Adaku Ijara is an investment professional, chartered wealth manager and astute corporate lawyer with over 19 years of experience spanning legal practice, business development, investment banking, private trust, and asset management. She has led high-performing teams to design customised investment strategies for institutional and individual clients, with the proven ability to develop and achieve new business, build repeat business and establish long-term positive customer relationships at all levels. She is the current MD/CEO of Emerging Africa Asset Management Limited (EAAML), the asset management subsidiary of the Emerging Africa Group, where she is significantly driving the growth of the firm’s AUM and Profitability. In this exclusive interview with Alaba Ayinuola of Business Africa Online (BAO), Adaku speaks on her career path, EAAML, the investment banking and asset management industry in Nigeria, and much more. Excerpt.

Alaba: Could you briefly share your career path and what inspired you to go into investment banking and asset management?

Adaku: I have a background in law and on leaving school and after a very intensive National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) year (I served in a busy SAN’s law firm). I decided that litigation was not for me and the aspiration was to grow into a Company Secretarial role, this actually informed my decision to obtain an LLM in Corporate Governance.

However, in less than 4 months after my NYSC, having worked in a law firm, the opportunity to work in Citizens Bank in 2005 presented itself and that marked the beginning of my sojourn into financial services. I worked in about four commercial banks and a few other organisations before getting into the Investment banking space in 2014. 

Alaba: Can you describe your company and the services you offer?

 Adaku: Emerging Africa Asset Management is an investment management firm that delivers a range of investment solutions across different asset classes. The company is dedicated to enhancing financial inclusion and offering innovative financial products tailored to meet its clients’ needs. We offer services such as portfolio management and wealth investment advisory, all aimed at delivering long-term value and maximizing clients’ returns. 

Our approach incorporates a commitment to governance, risk management, and understanding the evolving economic landscape, particularly in Nigeria. We also have significant experience setting up and managing several successful mutual funds, duly registered and regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Alaba: How do you differentiate EAAML from competitors? 

Adaku: Distinguishing EAAML from the competition is quite straightforward. Our primary focus is on promoting financial inclusion by developing investment products that cater to a wide range of investors. Also, integrating ESG principles into our investment strategies and ensuring that our practices contribute positively to the environment is something we take pride in. Furthermore, our strong risk management system and our robust technological advancements demonstrated in our latest App highlight how we differ from our competitors.

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Alaba: How has your background prepared you for your current role?

Adaku: I am an investment professional, chartered wealth manager, and corporate lawyer with over 19 years of diverse experience spanning legal practice, business development, investment banking and private trust. I believe my roles in the organisations I have worked in have prepared me for my current role as Managing Director of a rapidly growing asset management firm.

Alaba: What roles do ESG considerations play in your investment decisions and your thoughts on DEI in the industry? 

Adaku: At EAAML, ESG considerations are pivotal in our decision-making process. We prioritize investments that contribute positively to environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and strong governance practices.

Regarding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), we believe that a diverse and inclusive industry fosters innovation and resilience. At Emerging Africa, we are committed to creating an environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and equity is promoted at all organizational levels. 

Having established our stance on ESG and DEI, it is pertinent to highlight that we have a balanced fund (i.e. the Emerging Africa Balanced Diversity Fund) and the Emerging Africa Halal Fund which solely aims to uphold all ESG parameters in terms of investing. We recently initiated a process where we profiled existing counterparties and newly onboarded ones in a bid to make sure that they are ESG compliant to some satisfactory level. Additionally, we have invested in companies with exemplary governance practices, as we believe strong governance is a key indicator of sustainable business performance.

Alaba: What trends do you see shaping the investment banking and asset management industries? 

Adaku: We have touched on the discourse of ESG and it’s quite noticeable that there has been a growing focus on ESG-driven investments as clients are now on the lookout for investments that align with their values. I also expect technology to continue to revolutionize the industry as it relates to operational efficiency, customer service, etc.

The investment banking space would still be agog with activities, especially with regards to possible Mergers and Acquisition (M&A) and capital raising activities in the banking sector. At the same time, Fund managers would likely explore alternatives such as real estate, and private equity in a bid to get higher returns and hedge against inflation which is well currently above 30% in Nigeria.

Alaba: Do you think that there is still a career change for you in the future? In this era of constantly being able to reinvent oneself?

Adaku: Hmm..they say ‘never say never’ right? Anyway, for now I am happy in the investment banking space but as I get older and continuously take stock of my life and what matters to me – philanthropy, impact investing and legacy projects are of increasing interest to me -so I am making a lot of time to pursue these interests as I continue to improve myself.

Alaba: Lastly, What advice would you give to aspiring professionals in investment banking and asset management?

Adaku: Well, my candid advice to the players in this space would be to embrace learning. You would agree with me that the industry is constantly evolving, hence the need to stay informed with market trends, new technologies, and regulatory changes.

Additionally, building one’s analytical and technical skills should be greatly prioritized. Finally, I would like to emphasize building relationships and networks across the industry. I am where I am today largely due to these pointers.

B I O G R A P H Y

Investment Professional | Wealth Manager | Corporate Lawyer

Adaku Ijara is an investment professional, chartered wealth manager and astute corporate lawyer with over 19 years of experience spanning legal practice, business development, investment banking, private trust, and asset management. She has led high-performing teams to design customised investment strategies for institutional and individual clients, with the proven ability to develop and achieve new business, build repeat business and establish long-term positive customer relationships at all levels. As a catalyst for change, she is capable of critically evaluating and responding to rapidly evolving economic and business conditions.

She is the current MD/CEO of Emerging Africa Asset Management Limited, the asset management subsidiary of the Emerging Africa Group, where she is significantly driving the growth of the firm’s AUM and Profitability. This led to the award of Largest Fund Manager noted on FMDQ at the 2022 FMDQ Gold Awards. As an experienced executive she possesses strong diplomatic skills, a natural affinity for cultivating relationships and persuading, convening, facilitating, and building consensus among diverse individuals. She also possesses board experience acquired from sitting on the Investment Committees of EAAML’s 5 SEC regulated Collective Investment Schemes.

Prior to her roles in the Emerging Africa Group, Adaku was the Head, Private Trust at United Capital Trustees. In her role, she was responsible for the exponential growth of the UCT’s Private Trust Fund, which contributed significantly to Private Trust becoming United Capital Group’s fastest-growing business. This feat earned her an award for the “most execution-focused staff” in 2017.

She was elected Vice President of the Fund Managers Association of Nigeria in 2022 and joined the EACB Mini MBA program as a faculty member in 2023. In addition to her recent appointments, she is an Executive member of the Association of Business & Professional Women(ABPW) and the National Secretary Women in Finance, Nigeria(WIFNg). She is also an articulate speaker who is invited to speak on issues of wealth management, impact investment and personal finance.

Adaku holds an LLB from the University of Nigeria, and an LLM in Corporate Governance from the University of Manchester, United Kingdom and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2003. Adaku is also a Chartered Wealth Manager and a fellow of the Global Academy of Finance & Management (GAFM).

Bamidele Adewole is a seasoned finance expert and entrepreneur with a passion for real estate investment, financial advisory, and business development. With a proven track record of success, Bamidele has been instrumental in executing multi-million dollar transactions and advising a growing client base on wealth management and investment strategies. As a thought leader in the financial industry, Bamidele has authored several insightful reports, facilitated numerous seminars and webinars, and published a book, “The Smart Investor’s Guidebook” in 2020. In this exclusive interview with Alaba Ayinuola of Business Africa Online (BAO), Bamidele shares his inspiration for venturing into real estate as a financial and investment professional and the housing gap problem his company, PWAN STAR is solving. Excerpts.

Alaba: Could you tell us about PWAN STARS and your strategic role at the company?

Bamidele: The Company was set up with one primary objective- to reduce the housing gap in the country. We noticed that there was, and still is, a big challenge with accommodation in Nigeria and we decided to put our heads together, set up a business that would contribute in its own little way towards the reduction of this gap. This we are doing gradually as we currently have almost 100 housing units either developed or at various stages in the development process. Our plan is to have at least 7 to 10 building projects consisting of hundreds of units within our portfolio by the end of 2025.

My role as CEO in the company is simple. I am there to provide general guidance to the company and drive its vision which is to help make the dreams of Nigerians to own their own homes a reality. More specifically speaking, my role covers areas around strategy, product conceptualization, business development and risk management. I also oversee the finance and projects functions. It is my responsibility to ensure that we manage our finances optimally without endue exposure to financial liabilities and similar risks. I also work closely with the technical team in our projects department to coordinate the work of our vendors, artisans, contractors and the likes with the aim of delivering our projects within time and budget benchmarks.

Alaba: What sets your company apart from competitors in the industry?

Bamidele: What set us apart in my own view is our approach to business. We don’t believe in making too much noise or in using hype as a strategy to market our products. We prefer to drive our growth organically through risk management practices as well as product quality and customer service excellence. We don’t just sell products to our clients; we give them a memorable experience – one that would make them almost feel obliged to come back to do more business with us or at least refer us to their networks. We are building a niche for ourselves within the industry as one that does not compromise on standards and ethical considerations. We understand that our clients make sacrifices by investing with us and we do not take this for granted at all. I believe this strategy sets us apart, as many other players in the industry prefer to do things differently.

Alaba: Can you share a notable PWAN STARS achievement or success story?

Bamidele: One notable achievement to point to is our recent completion of a 12-unit apartment block located within the Ajayi Apata New Town, Sangotedo, called The Edifice Apartments. The property includes a fully equipped gymnasium, ample parking space, high speed fibre-optic internet cabling, treated water supply, a children’s playground, automated sewage management, good drainage and road network, horticulture, amongst others. It’s a fully serviced development with services such as cleaning, gardening, fumigation, internet provision, uniformed security, waste disposal and a dedicated customer service support team. We are very proud of this project and the fact that we were able to deliver it within a relatively short period of time, despite the economic headwinds we faced during construction.

Alaba: How is technology transforming the real estate industry, and how is your company adapting?

Bamidele: Technology is a big thing across all industries, and real estate is certainly not an exception. Technology is at the very heart of almost everything we do. From our construction methods, techniques and tools, to our interior finishing, infrastructure developments, provision of amenities and so on, we make sure we continually find ways to do things better and more efficiently through the use of technology. We are also driven by the need to make our customer experience more memorable by providing them with cutting edge options driven by technological ideas. 

Alaba: What trends do you see shaping the real estate market in Nigeria?

Bamidele: I see a greater role being played by technology. We are already in the era of smart home automation and I see it becoming more of a standard feature in housing developments, especially within the middle-class segment and potentially lower segment. I also expect to see more emphasis on the provision of green energy solutions as more developers are beginning to embrace sustainability practices in their developments. The awareness is growing amongst both developers and would-be homeowners. I expect that a time would come when building a residential property without including these features would be regarded as “old fashioned” and outdated. We are already incorporating these technologies and features into our developments, so we are well positioned and ready for the future that lies ahead.

Alaba: What inspired you to transition into real estate full time?

Bamidele: The major inspiration for my venturing into real estate was the desire to contribute as much as I could to solving a national problem. I knew I would never be able to do this alone, but I felt that if I played my role, it would help in some way, no matter how small. Also, as a finance and investment professional, real estate being a viable asset class, aligned with my background and training. It wasn’t so much about the financial rewards for me, even though that is important, but the fact that I felt it was something that would allow me make a difference to people by developing and promoting a product that could lead to financial empowerment and long-term wealth creation. 

Alaba: What’s one thing you wish people understood about real estate investment?

Bamidele: The major knowledge gap I see regarding real estate investment has to do with the expectation for short term returns. Some people see real estate investment as a scheme where you can invest and start to generate good returns immediately after. All investments require patience, but real estate requires even more patience as the real returns take time to manifest. I would say one should give at least 3 to 5 years to begin to derive the optimal rewards for investing in properties. This does not mean that one cannot generate returns within a shorter period; what it simply means is that on average, most property investments take time to deliver good returns. With good risk management practices, working with a reliable developer and a patient mindset, real estate investors can make a good and sustainable fortune on their investments over time. 

Alaba: Lastly, What advice would you give to aspiring real estate professionals?

Bamidele: My advice to them is not to get involved until they fully understand what it takes to survive and thrive in the industry. Because we have a “free entry, free exit” system in the country, there are so many developers who come in unprepared, get their fingers burnt, and aren’t able to cope with the demands and challenges they face. While having financial resources is not an absolute must, it is important that one at least understands how to raise funding for their business, as real estate is highly capital intensive. Many developers therefore struggle to make meaningful impact due to lack of funding and lack of understanding of how to raise funding for projects. Beyond this, there’s also the technical aspects of property business which is often overlooked by many real estate entrepreneurs.  I believe every aspiring developer should have a mentor or role model to help improve the quality of their decision making and ensure they don’t make the same mistakes that others before them made. As the popular saying goes, they should “look before they leap”.

BIOGRAPHY 

Bamidele Adewole is a seasoned finance expert and entrepreneur with a passion for real estate investment, financial advisory, and business development. With a proven track record of success, Bamidele has been instrumental in executing multi-million dollar transactions and advising a growing client base on wealth management and investment strategies.

As a thought leader in the financial industry, Bamidele has authored several insightful reports, facilitated numerous seminars and webinars, and published a book, “The Smart Investor’s Guidebook” in 2020. His expertise has been showcased on several TV stations, including Channels TV, TVC, Plus TV, and other prominent media outlets, as well as in print media.

As the CEO of PWAN STARS, a fast-growing real estate development company in Lagos, Nigeria, Bamidele drives the company’s vision with his entrepreneurial spirit, inspiring a team of motivated professionals to achieve exceptional results. His leadership has positioned the company as a major player in the industry.

Bamidele Adewole is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers, Chartered Institute for Taxation, and Chartered Institute for Securities and Investments (UK). He is also a member of the Securities and Exchange Commission in Nigeria and an authorised Dealing Clerk of the Nigerian Exchange Group.

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Linda Obi, CEO of AfriHealth (Photo: Supplied)

Africa’s health tech sector is booming, with 1,100+ startups transforming healthcare delivery through mobile solutions, telemedicine, and electronic records, tackling maternal health, infectious diseases, and non-communicable diseases across the continent. In this exclusive interview, Alaba Ayinuola of Business Africa Online (BAO) delves into Linda Obi’s journey, exploring the challenges and opportunities in Africa’s health tech ecosystem, AfriHealth cutting-edge solutions, and the future of healthcare on the continent. Excerpts.

Alaba: Could you please share your journey into health tech and entrepreneurship?

Linda: Absolutely, I’d love to share my story. My journey into health tech began unexpectedly while I was deeply engaged in various technology roles over the past 15 years. Working extensively with Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain, I was always passionate about using technology to bridge gaps and solve real-world problems across different sectors.

During this time, I became increasingly aware of the significant disparities in healthcare access, especially in underserved communities. Witnessing these challenges firsthand ignited a desire in me to make a meaningful impact. This realization led me to transition into health tech, where I saw a unique opportunity to leverage my expertise to transform healthcare delivery.

As the CEO of AfriHealth, headquartered in Lagos, I have been privileged to lead initiatives that revolutionize healthcare across Africa. Our flagship product, Rigour+, is a telemedicine app designed to connect patients with healthcare providers seamlessly, regardless of their location. Seeing Rigour+ improve access to quality healthcare and enhance efficiency has been incredibly fulfilling.

Beyond technology, I am committed to fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion within AfriHealth. Building a diverse team has been essential to our innovation and success, ensuring that our solutions address a wide range of needs.

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Looking ahead, my vision is to position AfriHealth as a global leader in health tech, driving societal change through innovative solutions. I am excited about the potential of emerging technologies to further enhance our services and extend our impact beyond Africa, making healthcare accessible to communities worldwide.

In essence, my entrepreneurial journey has been driven by a blend of professional passion and a personal commitment to making healthcare more equitable and effective for everyone.

Alaba: What is the inspiration behind AfriHealth, and how did you identify the problem your company solves?

Linda: The inspiration behind AfriHealth is rooted in a deep understanding of the healthcare challenges that Africa faces. From the start, the mission was clear: to leverage technology to address the widespread issues of limited access to quality healthcare, especially in remote and underserved areas. I was drawn to this vision because, throughout my own career in technology, I had seen how innovation could bridge critical gaps in other sectors, and I knew it could do the same in healthcare.

Africa’s healthcare system faces unique pressures, from the severe shortage of medical professionals and infrastructure gaps to the high burden of chronic diseases and preventable illnesses. These challenges inspired the creation of Rigour+, our telemedicine platform that brings healthcare directly to people, regardless of where they are. By integrating Artificial Intelligence, we’re not just improving access but also enhancing the quality of care, providing personalized health solutions and predictive analytics that help healthcare providers make informed decisions.

The problem we’re solving at AfriHealth is about more than just access—it’s about equity. We believe that everyone, no matter where they live, deserves quality healthcare, and technology is the key to making that vision a reality. This mission continues to drive our innovations and our commitment to transforming healthcare delivery across Africa.

Alaba: What are your offerings, and how are you different from other health tech startups in Africa?

At AfriHealth, we solve three core problems: access to doctors, access to authentic medications, and access to emergency response services. These are critical challenges in Africa, where geographical and infrastructural barriers make it difficult for millions to get the medical attention they need.

Our flagship product, Rigour+, directly addresses these issues. First, we ensure access to qualified doctors through our network of over 1,000 specialized, vetted, and verified healthcare professionals. Patients can consult with doctors across various specialties, including general medicine, cardiology, and pediatrics, regardless of their location. This is especially crucial in rural and underserved areas, where medical expertise is scarce.

Second, we tackle the challenge of access to authentic medications by partnering with trusted pharmacies. Through our platform, patients can easily connect with verified pharmacies, ensuring they receive genuine, safe medications. This is essential in a market where counterfeit drugs are a persistent issue.

Lastly, our emergency response service sets us apart. We’ve onboarded state-of-the-art ambulances and partnered with top-rated emergency providers to offer immediate access to emergency services. Whether it’s in a remote village or a bustling city, we ensure that emergency response is quick, efficient, and reliable, covering everything from transport to life-saving interventions.

What differentiates us from other health tech startups is our holistic approach to solving healthcare challenges. Many platforms focus on one aspect of care, but AfriHealth integrates multiple layers—consultations, medication, and emergency services—into a seamless experience. By ensuring that every element is verified, from doctors to pharmacies to ambulances, we provide a level of trust and reliability that truly sets us apart. Our commitment to building partnerships and maintaining a scalable, accessible platform ensures we’re not just another health tech solution but one that addresses the core challenges of healthcare in Africa comprehensively and sustainably.

Alaba: What role do you see AI, blockchain, or other technologies playing in healthcare?

Linda: I believe technologies like AI and blockchain are game-changers in healthcare, especially in Africa where we face unique challenges. Let me explain why.

When I think about Artificial Intelligence (AI), I see a tool that can personalize and enhance healthcare for everyone. Imagine a mother in a remote village who can use her phone to consult with a specialist hundreds of miles away. AI makes this possible by analyzing symptoms, medical histories, and even predicting health issues before they become critical. At AfriHealth, we’ve integrated AI into Rigour+ to connect patients with the right doctors quickly, breaking down geographical barriers and saving precious time.

Blockchain technology addresses another critical issue: trust. Unfortunately, counterfeit medications are a real problem here, and they pose serious risks to people’s health. By using blockchain’s secure and transparent system, we can track and verify medications from the manufacturer all the way to the patient. This means that when someone gets medicine through our platform, they can be confident it’s authentic and safe. It restores faith in the healthcare system, which is so important.

Other technologies like the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) and augmented reality are also opening new doors. IoMT devices allow doctors to monitor patients’ health remotely, which is invaluable for managing chronic conditions without requiring frequent hospital visits. Augmented reality can help train medical professionals more effectively, improving the quality of care across the board.

In essence, these technologies aren’t just advanced tools—they’re solutions to real problems that affect people’s lives every day. They help us make healthcare more accessible, reliable, and personalized. I’m genuinely excited about the possibilities they bring, and I’m committed to leveraging them to make a tangible difference in our communities. It’s about using innovation to improve lives, and that’s what drives me every day.

Alaba: What’s the one thing you wish people understood about health tech?

Linda: I wish people understood that health tech isn’t just about technology—it’s fundamentally about people and improving their lives. While the advancements in AI, blockchain, and other technologies are exciting, the true essence of health tech lies in its potential to bridge critical gaps in healthcare access and quality, especially in regions like Africa where these gaps are most pronounced.

Many assume that health tech is all about cutting-edge gadgets or complex algorithms, but at its heart, it’s a means to make healthcare more accessible, equitable, and efficient for everyone. For instance, in many parts of Africa, people face significant barriers to basic healthcare services due to distance, lack of infrastructure, or shortages of medical professionals. Health tech solutions like our platform, Rigour+, are designed to overcome these challenges by connecting patients with specialized, vetted doctors, ensuring access to authentic medications through our track-and-trace system, and providing timely emergency response services.

It’s also about building trust and empowering communities. By leveraging technologies like AI and blockchain, we’re not just innovating for innovation’s sake—we’re creating reliable systems that people can depend on for their health and well-being. This trust is crucial because it encourages people to seek care when they need it, leading to better health outcomes.

So, the one thing I wish people understood is that health tech is a powerful enabler of positive change. It’s about using technology as a tool to solve real human problems, to make a tangible difference in people’s lives, and to create a healthier future for communities worldwide. At AfriHealth, that’s the driving force behind everything we do. We’re committed to not just advancing technology, but to transforming lives through accessible and compassionate healthcare solutions.

Alaba: From your experience in building a business in Africa, what are the lessons for entrepreneurs and investors?

Linda: Building a business in Africa is both an exciting and challenging journey—it’s rewarding, but it’s not without its hurdles. One of the key lessons I’ve learned is the importance of resilience and adaptability. Things don’t always go as planned, and you might face obstacles like infrastructural issues or bureaucratic delays. It’s crucial to stay patient and flexible, adjusting your strategies as needed.

Another important lesson is that relationships matter immensely. In many African countries, business is deeply personal. Taking the time to build genuine connections with local communities, partners, and government officials can make a significant difference. Trust and mutual respect open doors that might otherwise remain closed.

Understanding the local context is also vital. Africa is incredibly diverse, with each country—and even regions within countries—having its own unique culture, regulations, and market dynamics. Doing your homework and immersing yourself in the local environment helps you tailor your business to meet specific needs effectively.

I also want to emphasize that innovation doesn’t always mean high-tech solutions. Sometimes, the most impactful innovations are simple ideas that solve everyday problems. For example, at AfriHealth, we focus on making healthcare accessible by connecting people to doctors and authentic medications using technologies that are readily available, like mobile phones.

Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of persistence. There will be challenges—whether it’s dealing with inconsistent power supply, navigating complex regulatory landscapes, or addressing logistical issues. But if you’re committed to your vision and willing to put in the effort, the rewards can be tremendous. You’re not just building a business; you’re contributing to growth and making a real difference in people’s lives.

So, for entrepreneurs and investors looking at Africa, I’d say: come with an open mind and a willingness to learn. Be ready to adapt, build strong relationships, and focus on creating solutions that resonate with the local communities. It’s not always easy, but the journey is incredibly fulfilling and full of opportunities to make a meaningful impact.

Alaba: How do you feel as a female entrepreneur and venture builder in Africa?

Linda: As a female entrepreneur and venture builder in Africa, I feel a profound sense of purpose and responsibility. It’s a journey that is both challenging and incredibly rewarding. Being a woman in this space means navigating a landscape where barriers still exist, but it also means having the opportunity to drive meaningful change and inspire others.

I am deeply motivated by the resilience and potential of the people around me. Africa is a continent brimming with innovation, creativity, and untapped talent, especially among women. Every day, I witness the incredible ideas and solutions that emerge when diverse voices are heard and included. This fuels my commitment to not only build successful ventures but also to pave the way for other women to step into leadership roles.

Being a female leader here is about more than personal success; it’s about contributing to a larger movement towards equality and empowerment. It’s about challenging the status quo and breaking down stereotypes that have limited opportunities for women in the past. I strive to create environments where everyone’s contributions are valued, and where mentorship and support are readily available.

There is a unique strength that comes from overcoming obstacles and turning challenges into opportunities. I feel honored to be part of a community of women who are redefining what entrepreneurship looks like in Africa. Together, we’re not just building businesses—we’re building a legacy of resilience, innovation, and inclusivity.

In essence, being a female entrepreneur in Africa fills me with hope and determination. It’s a role that allows me to make a tangible impact on people’s lives, to uplift communities, and to inspire the next generation of leaders. It’s a journey I’m incredibly proud to be on, and I’m excited about what the future holds as we continue to break new ground and reach new heights together.

Alaba: Lastly, what advice would you give to aspiring female entrepreneurs in health tech?

Linda: To all the aspiring female entrepreneurs venturing into health tech, I want to say this: believe in the power of your vision and the impact you can make. The journey won’t always be easy, but your passion and determination are invaluable assets that can drive meaningful change.

Embrace your unique perspective. As women, we bring diverse insights and experiences that can lead to innovative solutions, especially in healthcare, where empathy and understanding are crucial. Don’t shy away from sharing your ideas because they could be the key to addressing unmet needs in our communities.

Build a strong network and seek mentorship. Surround yourself with people who support and challenge you to grow. Mentors can provide guidance, open doors to opportunities, and help you navigate the complexities of the industry. Remember, you don’t have to walk this path alone.

Stay resilient in the face of challenges. There will be obstacles—whether it’s funding hurdles, skepticism, or balancing personal commitments—but resilience is your greatest ally. Every setback is a learning opportunity that brings you one step closer to your goals.

Be bold and take risks. Innovation often requires stepping out of your comfort zone. Don’t be afraid to disrupt the status quo if it means creating better solutions for healthcare challenges. Your courage can lead to breakthroughs that make a real difference.

Prioritize collaboration over competition. The health tech field thrives on collaboration. Working together with others—be it other entrepreneurs, healthcare professionals, or technologists—can amplify your impact and lead to more holistic solutions.

Keep the end goal in sight. Always remember why you started: to improve lives through better healthcare. Let that purpose drive you forward, motivate you during tough times, and inspire others around you.

Lastly, believe in yourself and your abilities. Your contributions are not just important—they are essential. By pursuing your passion in health tech, you’re not only shaping the future of healthcare but also paving the way for more women to follow in your footsteps.