Aisha Shuaibu: Bridging Business Success and Social Impact for a More Equitable World
In the bustling landscape of Nigerian entrepreneurship, one name shines brightly, Aisha Shuaibu, a multifaceted entrepreneur with a remarkable blend of business acumen and a passion for social impact. Her journey is a testament to the power of purpose-driven leadership and the transformative potential of an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place.
Aisha Shuaibu’s entrepreneurial journey began with the establishment of Waffle Way, a thriving restaurant business. Her visionary approach to culinary delights turned Waffle Way into a local sensation, offering a fusion of flavours that captivated the hearts and taste buds of many. But Aisha’s entrepreneurial spirit didn’t stop there.
As the founder of SWA Global, a business solutions company, Aisha extended her reach to offer invaluable services to companies seeking growth and development. Her strategic prowess and innovative thinking allowed her to make an indelible mark in the corporate world, helping businesses thrive in a dynamic and ever-changing market.
Aisha’s dedication to the world of business is not limited to the corporate sphere. She also serves as the president of SWA Sports, a sports marketing agency, contributing to the advancement of sports in Nigeria and across the African continent. Her multifaceted approach reflects her commitment to enhancing industries and creating opportunities on a broader scale.
Beyond the boardrooms and the entrepreneurial ventures, Aisha Shuaibu is a passionate advocate for gender equality and social inclusion. She champions the rights of women and youth, drawing attention to the systemic barriers that hinder self-sufficiency in marginalized communities. Her advocacy efforts are marked by a sincere commitment to making a difference, one community at a time.
As an editorial board member for Nigeria’s leading newspaper, Thisday, Aisha ensures that the voices of marginalized communities are heard. Her platform serves as a conduit for issues that are often overlooked, shedding light on the challenges faced by women and youth striving for self-sufficiency.
Aisha’s life and work are guided by a profound sense of purpose. She leverages her extensive experience in business and social impact to create a more equitable world. Her commitment to empowering young women and marginalized communities is unwavering.
With tireless energy and a dedication to the greater good, Aisha Shuaibu stands as a force to be reckoned with. Her daily mission is clear: to live purposefully and to inspire others to do the same. In a world that often seems divided by different pursuits, Aisha’s story reminds us that success and social impact can go hand in hand.
Aisha Shuaibu is more than just an entrepreneur; she is a beacon of hope for those striving to make a positive change. Her journey exemplifies the transformative potential of business with a heart and a commitment to a more equitable, inclusive world. She is, without a doubt, a remarkable force of change, bridging the worlds of business and social impact to pave the way for a brighter future.
We caught up with her recently, and she gracefully answered a few questions for us.
Q: Tell us something interesting that most people don’t know about you.
A: I can be very domestic. I enjoy cooking, cleaning, clearing and organising. It decompresses my mind. Almost therapeutic.
Q: What inspires you ?
A: People that have dedicated their lives in service to humanity. Perhaps that sounds cliché but is there anything more honourable? I envy their commitment and it makes me want to put my time to better use and live purposefully.
Q: What would you like people to remember you for?
A: Being a trustworthy family member, friend and associate that poured into people as much as I was being poured into. To have been a woman of wisdom, courage, compassion and success.
Q: You run a sports marketing agency, SWA Sports. Could you tell us a bit about that?
The agency was set up to gain a deeper understanding of the gaps in Nigerian sports entertainment. Sports marketing is big business but the absence of a sports business structure in Nigeria to support our work has us now investing more in research. We are currently seeking out partnerships to deepen the credibility of the agency, while also providing value to the government so that funding goes towards developing the eco-system of the Nigerian sports industry. I’ve been learning a lot on the job and it’s been so fun.
Q: As a woman in business, what would you say has been your greatest challenge?
The subtle manipulation when you know your value and they know your value, but they make you feel like you have no value. You know what I mean?
Q: Who are your favourite people in the world?
A: My siblings and my husband.
Q: Describe your personality using four dynamic words.
A: Self-aware, disciplined, accommodating, loyal.
Q: Tell us about the happiest time in your life
A: Every time I make the people that matter most proud.
Q: If you were to change something about yourself what would it be?
A: I’d be more attentive and have a better memory.
Q: What do you find most challenging about your work?
A: Finding specialised skills in a pool of unemployed, under-experienced youth.
Q: If you had the opportunity to go back in time what would you change or do differently, how would that change affect your life now?
A: My belief structure is rooted in trusting in divine decree. I wouldn’t change a thing.
Q: What advise would you give to young women who are struggling with finding themselves or their purpose in life?
A: Embark on an independent journey of learning. Unlearn the things that shaped who you are (culture, religion, family traditions) and re-learn them. We have normalised the things we absorbed during our formative years and never bothered to question them. In knowing why you do what you do, you’ll gain a deeper understanding about who you are. Hopefully through that self-awareness, you’ll also find your purpose.