#ᴍᴀʏᴅᴜᴍᴘ
Happy month of June ❤️
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| 1. My room had a little makeover - giving Pinterest vibes |
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| 2. Changed the position of my dining table to a position I appreciate better but never tried because I felt it won't work. |
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3. Took drinking water seriously |
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| 4. Baked my best banana cake yet (as seen on YouTube @NgumAbi) |
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| 11. Loving the configuration of the new living room |
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| 12. New plant leaves |
I believe every woman deserves the chance to live life on her own terms. It’s not just about financial freedom — it’s about having the ability to create the life you want and leaving a legacy that makes a difference. As someone who has walked this journey of building businesses and striving for independence, I know how vital it is to have the freedom to make choices that align with your passions and purpose.
For so long, the narrative has been that a woman's worth is tied to her relationship with others, whether it’s being a good wife, a caring mother, or fulfilling traditional roles. But what if we shifted that narrative? What if we started talking about how important it is for women to own their lives, to be the driving force behind their own success, and to carve out paths that are uniquely their own?
Financial freedom is one of the most empowering things any woman can have. It gives you the freedom to make decisions without being constrained by financial obligations. It allows you to live fully, to provide for your family, to invest in your passions, and to protect yourself from situations where you're vulnerable due to financial dependence. I’ve always believed that independence is a woman’s greatest strength. It's not just about the ability to spend money — it’s about the power to control your destiny.
The concept of legacy has always been close to my heart. I don’t just want to build a business; I want to create something that stands the test of time — something that my children can look back on and say, "My mom built this. This is what she worked for, and this is the foundation she laid for us."
Creating a legacy goes beyond financial success; it’s about creating impact for your family, your community, and the world. My goal is to leave a mark that outlives me.
We often talk about leaving something behind for our kids, but legacy isn’t just about inheritance. It’s about teaching them the values of self-determination, creativity, and purpose. It’s about showing them that they can dream big and have the freedom to achieve their goals without limitations. The freedom I’ve been working so hard to achieve isn’t just for me — it’s for them, too. I want to set them up with the mindset and resources they need to never feel stuck, to always have a way forward, and to build their own paths when the time comes.
The world is changing, and women no longer need to wait for permission or validation to pursue their goals. Too often, we’re told to play small — to focus on what’s comfortable and familiar. But I’ve realized that the most fulfilling journeys come from stepping outside of that comfort zone, from creating something new, and from taking the reins of our own futures.
Creating your own path isn’t easy. Trust me, I’ve faced plenty of challenges in building my brand and businesses. From finances to the constant juggle of motherhood, there’s always something trying to pull me away from my goals. But the key to pushing through those obstacles has been purpose. I keep my eyes on why I’m doing this — for my children, for the women I aim to inspire, and for the legacy I want to leave behind.
Women should feel empowered to chase their dreams, whether it’s by starting a business, creating content, or finding ways to serve others. There’s no one-size-fits-all journey, but the core of it is the same: building a life where you have the freedom to make decisions that align with your values, your passions, and your ambitions.
You don’t need to have it all figured out to start working towards financial freedom and creating a legacy. Here are a few steps that can help you begin:
Start with Your Why: Understand why you want to create this legacy. What do you want to leave behind? What drives you every day? Start with that clear vision, and use it as your compass.
Invest in Your Skills: Knowledge is power. The more you learn, the more you can create. Whether it's through education, online courses, or just researching your field, invest in yourself and your skills. This is what will enable you to build a sustainable future.
Set Financial Goals: Financial independence doesn’t happen overnight. Set clear, actionable goals. Start saving, investing, and building the foundation for your future. Having control over your finances will unlock so many doors.
Build a Support Network: Surround yourself with people who believe in your mission, especially those who’ve already walked the path. Community and mentorship are crucial when you're carving your own path.
Take Action: Dreams are just ideas until you take the first step. Whether it’s starting your own business, creating content, or just figuring out your next move, do something every day that brings you closer to your vision.
The path to financial freedom and building a lasting legacy is not always easy, but it’s worth it. Every small step you take brings you closer to the life you desire — the freedom to live on your terms, the ability to provide for yourself and your family, and the chance to leave a meaningful impact. I’m building my path, and I encourage you to start building yours. You are worthy of creating the life you’ve always dreamed of.
Remember: Your future is in your hands. Create your path and leave a legacy that empowers others to do the same.
As someone who works from home, it’s all too easy to blur the lines between work and rest. I used to keep going even on weekends—emails, projects, strategy—but recently, I’ve been learning to pause. To intentionally choose rest.
So I gave myself permission to have a slow, no-work Saturday.
The morning started as quietly as I hoped. I made up the bed and took a deep breath, grateful for a peaceful home and the soft rhythm of a day with no pressure.
Before heading to the kitchen, I checked in on my plants—something that always brings me joy. I noticed their new leaves had grown some more. Little things like that feel like magic when you're paying attention.
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Now, let’s talk about the highlight of my day—my banana cake.
Baking has become one of my favourite weekend hobbies. It’s simple, grounding, and deeply comforting. There’s something about mixing ingredients, pouring them into a tin, and watching it all rise into something warm and delicious that makes me feel like everything is going to be okay.
And this time? The cake came out perfect.
Fluffy, golden brown, and proud—no sinking, no cracking. I felt so proud watching it sit beautifully in the pan. I did a little happy dance inside.
Because I’m doing intermittent fasting, I had to drink some water and hold off before cutting it. But oh, it was worth the wait. I sliced it, served some to my kids, and tucked the rest away for my first meal of the day.
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| 😍😍😍 |
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| 😋😋😋 |
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| Took drinking water very seriously during intermittent fasting |
After baking, I did some organising in my room and gave myself a bit of pampering.
I did a mini spa bath with my body scrub and sea salt, then treated my face with Sivoderm pomade - my current go-to for that soft glow. These little rituals are a reminder that rest isn’t just about sleep, it’s about treating yourself with care.
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| View before organizing and cleaning this side of my room |
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| After |
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| It all started with a desire to clean just my shoe rack, then I reorganised the whole side of the room |
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| I used Sivoderm pomade to treat my face after all the organising. The review of this product is still up on the blog here (click here) |
To end the day, I curled up to watch a Nollywood movie on YouTube and finally broke my fast with a generous slice of that banana cake.
It was the kind of day that reminded me how much joy there is in simplicity. In baking without pressure. In letting a Saturday be soft, slow, and sweet.
Let this be your reminder that you deserve rest too. That soft hustle is valid. That slow day still count.
There’s something so comforting about baking — the mixing, the waiting, the sweet aroma filling up the house. Lately, baking banana cakes has become a weekend ritual for me, and honestly, I’m loving every bit of it. I didn't expect to enjoy it this much since I've never baked and thought baking was so difficult.
It all started with a simple desire to try baking at home for fun. I already had a banana cake recipe here on the blog — one I recorded while my grandmother was baking. Watching her make it so effortlessly made me want to try it myself. But as you can imagine, things didn’t go smoothly at first. 😅
Related: Easy Way to Bake a Fluffy Banana Cake All by Yourself
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My first cake. It burned!
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| This second cake was quite delicious, though. It would have been the best cake if it were fluffy |
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| My second cake was heavier, but I improved by not burning it as much. |
The first two cakes I baked were... well, not the best. They rose beautifully while baking, but sank right back down once they cooled. I was confused at first until I realised I had only been using baking powder, not adding bicarbonate of soda. So, on my third try, I added bicarbonate too — and guess what? The cake came out fluffy and soft. That was a big victory!
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| 😍😋 |
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| The winning cake! I felt so proud that it was a success! |
Since then, I’ve been tweaking the recipe, experimenting with measurements, and trying to make slightly bigger cakes. Sometimes they come out softer, sometimes they rise beautifully, and sometimes they fall flat again. Just the other day, I tried baking with only bicarbonate — like my grandma used to — but it sank again. I suspect the batter was too soft this time around.
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| This is my most recent cake, where I used just bicarbonate. It later fell like it never rose. It didn't burn at all or stick to the pan like some others; I'm proud of that. |
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| This cake sank later. I was still experimenting, making a bigger cake |
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| This cake was a success, too, though I almost missed getting it right because I wanted to make a bigger cake again |
Still, each attempt is teaching me something new. I now know how to regulate the fire so the cake doesn’t burn. I’ve learned how to properly grease or line the baking pan so it doesn’t stick. My last cake didn’t burn or stick at all, which felt like progress!
One of the biggest wins for me, though, has been figuring out how to bake using a pot on my gas cooker. I used to think it wasn’t possible — or at least that I wouldn’t know how to do it right. But I tried it, and it worked! And now that I know how, nothing is stopping me from baking whenever I want.
My kids are always excited when I bake, even if the cake isn’t as fluffy as I hoped. As long as it tastes good, they’re happy — and thankfully, it always does. 😂
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| It made a delicious breakfast with yoghurt |
Baking has slowly become more than just a fun activity. It’s now part of my lifestyle — something I look forward to doing every weekend, something that calms me, teaches me, and gives me little moments of joy (and sweet treats!). I plan to explore other cake recipes too with time, but for now, banana cake is holding a special place in my kitchen and my heart.
So here’s to more weekend baking sessions, more lessons learned, and hopefully, more fluffy banana cakes ahead!
Do you have any hobbies you are into right now? I would love to hear your experience in the comments.
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| 1. My face at the start of the month |
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| 2. Mango season is upon us 🥭 |
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| 3. A glimpse of one of my YouTube video thumbnail. I post consistently there now (search Ngumabi to find me on YouTube) |
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| 4. My first successful cake - it's a banana cake. Such a proud moment! |
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| 5. See how fluffy and delicious it looks inside 😋 |
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| 6. Yeah and it's almost corn season too but it's still so expensive! |
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| 7. Me again |
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| 8. My thriving plants! ☘️ |
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| 9. Cooked Khoki in a teacup for the first time |
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| 10. Eating and watching Nollywood movies on YouTube |
For ambitious African women like us, turning our natural talents into income streams is not merely a business strategy but a powerful self-empowerment act. It’s about transforming the passions that light up our lives into opportunities that support us and our communities. Here’s a heartfelt guide on how you can begin this journey, complete with stories, practical steps, and a soft, inspiring tone that reminds you that your gifts are precious and ready to be shared with the world.
Our talents come in many forms—art, storytelling, cooking, technology, leadership, and so much more. Each of us carries a mosaic of skills and passions that reflect our heritage, experiences, and dreams. The first step in transforming your talents into income is to truly embrace what makes you unique.
Take a quiet moment for self-reflection. Think about the activities that make time seem to fly by or the skills that others have often complimented you on. Perhaps you have a knack for crafting beautiful handmade jewelry, or maybe your voice has the power to captivate an audience when you speak. These are not random coincidences—they are hints of your inherent strengths.
Story Spotlight:
I once met a friend, Amina, who always lit up whenever she talked about cooking traditional recipes. What started as a hobby became a beloved culinary blog and even small local workshops, where she shared her secrets. Amina’s journey began with simply recognizing her love for cooking as a valuable asset.
Recognizing your talent is only the beginning. The next step is to nurture it. Invest time in learning and improving your skills. Attend local workshops, take free online courses, or join community groups that share your interests. Continuous learning not only refines your talent but also builds your confidence.
Many resources today are available for free or at minimal cost. Websites like Coursera, Khan Academy, and local community centers offer courses that can help you master your craft. Remember, every minute you invest in enhancing your skills is a step closer to turning your passion into profit.
Story Spotlight:
Ngozi, a determined graphic designer from Lagos, used free online tutorials and local design meet-ups to sharpen her skills. Over time, she began receiving freelance projects that eventually blossomed into a full-fledged design studio. Her journey reminds us that with persistence and a willingness to learn, our talents can evolve into sustainable income sources.
Once you’ve honed your skills, it’s time to think about how to transform your passion into something that others will value—and pay for.
Ask yourself: How can my talent solve a problem or add value to someone’s life? Whether it’s through creating beautiful art pieces, offering personalized coaching sessions, or providing unique culinary experiences, clarity on what you’re offering is key. Write down your ideas and start envisioning how your product or service might look.
Example:
If you’re a writer with a flair for storytelling, consider starting a blog, self-publishing an e-book, or even offering freelance writing services. By clearly defining your offer, you set the stage for effective marketing and outreach.
In today’s digital age, the internet is a powerful tool that can connect you with a global audience. It’s an accessible, cost-effective way to showcase your work, network with like-minded individuals, and even sell your products or services.
Start small by creating social media profiles or a simple website where you can share your work and your story. Engage with your audience by sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of your creative process, offering tips, or simply celebrating your journey. Digital platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn can serve as both your portfolio and a gateway to potential clients or collaborators.
Story Spotlight:
Amara, an inspiring entrepreneur from Accra, began posting her handcrafted accessories on Instagram. With each post, she shared a piece of her story, her inspirations, and the cultural heritage behind her designs. Over time, her online presence grew, and so did her network—leading to collaborations with other creatives and even partnerships with international boutiques.
Turning your talents into income streams requires more than inspiration—it requires action. Create a plan that outlines your goals, the steps you need to take, and a timeline for achieving them. Break down your larger vision into manageable tasks and celebrate each small victory along the way.
Tip:
Write your goals down and review them regularly. This will not only keep you accountable but also provide a sense of direction and purpose as you navigate your journey.
Remember, you’re not alone on this journey. Surround yourself with a community of mentors, peers, and fellow ambitious African women who uplift and support one another. Networking isn’t just about business—it’s about building relationships that inspire growth and create opportunities.
Join local business groups, online forums, and social media communities where you can share experiences and gain insights. Attend virtual events and connect with women who are on similar paths. Sometimes, a simple conversation over coffee or a chat on social media can open doors to new opportunities.
Story Spotlight:
I recall attending a virtual networking event where I met several inspiring women, each with unique talents and stories. One conversation led to a collaboration that not only expanded my reach but also enriched my creative perspective. These connections remind us that our community is one of our most valuable resources.
Turning your talents into income streams is a journey—a path filled with self-discovery, continuous learning, and meaningful connections. As ambitious African women, we possess a wealth of skills and passions that, when nurtured and shared, can transform our lives and our communities.
Embrace your unique talents, invest in your growth, and let the digital world amplify your voice. With a clear plan, a supportive network, and the courage to take that first step, you can transform your passion into a sustainable source of income. Your journey may have its challenges, but every step you take is a testament to your strength and potential.
What talent do you cherish the most, and how are you planning to share it with the world? I’d love to hear your stories and ideas in the comments below. Let’s inspire each other to create a future where our passions pave the way for financial independence and personal fulfillment.
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A self-audit is like looking into a mirror that reflects not just your physical self, but also your inner world. It’s a process of deep reflection where you assess your skills, experiences, values, and even passions that have been quietly shaping your journey. For us, ambitious African women, this means celebrating our heritage, resilience, and the unique qualities that make us stand out. By taking time to analyze your experiences, you uncover the hidden assets that have been there all along.
Conducting a self-audit can be a transformative experience. It allows you to:
Start by finding a calm and quiet space where you feel at ease. This might be a cozy corner in your home, under a tree in your garden, or even a peaceful café. Allow yourself some uninterrupted time to dive deep into your thoughts.
Example:
I like to make some tea and play soft music in the background while I write down my thoughts. This small ritual helps me centre my thoughts and opens the door to honest self-reflection.
Take a moment to think about your life so far. Ask yourself:
Write down your answers. These moments are the building blocks of your hidden assets.
Example:
Perhaps you remember a time when you led a community project or solved a problem that seemed insurmountable. These experiences are proof of your leadership, creativity, and determination.
Now, look at the patterns in your reflections. What qualities do you notice? Maybe you excel at problem-solving, have a knack for communication, or possess creative talents that have enriched your personal or professional life.
Story:
I discovered that my ability to empathize and connect with others was more than just a personal trait—it was a strength that enabled me to build lasting relationships and create supportive networks.
Your hidden assets aren’t just about skills; they’re also tied to your values and passions. What issues make your heart beat faster? Which causes do you feel deeply connected to? Your values often guide your actions and can become a powerful asset in your journey toward success.
Example:
If community empowerment is a passion, consider how your values drive your decisions and how they have led you to make an impact in your community.
Create a timeline of your key achievements and learning moments. Highlight not only your successes but also the lessons learned from setbacks. Each experience contributes to your unique profile of strengths.
Tip:
Use a journal or digital tool to create this timeline. Visualizing your journey can reveal surprising connections and hidden talents you might have forgotten.
Now that you have a clearer picture of your hidden assets, use this insight to set new, inspiring goals. Align these goals with your strengths, passions, and values. Whether it’s advancing your career, starting a new venture, or deepening your community involvement, let your newfound awareness guide you.
Example:
After my self-audit, I realized that sharing my knowledge to help ambitious African women was a hidden passion. I set a goal to start this blog to share my lifestyle and life lessons for women like myself, a project that has since brought immense fulfilment and growth to my life.
Conducting a self-audit is not just an exercise in self-discovery—it’s a celebration of who you are. As ambitious African women, we carry within us a rich tapestry of experiences, culture, and resilience. Recognizing and leveraging these hidden assets can open doors to opportunities that you once thought were beyond reach.
Every step of your journey, every challenge faced, and every small victory contributes to the incredible resource that is you. Embrace your journey, and let your hidden assets be the foundation for an empowered, purpose-driven future.
Take time for yourself to reflect, to honor your experiences, and to appreciate the unique strengths you possess. Remember, the process of self-audit is an ongoing journey—a way to continuously align with your true self as you grow and evolve. What hidden asset have you recently discovered, and how has it transformed your journey? Share your story in the comments below, and let’s inspire each other on this path to self-empowerment.
You have everything you need to succeed already within you. Now, let that light shine brightly for the world to see.
Hi, I’m Ngumabi, a Cameroonian mom and lifestyle blogger in her 30s, learning to live again with softness and joy.
Here, I share honest bits of everyday life — fun, motherhood, work from home, and the gentle process of growing forward.
Documenting the lifestyle and life lessons of a thirties babe who has overcome and is living again.
To read more about me click here.
FRCoucou, moi c’est Ngumabi. Je suis maman camerounaise et blogueuse lifestyle dans la trentaine. J’apprends à vivre à nouveau avec plus de douceur, de joie et de présence.
Sur ce blog, je partage ma vie de tous les jours : un peu de fun, la maternité, mon travail, et ce chemin lent mais beau vers une vie qui me ressemble.
Cest la vie et les leçons de vie d’une trentenaire qui a choisit de revivre pleinement.
Pour lire plus sur moi cliquez ici.
And follow me on social media for more content.
My favourite quotes:
"By doing what you love, you inspire the hearts of others."
"Make your life a dream and a dream a reality."
Moving can feel exciting. But when you’re leaving a place that saw you through deep pain, growth, and transformation, it’s more than just pa...
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