Empowering women and youth: Clara Chinwe Okoro’s journey of entrepreneurship and advocacy 

As the founder and Chief Operating Officer of Travel Tech Company My Beautiful Africa and the Executive Producer at Brandworld Media, Clara has made a lasting impact on the media and tourism sectors in Nigeria and beyond.

Her journey, marked by resilience, innovation, and a deep commitment to social change, offers valuable insights into the importance of empowerment and the challenges of entrepreneurship.

For Clara, empowering women and youth is more than just a moral obligation; it is a critical component of sustainable development.

She believes that women and young people represent a vast reservoir of untapped potential that, when harnessed, can drive economic growth, innovation, and societal progress.

“Empowering women is essential because it leads to more equitable societies where women have the same opportunities as men to contribute to economic development, decision-making, and community leadership,” Clara asserts.

She points out that for too long, women have been underrepresented in key sectors, and by empowering them, society can break these barriers and create a more inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.

Clara also emphasizes the importance of youth empowerment. She believes that preparing the next generation to tackle the challenges of tomorrow is crucial.

“Young people bring fresh perspectives, energy, and creativity to the table. When they are given the right tools, education, and opportunities, they can drive change in ways that older generations may not have even considered,” she notes.

This emphasis on youth empowerment reflects her understanding of the dynamic and ever-evolving world, where young minds are essential for fostering innovation and progress.

Clara’s journey as an entrepreneur has been one of immense growth, learning, and resilience. She describes entrepreneurship as a path filled with challenges and rewards, where every day presents new obstacles to overcome and victories to celebrate. For Clara, the key to thriving in this environment is adaptability and a clear vision.

“Entrepreneurship requires a level of dedication and commitment that can be all-consuming at times,” Clara admits. One of the most significant challenges she has faced is balancing the demands of running a business with her personal life and well-being. However, her passion for what she does, particularly her work in driving digital transformation in the tourism sector and promoting sustainable travel, keeps her motivated even during the toughest times.

In the rapidly evolving world of technology and tourism, Clara highlights the constant need to innovate and stay ahead of the curve. “Staying relevant requires continuous learning, adaptability, and a willingness to take calculated risks,” she explains. This approach, while daunting, is incredibly rewarding when she sees her ideas take shape and make a tangible impact on the industry.

Clara’s success in business can be attributed to a combination of authenticity, expertise, strategic networking, and resilience. She believes that to stand out in business, women must embrace their unique strengths and perspectives, leverage their networks, and continuously strive for excellence.

Clara advises women to embrace who they are and let their authentic selves shine through in their business dealings. “Authenticity builds trust, and in today’s business environment, trust is a key differentiator,” she says. By being true to themselves, women can create strong and genuine connections with their clients, partners, and colleagues.

Developing a deep understanding of one’s industry is crucial, according to Clara. She encourages women to stay informed about the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in their field. “Being knowledgeable and staying ahead of the curve will position you as a leader in your field,” she notes. This expertise not only enhances credibility but also equips women with the tools to navigate the complexities of their industry.

Networking is more than just making contacts; it’s about forming meaningful connections that can open doors to new opportunities and collaborations. Clara emphasizes the importance of building and nurturing relationships with other professionals in the industry. “A strong network can provide support, guidance, and access to resources that are invaluable for growth and success,” she explains.

The business world can be tough, and setbacks are inevitable. Clara believes that women who stand out are those who can bounce back from failures, learn from them, and keep pushing forward. “Resilience is key to overcoming the challenges of entrepreneurship,” she asserts. This mindset allows women to navigate the ups and downs of business with grace and determination.

Innovation is essential for staying relevant and competitive in any industry. Clara encourages women to think outside the box and challenge the status quo. “Don’t be afraid to bring fresh ideas to the table,” she advises. Women who can innovate and adapt to changing circumstances are more likely to succeed in the ever-evolving business landscape.

Mentorship is a powerful tool for personal and professional growth. Clara underscores the importance of seeking out mentors who can provide guidance and support, as well as being willing to mentor others. “Mentorship creates a strong support system and fosters a culture of continuous learning and development,” she says. By mentoring others, women can also contribute to the growth and success of future generations.

Clara acknowledges that the current climate in Nigeria can be overwhelming, especially for young people who are just finding their footing in life. She offers several pieces of advice for navigating these challenges:

“Life will throw challenges your way, but resilience is key,” Clara advises. She encourages young people to learn to adapt, pick themselves up after setbacks, and keep moving forward. Resilience, she believes, is the foundation for overcoming adversity and achieving long-term goals.

Clara emphasizes the importance of education, whether formal or self-taught. “Knowledge is power. The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to navigate the challenges ahead,” she notes. Investing in education not only enhances skills and knowledge but also opens doors to new opportunities.

In times of uncertainty, it’s easy to get caught up in things beyond one’s control. Clara advises young people to focus on what they can do, whether it’s improving their skills, building their network, or finding new opportunities. “Concentrating on what you can control helps you stay grounded and proactive,” she explains

“Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it,” Clara says. She encourages young people to seek support from family, friends, or professional networks. Having a strong support system can make a significant difference in how challenges are handled and overcome.

It’s easy to become disheartened by the difficulties around you, but maintaining a positive mindset is crucial, according to Clara. “Believe in your potential and keep striving for your goals,” she advises. A positive outlook can fuel motivation and perseverance, even in the face of adversity. My

For young entrepreneurs, Clara’s advice is both practical and inspiring. She emphasizes the importance of passion, hard work, adaptability, and self-belief as key ingredients for success.

“Your passion is your greatest asset,” Clara asserts. She believes that passion is what will keep entrepreneurs going when things get tough. Aligning one’s business idea with something they truly care about is crucial for long-term success.

“Success doesn’t come easy,” Clara warns. She encourages young entrepreneurs to be prepared to put in the hard work, long hours, and sacrifices needed to make their business a success. Dedication and perseverance are essential for turning dreams into reality.

Failure is not the end; it’s a stepping stone to success, according to Clara. She advises young entrepreneurs to learn from their mistakes, adapt, and keep pushing forward. “Failure is an opportunity to grow and improve,” she notes.

Surrounding oneself with people who support their vision and can offer guidance is vital for entrepreneurs, Clara believes. “A strong network is invaluable for advice, opportunities, and growth,” she explains. Networking helps entrepreneurs gain insights, resources, and connections that are crucial for business development.

The business world is constantly changing, and the ability to adapt is crucial, Clara notes. She encourages young entrepreneurs to stay open to new ideas, be willing to pivot when necessary, and always keep learning. Adaptability ensures that entrepreneurs can navigate the ever-evolving landscape and seize opportunities as they arise.

“Confidence is key,” Clara emphasizes. She advises young entrepreneurs to believe in their vision, abilities, and potential. “When you believe in yourself, others will too,” she says. Self-belief is the foundation for building a successful business and achieving one’s goals.

Clara Chinwe Okoro’s journey is a testament to the power of empowerment, resilience, and innovation. Through her work as an entrepreneur and advocate, she has made a significant impact on the media, tourism, and business landscapes in Nigeria and beyond. Her insights into women and youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, and personal growth offer valuable lessons for anyone looking to make a difference in their field. As Clara continues to inspire and lead, her story serves as a reminder that with passion, dedication, and the right mindset, anything is possible.