Leadership extends beyond mere guidance; it's a continuous journey of learning, growth, and facing the storm head-on, no matter how daunting it might appear. In this episode, we delve into the transformative power of purpose-driven leadership and navigating times of turbulence with Aku Pauline Odinkemelu, a towering figure in Nigeria's economic and banking landscape whose impact reaches far beyond her borders.

Despite starting her career in law, Aku discovered her passion and found her calling in banking, rising to executive positions and serving on the Central Bank's Monetary Policy Committee, overcoming Nigeria's economic challenges. Growing up as one of nine children, Aku shares how education, family support and mentorship steered her professional trajectory and fueled her commitment to growth. Aku shares her remarkable account of navigating through times of significant unrest and danger in River State, emphasizing the role of strategic thinking when steering her teams to safety. Join us as we celebrate Aku's inspirational leadership journey—a testament to resilience, integrity, and unwavering courage. Key points include:

• A stroke of chance: Aku's career evolution from legal counsel to banking leader
• Tackling conflicts of interest, inflation and currency challenges in Nigeria's economy
• The greatest gift of education and the role of family support in shaping careers
• Building a legacy of impact and nurturing future leaders
• Influential mentors: Shaping values and leadership principles
• Career turning points: Overcoming challenges and navigating the social unrest in Nigeria
• Crisis Management: Optimizing strategic security measures amidst turbulent times
• Spiritual resilience: Finding strength and balance in faith

"You have to find that inner strength to detach from everything that is happening. Connect with your team, reach out to your networks, and see how you can analyze and get to the root causes of whatever challenges you face." – Aku Pauline Odinkemelu.

Real Life Real Leaders is dedicated to exploring the real stories behind some of the world's most outstanding inspirational leaders. Each new episode teaches the highs and lows of building a successful business and uncovers the attributes that make a great leader.

Resources:

Our Iceberg Is Melting by John Kotter

https://www.ouricebergismelting.com/

Get connected socially with Aku Pauline Odinkemelu:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/aku-odinkemelu-b3823070

Get connected socially with host Bonnie Hagemann:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bhagemann/

https://edainc.io/

https://mobile.twitter.com/bonnie_hagemann

https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/real-life-real-leaders-podcast/

This podcast is proudly produced in partnership with podlad.com