The Power of Bold Steps in a Woman’s Journey

posted on Mar 7, 2025

Celebrating Women Who Take Action for Growth, Leadership, and Balance

Success is never a matter of luck, it is built through deliberate choices, continuous learning, and the courage to take action. Many times, career paths do not unfold as planned. Some begin in one field and find passion in another. Others must navigate industries where they must constantly prove themselves. But what sets successful women apart is their willingness to learn, adapt, and boldly step forward when opportunities arise.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, with the theme “Accelerating Action”, we reflect on the stories of some of the exceptional women leading at Page Financials. Their journeys highlight a common truth: growth is not about waiting; it’s about taking action.

The Power of Learning and Adaptability

Every career story is unique, yet one thing remains constant, the need to keep learning. No matter where you start, success is shaped by how much effort you put into growth.

"I really wish I could say I always knew I wanted to work in finance," says Antonia Oguntubi, Divisional Head, Wealth Management. "But that was not the case. I started as a science student studying Microbiology. It was during my NYSC when I worked at a bank that my passion for finance and wealth management truly began."

Many women find themselves in unexpected career paths. Some step into new industries, while others must reinvent themselves to stay relevant. The ability to embrace change and take action is what makes the difference.

"With every new role I took on, I made sure to enhance my knowledge in that field," shares Chinelo Awotoye, Group Head, Corporate Services. "That is how you build expertise—you do not wait for the job to teach you; you prepare yourself ahead of time."

When faced with uncertainty, the best response is to take control by learning, upskilling, and positioning yourself for the next opportunity.

"I realized that I needed to upskill to move forward in my career," says Chinelo Ngene, Group Head, Marketing, Product, and Customer Service. "But I also knew that taking a gap year to study might disrupt my momentum. So, I found a way to pursue my Master’s degree online while working. It was tough, but I knew it was necessary."

Success comes from doing the hard things even when they feel uncomfortable.

Overcoming Challenges with Strategy and Grit

Every woman in leadership are faced with obstacles, difficult bosses, high expectations, and moments of self-doubt. But rather than allowing these struggles to define them, they use them as stepping stones.

"Yes, I did have tough bosses," Antonia admits. "And in some cases, you might have to leave an organization. But when you cannot, you have to study your boss—understand what makes them happy, their strengths, their weaknesses—and find a way to work around it."

Career growth is often about navigating relationships just as much as it is about performance. The ability to manage workplace dynamics is a skill every professional must master.

Beyond workplace relationships, women also face self-imposed limitations—whether it is fear of taking risks or waiting for the “perfect time” to make a move.

"If you want to grow, take the bull by the horn and invest in yourself," says Chinelo Awotoye. "The worst thing you can do is stay stuck, waiting for things to change on their own."

When obstacles arise, the only way forward is through strategic action.

The Role of Relationships, Mentorship, and Balance

No one achieves success alone. Relationships (both professional and personal) play a huge role in career advancement.

"I am big on building relationships," says Antonia. "Even when I leave an office, I maintain the connections I built there. You never know when someone might see an opportunity that is perfect for you and put in a word."

In addition to networking, mentorship is a crucial part of professional growth. Learning from others who have already walked the path you are on can save years of trial and error.

"You do not have enough lifetime to make all the mistakes yourself," says Chinelo Ngene. "Learn from your own mistakes, but more importantly, learn from others so you do not repeat theirs."

Likewise, as women rise in their careers, they should remember to extend a hand to those coming behind them.

"When you take bold steps in your career, you inspire others to do the same," says Chinelo Awotoye. "Success is not just about personal achievement—it is about paving the way for others."

Another important conversation in many women’s careers is the idea that success at work must come at the cost of personal happiness. Many have been told that they must choose between a thriving career and a happy family.

"We hear people say that to grow in your career, you have to sacrifice family, or vice versa," says Chinelo Ngene. "But I believe we can combine both. It is about creating balance, setting priorities, and making time for what truly matters."

Every woman who has broken barriers and climbed the ladder was once in the shoes of someone looking for guidance. True success is measured not just by how far you go but by how many people you lift along the way.

Owning the Future Through Intentional Action

One of the greatest career lessons is that opportunities do not wait. If you are not prepared to seize them, they will pass you by.

"Opportunities do not always come when you expect them," says Antonia. "But when they do, you must be ready to act. The worst thing is to be unprepared when the right door opens."

The women who accelerate their careers are those who take action—not because they have everything figured out but because they understand that growth happens in motion.

"Sometimes, you may feel stuck, but the key is to take action," says Chinelo Ngene. "Even the smallest step forward is progress."

There will always be reasons to wait, to hesitate, to postpone taking that bold step. But if there is one lesson from these women, it is this: waiting never accelerates success, action does.

A Call to Accelerate

As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, let this be a reminder:

Learn continuously. Every new skill and experience moves you forward.
Take bold steps. The best time to start is now.
Build strong relationships. Opportunities often come from the people around you.
Overcome challenges with strategy. Obstacles are a part of growth.
Be prepared for opportunities. The future belongs to those who are ready.
Find balance. You do not have to choose between career and family—you can have both.