Ariana Oluwole
Ariana Oluwole is an executive coach, holistic educator, and Multipotentialite Entrepreneur. Her flagship coaching program 'Live and Lead Your Best Life' provides holistic strategies for Africans, the diaspora, and professionals navigating multiple cultures and teams. When she is not Empowering People, Teams & Systems to Thrive. Queen A can be found speaking to plants with a nice cup of tea.
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PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT: BREAKING BAD HABITS, TIPS FOR LASTING CHANGE
All of us have habits we want to change, whether it is procrastination or indulging in too many carbonated drinks. Unhealthy habits can hinder our growth and well-being. Breaking these habits is absolutely possible with the right strategies. By understanding the roots of our habits, identifying their triggers, and implementing healthier alternatives, we can pave the way for lasting change in our lives. Understanding and Identifying Triggers The first step in breaking free from unhealthy habits is identifying their origins and what causes them to resurface. Understanding these triggers is often part of the solution. Keeping a journal to track your habits can be an invaluable tool. For example, maintaining…
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SMALL BUSINESS TRENDS TO WATCH IN 2025: FROM AFRICA TO THE WORLD
As we step into 2025, the entrepreneurial landscape is evolving at an unprecedented pace. For small businesses, staying ahead of trends is not just a competitive advantage—it’s a necessity. From Africa’s bustling markets to the global stage, trends in technology, consumer behaviour, and sustainability are reshaping how businesses operate. This article delves into the 7 (seven) key trends defining small business in 2025, offering what we believe can be actionable insights for entrepreneurs looking to thrive in a rapidly changing world. 1. Digital Transformation: Beyond Borders Across Africa, the rise of digital tools has empowered small businesses to expand their reach. Platforms like Flutterwave and Paystack have simplified online payments,…
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MARIA BRADFORD – A CULINARY JOURNEY ROOTED IN TRADITION AND INNOVATION
Maria Bradford’s culinary journey is deeply rooted in her love for Sierra Leonean cuisine, and her innovative flair that adds a unique twist to traditional recipes. During a captivating interview with Ariana Diaries, Maria shared her journey, highlighting the importance of preserving cultural heritage through food, while also embracing creativity and modern influences. The Evolution of Maria Bradford Maria Bradford’s culinary journey began in Freetown, the bustling capital of Sierra Leone, where her fascination with age-old African recipes and fresh, local ingredients blossomed. Growing up, she cherished the joy of cooking for family and friends, and these experiences laid the foundation for her enduring love of the rich flavours of…
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SEND ME: REVOLUTIONISING SIERRA LEONE’S DIGITAL LANDSCAPE AND FUELING ENTREPRENEURSHIP
“Don’t worry about being successful but work toward being significant and the success will naturally follow.” – Oprah Winfrey In 2019, Emmanuel Lahai founded “Send Me” in Freetown, the heart of Sierra Leone, with a vision that extended far beyond just an eCommerce platform. Growing up with challenges, including financial uncertainty and limited opportunities, Lahai’s drive to overcome these hurdles set the stage for a groundbreaking entrepreneurial journey. Influenced by Robert Kiyosaki’s Rich Dad Poor Dad, Lahai learned that success is often born from solving real-world problems. With this mindset, he set out to address the gaps in Sierra Leone’s eCommerce and logistics sectors. Initially, “Send Me” began as an…
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THE POWER OF PLAY : YOU CAN UNLOCK HOLISTIC WELLNESS AT ANY AGE
Ever feel like life is all about ticking off to-do lists and meeting deadlines, leaving little room for anything else? Even our systems hails productivity and seriousness, making it so easy to forget about the simple joys of PLAY. We tend to think of play as something reserved for children, but what if I told you that embracing play could be a powerful tool for your own wellness—no matter your age? Play is more than just child’s play; it’s a way to nurture your mind, body, and spirit. Think of it as a secret ingredient to holistic wellness, helping you reconnect with your inner self, boost creativity, and find emotional…
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THE SOAPMAKER’S DREAM : BAI CONTEH’S PATH TO TRANSFORMING LIVES WITH CONTEH INDUSTRIES
“Without soap, it would have been very difficult for me to gain an education. This inspired me to start my own business and become a job creator.” Bai Conteh I met Bai Conteh several years ago at an entrepreneurship and young people’s conference. When he reached out last year to introduce his venture, I could barely recall who he was. He was adamant about showing his gratitude for everything I had instilled in his mind and vision back then (mind you, he owed me nothing – was not obligated at all). We met, and he handed me a large bag of detergent powder, persistently following up to ensure I used…
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10 UNIQUE APPROACHES FOR WORKAHOLICS ON WORLD SELF-CARE DAY 2024
Self Care is not a luxury, it’s a priority! World Self-Care Day, celebrated annually on July 24, is a reminder to prioritise our well-being amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life. For workaholics, this can be particularly challenging. The relentless drive to achieve can often overshadow the essential need for self-care. However, integrating self-care into a busy schedule is not only possible but also crucial for long-term success and happiness. What then is this selfcare? I dare define it mindfully for your self-reflection and grounding purposes. Self Care is an intentional and compassionate practice of nurturing oneself. It encompasses being fully present and aware of one’s thoughts, emotions, and…
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THE MAGIC IS IN THE DOING: LESSONS FROM PELUMI NUBI ON A DATE WITH AFRICELL SIERRA LEONE
In an inspiring meet and greet organized by Africell Sierra Leone. We had the honour of being among a select group to meet Pelumi Nubi, the remarkable Nigerian woman who drove from London to Lagos. Her sensational journey left us all motivated, sharing invaluable lessons on resilience, resourcefulness, and self-discovery. We couldn’t help but curate some of the golden nuggets and 5 major life lessons from this thought leader, adventurer and brilliant creative. 1.Embracing YourselfPelumi’s story began with an interesting childhood (relocating from Lagos to London) where she faced bullying due to her appearance. Seeking solace, she retreated to the library, where she discovered a love for reading. Books, she…
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BALANCING ACT: THE INSPIRING LEADERSHIP JOURNEY OF MATILDA ZAINAB KAMARA IN TAX ADMINISTRATION
“True leadership is about transforming challenges into opportunities, embracing change, and inspiring others to believe in the vision of a better future.” Matilda Z Kamara Matilda Zainab Kamara’s journey is a story of dedication, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in the field of tax administration. With over 13 years of service at the Sierra Leone National Revenue Authority (NRA), she has been a part of the collective driving force in implementing significant reforms that have transformed the country’s tax landscape. Matilda is a courageous woman who has risen through the ranks through tough reforms. She is a woman in the process of making positive changes in both social…
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MAFEREH CONTEH: EXPLORING THE HEARTBEAT OF HUMANITY THROUGH VOLUNTEERING IN THE SLUMS
”In the heart of a bustling city, amid towering structures and shopping streets, lies a world often forgotten—a world of narrow alleys, makeshift shelters, and incredibly resilient souls. This is the slum where I found myself, not as a tourist passing through, but as a relief response volunteer seeking to make a difference. The first time I stepped foot into this maze of humanity, I was struck by the stark contrast between its reality and the world I knew. The air was thick with the scent of hardship and struggle, yet amidst the chaos, there was a sense of community and strength that bound its residents together. ”As I navigated…
