Sixth Hive

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Have you ever wondered how certain individuals manage to seamlessly transition between industries, tackle the challenges of entrepreneurship, and still maintain a healthy work-life balance? Our guest, Bolaji Sofolowe, is a living testament to such remarkable adaptability and resilience. Born in Birmingham and raised in Nigeria, Bolaji has a rich background that has shaped her confidence and aptitude to take on varied roles in her career, from insurance to finance, before leaping into the world of entrepreneurship. We kick off the episode by exploring her roots and the influences that have fuelled her journey.

Bolaji is not just an entrepreneur; she is a full-time mother as well. Striking the right balance between personal and professional life can often feel like a tightrope walk. Bolaji candidly shares her experiences of navigating this intricate dance and the valuable lessons learned along the way. She also delves into the challenges of starting a business, shedding light on the importance of being fully present in both roles. Her story is no less than an inspiration, reminding us that success isn't a sprint, but a marathon, and the key is to find a balance that works for you.

Towards the end, we shift gears to discuss the potential for growth in Africa. As a board member of an industrial engineering company and its international subsidiary, Bolaji provides unique insights into investing in Africa. She passionately advocates for the African diaspora to contribute beyond remittances, by pooling resources and investing in existing businesses or services. We wind up the conversation discussing the role of mentorship in empowering black entrepreneurs, with Bolaji sharing personal experiences and insights on supporting women in business. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that's a blend of resilience, ambition, and a deep sense of giving back to the community.

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Experience Business Differently

The Sixth Hive podcast is not just a podcast but an extension of our Business platform. We are on a mission to bridge the gap between businesses and the immense potential of Black talent. We provide a dynamic platform where businesses and individuals can connect, collaborate, and prosper with Black professionals, entrepreneurs, and black-owned companies. We strive to showcase the value, creativity, and innovation that Black talent brings to the table, fostering partnerships that drive economic growth, diversity, and mutual success.

Register now for early access and join a community of trailblazers. Get exclusive features, connect with like-minded individuals, and elevate your journey with Sixth Hive. Don't miss out—click the link below to secure your spot!

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Have you ever asked yourself what it takes to break down barriers in the financial technology industry? Well, we did! And who better to answer than Ezechi Britton, a tech entrepreneur, and CEO of CIFIT who's been navigating those waters? This episode offers an incredible opportunity to walk in the shoes of Ezechi, giving you a firsthand account of his life's journey, from his humble upbringing in Southeast London to the bustling trading floors of Lehman Brothers. 

Growing up as a mixed-race in the UK, Ezechi paints a vivid picture of societal expectations and the weight of identity. He shares his experiences in the UK education system and the hurdles he met head-on while applying for his university placement. Get ready to hear about his impressive stint at Lehman Brothers, where he became an influencer and the profound impact the Twin Towers attack had on him and his team. 

But that's not all! Ezechi takes us through his transition into entrepreneurship, sharing valuable lessons he picked up along the way. He discusses his startup, Neyber, the importance of planning, and the need to sometimes step away from success. He also talks about black business disparities and his time at Impact X, highlighting the need for black people to invest in black businesses. Lastly, Ezechi gives his insights on the opportunities in the UK Fintech industry and his role in driving forward Fintech strategy. Pack your bags, this is a journey you don't want to miss!

Support the show

Experience Business Differently

The Sixth Hive podcast is not just a podcast but an extension of our Business platform. We are on a mission to bridge the gap between businesses and the immense potential of Black talent. We provide a dynamic platform where businesses and individuals can connect, collaborate, and prosper with Black professionals, entrepreneurs, and black-owned companies. We strive to showcase the value, creativity, and innovation that Black talent brings to the table, fostering partnerships that drive economic growth, diversity, and mutual success.

Register now for early access and join a community of trailblazers. Get exclusive features, connect with like-minded individuals, and elevate your journey with Sixth Hive. Don't miss out—click the link below to secure your spot!

Click here to find out more

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Ever felt like you're standing at the bottom of a mountain, looking up at the journey of success others have carved out, and wondering, "How did they get there"? In our latest podcast, we have the privilege of sitting down with Eric D. Collins, an American businessman, serial entrepreneur, technology expert, and former President Obama appointee. He is the  CEO and co-founder of Impact X Capital Partners and a beacon for the Black community. Eric navigates us through his life, peppered with experiences from the segregated South, an Ivy League university, and President Obama's Small Business Administration Council on underserved communities. His journey, filled with hurdles and triumphs, will inspire you to foster partnerships for mutual growth and success.

Investing in education, nurturing personal connections, and leveraging mentors, Eric paints a picture of his recipe to success. As a Black man stepping into the hallowed halls of an Ivy League university, he shares the unique challenges he faced and how he turned them into opportunities. Eric's insights into power dynamics and the struggles of women and black people in the workplace are as illuminating as they are empowering. His candid conversation around mentorship and networking iterates the importance of fostering growth and diversity within our circles.

As we move further into Eric's world, we learn about his entrepreneurial journey, his role in popular business reality shows, and his venture, Impact X Capital Patners, aimed at improving Black Britain. His experiences and decisions as an entrepreneur underscore the importance of personal connections, mentorship, and reciprocity in career growth. Eric leaves us with valuable lessons about perseverance, education, and staying true to oneself. Join us on this enlightening journey with Eric Collins, and you might just find your roadmap to success.

Support the show

Experience Business Differently

The Sixth Hive podcast is not just a podcast but an extension of our Business platform. We are on a mission to bridge the gap between businesses and the immense potential of Black talent. We provide a dynamic platform where businesses and individuals can connect, collaborate, and prosper with Black professionals, entrepreneurs, and black-owned companies. We strive to showcase the value, creativity, and innovation that Black talent brings to the table, fostering partnerships that drive economic growth, diversity, and mutual success.

Register now for early access and join a community of trailblazers. Get exclusive features, connect with like-minded individuals, and elevate your journey with Sixth Hive. Don't miss out—click the link below to secure your spot!

Click here to find out more

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Join us for an inspiring conversation with Cynthia V Davis CBE, the CEO of Diversifying Group, an entrepreneur, and business leader who has overcome numerous challenges and barriers to build a successful career. In this episode, Cynthia shares her journey from a loving and supportive family in Zimbabwe to navigating the world of recruitment in the UK. She discusses her experiences as a young woman in a predominantly male-dominated industry and the resilience she developed to face discrimination, misogyny, and racism.

As Cynthia's journey unfolds, she talks about her transition into the tech world with Diversifying.io, a digital platform aimed at connecting organisations with diverse talent pools. Discover how she leveraged her experience and embraced the power of technology to scale her business and make a positive impact on inclusivity and diversity in the workforce.

This episode is an exploration of resilience, determination, and the power of belief in oneself. Cynthia's story serves as an inspiration for anyone facing challenges in their career or contemplating entrepreneurship. Listen to this episode to gain insights into building a thriving business and making a difference in the world of work.

Support the show

Experience Business Differently

The Sixth Hive podcast is not just a podcast but an extension of our Business platform. We are on a mission to bridge the gap between businesses and the immense potential of Black talent. We provide a dynamic platform where businesses and individuals can connect, collaborate, and prosper with Black professionals, entrepreneurs, and black-owned companies. We strive to showcase the value, creativity, and innovation that Black talent brings to the table, fostering partnerships that drive economic growth, diversity, and mutual success.

Register now for early access and join a community of trailblazers. Get exclusive features, connect with like-minded individuals, and elevate your journey with Sixth Hive. Don't miss out—click the link below to secure your spot!

Click here to find out more

Send us Fan Mail

Get ready to be inspired by Damian Corneal, a partner at PWC and a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion in the tech sector. Born in Trinidad and Tobago and driven by the values instilled in him by his hardworking parents, Damian is unafraid to break boundaries and challenge the status quo. Tune in as we trace his remarkable career, from his unconventional journey to university through to his rise to Managing Director at Accenture and beyond. 

No stranger to real-world experience, Damian's career has been shaped by a myriad of jobs from the ground up, including working in restaurants and selling electricity door-to-door. He firmly believes that stepping out of your comfort zone is crucial for growth. Damian shares his invaluable insights into understanding your organization's profit formula, the art of networking, and the importance of learning from failure to propel your career forward.

We dive deep into the game-changing impact of technology and AI in digital transformation, with Damian sharing his experiences in the UK's Test and Trace program. He advocates for a balanced approach to human-led, tech-powered programs and the significance of understanding the basics rather than relying too heavily on technology. As we explore the landscape of diversity and inclusion in the corporate world, Damian emphasizes the need for underrepresented individuals to find their place at the table. His vision is to help those from underrepresented backgrounds to succeed in the corporate world and elevate apprenticeships to be on par with degree education. Join us for an enlightening conversation filled with wisdom, drive, and ambition.

Support the show

Experience Business Differently

The Sixth Hive podcast is not just a podcast but an extension of our Business platform. We are on a mission to bridge the gap between businesses and the immense potential of Black talent. We provide a dynamic platform where businesses and individuals can connect, collaborate, and prosper with Black professionals, entrepreneurs, and black-owned companies. We strive to showcase the value, creativity, and innovation that Black talent brings to the table, fostering partnerships that drive economic growth, diversity, and mutual success.

Register now for early access and join a community of trailblazers. Get exclusive features, connect with like-minded individuals, and elevate your journey with Sixth Hive. Don't miss out—click the link below to secure your spot!

Click here to find out more

Send us Fan Mail

Get ready for an extraordinary conversation with Frank Okoisor, the CEO of Toyota Connected Europe and Executive Sponsor of ERG for Culture, Race, and Ethnicity at Toyota Motor Europe. In this episode, we uncover the remarkable journey of Frank, a man who defied the odds and rose to the top through determination and a thirst for knowledge. From his humble beginnings in Nigeria to his pivotal role in transforming businesses and driving innovation, Frank shares invaluable insights on leadership, career planning, and the importance of diversity. Prepare to be inspired as we delve into the mind of a visionary leader who believes in the power of empathy and creating an inclusive environment.

Join us as we dive into the fascinating world of Frank Okoisor, a true trailblazer in the automotive industry. Discover how he earned his credibility as a project manager through empathy and listening skills, and how he embraced a variety of roles to avoid being pigeonholed as a subject matter expert. Frank's unconventional approach to career progression will challenge your mindset and inspire you to challenge yourself and others. With his mantra of "forget the numbers," Frank shares his strategies for business transformation and innovation, and how storytelling played a vital role in his company's exponential growth.

In this thought-provoking episode, we explore the importance of innovation and staying ahead of the curve with Frank Okoisor. Learn about his breakthrough into the connected technology space and how he adapted his career path to succeed in this ever-evolving industry. Frank shares his top three career achievements, including the game-changing Toyota Igo product and the transformative Project. But it's not all about success; Frank also candidly reflects on what he would have done differently. Tune in for an enlightening conversation on leadership, diversity, and the power of learning from our mistakes to become better leaders.

Support the show

Experience Business Differently

The Sixth Hive podcast is not just a podcast but an extension of our Business platform. We are on a mission to bridge the gap between businesses and the immense potential of Black talent. We provide a dynamic platform where businesses and individuals can connect, collaborate, and prosper with Black professionals, entrepreneurs, and black-owned companies. We strive to showcase the value, creativity, and innovation that Black talent brings to the table, fostering partnerships that drive economic growth, diversity, and mutual success.

Register now for early access and join a community of trailblazers. Get exclusive features, connect with like-minded individuals, and elevate your journey with Sixth Hive. Don't miss out—click the link below to secure your spot!

Click here to find out more

Send us Fan Mail

Welcome to the Black Rise podcast, where we highlight exceptional individuals who've profoundly impacted the world. 

In this episode, we're honoured to feature Heather Melville, a trailblazer with a career spanning over 40 years across financial, professional, and technology services, specialising in international trade, entrepreneurship, and corporate banking.

Heather's impressive track record includes advising FTSE CEOs, addressing diverse audiences worldwide, and earning accolades such as her listing on the Black Powerlist's 100 most influential black people in the UK. She's a member of the Executive Leadership Council and the CFO's Diversity Forum, demonstrating her commitment to diversity in the business world.

As an OBE recipient for her services to business, Chancellor of the University of York, and Patron of Women in Banking and Finance, Heather's leadership skills are remarkable. She's also a Senior Advisor to Teneo, a Trustee on the Board of Enfield Enterprise, and an advocate for diversity and inclusion.

Join us for an insightful conversation with this influential business leader in this episode of the Sixth Hive Podcast.

Click here to connect with Heather on LinkedIn

Support the show

Experience Business Differently

The Sixth Hive podcast is not just a podcast but an extension of our Business platform. We are on a mission to bridge the gap between businesses and the immense potential of Black talent. We provide a dynamic platform where businesses and individuals can connect, collaborate, and prosper with Black professionals, entrepreneurs, and black-owned companies. We strive to showcase the value, creativity, and innovation that Black talent brings to the table, fostering partnerships that drive economic growth, diversity, and mutual success.

Register now for early access and join a community of trailblazers. Get exclusive features, connect with like-minded individuals, and elevate your journey with Sixth Hive. Don't miss out—click the link below to secure your spot!

Click here to find out more

Send us Fan Mail

Welcome to the introductory episode of the official podcast of Sixth Hive. Join us as we embark on a journey to explore the untapped potential, stories of resilience, and extraordinary achievements within the Black talent community.

In this inaugural episode, your host and branding expert, Flavilla Fongang, takes centre stage. With a passion for empowering Black excellence, Flavilla shares her vision behind Black Rise and her inspiring personal journey. Discover how this platform is set to revolutionise the way we celebrate, connect, and empower Black talent across industries.

Get ready for candid conversations, insights from trailblazers, and a roadmap to success as we delve into the world of entrepreneurship, innovation, leadership, and creative expression. 

Join us in celebrating the brilliance, creativity, and boundless potential within the Black community. Together, we'll rise beyond expectations and inspire generations to come.

Subscribe now, and let's embark on this empowering journey of growth, transformation, and excellence.

Support the show

Experience Business Differently

The Sixth Hive podcast is not just a podcast but an extension of our Business platform. We are on a mission to bridge the gap between businesses and the immense potential of Black talent. We provide a dynamic platform where businesses and individuals can connect, collaborate, and prosper with Black professionals, entrepreneurs, and black-owned companies. We strive to showcase the value, creativity, and innovation that Black talent brings to the table, fostering partnerships that drive economic growth, diversity, and mutual success.

Register now for early access and join a community of trailblazers. Get exclusive features, connect with like-minded individuals, and elevate your journey with Sixth Hive. Don't miss out—click the link below to secure your spot!

Click here to find out more