Linda Omara-Koledade

I am married and have two beautiful and very active children; family is very dear to my heart. I am an avid runner, currently participating in 10km runs and half marathons, my life goal is to run marathons. I am passionate about economic development in the African continent. 

Senior leaders set the stage for the possibilities of how women show up in the workplace. 

With over 15 years of experience in corporate and investment banking, I have led high performing teams in bank operations, and structure finance using preference shares for the purchase of equity across a range of sectors. Most recently my focus is funding debt and equity into the mining and metals sector. Additionally, I am the founder and CEO of Mustard Seed, a platform that empowers entrepreneurs and professionals focusing on financial wellness, entrepreneurship and leadership. 

What role do senior leaders play in fostering an inclusive environment that empowers women? 

Senior leaders set the stage for the possibilities of how women show up in the workplace. 

I have been privileged to have worked for some incredible leaders who involve, support and embrace women in the workplace as much as they do men. Fostering an inclusive environment means recognising the differences between men and women and providing specific, relevant support to cater for those differences.

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How have you used your influence to support other women in achieving more in their career? 

Though not limited to women only, I have used my owned platform, Mustard Seed, to try and create an environment that empowers women around how best to navigate their way up the corporate ladder. Through the Mustard Seed platform we expose women to other exemplary women leaders who share intimate stories of their specific corporate journey. These stories inspire, teach and enlighten all of us. Through this same platform women are able to build their networks, find mentors, coaches and ultimately find guidance and solutions on how best to navigate a successful career. 

Give women the necessary tools, platform and support they need to succeed; you should also acknowledge that the 'tools and support' may not look the same for all employees. 

What advice would you give to those looking to champion women’s leadership in their organisations? 

Where women have the potential to lead, give them opportunity and a platform to meaningfully contribute to the team strategy and overall organisational goals . 

Be intentional about hiring women in key leadership positions, promote women who have the right soft and technical skills to lead. Continue offering leadership training, mentorship and encouragement to women with leadership potential.

More information about the programme Linda attended: 

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INSEAD's Executive Master in Finance (EMFin) offers an accelerated programme that integrates both theoretical knowledge and practical application, placing a significant emphasis on finance and specialised concentrations in Corporate Finance and Financial Markets.

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