Leadership about thinking beyond oneself – Osayi Alile

The Chief Executive Officer of Aspire Coronation Trust Foundation, Osayi Alile, tells NAOMI CHIMA about her career, and balancing work and family

What inspired you to start working in the entrepreneurship and human development space?

The field is not one I knew well from the beginning. My journey didn’t start where I am now. I got into this space by accident. I studied in Nigeria, and went for a Master’s degree in the United States of America, where I volunteered at an organisation and realized that the work was very interesting. I enjoyed it and did it for a few months before enrolling for the Master’s. During my time at the University of Lagos, there was a one-year gap, so I started asking questions about the sector. I was initially pursuing an MBA, but I changed my degree to a Master of Public Administration, which included non-profit work. I started working, and this is where I am today.

It has been an interesting ride. I did not know exactly what I wanted to do, but I knew I wanted to succeed because I was always a career-oriented person.

As the CEO of ACT Foundation, what achievements are you most proud of?

It has been seven years of work with the ACT Foundation, and I’m proud that we’ve come this far. We started from scratch, and the progress has been remarkable. The organisation has planted itself not only in Nigeria but across Africa. We have surpassed our initial goals, reaching over 2.9 million direct beneficiaries and impacting 1,200 communities. We are now in 12 African countries, including Nigeria, and have completed projects in every state. We have empowered over 100 nonprofits and social enterprises.

Looking back, I am proud of the work we have done, particularly in strengthening capacity across the sector, which continues to grow alongside our efforts. ACT is now a recognised name among NGOs in Nigeria, which is a significant achievement. Despite challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and unfavourable exchange rates, we are still standing strong.

There is a lot to be proud of, but also much more to do. We need to keep pushing forward, partnering, and collaborating to achieve even more. Our focus remains on social good, addressing the issues people face, and helping to solve those problems. That’s what I’m most proud of.

How did growing up as one of eight siblings shape your leadership style and career path?

My father was not concerned about gender. He focused on raising children who understood their value to the community and the world. He always encouraged us to speak our minds, though sometimes I wish he hadn’t emphasized it so much, as I tend to be vocal about issues. I didn’t even notice the difference between boys and girls until I got into the university, because it wasn’t important to us. If you knew what to do, you did it.

Even as the third child, people often assumed I was the eldest, because of how we were raised. My father emphasised the importance of making an impact and giving back to the community, which influenced my career path. This is how I’m raising my children as well—to mirror their actions in terms of the value they bring to the community, not just as individuals. Leadership is about thinking beyond oneself and bringing food to the table, whether you’re a CEO, a president, or a member of a small community. We must all strive to influence those around us positively, including our children, to improve the community as a whole.

ACT Foundation focuses on health, entrepreneurship, environment, and leadership, which one of these areas are you most passionate about and why?

I don’t have a particular preference; it depends on the season. A few years ago, I might have focused on leadership, while at another time, I might have been more focused on health. It depends on what the world is facing at the moment. For me, it is about building a sustainable world. It is hard to pinpoint a specific area because all the SDGs are important. I focus on what can be done to reduce those numbers and push those priorities. There are also other interests and passions I have outside of ACT, but it all depends on the period we’re in.

What are some hobbies or interests you enjoy outside of your work?

I am a strong advocate for women, not in the sense of saying women are better than men, but in emphasising that women bring value. Women can’t succeed without men, but it is important to raise women to understand their worth. This has always been my interest, and I’ve pursued it successfully in my career and beyond, as it’s my passion.

Another focus for me is building the brand of Africa and Nigeria. I believe we often portray Nigeria negatively, and we need to do better. Just as negative talk about a family affects its members, speaking poorly about Nigeria affects us all. We must be conscious of how we represent the Nigerian brand. These are the things that interest me, and everything else in my work falls under what I’m already doing.

What do you find most rewarding about mentoring and developing youth, from your time with Junior Achievement Nigeria?

Mentoring is important to me. It is rewarding and important across all areas. Mentoring helps build confidence in young people, allows mentors to transfer skills, and learn new things. It helps people realise their potential, and is very fulfilling. I have mentored formally and informally for the last 15-20 years, and seeing those I’ve mentored succeed is deeply satisfying. Mentorship isn’t about telling people what to do but guiding them in making decisions. While we’ve learnt a lot, we also have much to learn and should be open to receiving mentorship as well. Mentorship is a journey of continuous learning, transformation, skill development, and realising potential. It is crucial for anyone who wants to succeed today.

In your role supporting organisations and managing funds, what challenges do you face and how do you tackle them?

Everyone is going through a lot right now, so as coaches working with SMEs, we need to be flexible with our advice. Things change quickly, and we must stay updated on the best practices, recognising that there might be better ways to approach challenges. We need to be open-minded, ready to learn and adapt our guidance accordingly. The role isn’t always easy, but when you see an SME succeed, it’s clear how much value we can provide. We must continue to support and challenge them, especially as they face policy issues and fundraising difficulties, which are becoming more overwhelming globally.

It is also important to teach them new skills. Previously, we focused on specific areas, but now organisations are offering comprehensive support. I always advise people not to try solving problems alone. Instead, seek out others for first-hand knowledge and guidance. When someone works with you and supports you, it becomes easier to navigate challenges, especially in a new environment or when starting a new business. It’s always better to have support than to go it alone.

How is the ACT Foundation using technology to address community issues?

Technology is essential and an enabler we can’t ignore. We now use technology for most of our grants management from start to finish, which minimises errors and reduces the influence of personal biases. Much of our work is tech-driven, and we encourage our grantees to adopt technology as well. AI is especially key; I use many AI apps and believe that keeping up with those tools is crucial to avoid being left behind. Organisations, such as Microsoft, are leveraging AI to assist NGOs with tasks like proposal writing, demonstrating the vast potential of technology.

We incorporate tech into our daily operations to make life easier. For example, in our programmes in Adamawa State, we use technology to ensure accurate reporting, with data being directly integrated into our systems for immediate evaluation. I hope we continue to deepen our use of technology in the future.

What are some important lessons you’ve learnt in life, and how do you apply them to your work and personal life?

One of the most important lessons I’ve learnt in the past few years is that there’s always tomorrow if there’s life. When faced with a challenge, I remind myself to go to bed and let tomorrow handle it. This mindset helps me manage the constant challenges of running an organisation without becoming overwhelmed.

Balancing work and life is crucial. Realising that work is not the essence of who one is, and that family is more important, is key. Although many might not openly acknowledge this, without family, there’s nowhere else to turn. As I read recently, gravestones don’t list job titles but rather personal roles like ‘mother’, ‘sister’, and ‘daughter’. These are the things that matter as time passes. While I strive for success in my career, succeeding with my family is equally important.

What motivates you daily, and how do you bring that motivation into your role?

The key to feeling fulfilled is seeing the impact of your work. Even when I feel frustrated or tired, witnessing the changes drives me to keep going. My commitment to seeing continuous change and delivering impact motivates me. It gives me joy and makes me feel that I’ve accomplished something each day. This sense of impact is what wakes me up in the morning, helps me tick off the boxes, and prepares me to face the challenges of the next day.

How do you balance your work with your personal life while leading such an impactful organisation?

If anyone knows me, they know that I value life outside the office. I work with structure and dedication, but I also make time to relax and have fun with family and friends. Creating a balance between my professional and personal life is important to me. Over the years, I have been deliberate about spending quality time with my family while also striving for success. I encourage my staff and mentees to find ways to unwind and enjoy themselves. I have seven siblings, and we are very close. Spending time with them, laughing and being comfortable, is an essential part of how I unwind. Family is very important to me.

What are your favourite ways to unwind after a busy day?

I spend time with my children and I enjoy reading, though not as much as I used to. My bed is often surrounded by open books. I also watch a lot of movies, but my favourite moments are simply sitting with my family. Whether we’re in my mu’s house, talking, laughing, or eating good food, that’s where I feel most comfortable and fulfilled.

Is there a book or quote that has influenced you personally or professionally?

As a Christian, reading my Bible is very important to me. While I enjoy other books for pleasure, the Bible guides my daily actions and keeps me on track. I often remind myself of quotes from it, such as Numbers 6:24, which says, “May the Lord bless you and keep you; may His face shine upon you and be gracious to you”. This passage emphasises not material wealth but the wealth of knowing God and finding peace, which is crucial, given the current state of the world. For me, the Bible is the most important book, and it guides me in the right direction.

What does your morning routine look like, and how does it help set up your day?

I wake up early, around 5:30 am, a habit and tradition from childhood when my father used to wake us up. My morning routine starts with prayers, followed by a workout at 6 am. During my workout, I either pray, sing, or listen to music, which helps clear my mind and prepare me for the day. Exercising is essential for keeping my mind uncluttered.

After my workout, I talk to my children and begin preparing for work. My days are usually filled with events; and on days with fewer events, I am happy to go home early. Throughout the day, I stay focused on my goals and what’s important to me. I rarely eat breakfast, which isn’t ideal, but I usually carry a flask of tea with lemon, ginger and honey.

As a leader, how do you keep yourself and your team motivated and focused on goals?

I believe people don’t come to work solely for the job; they need to feel valued and supported. Building a relationship, even if not a friendship, helps one understand when something is wrong, or when they’re facing challenges. By showing genuine care and being available to support them, one can better motivate them to perform well.

When people trust one and feel appreciated, not just as staff but as individuals, they are more likely to give their best. Recognition of their value and the joy they find in their work keeps them motivated. Being actively involved in the work and getting one’s hands dirty alongside them demonstrates commitment and helps build trust. Supporting them through challenges and successes fosters a positive work environment and makes it easier to work together. While one cannot control everything, showing that one values and supports one’s team can significantly enhance motivation and collaboration.

How do you approach personal development, and what skills are you currently working on?

Personnel development is crucial for me and anyone. At the beginning of each year, one should set goals for what one wants to learn and achieve by the end of the year. Personal growth is ongoing, so I constantly push myself to explore new topics and stay updated. I make it a point to undergo formal training every year and also reflect on how I can improve personally and professionally.

I have explored various fields, including agriculture, and have even introduced language learning in the office. Continuous growth is essential. Without it, one risks stagnation and regression. Whether it’s learning a new dance from TikTok or discovering new places for personal care, engaging in new activities can be fulfilling and joyful. Even if others tease one, one should pursue what makes one happy and contributes to one’s growth. Formal classes and networking opportunities further enrich this journey.

Can you talk about a project or experience that has made a lasting impression on you?

One of the most memorable moments for me at the foundation was our fifth anniversary. During that time, we evaluated our progress and achievements. The results showed that we had exceeded our initial goals, which was incredibly satisfying. We spoke with beneficiaries to understand the impact of our programmes, and that feedback was rewarding.

Additionally, we had planned to write one book but ended up writing four, which was a significant accomplishment. Reflecting on our successes and the number of beneficiaries served was fulfilling and motivating. It gave us a sense of pride and commitment as we planned for the future. That year was truly remarkable for us, and I’m excited about what the next five years will bring.

What advice do you have for young professionals who want to make a difference in the non-profit sector?

To start, be clear about your mission and what you want to achieve. Ensure you have a strong foundation by establishing clear policies and running your organisation as if it were a business, even if you’re just starting with a small team. This approach will help you when seeking external funding, as you can provide documentation of your work, policies, and government structures.

From the beginning, set up everything formally. When we started our foundation, it was just a small team, but we had all the necessary policies in place. This strong foundation has supported us over the years and has made it easier to navigate challenges.

What strategies are you using to establish the foundation as a leading grant-making organisation in Africa?

In the first five years, our focus was on building the brand and ensuring our projects across Africa ran smoothly. Currently, our efforts are directed towards leveraging technology, strengthening partnerships, and collaborating more effectively with governments. We are also investing in our organisational capacity and staff development to ensure that everyone is well-prepared and knowledgeable.

We are working on enhancing our internal structures and securing more funding to expand into additional African countries. With a clear vision for the next five years, we aim to review our progress at the end of the decade and evaluate our achievements. Our goal is to ensure that all our objectives are met and that we continue to grow and succeed as an organisation.

How has your experience with various organisations shaped your approach to funding and creating opportunities at ACT Foundation?

You cannot know everything on your own, no matter how smart you are. Engaging with others and learning from organisations that have been around for a longer time is crucial. Training, formal education, and listening to others are essential for growth. Having an open mind and a teachable spirit as a leader makes it easier to adapt and implement change.

When I discover that a decision does not benefit our beneficiaries, I am willing to go back and correct it. I am not afraid to make mistakes, and I openly encourage my staff to do the same. Learning from others and incorporating those lessons into our work helps us improve. We all learn from one another, and being flexible and open to new ideas is key to our success.

If you could introduce a new initiative to help the country, what would it be?

Individuals should strive to improve within their spheres. Complaining about the country and government is unproductive if we don’t also address our shortcomings. We need to enhance our personal and professional brands and recognise that not everything is negative. We are representatives of our country, and our actions matter.

Collaboration and partnership are crucial. Private, public, and social sectors are as important as the government, and effective collaboration across these areas is essential. We must work together more strategically to achieve our goals and make meaningful progress as a nation.

As a woman in entrepreneurship, have you faced any unique challenges, and how have you overcome them?

Every gender faces its challenges, often shaped by how we are raised. Understanding these influences can make it easier to manage situations and seek the right support. Neither women nor men can succeed alone; both need support from each other. As a woman, it is crucial to have a strong network of both men and women for mentorship, guidance, and coaching.

Throughout my career as a social entrepreneur, I have always ensured I have people to turn to for advice and support when I am uncertain. Gender should not be the sole factor in how situations are handled; it is more about the individual’s upbringing and behaviour. Sometimes, reactions are unconscious, but when addressed, individuals with proper upbringing will apologise. It is important to speak up when you notice inappropriate behavior; whether it’s a woman speaking wrongly to a man or vice versa.

Where is your favourite destination to unwind?

Every time I talk about travelling, I always mention Monaco. I just love sitting there and doing nothing. However, my favourite place where I feel at home is Ghana. I am always happy whenever I visit Accra. It feels like a second home to me, because I have a lot of family there, and I enjoy spending time with them. My favourite food is plantain (dodo), although I don’t eat it as much as I used to because of age. I also take a lot of soft drinks, which are npt the healthiest, but I am working on improving my diet. For me, dodo remains a cherished snack.