Women-Owned Business Series: Patricia from Omote Ro Dhe

In this Women-Owned Business post, we celebrate the difference-maker behind the Omote Ro Dhe blog. She pours her days into strengthening a large community of women, supporting their efforts as they work their way through education, into leadership roles, and as they start their own businesses. She points out the disadvantages we feel as females every day and even offers solutions when possible. Read more about her efforts, as well as her advice for other woman business owners, below.

First, tell us about your business and anything special we should know about it or you.

In this part of the world, women are often marginalized and limited. That notion should be changed because we have the wherewithal to aspire, grow, achieve our dreams, and make a change. That being said, a woman truly can have it all — relationship, career, and all — when she remains determined. Women and the men in their lives face challenges from the workplace, family, relationships, and more. As the saying goes, when you educate a woman, you educate the whole community.
The blog aims to show the importance of women folk in nation-building. Women form the minority of decision-makers and leaders in our society. Omote Ro Dhe is blog that serves as a platform to celebrate and support women (both established and upcoming) excelling in their various fields and endeavors. It focuses on women, mostly in the media and communications. The blog caters to women that fall within the age bracket of 18-60 years old.

Why do you feel a connection to your work?

I am passionate about my work, as it seeks to break the myth and limitations women go through such as not having access to education, employment, and personal development opportunities, funding, and nation-building.

As a business owner, community is everything. In what ways do you serve your community and how has your community served you?

I do this by serving as an ‘Information minister’ that creates opportunities for women in education, career, family, technology, and business. My community has helped me by being cooperative and creating an enabling environment.

What advice would you give to young women who want to start a small business?

They should get mentors that inspire them. They should also surround themselves with a solid network of women that will push them to achieve bigger goals. Lastly, they should not give into fear, for that is a big stumbling block to self-actualization.

What women inspire you and why?

Ibukun Awosika, Oprah Winfrey, Mo Abudu, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Oby Ezekwesili. If they can do it, I can do the same. It is more about their character, capacity, and business acumen than anything else.

What do you think are the most significant challenges for women business owners or women in leadership positions?

The system limits women from reaching their full potential, especially in leadership. There’s a significant lack of access to education and other opportunities for rural women. Another challenge is lack of funding — statistics show that men are more likely to get funding for their businesses than women.

This year marks Patricia’s 10th year of blogging – see what she has to say about that experience and more at her blog!