In the dynamic realm of sustainability, Ure Utah shines as an exemplary figure, displaying visionary leadership and a fervent dedication to driving sustainable change. From corporate settings to communities in Nigeria, Ure's journey exemplifies her steadfast dedication to purpose-driven leadership. With a unique blend of charm, strategic insight, and unwavering determination, she not only advocates for sustainability but also fosters transformative connections.
As the founder of Bridge Synergy, Ure has spearheaded initiatives that bridge gaps and encourage collaboration among international investors, development partners, and influential figures. In a recent partnership with BusinessDay for the Nigeria Forward Business Day Event, Ure facilitated discussions on socio-economic challenges and explored impactful solutions, showcasing just one aspect of her comprehensive commitment to reshaping Nigeria's narrative.
This article explores the captivating journey of Ure Utah, a woman whose influence extends well beyond corporate boardrooms, and whose vision stands poised to redefine Nigeria's global significance.
Who is Ure Utah?
I'm a blend of a dreamer and a doer, deeply rooted in my Nigeria heritage, yet touched by the experiences I've gathered globally. My story is one of passion, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference. From my early days in Lagos to my adventures abroad, each chapter has shaped me into who I am today – a woman on a mission to bridge worlds and ignite change
What is Bridge Synergy and what are your plans for change?
Bridge Synergy is a strategic consultancy at the intersection of strategic communications, international relations, and SDG acceleration. Our plan is to create sustainable, impactful changes by connecting Nigerian initiatives with global opportunities, focusing on women empowerment, sustainability and social impact.
Why Nigeria?
Nigeria represents a land of immense potential and challenges. It's a microcosm of Africa's promise. Nigeria is the land that shaped me, the place where my earliest dreams were nurtured. Coming back to contribute to its growth feels incredibly personal and special. With its vibrant culture, youthful energy, and untapped resources, Nigeria presents unique opportunities to drive substantial change and model sustainable development for the continent.
What specific issues or challenges are you passionate about addressing in Nigeria?
My passion for addressing challenges in Nigeria extends to showcasing the nation's positive, impactful stories on an international stage and fostering partnerships to drive transformative change. I am deeply invested in empowering my fellow Nigerian women, creating pathways for their leadership and success in all sectors. Sustainability is also at the core of my mission; I aim to promote eco-friendly initiatives that honor our rich natural heritage while encouraging economic growth. My vision is a Nigeria where women's accomplishments are globally recognized, our environment is a beacon of sustainability, and societal progress is fueled by strong, international partnerships.
How do you plan to collaborate with local communities to understand their needs?
Collaboration is key. We plan to engage in open dialogues, community immersion, and participatory research to genuinely understand the needs and aspirations of local communities, ensuring our initiatives are grounded in their realities and perspectives.
What strategies do you envision for implementing sustainable change?
Our strategies hinge on three pillars: leveraging technology for sustainable solutions, fostering public-private partnerships for resource optimization, and emphasizing community-driven approaches for lasting impact.
Have you considered the cultural and social aspects that may impact your initiatives?
Absolutely. Every initiative is designed with a deep respect for and understanding of Nigeria’s diverse cultural and social fabric. We prioritize culturally sensitive approaches that align with local norms and values.
What resources, skills, or support do you currently have or need to make a meaningful impact?
We have a strong network of global and local partners, skilled professionals, and access to innovative technologies. We're always on the lookout for additional expertise in sustainable development, local community engagement, and strategic funding collaborations.
How do you plan to measure the success and impact of your efforts in Nigeria?
Success will be measured through tangible outcomes like improved living standards, quantifiable environmental benefits, and economic upliftment. Regular assessments, community feedback, and data analytics will guide our impact measurement.
How do you personally send the ladder down to other women?
I actively seek out and create opportunities for women in my local community, offer mentorship, and use my platform to advocate for women's empowerment. By sharing my journey, I hope to inspire and guide other women towards their aspirations.
Can you share instances where you've specifically championed or mentored other women in their careers?
Certainly, I’ve had the privilege of supporting and mentoring women in various capacities. One notable example includes my collaboration with the first female Speaker of the Nigerian Youth Parliament. Together, we’ve launched youth empowerment initiatives aimed at nurturing leadership qualities and providing platforms for young women to voice their opinions and contribute to national dialogues. my role as a board member of my father’s security company has also offered me a unique opportunity to champion gender equality within the corporate sector. I’ve been deeply involved in implementing favorable and equitable practices that focus on hiring and promoting more women. By fostering these inclusive practices, we’ve seen an uptick in female representation in various roles, including leadership positions.
What are specific strategies or advice you give to women looking to advance in their careers?
Advancing in one's career is a journey that intertwines personal growth with professional development. To women striving to scale new heights, my advice is deeply rooted in the lessons I've embraced throughout my own path:
Embrace Your Unique Story: Every woman has a narrative that's uniquely hers – a blend of experiences, challenges, victories, and dreams. This narrative is your power. It's a reservoir of lessons and strengths you've accumulated over time. In my journey, I've learned to embrace my story – its roots, its wings, its colors. It's crucial to own your story, for it sets you apart and defines your perspective, making you an invaluable asset in any space you step into.
Lean Into Your Inherent Gifts: We all possess a set of natural talents – these are the abilities that come effortlessly to us, the tasks we find joy in, the skills where we excel without trying too hard. They are your silent allies, your unique toolkit in the arsenal of your career. Use them wisely and watch how they open doors and create opportunities that resonate with who you are.
Cultivate a Robust Support System: The path to success is rarely a solitary journey. It's enriched and made more achievable by the presence of a strong network – mentors who guide, colleagues who inspire, and a community that supports. I've been fortunate to have mentors who believed in me, peers who challenged me, and a circle that uplifted me. Be proactive in building these relationships. But remember, networking is not a one-way street; it thrives on reciprocity. Be ready to offer support and mentorship to others, especially fellow women who are navigating their paths.
Stay Authentic and True to Yourself: In a world that often values conformity, there's immense power in authenticity. Trust in your values, your voice, and your vision. You don't have to fit a mold to be successful. Your uniqueness is your strength, not a barrier. Embrace it in all its glory.
Keep Learning and Growing: The landscape of our professional worlds is ever-evolving. Stay curious, keep learning, and be adaptable. The growth mindset is not just about acquiring new skills but also about being open to new perspectives and challenges.
In what ways do you encourage a sense of community and collaboration among women within your professional network?
One key approach I've embraced is promoting mental health and well-being. Recognizing the importance of balance in our hectic lives, I've initiated and planned mental health breaks and retreats. They are carefully crafted journeys focused on relaxation, self-discovery, and building deeper bonds. Through activities like yoga, mindfulness sessions, and interactive workshops, we created a safe space where women could unwind, share experiences, and learn from each other.
I’ve also organized a series of goal-setting sessions coupled with vision board get-togethers to not only help set professional targets but also about understanding and nurturing our personal aspirations and well-being.
Have you faced any resistance or obstacles in advocating for other women, and how did you handle them?
Like many women who are passionate about making a change, I’ve certainly faced my share of resistance and obstacles, particularly those stemming from entrenched norms and biases. These challenges can be daunting, but I’ve learned to approach them with a blend of patience, and strategic action.
My strategy has always been threefold. Firstly, persistent advocacy – I believe in the power of continuous, informed dialogue, having those tough conversations, raising awareness, and gently challenging outdated views.
Secondly, education plays a crucial role. It’s about providing information and sharing knowledge, not just stating facts but telling stories that resonate. I’ve found that when people understand the ‘why’ behind a change, especially through relatable examples, they are more likely to support it.
And lastly, nothing speaks louder than results. Demonstrating the value and effectiveness of women’s contributions through tangible outcomes has been crucial. In my own journey, whether it’s been within the boardroom of my father’s company or through the initiatives of Bridge Synergy, I’ve strived to showcase how empowering women leads to stronger, more innovative, and more compassionate leadership and solutions.
What is your pledge to give back in 2024?
My pledge for 2024 is to deepen my commitment to sustainable initiatives and the empowerment of marginalized women in Nigeria. My focus will be on fostering partnerships and collaborations that provide platforms and opportunities for women who are often sidelined in our society.
This year, I will concentrate on establishing and strengthening alliances with like-minded organizations and individuals. These partnerships will aim to provide education, skill development, and essential support for women aspiring to make their mark in technology, entrepreneurship, and other vital sectors.
By nurturing these collaborations, I intend to create a more inclusive and equitable future where women's voices are not only heard but are influential and impactful.
