Deborah Obaseki is the head of Greeate Careers, an organization set up to help young people in the area of future and careers. Their tagline reads ‘where information is scarce, hope finds it hard to exist.’ Her aim is to put young people in a better position to make better-informed decisions about their future and career goals. She is doing this by providing information about careers and future planning more accessible to the people who need it.
What motivated and inspired you to start your own business?
I carried out extensive research on women in the workplace and their experiences and I felt like there was an issue. Young girls needed to understand the practicalities of being a woman in the workplace and my mission is to help them.
Tell us about your business.
Women in Leadership is a project set up to inspire, empower and educate young women on the realities of working as a woman in various industries. Our strapline is ‘where there’s a WiL, there’s way.’ If young ladies see women leading in industry and in the world as a whole then it will inspire young ladies to believe that they can lead also.
List awards/certifications/accomplishments.     Â
I’m currently studying my MBA and another masters course in Gender and Women’s studies.
Where is your business based?
London.
What were the first few steps you took to get your business up and running?
I carried out research by interviewing high-profiled female professionals on their journey and experiences as a female manager/director.
What has been the most effective way of raising awareness of your business and getting new customers?
As I work mainly with corporations, I advertise directly at colleges and universities across London.
What have been your biggest challenges so far?
Managing my passion and understanding that there’s a time and season for everything, so every idea does not need to be executed as soon as it comes to mind.
How did you overcome these challenges?
Through conversations with high-profiled women that I have built relationships with and through conversations with friends and family.
How do you keep motivated through difficult times?
Conversation again, when I meet young women who are struggling or I meet top women who are discussing their struggles with me, it allows me to appreciate the need for what I am creating.
How do you distinguish yourself from your competitors?
I don’t really lol. I just focus on my passion and what I am trying to create and the people I am trying to help. If and when I meet people along the way who have a similar passion I love it and I try my best to show support. What I am trying to do is help women and the more people that want to do this, the better. Oftentimes it takes multiple voices to make a change.
What is the best advice you have received recently?
Always put yourself in the position of a student, that way you will be able to learn from anyone, even a baby.
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs?
Stay driven, keep pushing and don’t let the word “no” deter you from following your dreams. But most of all don’t get caught up in the glory of being referred to as a ‘entrepreneur,’ it’s just a word, being an entrepreneur takes real sacrifice and ambition. I do not refer to myself as an entrepreneur, I am just someone with a dream and I am trying to make it happen, that’s all.
What is a good article or book you have read recently?
“7 Mindsets” by Scott Shickler. It was the most inspiring and motivational book I’ve read. Every time I read that book, it makes me want to get up and work.
What are you currently learning about for your business or looking for help with?
I’m interested in the study of women and the history of women’s rights so that is why I am doing a masters in this topic. I am looking for just general support from other women with similar passions. I really want women to come together and support each other.
What are your goals for the next few months and how are you striving to achieve them?
I’m working on company partnerships and sharing my views and journey with other women.
What social media outlets do you use? List them below.
Instagram @deborah_wil
Website www.greeatecareers.com/WomeninLeadership
Email Deborah_b@outlook.com
Hashtags #WiLUK