Sola Adesakin: Empowering Financial Independence Through Education
Sola Adesakin’s journey is an inspiring tale of achieving financial and personal independence. As a respected finance coach, writer, and mentor, she simplifies money management and guides individuals toward financial milestones. Sola combines academic rigor with practical experience, holding degrees from institutions like Oxford Brookes University and the Edinburgh Business School. Her expertise has helped countless individuals break free from debt, a skill she honed while overcoming her financial challenges. Additionally, Sola is a prolific writer, authoring eight books and numerous articles on financial education. Her impact is underscored by accolades such as the Ladies X Scholarship, membership in the Forbes Coaches Council, and inclusion in Nigeria’s Most Inspiring Women list. In a society where formal financial education is often lacking, Sola’s commitment to monetary education continues to transform lives worldwide. Her journey serves as a testament to the power of personal dedication to financial education, leaving a legacy of independence. She shares her story in this interview with ESTHER IJEWERE.
Reflections on Being Named One of the 100 Most Inspirational Women in Nigeria
This honor serves as a heartfelt testament to my efforts in advancing financial education. It represents the culmination of years of work dedicated to empowering individuals, and business owners, especially women, children, and families, to attain financial independence. Each workshop, conference, and publication has contributed to this recognition.
Overcoming Challenges in Financial Coaching
Dispelling economic misconceptions in diverse cultural contexts and addressing skepticism surrounding financial education have been some of the challenges I’ve encountered throughout my career. Perhaps the greatest challenge was demonstrating the practical value of financial education. I overcame these obstacles by consistently showcasing the real-world application of sound financial management through success stories, engaging training, and relevant content. My books and courses bridge the gap between financial concepts and everyday monetary decisions by being both practical and theoretical.
Motivation Behind Writing Books and Their Impact
My personal financial transformation and the desire to share the knowledge that fueled it served as the inspiration for my writing. I came to realize that fostering financial education can begin at a young age. My books have had a profoundly positive impact. They have equipped many individuals with the tools they need to build a more secure future and change their financial outlook. Providing people with access to the same resources that I used to manage my finances, and consequently, my life is the key.
Key Elements for Financial Security
The fundamental strategies I advocate are based on education, real-world application, and a healthy financial mindset. Education forms the cornerstone; understanding how money works is crucial. Regardless of the size of your income, I strongly recommend starting with a financial plan and adhering to it. Making prudent investments is equally important, as is diversifying income sources to enhance resilience. Lastly, believe that money is a tool that can empower you to lead an extraordinary life. Always plan for the long term rather than seeking immediate gratification. Remember, you are alive, which means you possess the intelligence and wisdom that money, as an inanimate object, lacks. Don’t let money control you.
Impact of the People X Scholarship
The People X Scholarship served as a catalyst for me to expand my reach. It provided me with the tools and foundation to deepen my commitment to financial education. The scholarship offered me the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who shared my passion and expand my understanding of global financial practices.
Recent Projects Beyond Financial Coaching
To make financial education even more accessible to Africans both at home and abroad, Smart Stewards is focused on expanding our online learning platforms and resources. Recognizing that financial freedom is a cornerstone of independence, I am also involved in various initiatives aimed at fostering entrepreneurship among women and young individuals. Through the FRUIT Foundation, we are equipping underprivileged women with the knowledge and resources needed to launch successful businesses that not only meet their needs but also contribute positively to society.
Challenges in Financial Education
Addressing financial poverty, breaking through the noise to reach those in greatest need, and constantly adapting our message to resonate with a global audience are the primary challenges. Additionally, navigating the ever-evolving financial landscapes to provide current and effective guidance remains a formidable task.
Three Inspirational Groups of Women
Instead of naming individuals, I would like to highlight three groups of women who have inspired me. The first group comprises my mother and the two aunts with whom I shared a home. They instilled in me the values of perseverance and hard work.
The second group is my AsSisters, a religious sisterhood I have been a part of for 13 years. Throughout our journey, we have supported, sharpened, and strengthened each other while celebrating our achievements.
The third group consists of my mentors, who have provided invaluable guidance in my business, career, and spiritual endeavors.
Each of these groups has instilled in me the values that guide both my work and my life.