What I Do For Work

In this episode, host Anita Patrick speaks with Henrietta Ekefre, an International Human Rights Lawyer, Policy Advisor, and Consultant specializing in transformative justice, gender equality, and reparations for historical injustices. Henrietta shares how she built her career in the global human rights field, from the strategic career decisions she took during her undergraduate studies, to working with organizations like the Clooney Foundation for Justice, the African Commission on Human andPeople’s Rights, Africa Judges and Jurists Forum, and how she continues to use the law as a tool for social transformation.What you’ll learn:The work of an International Human Rights LawyerHenrietta’s strategy for choosing a law specializationHow to reverse-engineer your career path when you have a visionHow Moot Court competitions can open professional doors for young lawyers and law students.Internships, fellowships and graduate programs for Human Rights and Advocacy professionals.Experience working with international organizations like the Clooney Foundation for JusticeHow to apply for and get funding for postgraduate (Master’s) degrees at universities such as the University of Oxford, Loyola University Chicago, and the University of Pretoria.Scholarship and funding strategies: what reviewers look for, how to demonstrate need, and how to choose the right referees for recommendation letters.Managing burnout, vicarious trauma, and emotional fatigue in human rights work.The role of empathy, safe spaces, and trauma-informed advocacy in sustaining meaningful change.The importance of publishing research, op-eds, and think pieces to build credibilityHow to deal with perfectionism paralysis and keep showing up for your work.Where to find Henrietta:Twitter/X: https://x.com/HenriettaekefreLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/henriettaekefreInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/theiconichenny/Where to find AnitaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anita-patrick-gr8n3ss/Twitter/X: https://x.com/anitasfireInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/anitasfire/What I Do For Work podcast on socialLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/what-i-do-for-workInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatidoforwork/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@whatidoforworkTwitter: https://x.com/WhatIDoForWork_#WIDFWPodcastChapters02:47 A day in the life of an International Human Rights Lawyer06:26 The inspiration behind Henrietta's law career07:46 Henrietta's strategy for choosing her law specialization10:59 Course content, activities and opportunities for undergrad law student15:07 Networking and experience opportunities 16:49 Planning ahead as a Law student17:54 Finding Law internships that are relevant to your career26:04 Clooney Foundation for Justice fellowship experience29:09 Importance of networking35:34 Creating a vision for your Human Rights career38:29 What personalities thrive in Human Rights Law?41:07 Balancing research and advocacy43:27 The importance of empathy in Human Rights work45:21 Pursuing advanced education in Human Rights55:44 Tips for applying to graduate programs and getting funding57:42 What scholarship reviewers look out for in applications59:05 An example of how to prove the need for scholarship for post-grad applications01:00:34 How to choose a good referee for your recommendation letter01:04:14 Navigating mental health in Human Rights work01:12:24 Creating safe spaces in advocacy01:14:56 The importance of publishing one's work01:18:03 Dealing with perfectionism paralysis#HumanRightsLaw #InternationalLaw #HumanRightsCareer #SocialJustice #LawStudents #AdvocacyWork #TransformativeJustice #Scholarships #StudyAbroad #OxfordUniversity #ClooneyFoundation #LegalFellowships #WomenInLaw #AfricaLaw #CareerInLaw #PostgraduateFunding #LegalResearch #PublicInterestLaw #MentalHealthAwareness #EmpathyInAdvocacy  career advice for aspiring lawyers in AfricaProduction and marketing by Anita Patrick

In this episode of What I Do For Work, host Anita Patrick speaks with Susanna Ozenogu. They discuss the intricacies of project management, Susan's journey into this sector and what it takes to thrive as a PM. Susanna Ozenogu is a Program and Portfolio Manager with over a decade of experience driving transformation and building scalable systems across nonprofit, tech, finance, logistics, and consulting sectors. She's certified in PMP, CBAP, PMI-ACP, and Scrum. She brings together technical fluency, learning design, and human-centred leadership. Beyond corporate execution, she is a seasoned PMP trainer and facilitator, having equipped and mentored over 2,000 executives and professionals with the tools to lead projects and programs effectively.What you’ll learn:The difference between project, program, and portfolio management.What to do if looking to grow as a PM or pivot into the sectorHow to approach certifications and the number 1 tip for acing professional exams like the PMPThe best practice for applying Project Management structures to real-life scenariosHow to know if Project Management is the right career for youThe key skills of a good Project ManagerHow and why to be visible at workWhere to find Susan and Zenog ConsultsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sozenogu/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sue.lenaya/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zenog-consulting/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zenog_jobs/Where to find AnitaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anita-patrick-gr8n3ss/Twitter/X: https://x.com/anitasfireInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/anitasfire/What I Do For Work on socialLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/what-i-do-for-workInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatidoforwork/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@whatidoforworkTwitter: https://x.com/WhatIDoForWork_#WIDFWPodcastNewsletterhttps://preview.mailerlite.io/forms/1716316/161986026210854411/shareChapters00:00 Introduction01:57 Understanding Project Management roles05:23 Susan's journey from Journalist to Project Manager14:26 Project Management exists in every field18:01 Relevance of Project Management certifications20:14 Susan's most impactful Project Management certification21:57 3 tips beyond certificates for a career in Project Management29:02 How to ace your Project Management exams31:11 How to balance textbook knowledge and real-life application in Project Management34:17 How to know if Project Management is for you40:56 Staying updated in Project Management practices44:26 On continuous learning50:51 Absurdity in business practices#widfwpodcast #projectmanagementcareer #careerdevelopmentcareer development, project management certifications, continuous learning, career transitions, project management in nigeriaProduction and marketing by Anita Patrick

In this episode, Anita Patrick chats with Kafilat Awotayo, founder of the Yellow company, about her path into Brand Strategy and Talent Management.Kafilat has worked with global luxury brands in her career and is now building a thriving agency at the intersection of Nigeria’s creative economy and commerce. She shares how she’s carved a space for herself in this industry, and the mindset shift creatives need to turn their skills into sustainable businesses. What we discussed:Why you must fight for your place if you want to build credibility at workHow proactive learning and shadowing can fast-track your growthThe role of trend forecasting in staying relevant and competitiveWhy creatives should start thinking like corporationsWhy build meaningful industry relationships that open doorsWorking at an agency vs. in-house, which should marketers in Nigeria chooseThe importance of networking and community engagementBalancing Brand marketing and salesWhere to find Kafilat and The Yellow CompanyInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/kaf.ilatt/ https://www.instagram.com/the.yellowco/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kafilatawotayo/https://www.linkedin.com/company/yellowcomms/Where to find AnitaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anita-patrick-gr8n3ss/Twitter/ X: https://x.com/anitasfireInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/anitasfire/What I Do For Work on socialLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/what-i-do-for-workInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatidoforwork/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@whatidoforworkTwitter: https://x.com/WhatIDoForWork_#WIDFWPodcastNewsletterhttps://preview.mailerlite.io/forms/1716316/161986026210854411/shareChapters00:00 Introduction01:27 The work of a Brand Strategist03:45 Kafilat's journey to Brand Strategy10:11 Taking a gap year strategically11:41 Maximizing internships for growth14:27 Road to Kafilat's Yellow Agency17:25 Transitioning from 9-5 to agency founder21:21 Gatekeeping in the industry23:27 The importance of data in marketing25:07 Building relationships and networking26:38 The role of creativity in commerce28:36 The evolution of Yellow Management29:57 Supporting the Creative Economy36:59 Building a framework for creatives38:59 The expanding creative economy40:41 What you need to break into Brand Marketing46:05 Agency vs in-house47:58 Recap of the conversation50:15 Mentorship opportunity with KafilatProduction and marketing by Anita Patrick

In this episode, Anita Patrick speaks with Adanna Atuonwu, the Public Relations Lead at AFEX, one of Africa’s fastest-growing companies, to unpack what it really takes to succeed in PR in Nigeria.From building media relationships across West and East Africa, to turning a Master’s degree into a career breakthrough, to managing challenging team members without burning out, Adanna shares practical lessons from her journey that every aspiring PR or communications professional needs to hear.This is a conversation about career growth, leadership, and thriving in structured organisations.What you’ll learn in this episode:How to build and nurture PR relationships that actually move your career forwardWhere to find networking opportunities (and why “horizontal networking” matters)How a Master’s degree can unlock doors and how to maximise its full valueWhat it’s like to work in a structured, high-growth companyKey things to consider when choosing your first jobThe mindsets and attitudes that set successful PR professionals apartPractical tips for managing difficult reportees as a first-time managerWhere to find AdannaInstagramLinkedInWhere to find AnitaLinkedIn Twitter Instagram What I Do For Work on socialLinkedInInstagramTiktokTwitter/X#WIDFWPodcastNewsletterChapters00:00 Introduction00:53 What to expect01:24 Working in PR03:41 PR Lead day-to-day06:26 Productive times for working08:00 Building relationships as a PR expert12:14 Undergrad and Master's experience16:49 Getting value (and jobs) from Master's degree19:40 First year at AFEX21:48 Taking advantage of support at work22:57 Having good managers and being a good manager25:49 Handling reportees who need micromanagement30:43 Working in a place with structure35:11 Advice for choosing your first job37:14 Problems in the Comms sector39:52 Advice for working in PR40:52 Networking horizontally42:46 Where to find relationships44:45 Where to find Adanna45:12 Share What I Do For Work podcastProduction and marketing by Anita Patrick

In this episode of What I Do For Work, Anita Patrick speaks with Pearl Utuk, a social entrepreneur and international development professional, about her journey from volunteering to finding career clarity. Pearl shares her experiences at the African Leadership Academy, the career uncertainty challenges she grappled with, and the importance of networking and preparation in achieving career goals. What you’ll learn:How volunteering can open doors to meaningful, high-impact careers.Why networking isn’t just for formal events, and how to build connections anywhere.Key technical skills needed to thrive in the development and social enterprise space.How to prepare for opportunities even when your career path feels unclear.How to embrace nonlinear career journeys and unexpected turns.The power of documenting and sharing your work to attract new opportunities.The role of faith during uncertain times.Why every small contribution can create a ripple effect in your community.Where to find Pearl and Teach The ChildLinkedInInstagramYouTubeWhere to find AnitaLinkedInInstagramTwitter/XWhat I Do For Work on socialLinkedInInstagramTikTokTwitter/X #WIDFWPodcastNewsletterChapters00:00 Introduction to Impactful Careers02:46 Pearl Utuk's Journey in Social Impact04:07 Day-to-Day Responsibilities at African Leadership Academy06:11 Entering the Impact Space08:26 The Role of Volunteering in Career Clarity10:47 Building Skills and Overcoming Challenges12:36 Finding Opportunities in Uncertainty14:59 Developing Technical Skills for Social Development17:51 The Importance of Networking and Documentation20:07 Identifying Problems and Creating Solutions36:31 Funding Community Projects39:36 The Birth of Project Teach the Child42:34 Navigating Career Opportunities48:02 The Power of Networking50:31 Transitioning from Project to NGO57:07 Ambition vs. Contentment in Career01:06:53 Mandela Washington ApplicationProduction and marketing by Anita Patrick

In this episode, host Anita Patrick speaks with Irene Aguh, a multifaceted entrepreneur who has successfully transitioned from a 9 to 5 job in marketing to running her own travel and marketing businesses. Irene shares her journey, the career challenges she faced, and the strategies she employed to build her companies. The conversation delves into the importance of planning, understanding product-market fit, and the balance between ambition and contentment in one's career. Irene also discusses the significance of self-doubt, money management, and the skills needed to thrive in the travel and marketing industries.TakeawaysBalance ambition with enjoying the journey.Transitioning from a 9 to 5 requires careful planning.Testing product-market fit is crucial for success.What people say they want may differ from their actions.Google can be a valuable resource for career guidance.Self-training can save money on formal education.Understanding personal finances is key before entrepreneurship.Building a supportive team is essential for growth.Self-doubt is common; remember you belong in your space.The travel and marketing industries require creativity and problem-solving skills.Where to find Irene:https://www.linkedin.com/in/irene-aguh/https://www.instagram.com/iryyne/https://brandrevie.com/https://ireneleo.com/Where to find Anitahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/anita-patrick-gr8n3ss/https://www.instagram.com/anitasfire/Suggest yourself or someone else to be a guest https://forms.gle/3uDmWq2otcFYSkR87Episode chapters00:00 Introduction 03:06 Diverse Career Paths: Travel and Marketing04:37 Transitioning from 9 to 5 to Entrepreneurship07:15 Building a Support System for Business09:38 Critical Factors for Successful Transition11:42 Understanding Product-Market Fit14:17 The Importance of Execution in Business16:46 Reflecting on Educational Background and Career Choices19:14 Navigating Career Progression and Opportunities21:53 The Role of Exposure in Career Development25:18 The Role of Self-Study and Google in Career Growth26:28 Ambition vs. Career Contentment: Finding Balance30:06 Managing Time and Responsibilities as an Entrepreneur30:19 Overcoming Self-Doubt in Entrepreneurship31:50 Money Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs34:44 Navigating the Travel Industry: Skills and Insights38:09 Reflections on the Entrepreneurial JourneyProduction and marketing by Anita Patrick.