Exquisite Magazine is pleased to have an interview with Aisha Amira who is currently an entrepreneur and finance coach. She was previously a Relationship Director at Barclays UK and before that, she worked for Standard Bank as a global Associate in Nigeria, South Africa, Abu Dhabi and Saudi Arabia.
Aisha was featured on the HERoes Women Future Leaders Role Model List 2021 supported by Yahoo Finance, after successfully obtaining 7 income streams by the age of 24 with a net worth of £1.4million.
Let’s read more about her inspirational story
EM- PLEASE TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF AND BRAND
I am Aisha Amira Adedeji, co-founder of The Hustle Table, an educational coaching platform. With a background in banking and a passion for finance and numbers, I have worked in the banking sector across multiple countries, including Nigeria, the UK, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, and Abu Dhabi. Alongside my banking career, I also tutor math and financial literacy to children.
During my time as a VP at Barclays Bank, I frequently encountered inquiries from graduates and the students I tutored about managing their finances and improving financial literacy.
This inspired me to establish The Hustle Table as a platform dedicated to addressing these topics. We aim to provide education and guidance on financial literacy, money management, careers, and side hustles – all the essential aspects that are often overlooked in traditional education systems. Our mission is to empower individuals to create their own financial journeys, rather than conforming to societal expectations.
At The Hustle Table, we believe in encouraging people to carve their own paths and make informed financial decisions. By sharing knowledge and insights, we aspire to equip individuals with the tools they need to navigate the financial landscape confidently.
EM- HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN THIS FIELD?
I embarked on my finance journey more than seven years ago, back in 2015. But let’s not forget the four years of banking experience I gained during my university days, as well as the placement year I took to work in a bank. So, if we add it all up, I’ve actually been immersed in the world of finance for a remarkable 11 years now! It’s been quite a thrilling and enriching ride, and I’m excited to continue making strides in this dynamic field.
EM- WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO GO INTO THIS FIELD?
From an early age, I’ve had a burning passion for two things: numbers and education. But what really lit a fire within me was the realization that finance, something so fundamental to our daily lives, is often overlooked in traditional education systems. It struck a chord when students would tell me, “Miss, forget Pythagoras, teach us about money!” I couldn’t argue with them because, let’s face it, money touches every aspect of our lives.
This frustration pushed me to take action. We are currently working on a finance book for children that will accompany them throughout their compulsory education journey. Imagine equipping the next generation with the financial know-how they need to thrive in today’s world, right from the start!
But that’s not all. During my career in Wealth Management and Corporate banking, I realized something unsettling. My role primarily involved managing the wealth of already affluent individuals, making their money work for them and increasing their wealth.
But what about the countless individuals who aren’t already wealthy? Who looks out for them? They often can’t afford a designated wealth manager, and without proper guidance, how can they learn to navigate the complex world of finance?
This realization ignited a passion deep within me, propelling me to start The Hustle Table. I wanted to create a platform that would bridge the gap, providing accessible financial education to those who need it most. The Hustle Table aims to empower individuals from all walks of life, offering them the knowledge, tools, and support they need to take control of their financial futures.
Join us on this journey as we break barriers, challenge norms, and bring financial literacy to the forefront of education. Together, let’s rewrite the narrative and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to thrive in the world of money.
EM- TIPS ON HOW YOU STARTED?
Starting my journey was quite serendipitous. With my background in tutoring math and having a father who is a head teacher, I began by offering finance lessons to the parents of my students.
Additionally, I organized events for external businesses while working at Barclays Bank. Taking the leap, I created social media pages and began building my online presence. Interestingly, although I initially targeted children, I found that the majority of my clients are now adults.
To expand my reach, I approached corporate organizations and offered to conduct finance talks for their employees, which further fueled my client base. When you’re truly passionate about something, getting started becomes a natural progression.
EM- YOU ARE A FORCE TO RECKON WITH WITHIN THE SOCIETY, HOW DID YOU GROW TO THIS LEVEL?
My journey to where I am today has been a result of intentional personal growth and a strong sense of faith. I dedicated time to self-improvement by reading, listening to mindset podcasts, and attending seminars and development events. I recognized that to make a positive impact, I needed to continuously develop myself.
Despite the progress I have made, I still have a long way to go both personally and with The Hustle Table. However, once I decided to improve, everything else started falling into place.
Additionally, my faith has played a significant role. I’ve made a conscious effort to pray more and express gratitude for even the smallest victories and where I am today. This mindset has been instrumental in my journey.
EM: HOW DO YOU DEFINE SUCCESS?
Success, to me, means creating value for others. At 24, I had seven income streams and a net worth of £1.4 million, which some might consider a success. However, I didn’t feel successful because I didn’t believe I was truly helping those in need. Defining success should be based on personal values. Identify your top 3-5 values and assess if your daily actions align with them. If they do, then you can consider yourself successful.
EM: IF YOU HAD THE CHANCE TO START YOUR CAREER OVER AGAIN, WHAT WOULD YOU DO DIFFERENTLY?
If I had the chance to start my career over again, I would prioritize building my network. Having worked in diverse countries and experiencing contrasting cultures, I now understand the significance of the saying “Your network is your net worth.”
Along my journey, I have encountered entrepreneurs and individuals who have provided invaluable support and belief in my abilities to venture beyond a 9-5 job and start a business.
Believing in oneself becomes easier when surrounded by like-minded individuals pursuing similar goals and supporting one another. Looking back, I realize that I harboured imposter syndrome, which delayed my launch of The Hustle Table by about six years. If given another opportunity, I would be more audacious, reaching out to professionals in my field and seeking mentorship.
Even if they decline, it simply means they weren’t the right fit for my aspirations, and that’s perfectly okay.
EM- EVERY BUSINESS-MINDED SUCCESSFUL PERSON HAS A STORY, WHAT CHALLENGES DID YOU FACE?
Every successful person in the business world faces challenges, and I am no exception. With The Hustle Table, I encounter obstacles such as limited resources and a lack of clear direction, which can make progress difficult at times.
One ongoing challenge I deal with is imposter syndrome and self-doubt, questioning whether people will be interested in my services or working with me and my team.
However, I’ve learned that by taking action and putting myself out there, I discover my niche and find my audience. If there’s one trait I wish I possessed naturally, it would be boldness – the ability to confidently ask for what I want, believe in my vision and confidently assert that I am making a meaningful impact, no matter how small.
EM- WHAT SETS YOU APART?
I bring a unique blend of experience and passion to the table. Having worked with high-net-worth individuals and tutored in math, I’ve mastered the art of breaking down complex information into relatable concepts. But here’s the exciting part: I want to revolutionize finance and financial literacy by making it as engaging as entertainment.
My journey has been shaped by remarkable experiences. Imagine being stopped by police in Saudi Arabia for not having a male chaperone or facing discrimination from clients because of my race and gender. Witnessing my basketball students lose their hard-earned money due to a lack of financial knowledge fueled my determination to make a difference.
In a nutshell, I’m here to disrupt the perception of finance and empower individuals with the knowledge they need to thrive. Together, we’ll transform financial literacy into an exciting and accessible realm that everyone can embrace.
EM- YOU ARE AN INSPIRATION TO MANY, WHO/WHAT INSPIRES YOU?
What inspires me is the pursuit of freedom. While money can’t buy happiness, it can provide the freedom to live without constant financial worries. I’m not aiming to become the wealthiest person, but rather to achieve financial freedom for myself and those around me. Witnessing my father’s journey has also been a significant inspiration.
Born and raised in Nigeria, he later moved to the UK. I’ve seen him experience both financial highs and lows and observed the impact on our family dynamics. Giving back to both my parents, to be honest, is a daily motivation for me.
EM- WHAT MOTIVATES YOU?
What motivates me? Well, there are five core values that drive and inspire me:
1. Family: My loved ones, including my siblings and parents, mean the world to me. Making them proud fuels my determination to keep pushing forward. The support and encouragement from my loyal friendships also play a vital role in motivating me.
2. Education (specifically financial education): I believe that if you aren’t taught something, how can you be expected to know it? Education has always been a passion of mine, and I excelled in my own academic journey. Teaching others, particularly about financial literacy, excites me. Money is a universal aspect of life, and I want to empower people to make their money work for them, regardless of their income.
3. Culture: As a proud Nigerian black woman who has worked with people from diverse backgrounds, I’ve witnessed disparities between cultures. I aim to bridge that gap by leveraging the knowledge I’ve gained from different cultures and using it to uplift my own heritage. I want to challenge stereotypes and change perceptions, proving that excellence knows no boundaries.
4. Helping others: A significant influence in my life was a remarkable math teacher who believed in me even when I struggled. She invested her time in me, and her impact was profound. Sadly, she passed away on the day of my exam. Before her passing, I promised her that I would pay it forward and help others just as she helped me. Seeing the positive impact I can have on someone’s life brings me immense joy and fulfilment.
5. Connecting with people: I’m known for making friends easily and being social because I genuinely love hearing people’s stories. I firmly believe that nothing great is achieved without the support and collaboration of others. Meeting new people and learning from their journeys continuously enriches my own. The right connections can truly change lives, open doors, and create endless possibilities.
These core values encompass my motivation and drive, shaping the work I do and the impact I strive to make in the world.
EM- IF YOU WERE TO WRITE A BOOK ABOUT YOURSELF WHAT WOULD BE THE TITLE?
“Unveiling Sacrifice: The Journey to Embrace Future Living”
In an ideal scenario, I would write the book first, allowing the essence of my experiences to shape its title. However, if I were to ponder a title at this moment, “Die Now, Live Later” would encapsulate the core message. This phrase embodies the concept of making sacrifices in the present to secure a better future. It reflects my commitment to continuously save and invest, demonstrating love for my future self as much as I cherish my present self.
While I haven’t always adhered strictly to this philosophy, I have come to realize its profound significance as I mature. I yearn to have embraced this mindset earlier in life, as it would have guided me towards wiser decisions and the joy of reaping the rewards in due time. In this book, I would unveil the transformative power of sacrifice and its role in paving the path to a life well-lived.
EM- PLEASE KINDLY SHARE SOME OF YOUR SECRETS TO BECOMING SUCCESSFUL WITH EM.
1. Goal Setting: Setting clear and specific goals provides a roadmap for your success. When you have a well-defined goal, it gives you direction, purpose, and a target to aim for. It helps you prioritize your efforts, make effective decisions, and stay motivated. By breaking down your larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks, you can track your progress and celebrate your achievements along the way.
2. Persistence, consistency and Resilience: Success rarely comes overnight. It requires persistence and resilience in the face of obstacles, failures, and setbacks. Maintaining a positive mindset, learning from your mistakes, and adapting your strategies are essential elements of perseverance. When you encounter challenges, view them as opportunities for growth rather than roadblocks, and keep moving forward.
3. Continuous Learning: Embrace a mindset of lifelong learning. Success often goes hand in hand with constantly expanding your knowledge, skills, and expertise. Stay curious, seek new experiences, and be open to acquiring new information. This will enable you to adapt to changing circumstances, identify emerging trends, and innovate within your field.
4. Effective Time Management: Time is a valuable resource, and how you manage it can greatly impact your success. Prioritize your tasks based on their importance and urgency, and avoid procrastination. Break down your day into manageable chunks, set deadlines for yourself, and eliminate distractions that can hinder your productivity. By making the most of your time, you can accomplish more and make significant progress towards your goals.
5. Building Relationships and Networking: Success often relies on the support and collaboration of others. Cultivate meaningful relationships, both personally and professionally. Networking allows you to connect with like-minded individuals, mentors, and potential collaborators. Building a strong network can provide valuable insights, support, and opportunities that can propel your success.
EM- WHAT ADVICE WILL YOU GIVE TO YOUTHS WITH THE ZEAL TO GROW?
1. Monetize Your Expertise: Pay attention to what friends and family ask you about the most. That’s likely your area of knowledge that can be turned into a source of income. Share what you know, and you’ll be surprised at the value you can offer.
2. Share and Grow: Remember, every service business provides value to its customers. Even if something comes naturally to you, it may not be easy for others. Share your knowledge generously, and you’ll see your income and influence grow.
3. Harness the Power of Networking: Don’t hesitate to ask for help and expand your network. Referrals from your connections can be a significant source of clients and opportunities. Cultivate relationships and leverage your network to sustain and enhance your growth.
4. See Setbacks as Opportunities: Setbacks are not the end; they are chances for redirection and rebranding. When I couldn’t pursue my basketball aspirations due to a serious leg injury, I used my connections to give a talk to Junior NBA students about managing their money. Embrace unexpected turns and find new ways to add value and fulfil your passions.
Remember, these insights can propel your growth journey. Embrace your expertise, share generously, build a strong network, and transform setbacks into stepping stones on your path to success.
EM- PLEASE SHARE CONTACT DETAILS YOU WISH TO BE MADE PUBLIC
My TikTok and Instagram pages are
My LinkedIn is The Hustle Table
Our email address is TheHustleTable@gmail.com
