With three thriving companies in different sectors of the economy, Joy Ekemezie, CEO, JC Kline Group, is an epitome of contemporary successful African youth in business. Born and raised in Kano, she has traversed life complexities, from almost being labeled a school dropout to having Honorary Doctorate Degree and a stint in Harvard University, USA and Pan-Atlantic University, Lagos. In this interview with OBINNA EMELIKE, she shares the anxiety of growing up with insecurity in the northern part of Nigeria, push to succeed and determination to face life’s realities. Excerpts:
What was your growing up like?
I was born and raised in Kano State. I always recall a childhood memory that echoes through my life’s journey. When mobile phones were a luxury and communication was a challenge, a crisis swept through our town, prompting my mother, a school proprietress, to gather me and my siblings into her trusty green beetle. As we maneuvered through deserted streets towards Vukabu Barracks, the designated safe haven during tumultuous times, fear lingered in the air.
I distinctly remember the contrast between the palpable anxiety surrounding us and my mother’s unwavering composure. Her calm demeanor, coupled with quiet prayers invoking the name of Jesus, became a beacon of strength for us children. Witnessing her resilience in the face of uncertainty left a lasting impression on my young mind. That defining moment instilled in me the value of remaining steadfast amid life’s storms and navigating challenges with grace and faith. As I reflect on that experience, it serves as a guidepost in my personal and professional life. I have learned to weather uncertainty with poise, to stay composed in the face of adversity and drawing strength from within to tackle obstacles head-on.
This lesson in resilience and unwavering faith has been a guiding force in my entrepreneurial ventures as well. When faced with a critical business dilemma involving potential losses and operational setbacks, I resort to my mother’s calm resolve. I tackled the situation with confidence and a belief that a solution would emerge, avoiding panic and focusing on proactive problem-solving.
Looking back, I attribute my ability to navigate challenges with courage and faith to the profound influence of my upbringing. It is in moments of turmoil that true character is forged, resilience is tested, and leadership qualities are honed. My background has not only shaped me but equipped me with the strength and determination to tackle life’s uncertainties with calm and steadfast spirit, trusting in God’s guidance, even when the path ahead seems unclear.
I carry forward the invaluable lessons learned during that fateful drive through the ghost town, embracing challenges with a steady resolve and an unwavering belief that every storm eventually gives way to calm seas.
What inspired you into the business world?
I like to refer to myself as a born businesswoman. Looking back to 2007/2008, amidst my part-time studies in Industrial Mathematics, the memory of hustling to sell bags to cover my educational expenses and daily needs remains vivid. Alongside, I cultivated skills in fixing lashes and styling hair, demonstrating my commitment to self-sustenance during my academic pursuits. Guided by the influential presence of my mother, a dedicated proprietress, I absorbed the essence of teaching, crafting lesson notes, and designing examinations for students. Yet, my heart gravitated towards the entrepreneurial realm.
My mother stands as a beacon of industry, diligence, brilliance, and resilience – a role model whose interactions with the Kano State government bespoke her values, diligence, and dedication. Through her example, I witnessed the harmonious blend of faith in God and business acumen, observing her navigation through triumphs and setbacks with unwavering strength and determination. Her unwavering spirit and resolute refusal to surrender left an indelible mark on me. Transitioning to Abuja, my entrepreneurial flair led me to embark on customizing bed sheets for hospitality establishments and healthcare facilities, while scouting for employment opportunities. It was during this juncture in 2013 that my company, JC Kline Limited, came to fruition.
Even amid formal employment, the revenues from my business sustained me. A pivotal day of realization dawned upon me as I fervently pursued a governmental position, unfolding a profound truth – an unparalleled ardor ignited within me when broaching conversations concerning my business ventures. The fervor, hope, and unwavering vigor that surged through me when envisioning the future of my company were unmistakable, heralding a deep-rooted dedication marked by tireless tenacity.
While traversing the entrepreneurial landscape, setbacks may have tested my resolve, yet the shield of resilience fortuitously guarded me from the shadows of failure. I recall laboring tirelessly with joy and enthusiasm, working around the clock during those formative years.
In a moment of introspection, a turning point emerged as I made probing inquiries. It was in this introspective dialogue that I acknowledged the intrinsic connection of business as the lifeblood that propelled me forward.
The aspiration to meaningfully contribute to my nation’s economic fabric, fostering employment prospects, and serving as a beacon of hope for myself, my family and my community ignited a transformative spark within me, shaping the essence of who I am today.
What does your profile look like?
I have an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Leadership and Corporate Governance from the American University of Peace and Governance; Owner-Manager Programme and Developing Analytical Competence for Managing Operations, both from the Pan-Atlantic University Lagos; Strategy Execution for Public Leadership – Harvard; Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM); Diploma in Human Resource Management – CIPM and a Master of Business Administration – National Open University.
How were you able to combine your education with business?
Six months back, I signed up for the Owner Manager Program at Pan Atlantic University. I decided on this programme after carefully weighing its pros and cons for me and my business. I believed its curriculum would tackle some challenges I was facing and saw it as essential. Mixing education with business is not straightforward and depends a lot on how you view it. Despite the hurdles, like flying to Lagos every month and the intensive nature of the course, which often kept me up at night, I kept going. A recent chat with a friend left me with a memorable thought. He said that every successful businessperson must embrace continuous learning in whatever form suits them best, highlighting the importance of education.
Running three subsidiary companies in different sectors, while pursuing further education is challenging, but my drive to make a difference compels me to keep learning. The fast-paced world, especially with technological advancements disrupting traditional business models, demonstrates the need to stay updated. Failures of giants like Nokia and Blackberry, contrasted with the evolution of companies like Apple and Huawei, reinforce the importance of adapting and evolving.
I view education as a means of acquiring, assimilating, retaining knowledge and information that positively improve decision-making. It has become a crucial part of my life. The programme at Pan Atlantic University helped me restructure my companies, allowing them to function independently under two separate MDs, which has led to consistent results and significant business improvements.
Recently, I took a personal retreat to La Campagne Resort Lagos, for three days, which was an eye-opening experience and deepened my appreciation for Nigeria’s tourism potential.
I am a seasoned traveler, having visited over 13 countries, and my experiences abroad, especially in Ethiopia, have made me proud of and fascinated by diverse cultures. My visit to La Campagne offered insights into the potential of tourism in Nigeria to preserve culture, generate revenue, boost employment, development and infrastructure among other benefits.
Inspired, I aim to contribute to showcasing Nigeria’s rich culture and tourism potential to the world. Recently I organized an educational programme for Nigeria’s 64th Independence celebration through the Tourism Volunteer Network, as team lead focused on promoting peace and unity through cultural displays.
As someone involved in the hospitality and tourism industry, my goal is to leverage/explore partnerships and volunteer efforts to enhance tourism in Nigeria.
How do you feel about receiving an honorary doctorate degree from the USA?
A little over a decade ago, I bore the weight of being labeled a school dropout. Today, standing tall with a doctorate degree, the journey from then until now has been nothing short of transformative. As a young woman juggling business to fund my education in Industrial Mathematics, the overwhelming demands of school, work and navigating cultural transitions took a toll. The stigma of being labeled a dropout momentarily dented my self-esteem, yet it sparked a fire within me.
I made a solemn vow and refused to let labels define my path; instead, I used them as stepping stones to inspire others. This doctorate serves as a testament to both humility, recognising a higher power at work and satisfaction, knowing I can share my story to uplift and empower young women everywhere.
What are your major interests in peace and corporate governance?
Growing up in the northern region, I have been a witness to various crises that shook me to my core. There were moments where I feared for my life and that of my family, facing the looming threat of insurgency. The haunting memories of past near-death encounters have stayed with me, fueling my deep-rooted passion for advocating peace and unity in Nigeria.
Having experienced firsthand the devastating impact of insecurity in both the north and now the south-east, I am driven by a strong desire to spread awareness, offer prayers, and actively contribute to fostering harmony and stability. It is crucial for us to comprehend the profound effects of tribal and ethnic conflicts on our children, the detrimental consequences of insecurity on the economy, and the living standards in affected regions.
Additionally, corporate governance holds a significant place in my interests. Through my recent participation in the LBS programme, I have gained valuable insights into the importance of corporate governance, reinforcing my dedication to upholding ethical standards and effective management practices in the business world.
Is a peaceful world possible in the face of inequality?
There is a common saying that what is equal does not always seem fair, and what is fair is not always equal. Taking Nigeria as an example, I believe it is possible to achieve peace amidst inequality if the government takes decisive steps toward implementing effective wealth redistribution policies. In various parts of the world, governments adopt different tax strategies, such as progressive, proportional, and regressive taxes, to manage inequality. Nigeria could establish policies aimed at cushioning the impact on the less privileged, thereby managing inequality better and fostering peace.
Being successful in business, what is the correlation between education and success?
My mother’s role as a school proprietress laid the foundation for many of my achievements, which I attribute to God and a passion for learning. In my journey, I have embraced continuous learning. I recently completed courses at Pan Atlantic University and Harvard Business School and I am set to embark on a course at Harvard Kennedy School in 2025.
As a decade-long entrepreneur, I have discovered that continuous learning serves as a powerful tool, a shortcut that navigates one away from failure. Challenges and setbacks remain inevitable, yet learning reshapes our understanding of failures, nurturing a deeper bond with our businesses, guiding decisions, and amplifying both capacity and momentum.
Education surpasses mere knowledge; it involves mastering oneself to a certain degree. Being open to assistance, embracing new information and maintaining a receptive state are all integral aspects of the learning process. By adopting a learning mindset, akin to tuning a sponge to the frequency of knowledge, I have welcomed individuals eager to contribute to my journey, enhancing my critical thinking skills and offering fresh perspectives on navigating complexities.
Embracing the imperfect nature of learning has opened doors to opportunities and resources that align with my growth journey. Every new endeavor or quest for knowledge involves immersing myself in circles of experienced individuals. Formal or informal, education correlates directly with success and the level of knowledge one seeks.
In life, change is constant. With every new venture or knowledge pursuit, I seek insights from those who have traversed similar paths before me. It is the willingness to engage in the continuous process of learning and unlearning that attracts opportunities and propels personal and professional growth.
With more females at work these days, are the home front and marriages threatened?
As a female CEO, I find inspiration in women like Folorunsho Alakija, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Malala, Ibukun Awosika, Adaora Umeoji, Owen Omogiafo, Dupe Olushola and many others, who are rewriting the story. We have witnessed women stepping into groundbreaking roles – Ellen Johnson Sirleaf as Liberia’s first female president, Michele Bachelet, leading Chile, and Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah of Namibia. In Nigeria, C.P Hauwa Ibrahim stands out as the first northern woman to become a police commissioner. It is clear women are making strides, but why view this progress as something negative?
Managing a home and raising a family should not be the sole duty of women. It is a joint effort. Both partners must commit daily to making their relationship work. This belief is why I strongly support teaching work-life balance in schools. At Pan – Atlantic University, for example, one course invites families to participate in activities together. I have seen firsthand how teamwork and shared goals, like a couple in my programme, can strengthen relationships. Open communication, shared values, and joint responsibilities are crucial. I am aware that demanding jobs and late hours can affect family time. Solutions like flexible working hours, parental leave, and accessible childcare are essential for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. My own childhood, with parents who were often busy with their businesses, taught me the importance of balancing work and family life. Women’s involvement in the workforce is not just about economic benefits or personal achievements. It sets an example for children about equality and cooperation. I hope for a future where the growing presence of women in work is seen positively, sparking conversations on how this can lead to beneficial reforms and a better balance between professional and family life.
Who should earn more in marriage, the husband or the wife?
In my opinion, the question of who should earn more in a marriage, the husband or wife, misses the point entirely. If there is love, respect, effective communication, self-awareness, honesty, shared values, and a reverence for higher principles, then financial differences should not become a source of conflict. Marriage, as I see it, is a partnership where both individuals support one another in reaching their fullest potentials, rather than a contest over who makes more money.
Does true love still exist in a complex cosmopolitan world?
Yes, true love does still exist, even in our complex, cosmopolitan world. The challenge is that our era often promotes valuing material things over deep and meaningful connections, leading people to misuse priorities. Furthermore, social media can indeed place undue pressure on relationships, causing individuals to doubt what they share with their partners. My advice to young people is to focus on finding partners who live with purpose and values, who know their reason for being. It is crucial to allow relationships the time they need to develop naturally, as time has a way of unveiling truths. Also, try to see a potential partner from various perspectives, recognizing that no one and no relationship is without flaw. Understanding yourself and knowing what you can and cannot tolerate in a relationship will guide you in making the right choices.
What are your hobbies?
This question is one I really enjoy because it makes me think about my past adventures and good times. We often talk about loving to travel but end up dwelling on the downsides, like a long flight’s discomfort, rather than appreciating the journey there. This topic always takes me back to some really happy memories. Nature is at the top of my list; I am someone who would gladly spend 16hours 35minutes on a trip just to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights, even if it is only for a day. Whenever I am in the US, I make sure to visit Maryland Park. The stunning views, peacefulness, fresh air, and wild beauty there really lift my spirit. This appreciation for nature has become a key factor for me when picking hotels abroad; I prefer places with a beach view. Next comes traveling. What I love most about it is getting to know other cultures, their traditions, and experiencing diversity in its most natural form. About 7 years ago, I went to Senegal and tried to see as many tourist sites as possible, including the Pink Lake and the African Renaissance Monument in Dakar, the tallest statue in Africa. Traveling opens my eyes to various perspectives and how connected the world is. To me, traveling is about freedom, learning, meeting new people, and discovering endless opportunities. Then, there is reading and playing tennis, which are also big parts of my life, though not in any particular order.
What inspires you when you are down?
I often say that I don’t view “downtimes” negatively; instead, I see them as opportunities to learn and grow; a nudge to rethink my strategies. Whenever I face downtimes, I emerge stronger, smarter and better — to me, that is a clear victory. What also motivates me is the understanding that I am not just living for myself. The belief that staying down means defeat, but rising up, even if it is with difficulty, signifies victory, keeps me going.
How do you relax, amid tight business schedules?
Absolutely, being deeply involved in business can mean a lot of work with little time for relaxation, but I make it a point to include fun in my life. Although it is challenging to find the time, I prioritize it because I believe having fun depends on who you are with. For me, creating moments for my well-being, encompassing my health, mind, soul and body, is crucial. It is essential to maintain a healthy balance between work and personal life, enabling one to recharge and rejuvenate. After all, you can only give from what you have within you.
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