Why I Could Never Hold a Job: My Struggles of Professional Missteps & Redemption

Now, I smile with joy in my heart as I witness young women being paired with generous mentors in every program we host, all freely giving their time and expertise!

Growing up in a middle-class family often means missing out on certain privileges, but one thing you'll never lack is the value of generosity. In my most vulnerable moments, I discovered the profound importance of generosity and learned why mentoring matters.        

Reflecting on my career journey, I recognise the challenges of navigating professional growth without the right support. Early in my career, I faced numerous obstacles and made decisions that cost me jobs I deeply valued. I didn’t fully grasp the importance of networking with the right people or the need for continuous upskilling.

These gaps in understanding were among the reasons I was dismissed from almost every position I held. I wasn’t politically astute or diplomatic; I approached my roles with a straightforward, all-in attitude, assuming that this was the norm in the corporate world. It took me time to realise that professional success involves more than just hard work and dedication—it also requires strategic networking, continuous learning, and sometimes, playing the fool to understand the dynamics at play.

These experiences fuelled my drive to create a supportive network for women facing similar challenges, leading to the founding of Corporate Women in Leadership nine years ago.

Corporate Women in Leadership was established with a clear mission: to bridge the gap for women in their careers by providing essential support and guidance. Our goal is to empower and inspire the next generation of professional women by connecting them with experienced mentors who offer valuable insights and advice.

Our initiative offers unparalleled benefits, including Expert Guidance through Speed Mentorship Sessions, where seasoned professionals share their invaluable knowledge and experiences to help women navigate career challenges and seize new opportunities. Personal and Professional Growth is fostered through diverse events and learning opportunities, providing participants with tools and strategies to enhance their career trajectories. Networking Opportunities are created within a supportive community, enabling meaningful connections and collaborations with peers and mentors. Finally, our programmes aim to ignite Inspiration and Motivation, encouraging women to push boundaries and reach their full potential. I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our incredible mentors for their unwavering commitment to shaping the future of women in leadership. Your involvement is crucial in making this initiative impactful.

Many women in top leadership positions may not fully embrace the generosity and power of mentoring for several reasons:

1. Time Constraints: High-level leaders often have demanding schedules, making it difficult for them to allocate time for mentoring amidst their other responsibilities.

2. Lack of Awareness: Some may not be fully aware of the significant impact that mentoring can have, both on their own growth and on the development of others.

3. Cultural Norms: In some corporate cultures, there is a focus on individual achievement and competition rather than collaboration and support, which can diminish the perceived value of mentoring.

4. Previous Experiences: Leaders who did not have strong mentoring experiences themselves may be less inclined to engage in mentoring others, lacking a personal understanding of its benefits.

5. Perceived Ineffectiveness: There might be a belief that mentoring is not as impactful as other professional development methods, leading to a preference for alternative approaches.

6. Confidence and Skill Gaps: Some leaders may feel they lack the necessary skills or confidence to effectively mentor others, which can deter them from engaging in mentoring relationships.

Addressing these barriers and fostering a culture that values and prioritizes mentoring can help more women in leadership roles embrace the power of giving back through mentoring.        

We have built a powerful community across Cameroon, Côte d'Ivoire, Senegal, Gabon, and now South Africa, and our network continues to expand. We are excited to support you on your professional journey, providing connections and insights through Corporate Women in Leadership that are designed to empower you to thrive and lead with confidence.

To all the women in these countries, thank you for being a part of this transformative journey. Together, we are making a difference and paving the way for a more inclusive and supportive professional environment.