In an inspiring session at The Emerging Women Summit, Oluwatoyin Ajilore-Chukwuemeka, a prominent STEM educational researcher, shared her multifaceted journey through various career paths. The summit, held last weekend, featured stories of resilience and determination from accomplished women across different fields.
Oluwatoyin, who holds a BSc and two MScs in Geosciences, revealed her unconventional career trajectory, which included stints as a baker, dressmaker, bead artisan, and digital floor plan designer for event planners. Alongside teaching Biology and Mathematics, she founded a nonprofit aimed at supporting businesses. Currently, she serves as a STEM Education Researcher and Policy Advocate.
Joining her on the panel was Temitope Ojomuyide, whose career began as an On-Air Personality at a radio station. Over time, she transitioned into roles such as Executive Assistant, Restaurant Manager, Front Desk Manager at a Manufacturing Company, and now holds the position of Head of Operations at a leading Insurance Company, having climbed the corporate ladder from an intern. Temitope’s academic background in Agricultural Extension defied traditional expectations.
Another speaker, Gbemisola Ojo, started her career with a Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering but ventured into diverse roles as a baker, fruit/parfait seller, and teacher at an A-level institution. Today, she is a DevOps Professional at one of the Big4 Consulting Companies in the UK while actively leading multiple organizations.
Tolulope Okuneye’s journey began with a Bachelor’s in Microbiology, leading to a position as a Research and Development Graduate Trainee at Unilever Nigeria. She transitioned to the Marketing arm, eventually becoming a Brand Manager, and is now exploring the field of Biotechnology.
Tomilola Idowu, with a Bachelor’s in Computer Science, worked as a Developer and Trainer before entering the media industry as the Senior Content Associate of BellaNaija Weddings. She subsequently led client acquisition for a digital media strategy company, served as a Program Manager for an NGO, and pursued a Master’s in Child Studies and Human Development. Currently, she is making waves as a budding Cybersecurity and Technology Ethics Researcher.
The resounding message from these accomplished women is that a career trajectory doesn’t have to be a straight path. Oluwatoyin emphasized the value of embracing a “zig-zag” journey, reassuring the audience that many people navigate the challenging process of figuring things out.
In closing, the speakers delivered a powerful message to anyone grappling with career changes, stating, “You are not too old, too set in a field, or too anything at all to make the necessary turn that your career trajectory needs.” The summit provided a platform for women to share their stories, encouraging others to embrace the unpredictability of life’s journey and pursue their passions with dedication.
