Meet Jennifer Akong

We recently connected with Jennifer Akong and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Jennifer , so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?

Throughout my professional journey, especially since moving to the UK, there have been countless moments when I’ve been the only one in the room who looks like me. But rather than letting that make me shrink, I’ve learned to stand tall and make my voice heard.

One thing I’ve always done is tell my story unapologetically—without editing any part of it. Every piece of my story, every experience, every part of who I am is relevant to the growth I’ve achieved and the growth that’s still to come. I carry my head high, speak confidently, and make sure my voice is heard. I raise my hand in meetings, even when it feels like I might be the only one who looks like me.

For me, it’s not just about being in the room—it’s about owning my place in it. Every time I step into a boardroom where I never imagined myself being, I feel that inner child in me take a moment to celebrate. And in that space, I know I need to make an impact. I’m there for a reason: to make change, to be heard, to be known, and to be empowered so I can, in turn, empower others.

“I believe that an empowered woman has the power to inspire and uplift entire generations. That’s the driving force behind how I show up—knowing that my presence, my voice, and my perspective matter. Standing out isn’t always easy, but I’ve learned that sometimes we’re not meant to fit in. We’re meant to stand out because there’s something special about us.”

So, when I find myself in a room where I may be the “only one,” I embrace it. Because standing out is beautiful, and I know my voice has the power to make a difference.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

My name is Jennifer Akong, and I wear many hats professionally—think of me as a creative multitasker with an entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for bringing ideas to life. Let’s kick things off with the “9-to-5 Jennifer.” I’m a project manager at a SciTech company, where I live in the dynamic world of marketing science.
My job? Handling marketing projects that help the company share science stories, connect with audiences, and stand out in a space that’s constantly evolving.

But when the workday ends, my creativity doesn’t stop—it just shifts gears. I own a fashion brand, “Mania by Jennifer,” where I channel my artistic mind into designing pieces that are elegant and unapologetically authentic. To me, fashion isn’t just about clothes; it’s about storytelling, identity, and creativity. It’s my playground, where ideas turn into something tangible and beautiful.

Speaking of storytelling, I recently wrote a book called The Marketing Roadmap: From Intern to Expert. It’s my way of giving back to the next generation of marketers, sharing insights, lessons, and tips from my career journey. If I can make someone’s path a little easier or inspire them to believe in their potential, then I’ve done my job—and yes, the book is available on Amazon!

In addition, I co-founded an NGO called A Thousand Women, dedicated to educating, empowering, and advocating for young girls and women in Nigeria. This initiative is close to my heart because I truly believe empowering a woman means empowering an entire generation. Making a difference through this work fuels my passion for leadership and community building.

At my core, I’m a creative storyteller. Whether I’m designing a marketing campaign, sketching a fashion piece, curating an event, or mentoring a young professional, I thrive on creating, connecting, and bringing visions to life. My creativity knows no bounds—it’s what keeps me energized and inspired, and it’s what makes my work uniquely mine.

As for what’s new, I’m currently focusing on expanding my reach as a mentor and thought leader. I’m also focused on expanding my creative projects and collaborating with like-minded professionals to inspire the next generation of marketers, creators, and leaders. In 2025, I will host workshops, develop resources, and mentor underrepresented talents to help them embrace their voices and make an impact in their industries.

Ultimately, my work is about connection and empowerment. Whether through my book, fashion brand, or marketing expertise, my mission remains the same: to inspire, create, and leave a lasting impact. For me, creativity isn’t just what I do—it’s who I am.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Looking back, I’d say these three areas have been absolutely pivotal in my journey: personal development, continuous learning, and building a personal brand. Each has played a unique role in shaping who I am professionally and personally, and I believe they can do the same for anyone.

1. Personal Development
For me, growth starts from within. Investing in personal development has helped me build resilience, self-awareness, and confidence. Whether it’s through reading books, attending workshops, or reflecting on my own experiences, I’ve learned that the more you understand and refine yourself, the better you show up in every space you occupy. My advice for others? Don’t shy away from the hard work of self-discovery. Take time to understand your strengths, identify areas for improvement, and actively work on becoming the best version of yourself. Growth is an ongoing process, so embrace it with curiosity and patience.

2. Continuous Learning
The world is always changing, and staying relevant means committing to lifelong learning. Whether it’s picking up a new skill, staying updated on industry trends, or even learning from failures, I’ve found that an open mind and a willingness to evolve are key to long-term success. One practice that’s been invaluable to me is setting aside time each week to learn something new—whether it’s through a podcast, a course, or even conversations with others in my field. For those starting out, I’d recommend adopting a “student mindset” and being proactive about seeking knowledge. Growth doesn’t happen by accident; it’s intentional.

3. Building a Personal Brand
In today’s world, your personal brand is your reputation—it’s how people perceive you and what sets you apart. For me, building my personal brand has been about staying authentic, showcasing my values, and demonstrating my expertise in ways that resonate with others. Whether through writing my book, creating meaningful content, or mentoring others, I’ve focused on sharing my story in ways that reflect who I truly am. My advice for others is to think about the story you want your personal brand to tell and align your actions, words, and presence with that vision. Consistency and authenticity are key.

To anyone early in their journey, I’d say this: invest in yourself, stay hungry to learn, and be intentional about the impression you leave on others. These qualities have guided me through challenges and triumphs, and I’m confident they can do the same for you.

What is the number one obstacle or challenge you are currently facing and what are you doing to try to resolve or overcome this challenge?

One of the biggest challenges I’m facing right now is not taking the time to celebrate my victories when I hit a milestone fully. I have this habit of immediately focusing on the next big thing. While ambition is great, I’ve realized that pausing to acknowledge and savour my achievements is just as important. After all, those moments are what fuel the journey. To address this, I’ve started practicing gratitude more intentionally. I take time to reflect on each milestone, even the small wins, and I’m learning to celebrate myself as much as I celebrate others. Whether it’s a quiet moment of acknowledgement or sharing the victory with loved ones, I remind myself that every step forward deserves recognition.

Another challenge I’ve faced—and one I know many people can relate to—is imposter syndrome. Despite my accomplishments, there are moments when I question if I truly belong in the spaces I’ve worked so hard to be in. I’m actively working on overcoming it by grounding myself in my story and the impact I’ve made.

I remind myself that I didn’t just get lucky; I’ve earned my seat at the table through hard work, resilience, and creativity. Surrounding myself with a supportive community, journaling my wins, and affirming my worth are tools to keep imposter syndrome at bay. It’s an ongoing process, but I’m learning to stand more confidently in who I am and what I bring to the table.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://maniabyjennifer.co.uk
• Instagram: jenn.akong
• Facebook: Jennifer Akong
• Linkedin: Jennifer Akong
• Twitter: jennieakong
• Youtube: Jennifer Akong