Why this Nigerian businesswoman thinks an MBA in Canada is important

Before pursuing an MBA in Canada, Ifeoluwa Odelana was in Lagos, Nigeria where she graduated from Covenant University with a first-class degree in industrial relations and human management — but that’s not all.

At only 24, she already boasts extensive internship and work experience — she ran a catering business with her mother and founded a plus-sized clothing line.

“I’ve always loved business and I am gearing towards a career in consulting because I love solving problems,” she says.

The obvious answer to realise this dream of hers? An MBA in Canada. Odelana’s doing exactly that at Langley’s Trinity Western University. Below, we speak to her about her classes and her time at Langley so far:

Why choose to pursue an MBA in Canada?

I chose to do an MBA in Canada, specifically at Trinity Western University, for both personal and academic reasons. To be away from my comfort zone and learn more about myself. 

I also want to learn from a different perspective. My experience so far has been interesting and sometimes challenging which I’ve learned a lot from. 

Odelana describes her MBA in Canada experience so far as “interesting and challenging.” Source: Greg Baker/AFP

Everyone sees things differently and it’s interesting to see how and contribute in my own way. It’s been a challenge to settle into a new culture, style and weather. Learning how to manage my time is something I’m still getting a hang of. 

Walk us through your career trajectory thus far.

I completed my degree in 2018 at Covenant University in Nigeria and went to work as an HR personnel at an automotive diagnostics retail company. After a year, I moved into the marketing and sales section. 

Besides that, I also have a catering business with my mother and a plus-sized clothing line. I’ve always loved business and I am gearing towards a career in consulting because I love solving problems. 

What was your first impression of Langley, Canada?

My first impression about Langley was that it’s a quiet and sweet town — more peaceful than I am used to but so beautiful. 

What would constitute a “perfect” day for you in Langley?

A perfect day would be to wake up to beautiful weather (not so cold), have a nice day out with friends and then probably grab lunch or dinner afterwards.

Is there something in Langley that you’ve dreamed of doing for a long time? 

Nothing that I can think of.

What do you never leave the house without?

My keys, my AirPods and my phone. 

How did you spend your Christmas in Canada and how different is it from your typical celebrations back home?

This year was my first Christmas away from home and I spent it with the friends I made. We had a movie day and then dinner. 

Back home, it was completely different as we would start the morning going to church and I would then cook with my mother. We would have our family over, eat, and listen to loud music — truly enjoy what Christmas is all about. 

What would you advise your younger self?

Don’t overthink things because it only gives you migraines. You are intelligent so don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. 

Amazing things are going to happen in your life — more than the things you are holding onto.

What matters more to you: work satisfaction, salary, social life, or a work/life balance and why?

Work satisfaction would be the first because I want to enjoy what I do — that’s when I will give it my best. Then, salary because I need money at this point in my life and finally, a work/life balance because my family is the reason I need the money.