‘Women have the capacity to overcome every challenge’

Toyin Sam-Emehelu is a leadership coach, mentor, and business leader. As Chief Executive Officer and Lead Consultant at Core Skills Transformational Academy Limited, she holds a Doctorate in Education Planning and Management from Prowess University, USA. With public leadership and policy certification from the School of Politics, Policy and Governance, she speaks on coaching and leadership.

With an academic journey laying the foundation for her understanding of effective teaching methodologies and leadership principles, this is helped her extensively throughout her career.

Toyin Sam-Emehelu, said that continuous learning remains vital as she actively pursue professional development to stay abreast of emerging trends in education, leadership, coaching, and mentoring as well as Business.

As a seasoned education, business, mentoring, and Coaching consultant, certified leadership coach, and mentor, Sam-Emehelu says her work is important is crucial in nurturing resilient and visionary leaders.

“Through mentorship and coaching, I empower individuals to harness their potential, cultivate emotional intelligence, and adopt a growth mindset. I transform organisations by equipping leaders with the tools to navigate challenges and embrace change, which will not only foster personal growth but also contribute to building organisations that thrive in a rapidly evolving global landscape.”

On her thoughts on leadership, she said, “it is the foundation of being able to see what is not so apparent. Ability to see people, things, places, not just the way they are but the way they could be and to harness as much resources as may not seemingly look so available, but making the best of whatever resources made available such that the team and everything that we do progresses and makes significant and meaningful outcomes.

Leadership in itself is a transformational tool that can be deployed by individuals, organisations, nations, to bring about transformation, and the much-needed positive needed change, to catalyze every form of dormancy and to make our world a better place.”

Currently serving as the Senior Special Assistant to the Director General at the Chartered Institute of Mentoring and Coaching Nigeria, she noted that her role is focused on enhancing leadership capabilities through structured mentorship programmes and workshops. “By promoting best practices in mentoring and coaching, I help cultivate a culture of continuous learning and improvement. This initiative encourages professionals to develop their leadership skills, ultimately contributing to the sustainable growth of organisations and communities.”

Sam-Emehelu also noted that as the training development lead at Equip Nigeria, she seeks strategic partnerships with organisations across the thirty-six (36) states in Nigeria that are willing to deploy free leadership training programmes inspired by John C. Maxwell’s principles and curriculum.

“I focus on creating impactful workshops that foster collaboration, strategic thinking, and effective communication among emerging leaders. By tailoring our programmes to meet local needs, we empower individuals to enact positive change within their communities and organisations.”
Speaking on the challenges faced building a thriving career path, she said, “Building the foundations of a successful career, particularly as the CEO and Lead Consultant at Coreskills Transformational Academy Limited, has certainly come with its share of challenges. One of the most significant obstacles I faced was establishing credibility and trust in a competitive industry. When I first ventured into education and leadership development, gaining recognition for my unique approach to transformational coaching required persistence and resilience.

“Additionally, scaling Coreskills to meet the diverse needs of clients—while maintaining a high standard of excellence—was another hurdle. This meant balancing the internal demands of running a business with the external pressures of delivering results that exceeded client expectations.

However, I overcame these challenges by leaning on the very principles I teach: clarity of vision, structured processes, and unwavering focus. I also surrounded myself with a team of passionate professionals who share my vision for transforming lives through education and mentorship.”

Continuing, Sam-Emehelu said, “what truly propelled me forward was my commitment to innovation. By continually refining our programmes and integrating cutting-edge methodologies into our training, Coreskills stood out as a leader in transformational development. Furthermore, I prioritised personal growth and mentorship, which helped me navigate the complexities of leadership and entrepreneurship with greater confidence.

“Ultimately, these experiences have reinforced my belief that with the right mindset, dedication, and a supportive team, no challenge is insurmountable. Each obstacle was a stepping stone toward the impactful work I continue to do today.

As an accomplished author with over 28 books, Sam-Emehelu said her writing endeavours are driven by a passion for sharing knowledge and inspiring others. “My books cover topics ranging from education, leadership and personal development to mentoring techniques. One notable project is “Empowered Leadership,” which draws on my experiences to equip aspiring leaders and established leaders with practical strategies. Each book is a reflection of my journey and the insights gained from my mentors, mentees, students, and clients.”

Speaking on juggling the homefront with her various responsibilities, she said, “Balancing family life with a professional career is fundamental to my success. My family serves as my anchor and inspiration, grounding me in my values and aspirations. This balance enables me to model leadership qualities for my children while pursuing my professional goals. I believe that a harmonious family environment fosters creativity and resilience, essential traits for effective leadership. Most importantly my husband has been a strong support from the day we got married till date.”

While advising younger women, she said, “to the young leaders looking up to me: embrace your unique journey, and never underestimate the power of perseverance, consistency, and continuous learning. Surround yourself with mentors who challenge you and invest in your growth. Remember, every setback is a setup for a comeback. Stay curious, be resilient, and pursue your passions with unwavering dedication. The future is yours to shape.”

Sam-Emehelu added, “for women who intend to grow career paths despite all the stereotypes is to keep their eyes on the goal and be focused. Career is beyond just what you do; it is the beauty that you bring to the world. It is the unraveling of your latent potential. It is what helps you to become all that you were designed to be.

“So irrespective of the challenges, prejudice, bias or anything that seems to want to limit you as a woman, it is important that you know that you have the capacity to overcome every challenge, and it starts with believing in yourself. Believing in what you are capable of, and in the fact that a lot of other women like you have succeeded despite all odds.

“I believe that every woman that sees and believes first in themselves will naturally end with the beauty of the unending grace that God has given us as women. Despite our beginning women can be whatever they desire to be.”