Yejide Adewakun is the founder of BloomElle, a thriving community that’s transforming the lives of African and Caribbean women in the UK.
Yejide, who saw first-hand what loneliness and financial struggles an immigrant can face, started a network that’s breaking down barriers and challenging systemic inequalities.
BllomElle is a safe space where women can connect, grow, and thrive. This passion has driven Yejide to build a vibrant network of over 1,000 women, offering practical resources, heartfelt connection, and a sense of belonging.
In this interview, she shared her impact, her vision for BloomElle, challenges, and lessons learned.
CA: Reflecting on your journey, what sparked your passion for tackling inequality and building community, and how has that passion evolved over time? What drives you to continue innovating and pushing boundaries?
Yejide: My passion for tackling inequality and building community started with my own experience as an international student. Moving to a new country was exciting but also incredibly challenging.
I faced cultural barriers, financial struggles, and a deep sense of isolation that was hard to put into words. Those experiences stayed with me and made me realize how many others, especially women from African and Caribbean immigrant backgrounds, go through similar challenges often without the support they need.
Over time, this passion has grown into a mission to create spaces where women feel seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.
It is not just about addressing inequality but about building a sense of belonging, where women can share their experiences and draw strength from each other.
Through BloomElle, I have witnessed the power of community. Our initiatives are all about breaking down barriers, providing tools, and building confidence to help women move forward. BloomElle has become a way to show that no one has to face these challenges alone.
What drives me is the incredible resilience and strength I see in our community. Hearing from women who have overcome obstacles, regained their footing, or simply felt less alone because of BloomElle keeps me going.
My own journey taught me how essential a support system is, and I am committed to building that for others. Tackling inequality and building community is not just something I do. It is a purpose I live and believe in every day.
CA: Can you share a pivotal moment or challenge that tested your resolve? How did you overcome it, and what did you learn from the experience?
Yejide: One pivotal moment that tested my resolve was during my time as an international student. Moving to a new country was both exciting and overwhelming.
I faced challenges that went far beyond what I had anticipated. I struggled with cultural barriers, the lack of a support system, childcare issues, financial difficulties, and a deep sense of isolation.
There were moments when I felt completely out of place, unsure of how to navigate this unfamiliar environment. The cultural barriers made it difficult to feel a sense of belonging, and adapting to new systems and ways of life was a constant struggle. Those experiences forced me to confront feelings of vulnerability in a way I had never known before.
The turning point came when I started sharing my struggles and realized I was not alone. I began connecting with other women who were navigating similar challenges, and their stories mirrored mine.
These conversations and connections planted the seeds for what would eventually become BloomElle.
I saw firsthand the strength that comes from community and the incredible power of shared experiences. It made me determined to create a space where women, especially immigrant women, could feel supported and understood in ways that had been missing during my own journey.
Through BloomElle, I have taken the lessons I learned as an international student and turned them into action. That experience taught me resilience, resourcefulness, and the importance of building networks of support.
It also deepened my understanding of the systemic challenges women from African and Caribbean backgrounds face when they migrate.
What I learned is that overcoming adversity is not about avoiding challenges but about finding ways to rise above them with the help of others.
BloomElle is built on that lesson. It is a community that ensures no woman has to feel isolated or unsupported while trying to navigate the complexities of building a life in a new country.
CA: Your work is making a significant impact in your field. What motivates you to continue driving change, and how do you measure success?
Yejide: What motivates me to keep driving change is the incredible resilience and transformation I see in the women I work with.
Every story of impact fuels my passion and reminds me why BloomElle exists. For instance, I remember one woman who attended a BloomElle healing space.
She had been struggling with postpartum depression and feeling isolated in a new country. After connecting with others who truly understood her journey, she shared that it was the first time she felt like she was not alone. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of creating spaces where women can share openly and find support.
Another story that stands out is of a BloomElle member who found a job after attending one of our career-focused webinars. She had faced countless rejections and felt her skills were undervalued because she was an immigrant.
After learning practical techniques for interviews and navigating applicant tracking systems during the webinar, she applied them with confidence.
Shortly after, she secured a role with a salary that was 100 percent higher than her previous job back home. Hearing her excitement and seeing her confidence grow was a reminder of the transformative power of providing women with the right tools and guidance.
I also look at how our community has grown organically across the UK. When women begin supporting each other outside of our formal events and initiatives, it is a clear sign that we are building something sustainable.
Seeing them collaborate, share opportunities, and form genuine connections reinforces the strength of what we are creating.
Ultimately, what drives me is the belief that even small steps forward can create lasting ripples. Watching women build their lives, inspire others, and overcome challenges they once thought impossible is the greatest reward.
Progress does not always come in leaps, but every breakthrough, no matter how small, matters. These moments keep me moving forward, knowing that together, we are building something truly meaningful.
CA: How do you believe your African heritage and upbringing have influenced your perspective and approach to your work? Are there any cultural values or traditions that you incorporate into your professional life?
Yejide: BloomElle’s foundation was not just shaped by challenges. It was inspired by traditions of home and the enduring values of my Yoruba heritage.
In my Yoruba community, women embodied the spirit of àjọṣe, which means collaboration and teamwork. They came together to pool resources for weddings, tirelessly cooked for naming ceremonies, and supported each other through life’s difficulties.
Their actions reflected ‘aláájọ̀bí, the sense of shared heritage and kinship that bound us all. These acts of collective care were more than traditions; they were lifelines.
They reminded us that no matter the challenges, we were never truly isolated because we had our tribe. This spirit of solidarity stayed with me long after I left home. That spirit of solidarity stayed with me long after I left home.
When I founded BloomElle, I wanted to bring that same energy of communal support to women navigating their own challenges in a new environment.
Through BloomElle, we recreate the essence of a tribal network: a space built on trust, shared strength, and collective joy. It is a reminder that no matter where we are, we can find belonging and thrive together.
Resilience is another cultural value deeply rooted in my upbringing. I grew up witnessing how challenges were met with creativity, strength, and determination.
That mindset has shaped how I approach barriers. It has taught me to keep pushing for progress, even when the path ahead feels difficult, because small steps can lead to lasting change
CA: What advice would you give to young Africans just starting out on their own journeys? What are some common challenges they may face, and how can they overcome them?
Yejide: To young Africans starting out on their journeys, my first piece of advice is to believe in the power of your story and your potential.
Your background, experiences, and unique perspective are strengths, not limitations. Whether you are pursuing education, entrepreneurship, or a career, stay grounded in your values and remain open to learning from every opportunity that comes your way. Success is a journey, and every step you take, no matter how small, contributes to your growth.
Many young Africans also struggle with self-doubt and imposter syndrome, especially when stepping into spaces where representation is limited.
It is important to remember that you belong wherever you choose to be. Surround yourself with people who uplift you, celebrate your achievements, and remind you of your worth.
Confidence develops over time, so trust the process and keep showing up for yourself. Seek out mentors, connect with others who have faced similar experiences, and do not hesitate to ask for help. Building a strong support network can make a world of difference and help you adapt with confidence.
Ultimately, your journey might not always be easy, but every challenge you face is an opportunity to grow. Take pride in your heritage and use it as a source of strength and inspiration. Build connections with others who share your vision, and remember that progress often comes in steps, not leaps. Trust yourself, stay adaptable, and keep moving forward. You have everything it takes to succeed.
CA: Can you tell us about some exciting projects or initiatives you’re working on? How do you see them impacting the community, and what role do you hope they’ll play in driving positive change?
Yejide: One of the most exciting things I am working on right now is expanding BloomElle’s reach and impact. We have seen how our initiatives, whether it is healing spaces, career development workshops, or community gatherings, have made a real difference in the lives of African immigrant women.
The focus now is on scaling these efforts so that more women across the UK can benefit from the support, resources, and connections that BloomElle offers.
Expanding BloomElle is about deepening our impact and reaching women who might otherwise feel isolated or unsupported.
By growing our network and initiatives, we aim to create a stronger sense of community and help more women thrive in both their personal and professional lives.
CA: Looking back, what partnerships or collaborations have been instrumental in your journey? How have they helped shape your approach to your work?
Yejide: Looking back, seeking allies has been one of the most instrumental parts of BloomElle’s journey. From the very beginning, I recognised the importance of finding people and organisations who understood the challenges we face and were committed to driving meaningful change alongside us.
These allies have brought not only resources but also perspectives and expertise that have enriched our work in countless ways. I have also found that seeking allies means looking for those who are willing to listen and learn.
Some of our most valuable collaborations have come from people who might not have shared our experiences but were eager to understand and amplify our mission. They have used their platforms and networks to help us reach more women and advocate for systemic change.
What I have learned is that allies are essential to building a sustainable and far-reaching impact. They help bridge gaps, provide access to new opportunities, and strengthen the foundation of what we are trying to achieve.
CA: How do you see African entrepreneurs competing or collaborating on a global stage? What opportunities or challenges do you think they’ll face, and how can they prepare?
Yejide: African entrepreneurs have immense potential to compete and collaborate on a global stage, thanks to the continent’s rich diversity, innovation, and resilience.
Many of us are already leveraging technology, unique cultural insights, and resourcefulness to create solutions that not only address local challenges but also resonate globally. Our ability to thrive internationally depends on navigating opportunities and challenges strategically.
One major opportunity lies in the growing global interest in African innovation and culture. From fintech solutions emerging from Nigeria and other African countries to creative industries like fashion and music, African entrepreneurs are showcasing the continent’s ingenuity.
There is also a rising demand for solutions tailored to emerging markets, and African entrepreneurs are uniquely positioned to deliver them.
Access to global markets through digital platforms provides further opportunities to scale businesses and connect with international audiences.
Limited access to capital remains a significant barrier for many entrepreneurs, making it difficult to fund growth and innovation. African entrepreneurs have everything it takes to thrive globally.
By leveraging their unique perspectives, seeking strategic collaborations, and staying resilient in the face of challenges, we can compete and contribute meaningfully to the global economy while showcasing the brilliance of the continent.
CA: What’s one lesson you’ve learned from failure, and how has it shaped your approach to entrepreneurship and innovation?
Yejide: One key lesson I have learned from failure is the importance of adaptability and the value of openly reflecting on setbacks.
A turning point for me was when a friend introduced me to the concept of a “failure report.” After I had shared a personal experience of failure, they explained how documenting failures can help identify lessons, patterns, and opportunities for growth. This idea completely changed how I approach challenges.
Instead of seeing failure as a stopping point, I began treating it as a moment for reflection and learning.
Writing down what went wrong, what I could have done differently, and what I learned allowed me to approach entrepreneurship and innovation with a more open and iterative mindset. It also reminded me that failure is not a reflection of personal inadequacy but a natural part of growth and progress.
Failure has also taught me to prioritise listening and collaboration. Instead of assuming what people want or need, it is crucial to seek input, engage with the community, and be willing to make changes along the way. This approach ensures that solutions are meaningful, relevant, and effective.
Yejide has built a world around her to support others, especially women like her. Seeing how she struggled as an international, she didn’t allow that to stop her.
This represents strength, focus, and someone who understands the power of a community. With BloomElle, she’s not only uplifting individuals but also reshaping narratives. She is proving that together, we can overcome and build a better future.
