Name: Lydia Joel Ishaya

Title: Strategy Human Resource & Change Management

Organisation: Federal Inland Revenue Service Headquarters Abuja FCT Nigeria

Lydia Joel Ishaya: Empowering Change Through Human Resources and Community Initiative Lydia Joel Ishaya is a dynamic Human Resource Professional and Strategy Planner, renowned for her innovative approach to organizational development and talent management across Africa. With over 16 years of experience, Lydia has garnered expertise in areas such as ERP consulting, data analysis, and project management, earning global certifications that enhance her ability to drive impactful change.

In 2007, as she approached graduation from university, Lydia and four friends established "Club Pay Forward," a non-profit initiative aimed at empowering youth in Jos Jarawa, Nigeria. Through this program, they provided over 200 teenagers with essential education in subjects like mathematics, English, and sciences, while also addressing pressing social issues such as substance abuse and bullying. Lydia's commitment to fostering skill development led to hands-on training in practical areas, enabling students to create products that were sold to the community, with proceeds used to sponsor school fees for deserving students, including orphans.

Professionally, Lydia has made significant contributions to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), particularly as the Team Lead for the SAP HR Project. Here, she implemented innovative recruitment strategies and collaborated with IT professionals to enhance HR processes, successfully onboarding over 4,000 staff members. Her role as an ERP consultant further solidified her reputation, as she guided the organization through complex automation transitions.

Lydia’s digital platform serves as a beacon for empowerment and support, featuring a variety of resources including blog posts on work-life balance, downloadable guides, and webinars focused on personal development. Her community forum encourages engagement among women striving for harmony between professional and family life.

As a creative writer and wellness advocate, Lydia believes in the transformative power of balance and inclusion. Her slogan, "Empowering People, Transforming the World," encapsulates her mission to foster thriving, supportive environments for individuals and families alike. Through her multifaceted expertise and community initiatives, Lydia Joel Ishaya is a rising captain of industry, committed to driving positive change in the world of Human Resources and beyond.

Thank you to the 2,000 leaders who’ve generously done the 7 Questions on Educational Leadership!

I hope Lydia's answers will encourage you in your leadership journey. Enjoy!

Cheers,

Jonno White

1. What have you found most challenging as an Educational Leader?

As an educational leader, particularly in the context of my experiences with "Club Pay Forward" and my professional journey in Human Resources, I have faced several significant challenges, especially in light of the ongoing global recession. These challenges can be categorized into three key areas: resource allocation, sustaining engagement, and adapting to changing needs.

### 1. Resource Allocation During my time with "Club Pay Forward," we aimed to provide quality educational support and skill development to over 200 teenagers in Jos Jarawa. However, the financial constraints brought about by economic downturns made it increasingly difficult to secure the necessary resources for our programs. For instance, while we successfully organized workshops teaching essential subjects and practical skills like liquid soap making and baking, sourcing materials became a challenge. We had to be innovative in our approach, often relying on community donations and partnerships with local businesses to gather supplies. This experience taught me the importance of strategic resource management and the need to cultivate strong community relationships to enhance our initiatives.

### 2. Sustaining Engagement As an educational leader, fostering engagement among students and their families has been crucial. In the face of a recession, many families were preoccupied with financial instability, which affected their involvement in educational programs. At "Club Pay Forward," we noticed a decline in attendance as students faced pressures to contribute to their household income. To counter this, we organized awareness campaigns highlighting the long-term benefits of education, while also offering flexible scheduling for our classes. This experience reinforced my belief that effective communication and empathy are vital leadership skills, enabling us to connect with families and emphasize the value of education even in tough times.

### 3. Adapting to Changing Needs The global recession has also led to shifting priorities among students and their families. Many young people now seek immediate job opportunities rather than focusing solely on academic achievements. While leading the recruitment team for the FIRS SAP HR Project, I applied similar principles by adapting our training programs to include not just academic subjects but also practical skills that could directly enhance employability. For example, we incorporated workshops on graphic design and entrepreneurship, recognizing the necessity of equipping students with skills that aligned with the current job market. This adaptability is a crucial leadership trait, allowing us to remain relevant and responsive to the needs of those we serve.

### Conclusion In summary, my experiences as an educational leader amidst the challenges posed by global recession have highlighted the importance of resourcefulness, engagement, and adaptability. Each challenge has provided valuable lessons that have shaped my approach to leadership, allowing me to foster resilient educational environments that support both students and their families during uncertain times. By focusing on community partnerships, empathetic communication, and responsive programming, I strive to empower individuals to thrive, even in the face of adversity.

2. How did you become an Educational Leader? Can you please briefly tell the story?

My Journey to Educational Leadership: A Passion for Knowledge and Faith My journey to becoming an educational leader has been deeply intertwined with my love for knowledge and my unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. From an early age, I recognized the transformative power of education, not just as a means to personal advancement but as a vehicle for societal change. This belief was further solidified through my relationship with God and His word, which has consistently reminded me of the importance of knowledge in addressing the challenges we face as a global community.

The Spark of Passion The seeds of my passion were sown during my time at university. As I approached graduation, I realized that true leadership in the educational sphere requires more than just academic achievements; it demands a commitment to uplift others. In 2007, I co-founded "Club Pay Forward" with four friends at the Cocin Church in Jos Jarawa, Nigeria. Our mission was clear: to equip pre-teens and teenagers with essential knowledge and skills in subjects like mathematics, English, and the sciences, while also addressing critical social issues such as substance abuse and bullying.

This experience was pivotal. We taught over 200 young minds, not just academic content, but also practical life skills like liquid soap making and graphic design. Through these initiatives, I witnessed firsthand how education could empower individuals, enabling them to rise above their circumstances. It became evident to me that many of the world's problems stem from a lack of knowledge—a concept that resonates deeply with my faith. The Bible teaches us that "My people perish for a lack of knowledge" (Hosea 4:6), and I have come to understand that this lack is often the root of societal issues.

Leadership Through Service. My leadership style has always been rooted in service and the desire to foster a culture of learning. I believe that effective leaders empower others to reach their potential. This philosophy guided my work at "Club Pay Forward," where we not only offered academic tutoring but also facilitated discussions about the realities and responsibilities that come with adulthood. We addressed pressing issues like HIV/AIDS, drug abuse, and youth unrest, equipping teenagers with the knowledge they needed to make informed decisions.

In my professional journey, especially during my tenure as Team Lead for the SAP HR Project at the Federal Inland Revenue Service, I applied the same principles of education and empowerment. I led initiatives that optimized recruitment processes, ensuring that we not only selected the best candidates but also provided them with the necessary training and resources for success. My faith drove me to see each challenge as an opportunity to learn and teach others, reinforcing the idea that knowledge is a powerful tool for transformation. A Continuous Journey

Throughout my experiences, I have continually turned to scripture for guidance, affirming my belief that knowledge is essential for personal and communal growth. I have learned that the world does not need to change for us to thrive; rather, we must strive to improve ourselves. Education is the key to doing better, and it is our responsibility to pursue knowledge relentlessly.

As I continue my journey as an educational leader, I remain committed to fostering environments where learning is celebrated and knowledge is accessible to all. I envision a future where every individual, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to learn and grow. My faith in Jesus Christ continually inspires me to press on, knowing that through knowledge, we can create a better world for ourselves and future generations.

In conclusion, my story as an educational leader is one of passion, service, and faith. I believe that by equipping ourselves and others with knowledge, we can address the myriad challenges we face and ultimately transform our communities for the better.

3. How do you structure your work days from waking up to going to sleep?

As an educational leader, my workday begins at 5 AM, a time I've embraced after learning from resources like "The 5 AM Club" and "Atomic Habits." Each morning, I dedicate time to prayer and scripture, grounding my day in my relationship with God, which profoundly influences my outcomes. I believe that starting my day with intention helps me navigate the challenges ahead.

By 6:30 AM, I’ve completed a workout, essential for maintaining my physical and mental health. I leave for work between 7:15 AM and 7:30 AM, ready to face the day, knowing that unforeseen circumstances can arise, like stepping into higher roles or managing a depleted team due to a pandemic or natural disasters. During these times, I often take a prayer walk or pause to recite affirmations, which helps me regain focus and clarity.

My evenings are structured around family and spiritual activities, fostering a sense of balance. I typically return home between 5:30 PM and 7:30 PM, allowing time for dinner and unwinding. I aim to be in bed by 10:30 PM to 11:00 PM, ensuring I get adequate rest.

Throughout the week, I adhere to a strict meal plan and utilize various planning tools—yearly, quarterly, and daily trackers—to keep my goals aligned with my core values. I’ve learned that my best days are often preceded by my commitment to these routines, while the days when I neglect my morning rituals tend to be more challenging.

Ultimately, it’s my faith and structured approach that empower me to lead effectively, even when the pressure mounts like Kilimanjaro. My journey is a testament to the power of intentionality and spiritual grounding in overcoming daily challenges.

4. What's a recent lesson you've learned for the first time or been reminded of as an Educational Leader?

Recently, I was reminded of the importance of intentionality in leadership. During a challenging week, I stepped into a higher role due to a colleague's absence, and the pressure felt immense. I leaned on my relationship with God, taking moments for prayer and affirmations, which helped me regain clarity and peace.

I realized that neglecting my morning routines—like devotional studies—made challenges feel heavier. This experience taught me that leadership, much like education, must be grounded in knowledge. I need to strive to adapt and learn continuously. Discipline is essential to maintain my core activities, enabling me to function optimally and support my team with resilience and clarity.

5. What's one book that has had a profound impact on your journey as an Educational Leader so far? Can you please briefly tell the story of how that book impacted you?

The book that has profoundly impacted my leadership journey is the Bible. Its teachings have shaped my character and decision-making long before I stepped into my leadership role and continue to guide me today.

In my daily life, I draw strength and wisdom from the scriptures, especially during challenging times. For instance, when I recently had to step into a higher role due to the absence of a senior executive, the pressure was immense. Remembering the leadership attributes of figures like Moses and Esther, who faced daunting challenges with faith and courage, inspired me to approach my responsibilities with grace.

On days filled with challenges, like when our team faced a dip in numbers due to a natural disaster, I took prayer walks to recenter myself, reflecting on the resilience shown by biblical leaders like David and Paul. Their examples remind me that effective leadership requires humility, adaptability, and unwavering faith.

In my capacity as a team lead for project management, I faced significant hurdles when federal approval delays threatened the launch of a new recruitment portal. Drawing inspiration from the resourcefulness of women like Lydia and Dorcas, I collaborated with my team to create an external recruitment portal, ensuring we could still utilize the ERP recruitment module we had deployed. This experience reinforced the importance of innovation and teamwork, hallmarks of strong leadership.

Additionally, I’ve organized personal and group retreats with team members and spiritual communities, allowing us to reflect on our mission and foster deeper connections. These retreats echo the support networks seen in the New Testament, where leaders like Timothy and Peter encouraged and uplifted those around them.

Ultimately, the Bible has been my compass in navigating the complexities of leadership. It teaches me that, like the great leaders of scripture, I must approach each day with faith, resilience, and a commitment to serving others, ensuring that my leadership leaves an enduring impact.

6. If you could only give one piece of advice to a young educator who aspires to be an Educational Leader, what would you say to them?

For a young educator aspiring to lead, start by grounding your leadership in personal convictions. The Bible is a timeless resource that offers insights into qualities like courage, integrity, and resilience. Building a strong relationship with God provides support and guidance, essential for navigating challenges.

Prioritize strong communication and relationships, as exemplified by leaders in scripture. Embrace continuous learning and seek mentors to help you grow. Let biblical teachings guide you, leading with conviction and empathy to make a lasting impact in education.

7. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as an Educational Leader, so far?

One meaningful story from my time as an educational leader revolves around a sensitization exercise I conducted to educate end users on automated HR functions, such as performance management and leave administration. When we first introduced these automated processes, there was considerable hesitation among staff. Many were unsure about how the changes would impact their daily workflows.

Recognizing the importance of communication and relationship-building, I organized a series of workshops to demystify the new systems. Drawing on my relationship with God, I approached these sessions with a mindset of empathy and support, understanding that change can be daunting. I used relatable scenarios and hands-on demonstrations to illustrate how the automated processes would streamline their tasks and enhance efficiency.

As a result of these sensitization efforts, the transformation within our HR processes was remarkable. Staff became more confident and engaged with the new systems, leading to a smoother implementation. We witnessed significant improvements in performance management, with clearer metrics and feedback mechanisms, and leave administration became more transparent and user-friendly.

Encouraged by this success, we continued to gather feedback from users to identify areas for further optimization. We are now in the process of upgrading these automated systems for even greater efficiency, incorporating AI-driven insights to enhance decision-making.

This experience reinforced the importance of clear communication and relationship-building in leadership. By fostering an environment where staff felt supported and informed, we not only transformed HR processes but also empowered our team to embrace innovation. It’s a testament to how thoughtful leadership can drive meaningful change in an organization.