WeAreTheCity’s Rising Star Awards are now in their tenth year.
The Rising Star Awards are the first to focus on the achievements of women below Senior Management or Director level – representing the female talent pipeline and the next generation of future leaders.
In this ongoing series, we speak to our winners about life after winning a Rising Star award.
We spoke to Hannah Kupoluyi, who won a Rising Star Award in Charity & Not for Profits, in 2023.
Hannah Kupoluyi, is Multi awarding winning founder and a relentless force driving women’s empowerment and the mastermind behind All Women’s Network. With a remarkable background as a business coach, mentor, and community leader spanning 5 years, Hannah passionately champions uplifting women, breaking economic barriers, and conquering self-confidence challenges.
As a visionary leader, Hannah has erected a thriving hub revolutionizing the way women acquire skills and embark on entrepreneurial journeys in starting a business. She stands as an influential figure, balancing roles as a devoted mother of three, a vivacious spouse, and an active community member.
In her multifaceted role as a Business Coach, Community Leader, Speaker, Podcast Host, and Executive Producer, Hannah’s impact knows no bounds. She has created a powerful platform for women to connect, collaborate, network, and flourish in both business and personal domains.
Under Hannah’s dynamic stewardship, the women’s community network has spearheaded groundbreaking workshops and initiatives. These programs create women’s transformation, fostering skill development, igniting the entrepreneurial spirit, and nurturing a supportive ecosystem that emboldens women to unlock their boundless potential.
How did winning a Rising Star award influence your perception of your own achievements and potential?
Winning a Rising Star award has been a transformative experience, profoundly influencing my perception of my own achievements and potential. The recognition bestowed upon me by this prestigious award served as both validation and motivation, shaping the way I view myself and my capabilities.
Firstly, the award validated the hard work, dedication, and passion I’ve poured into my community of women looking to start a thriving business. Knowing that a distinguished panel acknowledged my contributions and saw potential in my work provided a sense of affirmation. It encouraged me to trust my instincts and continue pushing boundaries in my respective field.
Moreover, winning the Rising Star award expanded my understanding of my potential. It acted as a catalyst, pushing me to explore new horizons and pursue more ambitious goals.
The acknowledgment affirmed that I am not just capable but have the potential to excel further. This realization has been instrumental in fostering a mindset of continuous growth and development. The award also served as a reminder of the impact one can have on their community or industry. It highlighted the responsibility that comes with recognition and the obligation to inspire others, particularly those who may be on the path of their own journey.
This sense of responsibility has motivated me to mentor and support women’s emerging talents, contributing to a cycle of empowerment and growth.
In essence, winning the Rising Star award has not only elevated my confidence in my abilities but has also broadened my vision of what is achievable. It has instilled a deep sense of responsibility and commitment to making a positive impact. Overall, the award has been a powerful catalyst for personal and professional development, shaping my trajectory in ways I might not have imagined before.
Have there been specific opportunities or doors that opened for you as a result of receiving the award?
Firstly, the recognition led to a prominent feature in a leading newspaper and Magazine. This exposure not only brought attention to my achievements but also served as a platform to share insights, experiences, and perspectives with a broader audience. It allowed me to connect with a diverse range of individuals and expand my network within and beyond my industry.
Additionally, my podcast was featured, particularly on the “We Are the City” website and newsletter, provided a unique platform for others to subscribe and listen to my podcast. This exposure amplified my reach, connecting me with a wider community and sparking meaningful conversations. Podcasts have a dynamic way of conveying personal narratives, and being featured allowed me to inspire and connect with individuals who resonated with my journey.
One of the most exciting opportunities that arose post-award was being invited to Knowledge Day at Warwick Business School. This event not only presented a chance to expand my knowledge base but also provided a platform for making positive connections within academia and industry. Engaging with like-minded individuals and experts at Knowledge Day has been instrumental in broadening my perspective and fostering collaborations that may not have been possible otherwise.
How has winning the award affected your professional network and relationships within your industry?
Winning the award has had a profound impact on my professional network and relationships within my industry. The recognition has acted as a powerful catalyst for expanding and strengthening connections in several ways:
Increased Visibility: The award elevated my visibility within my industry. Colleagues, professionals, and leaders took notice of the recognition, leading to an increased awareness of my contributions and expertise. This heightened visibility created more opportunities for meaningful connections.
Networking Opportunities: The prestige associated with the award opened doors to exclusive networking events and industry gatherings. These opportunities facilitated interactions with influential individuals, creating a platform for organic relationship-building and collaboration.
Industry Credibility: The award enhanced my credibility within the industry. Professionals and organizations, knowing that I had received such recognition, were more inclined to engage in conversations and collaborations. This credibility has played a crucial role in building and maintaining professional relationships.
Speaking Engagements and Panels: The award brought invitations to speak at industry conferences, panels, and events. Participating in these engagements not only allowed me to share insights and expertise but also provided platforms to connect with other thought leaders and influencers.
Overall, the award has been a powerful catalyst for personal and professional development, shaping my trajectory in ways I might not have imagined before.
Have you had the chance to mentor or inspire others based on your experience?
This recognition has opened doors for me to engage with emerging talents and share the insights gained throughout my journey.
Formal Mentorship Programs: I have actively participated in formal mentorship programs within my organization and industry. This involvement allows me to provide guidance, share lessons learned, and offer support to those navigating their own professional paths.
Public Speaking Engagements: The recognition has led to invitations for public speaking engagements at various events and forums. During these sessions, I take the opportunity to not only share my story but also to motivate and inspire others to pursue their goals with determination and resilience.
Online Presence: Leveraging digital platforms, I’ve shared my experiences, lessons, and motivational messages through newsletters, articles, and social media. This online presence enables me to reach a broader audience and connect with individuals globally.
Workshops and Training Sessions: Collaborating with educational institutions and organizations, I’ve conducted workshops focused on skill development, leadership, and business growth. These sessions provide a platform to impart practical knowledge and inspire participants to aim high in their professional endeavours. I recently collaborated with Early years organisation to deliver a groundbreaking workshop for the mums to help them on their business start up journey “Discover your business Spark”. It was featured in the local newspaper.
Encouraging Diversity and Inclusion: As a recipient of the Rising Star award, I actively promote diversity and inclusion. By sharing my experiences as a woman in the industry, I aim to inspire others, especially those from underrepresented groups, to pursue their ambitions fearlessly.
What advice would you give to someone else thinking of nominating themselves or others for the awards?
I strongly encourage anyone contemplating the idea of nominating themselves or others for awards to go ahead. It presents an incredible opportunity to garner recognition and credibility for the impactful work undertaken. This journey is not just about acknowledgment; it’s a transformative experience that opens doors to building valuable connections, fostering collaborations, and emerging as an industry expert. I would tell them not to miss out on the chance to showcase your achievements and embark on a journey that can reshape your professional trajectory positively.
What advice do you have for individuals aspiring to achieve success in their careers?
In my journey toward career success, the first piece of advice I’d give is to set clear goals:
Define your short-term and long-term career goals. Having a clear direction helps you make purposeful decisions and stay focused on what truly matters.
Next, Continuous Learning is important, embrace a mindset of continuous learning. Stay updated on industry trends, acquire new skills, and invest in your professional development. The world is dynamic, and staying ahead requires a commitment to ongoing learning.
Another crucial aspect is network strategically, Build a strong professional network. Cultivate meaningful relationships with peers, mentors, and industry leaders. Networking is not just about who you know but about who knows you and what you bring to the table. Meaningful connections open doors to opportunities you might not have considered.
Equally important is to seek constructive feedback, actively seek feedback on your performance. Constructive criticism is a powerful tool for improvement and personal growth. It provides valuable insights into your strengths and areas for development. Embracing feedback is a sign of strength and a commitment to continuous improvement.
What is next for you?
In the next chapter of my journey, my focus is on creating a global impact by empowering women to bring their visions to life. I’m gearing up to step onto international stages, sharing insights and narratives that inspire women to turn their visions into thriving businesses. My aim is to speak at global conferences and forums, advocating for gender equality, entrepreneurship, and the limitless potential that lies within every woman.
Simultaneously, I’m developing mentorship programs that reach across borders, offering guidance to aspiring female entrepreneurs. The goal is not just to share knowledge but to create a supportive community where women can learn from each other’s experiences and build powerful networks.
