A young woman’s break into the green economy

Dada Omotooke’s journey into clean energy and career growth

👋Welcome to Green Jobs Rising. Do you have a dream? A vision of where you want to be in the next few years? You can make it happen.✈

In today’s New Hire spotlight, we feature Dada Omotooke from Nigeria. She takes us through her inspiring career journey, from knowing little about the clean energy sector to becoming deeply invested in its mission.🤿 Now, she finds fulfilment in seeing how clean energy initiatives are transforming communities.🔁

⏳ Today’s reading time: 2 mins

New hire Q&A

“Do not see anything as a barrier. Have a dream and go for it”

Dada Omotooke, Assistant Finance Manager at Husk Power, Nigeria

Q: Before joining Husk Power, you had no experience in the clean energy industry. What motivated you to apply for the role?

A: I had set a personal goal to move beyond practice accounting and gain business exposure. This led me to a brief stint at a realty firm, but I quickly realized it wasn't the right fit for my aspirations. As I resumed my search for a more fulfilling role, I came across a job posting for Husk Power through Shortlist. Although the position of finance associate was not exactly what I envisioned, I decided to give it a shot. Encouraged by Shortlist's support and guidance, I leapt into the clean energy sector.

Q: Can you describe the application and interview process? 

A: Shortlist’s recruiter, Elizabeth, played a pivotal role in my journey. She provided support and encouragement through every stage of the interview process, which bolstered my confidence. The positive and constructive feedback I received helped me feel more assured about my capabilities. Even after my interviews, she continued to follow up, providing a level of support that I found both rare and invaluable. 

 Q: How has your journey at Husk Power been? 

A: Within two years, of working there, I was recommended for the role of acting finance manager. This role became official with a promotion to assistant finance manager, accompanied by a significant salary increase from 70,000 NGN to 350,000 NGN. 

Q: What do you think contributed to your rapid career growth? 

A: hard work and dedication  

Q: Beyond career growth, how has working at Husk Power changed your perspective on the clean energy sector? 

A: It has been a great journey. I was initially unfamiliar with the clean energy industry but soon found myself deeply invested in its mission. I have seen firsthand how providing access to energy has transformed communities. It is great to see myself working in an environment where my work is making an impact, it does something to my mental health. 

Q: What is your career vision? 

A: My short-term goal is to become a well-rounded financial professional, while my long-term aspiration is to establish my financial consulting firm and retire early. 

Q: What advice would you give to young professionals, especially women, looking to grow their careers? 

A: Do not see anything as a barrier. Family, children, and marriage are not barriers. Have a dream and go for it! I want my kids to be proud of me and to say, 'My mum is an accomplished woman.’ They are one of the reasons why I strive for a successful career.

Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings

William Arthur Ward

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