Beyond boundaries: Toritse Ikomi’s journey of inclusive excellence

In the dynamic realm of leadership, Toritse Ikomi stands as a testament to the transformative power of investing in women.Toritse is a proud Nigerian, recently Canadian, embarking on a journey that intertwines her roots with her aspirations. As we delve into her narrative, the thread of empowerment and resilience weaves through every chapter of her professional odyssey.

Overcoming imposter syndrome and betting on yourself

Grappling with imposter syndrome has been a significant challenge for her in her career. However, rather than claiming complete victory over it, she sees her progress as incremental. With each career stride, she has diminished its impact, gaining recognition and confidence in the value of her work. Her journey reminds us that acknowledging our challenges is the first step toward overcoming them. 

If she could whisper advice to her younger self, it would echo a simple yet profound mantra: "Bet on yourself. Recognize that you hold the key and power to creating opportunities for yourself. Keep putting yourself out there and rely on people that want to genuinely help you”. She encourages aspiring individuals to understand that they hold the key and power to create opportunities. Her journey is a testament to the impact of self-belief in navigating the twists and turns of a career path.

Breaking gender norms and fostering open conversations

In her quest for gender equality, Toritse addresses a pivotal issue: the lack of transparency or openness surrounding discussions on women’s health in the workplace. While acknowledging progress, she emphasizes the need for supportive environments that foster discussions around women’s health. She advocates for a workplace culture where conversations about women's well-being are not only welcomed but nurtured.

Looking ahead, she also emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and addressing intersectional challenges that women face in the workplace. As a black Nigerian immigrant woman, she aspires to show up authentically but recognizes the challenges in doing so. Toritse calls for organizational policies and structures that reflect the diverse experiences and identities of all women, fostering inclusivity and equity.

Women in leadership: Grace, empathy, and presence

Reflecting on the unique qualities women bring to leadership roles, she highlights traits such as grace, empathy, and a powerful presence. Throughout her career, she has found women leaders to be advocates and wellsprings of knowledge, reshaping her perspective on leadership. The essence lies in their selflessness and empathy, qualities that make leadership more attainable and relatable.

Toritse's approach to achieving work-life balance revolves around establishing boundaries and prioritizing personal well-being. While acknowledging the elusive nature of a perfect balance, she encourages others to rediscover hobbies and find joy outside of work. The key, she suggests, lies in prioritizing activities that bring happiness and rejuvenation. As an advocate for women empowerment, she actively supports her peers by genuinely caring for their well-being, offering a listening ear, and sharing resources. This approach has created a positive ripple effect, fostering a working environment where women feel valued and empowered. Her commitment to supporting other women exemplifies the transformative power of genuine care and collaboration.

“My leadership style revolves around empathy, compassion, and thoughtfulness. Over the years, it has evolved to become more inclusive, collaborative and actively listening, focusing on empowering others and fostering a supportive team environment.” 

‍

Completing her master's degree stands out as one of her proudest achievements. Beyond contributing to her professional growth, the dedication invested in obtaining her degree reinforced her work ethic and personal development. In terms of future goals, she aims to enhance confidence in both her professional and personal capabilities. Intentionally surrounding herself with supportive individuals, seizing opportunities, and engaging in professional development activities are her strategies for achieving this goal. Her journey encourages individuals to embrace authenticity and showcase their skills without fear of failure or judgment.

In conclusion, Toritse Ikomi's narrative is a testament to the power of investing in women. Her journey reflects the transformative impact of empathy, resilience, and a commitment to fostering inclusive workplaces.

‍