Cheryl D. Holmes Miller, DHL

FAITH ACADEMY CANAANLAND 21st GRADUATION CEREMONY EMBRACING CHANGE: NAVIGATING PATHS TO SUCCESS BEYOND GRADUATION ]Part 1] By Adedayo Odukoya, Ph.D Dean, College of Leadership and Development studies Covenant University Ota 1. Permit me to stand on already established Protocol 2. I heartily congratulate the 21st Graduating set of Faith Academy Canaanland. 3. I bring good tidings from Covenant University, and specifically from College of Leadership and Development studies 4. I have been requested to talk on EMBRACING CHANGE: NAVIGATING PATHS TO SUCCESS BEYOND GRADUATION. 5. The keywords and phrase here are: Embracing, Change, Navigating and Paths to Success. But the important important words to pay attention to are Change and Success. Because of time constraints, permit me to assume you already know meaning of embrace, navigate and path. So I will be dwelling on Change & Success 6. Let me start with the concept of Change. This is a simple but powerful word. Change is sine qua non to growth and development. This simply means that one hardly experience tangible positive growth in any area of life without corresponding positive changes. Change the way you use your time. Change your friends and associations where necessary. Change the social media platforms you visit. Change the videos and films you watch. Change the books you read. Change your thinking pattern. Change your eating pattern. Change your dressing pattern. Change your study pattern. Review your life and make necessary changes. Get a Coach. 7. Know this, we cannot expect to get a a different result if we keep doing things the same way without making positive Changes. Someone jokingly said such an expectation is another definition of madness. 8. Also understand that Change, positive change, is an indispensable tool for attaining good success. Continuous positive change is what moves you forward towards to attainment of your set goals. 9. Why is this progressive advancement so important? Because it has everything to do with Success. 10. So what is Success? I know there are many definitions out there, but I love simplicity. Hence one of my best definitions is this: Success is the attainment of set goal. With this simple definition you can see that you can have multiple successes in a day. This automatically serves as motivation to attain more successes. The wisdom therefore is to wisely craft your life goal and break it down into annual, monthly, weekly and daily goals ... all wisely knitted. It is the achievement of those daily goals that will ultimately lead to the achievement of your life goals and purpose. So you succeed gloriously in life. [See Part 2 for insight on setting SMART-US goals]

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FAITH ACADEMY CANAANLAND 21st GRADUATION CEREMONY EMBRACING CHANGE: NAVIGATING PATHS TO SUCCESS BEYOND GRADUATION [Part 2] By Adedayo Odukoya, Ph.D Dean, College of Leadership and Development studies Covenant University Ota 1. As I round off, let me now quickly share with you how to craft worthwhile goals. This is so important because it is the quality of your goal that will determine the quality of your Success. I always encourage my clients to go for Goliath projects, even goals that will enthrone on successful attainment. So how can one craft such goals 2. Before telling you the popular strategy for writing goals, it is important I share with you a secret that is not too popular in the world. First wait on the Lord to confirm or know your life purpose or assignment. Remember Bro. Paul's first question after getting saved. Your life goals must be drawn from your life purpose. Your life purpose is often linked with your talent, special ability and gifts. Once you know this, get a Coach or Mentor in your area of calling and talent. Follow him or her doggedly. Also ensure your choice of subjects and profession are aligned with your life purpose. This are vital keys to fulfillment in life. Time will not permit me to dwell more on this vital point. By the mercy of God you will not miss it. Having established this vital foundation for great success in life, let me now tell you the popular technique of writing good goals 3. It is by simple application of the SMART goal principle. But don't stop there. The Holy Spirit gave me two extra points in addition to the acronym. That is US. So we now have SMART-US. Specific Measurable Attainable Realistic Time-bound, Useful (to at least 1 million people), and Sustainable (for life). Always run with SNART-US goals to attain great success in life. 4. It is the dogged application of the SMART-US principle and the law of TODAY (TODAY being the most important day of your life), all in the spirit of Joshua 1:8 that will catalyse the attainment of great success. 5. As I close, remember that living without a goal is living like a goat (Bishop). And there can be no true success without a smart-us goal. Also know that goals without solid plan and programme of pursuit is a balloon dream. 6. Be determined to walk the talk. Be self disciplined. Be focused. Be resilient. Be assertive. Have a possibility mentality. ALL YOU NEED IS GOD, NOT MONEY. Neither is your help abroad but from above. Remember Joseph, David, Daniel and Esther. 7. To remain on top, keep applying the Japanese Kaizen principle - focused continuous improvement 8. YOU WILL SUCCEED!

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Dear Friends and Supporters, I am excited to launch a fundraising campaign to raise $5,000 to provide 20 laptops, 1 printer, and several STEM kits to 100 low-income K-12 female students in Togo, West Africa, enrolled in our K-12 African Girls STEM Academy. Like in many African countries, K-12 students in Togo do not have access to STEM education. To address this, my 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Empowering African Youth, designed a STEM program that includes the K-12 African Girls STEM Academy, exclusively for middle school girls. Why This Matters: We currently have only 1 laptop for every 50 students. With 152 middle school girls enrolled in our K-12 African Girls STEM Academy, we possess just 3 laptops, limited STEM kits, and no printers. By raising $5,000, we will significantly increase access to technology and quality STEM education, and enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills in hundreds of middle school girls in Togo, enabling them to reach their full potential. A Personal Story:  Meet Esi Yawo (holding the laptop in the picture below), a bright and ambitious 7th-grade student from Tsevie, Togo. Despite the financial and educational challenges she faces, Esi dreams of becoming an engineer. However, her school lacks computer, STEM education, and she has never had the opportunity to use a computer. Thanks to the Empowering African Youth STEM Program, Esi is now learning to use a computer. With your support, we can provide Esi and the hundreds of students like her with the tools they need to pursue their dreams. Imagine the impact we can make by giving these young minds the chance to explore, create, and innovate through our K-12 African Girls STEM Academy. How You Can Help: Donate: Every contribution, no matter the size, brings us closer to our goal. Your donation will directly impact the lives of these students. Share my fundraising link and spread the word about our campaign on social media, with friends, and within your community: https://lnkd.in/e-ReuMPz The more people who know about our cause, the greater our impact. Together, we can make a difference. Let's give these girls the tools they need to succeed and inspire the next generation of innovators and leaders in Africa. Thank you for your support! https://lnkd.in/e-ReuMPz

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Empowering Young Women: From Program to Profession Breaking barriers and creating a future filled with endless possibilities. Let's continue to uplift and inspire one another.  Tune in to our YouTube channel for the full interview.  #EmpoweringWomen #NextGeneration #FromProgramToProfession #BlackExcellence #WomenInLeadership  #strategicmovespodcast #podcast

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Such an important read! I just had a conversation yesterday about the importance of affinity groups for collective support and healing. This piece from my dear friend, Dr. Willard, is timely and spot on!!!

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I had the honor of being in the Vice Chancellor 's Precession during the 317th Inaugural Lecture at the University of Benin, delivered by the distinguished Professor Chijoke Mgbame , a Professor of Accounting & Environmental Reporting, and a past President of our Senior Staff Club. Lecture Title:"Profit vs Planet - When Two Elephants Fight, The Grass Suffers: Who Will Save The Grass?" Key Highlights: 1. Introduction: Professor Mgbame emphasized the importance of environmental accountability amidst corporate operations. His research is motivated by the environmental degradation in his hometown, Ndokwa, Delta State. 2. Firm Financial Performance (Profit): Discussed the traditional focus on profit, often at the expense of environmental responsibilities. 3. The Planet (Environment): Defined the planet in terms of natural and built environments, emphasizing the interaction between these components and their influence on ecosystems. 4. Environmental Performance (Stewardship): Explained a company's actions to protect environmental factors such as air, water, and soil, and the measurable outcomes of their environmental management systems. 5. Environmental Accounting (Reporting): Provided a framework for reporting a company’s environmental impact, integrating financial, social, and environmental information for a comprehensive view. 6. Theoretical Support for Environmental Accounting: Highlighted various theories supporting corporate environmental responsibility, including resource dependency, legitimacy, and stakeholder theories. 7. The Status of Environmental Accounting in Nigeria: Addressed the current status and challenges of environmental accounting in Nigeria, noting the growing awareness and legislative efforts. 8. Evidence of the Impact of Companies Activities on the Environment (Planet): Presented evidence of environmental degradation due to oil exploration and industrial activities in Nigeria. 9. Profit vs Planet: The Mediating Role of Environmental Accounting: Explained how environmental accounting mediates between profit maximization and environmental preservation. 10. Business Model for Financial and Environmental Performance: Proposed a hybrid business model combining financial performance with environmental sustainability. Recommendations: - Transform companies into hybrid organizations. - Establish Environmental Stewardship Research Institutions and Environmental Abuse Tribunals. - Mandate environmental reporting and audits for Nigerian companies. - Develop environmental accounting education programs. - Regulate financial institutions to include ESG factors. - Involve NGOs in promoting environmental accountability. Conclusion:Environmental Accounting will save the grass when two Elephants fight #QueenOfDegrees #EnvironmentalAccounting #Sustainability #UniversityOfBenin #InauguralLecture #EnvironmentalStewardship

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🌍 Reflecting on a Transformative Experience: The African Summer Academic Development Programme As the African Centre for the Study of the United States (ACSUS), we are thrilled to reflect on the enriching experiences from the African Summer Academic Development Programme. In collaboration with the Wits Social Work Department, Redemption Place Global, and the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLACK SOCIAL WORKERS, we embarked on a journey of learning, cultural exchange, and community engagement from 27 June to 12 July 2024. Highlights of our programme included: 📍 Site Visits: Exploring significant landmarks such as the Nelson Mandela House Museum and Constitution Hill, which offered profound insights into South Africa’s rich history and ongoing social challenges. 🗣️ Dialogue and Learning: Engaging in dialogues on democracy and contextual issues between the USA and South Africa. These sessions were led by esteemed professors and US representatives, fostering a deeper understanding of global social work practices. 🏫 In-Class Curriculum: Covering diverse topics such as first to fourth-year social work theory and field practice, MA programmes, and regulatory frameworks. These sessions provided a comprehensive academic foundation and highlighted the differences and similarities in social work education across continents. 👥 Field Practice Visits: Observing and engaging with non-profit organizations in Soweto, Dobsonville, and Avalon. These visits allowed participants to witness firsthand the impactful work being done and to contribute to community initiatives like the Phila Sonke Medical Initiative and Lead Change IT Skills Centre. 🎓 Cultural Exchange: The programme culminated in an African Cultural Exchange Farewell Session, celebrating the bonds formed and the knowledge gained. Reflection and feedback sessions with key stakeholders ensured that the learning from this programme would continue to resonate and inspire future initiatives. This programme was not just about academic development but also about building bridges between cultures and fostering a sense of global citizenship among participants. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the organizers, participants, and community members who made this experience unforgettable. Let’s continue to learn, grow, and work together towards a better future. #ACSUS #AfricanSummerProgramme #SocialWork #CulturalExchange #CommunityEngagement #GlobalLearning #SocialDevelopment https://lnkd.in/dJGbWAxr

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Hello, LinkedIn friends. It's time for another Sunday #fourtofollow. Here are four terrific people that I am connected with here. If you are not already following/connected with them, I hope you will check out their content. Suzanne Marie Musho AIA, NCARB is an entrepreneur, licensed architect, visionary leader and mentor. She is also a champion of sustainability (near and dear to my heart). She is Founder and Partner of M [musho architecture and design llc]. Suzanne has served as the inaugural VP of Real Estate Development and Sustainable Capital Planning and Chief Architect at New York Institute of Technology. In previous roles, she has lead major projects at esteemed institutions such as the American Museum of Natural History Gilder Center for Science, Education and Innovation, and the Jackie Robinson Museum. Follow Suzanne to learn about sustainability, thought leadership, and design management. Sharon Harris is a global marketing leader, lover of technology, and a lifelong learner. She is Founder and CEO of The Sharon Harris Collective, which focuses on transforming strategy into action and supporting clients in creating epic experiences for their customers through storytelling, brand activation, thought leadership, social media and research. Sharon is a passionate champion for diversity, equity and inclusion, and is involved in several professional mentorship organizations as well as a frequent speaker on the topics of representation in tech, inclusion and allyship. Follow Sharon to hear her speak about social media marketing, event management, and leadership. Xochitl Arteaga guides clients through the often intimidating world of digital wallet and self-custody options. She can lead you through topics such as setting up avatars, demystifying cryptocurrency, buying digital collectibles, and how to leverage AI intelligently. I love this sentence in her About section: "My goal is to help you feel as comfortable with these new technologies as you are with your smartphone." Who couldn't benefit from that in today's rapidly changing tech landscape? Xochitl won't just explain these concepts; she will help you apply them in ways that enrich your life. Follow her to learn about all things digital and Web 3. Debbie Refsland - Mays is a transformational life coach. Her mission is to help her clients break through the challenges of overwhelm, self-doubt, low self-esteem, and lack of balance. Through targeted coaching, skill development, and motivational support, Debbie works with her clients to tackle these issues and create a path forward that is not only about overcoming obstacles but also about igniting your passion, confidently achieving your aspirations, and embracing and celebrating your unique journey. Follow Debbie to learn about life coaching, healing your past, and empowering your future. I hope you enjoyed this week's Four to Follow! As always, please share in the comments who you think is a must follow.

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In the wake of Vice President Kamala Harris's ascension as the presumptive nominee for the Democratic Party, the Howard University Initiative on Public Opinion conducted a poll on the opinions of Black voters July 22-24 in relation to Harris's candidacy. The report includes results from more than 2000 respondents from more than 30 states, weighted by gender and education level. Results suggest that Harris is best known for her advocacy for reproductive rights, that her best path to victory is to select a white male running mate, and that respondents view her as a politically moderate Democrat. The poll results also show that 93% of those polled plan to vote for VP Kamala Harris. https://lnkd.in/e_S57qf7

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As a young person I always want to receive instant results like just blink and see results But today, I had the privilege of joining a powerful session led by Nyamekye (Yah-MEH-chay) Wilson , CEO of Black Sisters in STEM . It was an eye-opening discussion on how energy, mindset, and generosity shape our lives. One key takeaway was the idea that what you give comes back. Whether it’s your time, effort, or knowledge, the universe rewards those who give freely. It's a reminder that success is tied not only to what we achieve but also to how we lift others along the way. I was also encouraged to understand that life reflects our actions. If I want more positivity or kindness in my life , I must embody those traits myself. Our daily choices influence the reality I experience. Finally, the principle of reaping what you sow was a powerful reminder. The seeds I plant in my career, relationship, and community will determine the harvest we reap in the future. 𝑊ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝐼 𝑙𝑒𝑎𝑟𝑛𝑡 ; Giving leads to receiving , be a blessing to others. Life mirrors our actions , be what you seek. Reap what you sow , invest in your future today. If you’re looking to elevate your impact, start with giving, and watch how the world responds ------------ 𝐼 𝑔𝑖𝑣𝑒 = 𝐼 𝑟𝑒𝑐𝑒𝑖𝑣𝑒 ------------- Join Black Sisters in STEM today 😁 👇👇👇👇 https://lnkd.in/eqb73Psk #BlackSistersInSTEM #NyamekyeWilson #Leadership #GrowthMindset

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“One of the major dilemmas inherent in the attempt by Black people to break through the cultural aspects of white imperialism is that posed by the use of historical knowledge as a weapon in our struggle. We are virtually forced into the invidious position of proving our humanity by citing historical antecedents; and yet the evidence is too often submitted to the white racists for sanction. The white man has already implanted numerous historical myths in the minds of black peoples; and those have to be uprooted . . . It is necessary to direct our historical activity in the light of two basic principles[:] Firstly, the effort must be directed solely towards freeing and mobilising black minds. There must be no performances to impress whites, for those whites who find themselves beside us in the firing line will be there for reasons far more profound than their exposure to African history. Secondly, the acquired knowledge of African history must be seen as directly relevant but secondary to the concrete tactics and strategy which are necessary for our liberation. There must be no false distinctions between reflection and action . . . If there is to be any proving of our humanity it must be by revolutionary means.” ~ Walter Rodney, The Groundings with My Brothers #BlackHistory #Racism #WalterRodney #StructuralRacism #Politics #Genocide

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According to Mezor Gracious, a student of the PAN African University Institute, Yaounde, "Human beigns turn to store more of what they see, than what they hear. So if students like us are able to go the museums while they are teaching us, we get to experience and interact with the heritages first hand and touch, i feel like we will easily understand and memorize the concepts better". Therefore, there is a need for museum visits to complement studying in class, make it more realistic and fun. Aside from seeing heritages in the museum that we were already thought of in class, we also get to see and learn new things we never knew of in museums". #MuseumEducation

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The Rise of BET: From Dreams to Legacy In 1980, amidst the evolving world of television, Robert L. Johnson had a daring vision – Black Entertainment Television (BET). With grit and determination, he set out to create a platform that celebrated African American culture, which was conspicuously absent from mainstream media. Johnson started BET on a shoestring budget, borrowing $15,000 as an initial investment. The early days were full of uncertainty. Skeptics doubted the potential of a network dedicated exclusively to Black entertainment. Funding was scarce, and Johnson faced repeated rejections. However, he remained relentless, driven by a higher purpose – to empower and entertain the African American community. The team behind BET was small but incredibly passionate. Long nights and tireless efforts gradually bore fruit. By 1983, BET had become the first Black-controlled company to be listed on the New York Stock Exchange. It wasn't just a channel anymore; it was a beacon of representation and hope. However, growth didn’t come without its challenges. BET faced constant scrutiny and criticism. Balancing commercial success and cultural responsibility was like walking a tightrope. Yet, through perseverance and a commitment to quality programming, BET continued to expand its influence and audience. The ultimate testament to Johnson's vision came in 2001 when Viacom acquired BET for a staggering $3 billion. This monumental deal not only underscored the network's value but also marked it as a significant milestone in media history. For Johnson, it was a moment of triumph, validating years of relentless hard work. Moral of the Story: The journey of BET teaches us that dreams, no matter how ambitious, can become reality with perseverance, passion, and an unwavering belief in one's vision. Johnson’s story is more than a business success; it's a narrative of breaking barriers and creating pathways for future generations. It’s a reminder that the road to success is paved with challenges, but every obstacle overcome adds to the legacy. This story encourages us all to chase our dreams, address the gaps we see around us, and remain steadfast even when the journey seems impossible.

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A Journey to Sierra Leone: Ethical Leaders at the Intersection of Hope and MadnessIn an era marked by both national and international turmoil, we are witnessing what the great Nigerian novelist Chinua Achebe described as "things fall apart." It is in these precarious spaces that ethical leadership is most needed—to look, listen, learn, and envision new futures. This formidable task, however, often leaves leaders and those whom they serve in the throes of hopelessness. In 1998, Dr. Walter Earl Fluker and his colleague Dr. R. Drew Smith embarked on a journey to Freetown, Sierra Leone. Their mission was to interview religious and political leaders affected by the infamous "Blood Diamonds Conflict." According to the United Nations, diamonds mined in war zones and sold to finance armed conflicts against legitimate governments are illegal. These diamonds are often mined using forced labor and traded illegally to fund violent conflicts and human rights abuses. This was the grim reality that greeted Professors Fluker and Smith. In an audio recording, Dr. Fluker reflects on the resilience of the people of Sierra Leone, despite the poverty and despair that often breeds hopelessness. This narrative is the first part of our series, "Ethical Leaders at the Intersection of Hope and Madness." It highlights the critical role of ethical leadership in navigating the complex and often maddening landscapes of our time, and the dangers of superficial optimism. We have much to learn in our own nations about the difference between hope and superficial optimism. #EthicalLeadership #SierraLeone #BloodDiamonds #ConflictResolution #HopeAndMadness #GlobalIssues #HumanRights #LeadershipChallenge #Resilience #WalterEarlFluker

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The Haitian-American diaspora: A legacy of resilience, innovation and contribution | Opinion BY Dr. Guerda Nicolas The continued news regarding the false claims about Haitians in Springfield, Ohio, demands a counterpoint of truth about the significant role that Haitians play in the United States. In times when immigration is only seen through the lens of crisis and burden, the Haitian-American diaspora testifies to the strength, resilience and undeniable contributions of immigrants to our nation. The Haitian diaspora in the U.S. is the legacy of a people who established the first Black republic in the world after Haiti’s successful revolution in 1804. More than a fight for independence, it was a declaration of universal human rights, freedom and justice. As the narrative around immigration rivets the electorate, let’s remember that the Haitian-American diaspora is a living embodiment of what it means to turn struggle into strength, to transform hardship into hope. “As the narrative around immigration rivets the electorate, let’s remember that the Haitian-American diaspora is a living embodiment of what it means to turn struggle into strength, to transform hardship into hope.” Dr. Guerda Nicolas Guerda Nicolas is a professor of educational and psychological studies at the University of Miami and a co-founder of Ayiti Community Trust. She is deeply committed to mental health advocacy and community development in Haitian and Caribbean populations. #haitian #freedom #independence #election #vote #haitianamerican #resilience #miami #revolution UPDATED SEPTEMBER 23, 2024 9:32 PM

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PUBLISHED IN 2020 How Do I Unpack 50 Years Of Being An African American Woman In America? by Nicole Antoinette Smith For days I've wanted to use a pen to get to the core of how I'm feeling. I've avoided the pen, but here I go with the contents of me. How do I unpack 50 years of built-up anger, assumptions, fear, mistreatment, judgment, stress, frustration, missed opportunities, letdowns, rejections, disappointments, and lies? How do I unpack 50 years of stares that linger too long, scraps instead of the best portion, unwanted handshakes, no invitations, whispers of secret plans, heads bowed or ducking out of avoidance, questions that shouldn't be asked, deflection, an immediate fear when looking through the rearview mirror wondering if the lights will come on, changing my driving plans to avoid the men and women in blue, assessing if an exit is safe to stop when on a road trip, and the turning of heads the other way when saying, "Hello?" How do I unpack 50 years of an empty seat next to me, lunches alone, wondering if my skin tone will be rejected by students and colleagues, hoping someone who looks like me would be hired, looking at profiles and able to count on one hand who resembles me, voice silenced, ideas ignored, and the requirement to always perform head-n-shoulder above my counterparts? How do I unpack 50 years of being told "no" with no reason, doors closed, higher rates, subpar services, cuts in lines, entitlement to the space occupied by me, and visions of unwarranted attacks? [Perhaps I'm not supposed to unpack, 'cause where would I put the contents of me.] Published at https://lnkd.in/g4-e7z5F

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