age would enable me to pursue and obtain a Canadian postgraduate education and relevant professional certifications, creating a more advantageous position to launch my career.
Abiola's dedication to being driven by her core values sets precedence for her passion for raising kind and intelligent children while embodying empathy and wisdom in her professional journey. We admire her drive as she actively seeks volunteering opportunities that align with her values, channeling her energy to make a purposeful impact in her community. Her story is a shining example of the power of living authentically.