Meet Yewande Jinadu: Pioneering People and Culture Leadership

Yewande Jinadu is a distinguished Senior HR Professional, ICF Certified Career Coach, and the dynamic Founder of CareerLife Nigeria. With over eight years of experience in Human Resources, Yewande is celebrated for her transformative impact on organizational culture and employee productivity. Her journey is a testament to her dedication to improving workplace environments and her commitment to youth empowerment through her social initiatives.

Education and Certifications

Yewande holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical and Polymer Engineering from Lagos State University. She is certified as a Senior Professional of Human Resources International (SPHRi) by the Human Resources Certification Institute (HRCI), USA, and is an associate of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria (ACIPM).

Professional Journey and Achievements

Yewande currently serves as the Head of People and Culture at Traction Apps, a leading tech startup. In this role, she advises senior leadership on HR issues, leads all HR functions, and coaches line managers on improved leadership and succession planning. Her strategic input has been pivotal in aligning HR strategies with the company’s mission, vision, and goals.

Before joining Traction Apps, Yewande held a similar role at Gokada, where she successfully managed the change management process during a critical growth phase. Her tenure at Energy360 Africa Ltd as the Human Resources Manager further showcases her ability to drive HR initiatives supporting business objectives and organizational growth.

CareerLife Nigeria

In 2016, Yewande founded CareerLife Nigeria, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping young graduates and professionals achieve measurable career growth. CareerLife Nigeria addresses UN SDG Goal 8 by reducing unemployment and bridging the knowledge gap for job seekers and young professionals. The organization has impacted over 1,000 beneficiaries and mobilized over 200 volunteers, solidifying its reputation as a leading career mentoring and coaching brand in Nigeria.

Social Initiatives and Public Speaking

Yewande's passion for social development extends to her role as the Convener of the Employability Fitness Program (EFP), which has helped over 700 job seekers overcome interview phobia and secure job placements. She is also a prolific public speaker, sharing her expertise on platforms such as BellaNaija, SheLeadsAfrica, and GuardianWoman.

Recognition and Awards

Yewande's contributions to HR and career development have earned her numerous accolades, including:

Top 20 People Disruptive Leaders (Nigeria) in 2023

Top 50 Career Influencers in Africa by The Workbooth Magazine (2020)

Top 150 Global HR Influencers by Social Micole (2020-2022)

Top 100 Career Women in Nigeria by 9to5Chick (2021)

Top 200 Voices in Leadership by LeadersHum (2022 & 2023)

Top 40 Organizational Culture Champions in 2022 by LeadersHum

50 Inspiring Women in Social Development by TEDxOluyole

Yewande Jinadu's career is marked by her unwavering commitment to enhancing organizational culture, empowering young professionals, and driving HR excellence. Through her leadership, coaching, and social initiatives, she continues to inspire and create opportunities for growth and development in the Nigerian workforce. Her vision for CareerLife Nigeria and her strategic contributions to the tech industry underscore her role as a transformative leader and advocate for positive change.