New Faces New Voices is a flagship initiative of the Graça Machel Trust committed to enhancing women's presence and impact within the financial sector. The network champions the cause of increasing women's access to finance and financial services to close the economic gap for women, as well as women entrepreneurs in Africa. Aishatu Debola Aminu is a force in Nigeria's financial inclusion space and a champion for women entrepreneurs and youth.
Question: What are the main challenges you face in your entrepreneurial journey and as a part of the Graça Machel Trust NFNV network?The real challenge lies in addressing the social and economic barriers facing women. Often, they need more confidence and access to information. Sometimes, familial dynamics play a role, where a husband might feel threatened by his wife's success.
I urge women, especially young women, to assert themselves and claim their space at the decision-making table. My experience at the Nigeria Chamber of Commerce--being the sole woman on the Council for eight years--taught me the power of resilience. I climbed the ranks from Council member to Vice President of Corporate Affairs. Despite initial resistance, I was determined to leave a mark. And I did.
Question: What have you found to be the most valuable lessons from your experiences with the Graça Machel Trust?My work with the Trust has notably honed my resilience; it has emboldened me more than my time working with a dozen men in the Chamber. Beyond that, it's been instrumental in building robust networks that bolster my professional and social connections, underscoring the importance of professional engagement.
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