Feb 13th, 2025

Black Excellence Spotlight: Meet Teju

February is Black History Month—a time to celebrate the achievements, contributions, and voices of black professionals in our community. At Ottawa Community Housing, we are proud to highlight the incredible individuals who help shape our organization daily.

To kick off our Employee Spotlight series for Black History Month, we’re excited to introduce Teju, Manager of Inventory and Programs.

Can you share your background and your experience with affordable housing communities?

I moved from Nigeria to Canada 14 years ago with my family, and for three years, we lived in Calgary Housing (social housing). This experience had a profound impact on my perspective, as it highlighted the crucial role affordable housing plays in helping families achieve stability. Through Rent-Geared-to-Income programs, we were able to focus on our education and career development. The support we received during this time reinforced my belief in the power of accessible housing, and this belief continues to shape the way I approach my work at OCH.

What have been effective ways for you to overcome barriers and achieve personal success?

Achieving personal success has been rooted in resilience, ongoing education, and strategic planning. Relocating to a new country presented significant challenges, but I remained focused on my long-term goals and stayed committed to my growth. Leveraging affordable housing allowed me the stability to pursue higher education, including my second degree in Business Management at Athabasca University and my Supply Chain Management Professional designation. Additionally, I prioritized networking and lifelong learning, both of which have been pivotal in positioning myself for long-term success.

Can you share a bit about your professional journey and what brought you to your current role?

My career began in supply chain and logistics, where I gained extensive experience as an Inventory and Warehouse Manager in Alberta and Newfoundland & Labrador. Living in social housing in Calgary gave me a unique perspective on the impact of affordable housing, and this experience has shaped my professional journey. It ultimately led me to OCH, where I can combine my expertise with my personal insights to contribute meaningfully to the organization’s mission.

What challenges have you faced in the corporate world as a black professional, and how have you overcome them?

As a black professional, I’ve faced challenges such as unconscious bias and the need to continuously demonstrate my capabilities in the workplace. To overcome these challenges, I’ve focused on building confidence in my abilities and invested in my professional development. Building strong relationships with colleagues and seeking mentorship have been instrumental in navigating obstacles and creating opportunities for growth. I believe that organizations like OCH play a crucial role in fostering an inclusive environment where all employees have equal opportunities to succeed.

How do you think your perspective as a black professional has shaped the way you approach your work?

My background and experiences—both in Nigeria and as a resident of social housing in Canada—have provided me with a deep appreciation for resilience and the importance of opportunity. This perspective makes me more empathetic in my approach to work, ensuring I balance logic with compassion. I advocate for equity and inclusion in decision-making, recognizing that diverse perspectives are essential for strengthening both communities and organizations.

What advice would you give to other black professionals navigating their careers?

Stay focused, invest in continuous learning, and seek mentorship. Do not allow imposter syndrome to hold you back—you belong in every room you enter. Build a strong network, and as you grow, make an effort to mentor others and pay it forward whenever possible.

What changes would you like to see in the workplace to make it more inclusive and supportive for Black employees?

To truly foster an inclusive workplace, organizations must go beyond merely discussing diversity. There needs to be a clear commitment to creating pathways for black professionals to advance into leadership positions. Mentorship programs, equitable hiring practices, and a culture that prioritizes belonging are essential. It’s not just about diversity; it’s about ensuring black professionals have the support and opportunities they need to thrive at every level. Real change happens when we see representation across all tiers of the organization.

Is there a moment in your career that you’re particularly proud of, and why?

One of the proudest moments in my career was earning my Supply Chain Management Professional (SCMP) designation in 2015. This milestone represented years of dedication and perseverance. Another significant achievement was transitioning into the affordable housing sector, where I can now contribute to a cause that is deeply meaningful to me.

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Black History Month is a moment of reflection and celebration. Can you share a Black artist, musician, or author who inspires you and why?

Musician: Bob Marley (Jamaica) – His music carried powerful messages of unity, peace, and resistance, which continue to inspire generations worldwide. Songs like One Love and Redemption Song remain anthems of hope and freedom.

Author: Toni Morrison (United States) – The first black woman to win the Nobel Prize in Literature, Morrison’s works (Beloved, The Bluest Eye) delve deeply into Black identity and history. Her writing has profoundly shaped the discourse on race and humanity.

Artist: Jean-Michel Basquiat (United States) – Known for his graffiti-inspired neo-expressionist works, Basquiat addressed issues of race, class, and power, leaving a lasting impact on contemporary art. His creative vision challenged societal norms and continues to inspire.

These influential figures are more than just icons in their fields—they challenged conventions, shaped history, and continue to inspire generations, including myself.