Name: SAHEED SHEKONI SANYAOLU MAYOWA

Title: Training, Development, and Total Quality Management Specialist

Organisation: JUMIA NIGERIA

I am a Dietitian from Lagos, Nigeria, I have 7 years work experience with the lagos e-commerce in Africa, Jumia. I am customer centric. I am married with a son. I am an Arsenal fan.

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

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

Cheers,

Jonno White

1. What have you found most challenging as a leader?

As a Leaders I am often faced with various challenges and some common ones include:

Communication: Ensuring effective communication within a team or organization can be challenging. when I need to convey ideas clearly, listen actively, and foster open communication among team members.

Decision-Making: I am often required to make tough decisions that may not be popular. Striking a balance between making timely decisions and ensuring they are well-informed and fair can be challenging.

Managing Change: In a rapidly evolving world, adapting to change is crucial. Leaders must guide their teams through transitions, whether it's a change in strategy, technology, or organizational structure.

Building and Maintaining a Strong Team: Creating a cohesive and high-performing team requires careful consideration of team dynamics, individual strengths and weaknesses, and fostering a positive work culture.

Time Management: I often have numerous responsibilities, and managing their time effectively can be challenging. Prioritizing tasks, delegating when necessary, and maintaining a work-life balance are crucial aspects of effective time management.

Motivating and Inspiring Others: Keeping team members motivated and inspired is an ongoing challenge. I understand the unique needs and aspirations of each team member and provide the necessary support and encouragement.

Handling Conflict: Conflict is inevitable in any workplace. I often address conflicts promptly, fairly, and constructively to maintain a healthy work environment.

Strategic Planning: Developing and executing a long-term strategic vision requires foresight, planning, and adaptability. Navigating uncertainties and anticipate future challenges.

It's important to note that the specific challenges can vary based on the industry, organizational culture, and individual leadership style. Effective leaders continually learn and adapt to new situations, seeking to improve their leadership skills over time.

2. How did you become a leader? Can you please briefly tell the story?

I became a leader because I wanted to positively influence others. It happened so many years ago from my schools days, I often lead out in presentations and projects, I saw the potential and decided to take this a step forward in my University days where I served in the student government. Currently, I still lead out in my organization in various roles and capacity.

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

I have an itinerary that I work with. Once my alarm rings, I wake to get ready for the days work. I work 8 hours and return at close of business to engage in other things, I sleep around 9pm daily and that has been my routine.

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

I am been reminded that servant leadership is key, I remember taking part in a project with my team members for couple of month to achieve a goal, the target was met and we all got incentive and bonuses. So, team work always make the dream work!

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

The Leadership handbook by John C. Maxwell.

6. If you could only give one piece of advice to a young leader, what would you say to them?

I would tell them to discover their innate potential by been intentional in all they do, read books and build all qualities you have in you.

7. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as a leader, so far?

As a leader, I have been faced with various hurdles and challenges been a leader. I remember the challenge of facing a larger crowd with has been overcome now. I can face a larger crowd and deliver my speech to them.