Why join this journey?
My background, influences and education
I am Nigerian-born and was born into a privileged, high-achieving, aspirational middle class family in Lagos, Nigeria but have lived in the UK since I was 8. I was extremely privileged to be privately educated in the Southern Home Counties and would now describe myself as British Nigerian (I hold both Nigerian and British citizenship). I come from a family of doctors but bucked the family trend to pursue a career in law, studying towards my law degree at a Russell Group University in the North East of England. My parents are my role models and supported me fully in maximising my potential. I am a dual qualified lawyer which means that I can practise law both as a solicitor in England & Wales and as a barrister and solicitor in Nigeria.
Why is diversity so important to me?
I have experienced both racial and gender-based discrimination in the workplace and was angry about this for many years. Instead of staying angry, I decided to do something about it! My aim is to level the playing field by empowering the next generation (and, indeed, others) to maximise their potential with a view to seeing an end to all forms of discrimination in the work place and in wider society. This challenge is huge but, to me, is worth pursuing and making sacrifices for.
I was awarded the M.B.E. (Member of the Order of the British Empire) for services to diversity in the legal profession and to young people in the Queen's 91st birthday honours list (June 2017). I received my MBE medal from HRH Prince Charles at an investiture ceremony in Buckingham Palace on 7th December 2017.
What else gets me up in the morning?
I love being a mother and believe this is the most important role I will ever have.
I am passionate about the law, business, diversity, healthcare and education.
I also thrive on seeing my team and colleagues develop and grow.
Teamwork definitely makes the dream work!
My mission is to do all I can to ensure that as many people as possible get the support they need to maximise their potential.