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Tutu Soetan grew up in Africa as an orphan before relocating to the UK, after losing both her parents in her early years. Such a tragedy meant that she had to be adaptive to life’s changes from a very young age. It can now be seen that the character building elements of change and perseverance in her early years, ultimately came together to manifest personal and professional qualities within Tutu Soetan; making her a true testament to the importance of self-belief, resilience and adapting to change today. Tutu now has a wonderful family of her own and a career dedicated to helping others to realise their potential.
With over 15 years of experience as a consultant within many top investment banks and establishments including Barcap, Lloyds, New York Stock Exchange, Wells Fargo, Société Générale and Bank of Tokyo; there is no question that Tutu is a financial and corporate force to be reckoned with and an asset to any major company she chooses to work with.
Now, within her role as a Change Specialist at Dwelling at Ease, Tutu works closely alongside her candidates, with the view to unlock their full potential. She works with individuals on a one-to-one basis, giving them the tools, advice and skill sets required to take things to the next level in their lives and careers.
Interview with Tutu Soetan
Q: Tutu, it is an absolute pleasure to get the chance to sit and talk with you today, about your incredible journey in both life and business! Let's start with your educational background. You went to the London Metropolitan University, followed by a year at the University of Hertfordshire, England.
Can you tell us a little more about your university experiences i.e. what you studied, and your initial career goals at that point in your life?
Tutu: It was a wonderful experience as the university laid a good foundation for me in the UK. Being an orphan who had lost both parents by the age of 11, I knew I had to work hard to be successful in life; so hard work and excellence has always been my motto. As an International Student also, I had to juggle three jobs, as well as my education to get myself through Uni, which prepared me for the life ahead.
I am a very focused individual and my aim in life and in University was to acquire as much knowledge as possible in order to be the best at whatever I chose to become in life. I believe that knowledge is the only asset no one can take away from you and a huge part of the route to success.
To answer your question about my course, I studied a combined degree in Accounting and Information Systems, then proceeded to complete an MSC degree in Quantitative Finance and Investment Management.
Q: That is excellent! How easy or hard was it once you left University to find, apply for and acquire the job(s) you were seeking?
Tutu: I consider myself one of the lucky few because I got a very good job, even before I graduated. This was down to good counsel and guidance from my loving big sister.
Q: A great insight into the beauty of sisterhood and also keeping people around you that can offer you guidance and connections on your journey. As mentioned, you have already had an impressive career with 15+ years as a consultant working within top banks and corporate establishments. These are said to be very much male-dominated industries.
What was that like for you, being a black woman within these UK Corporate environments?
Tutu: I am a strong believer in excellence and (in) the ability to remain focused irrespective of the situation. At the initial stages of my career things were okay when I was simply working as an analyst. However, as I began to move into higher, more senior and managerial roles it became more difficult. It was through perseverance and prayer that I managed to get through these challenges and I believe that every previous role is a preparation for the next.
Q: Did you meet any challenges connected to your race or gender and if so how did you overcome them?
Tutu: As an analyst it was completely fine but when I started working in managerial roles I felt my voice was not heard and believe that this was because I was stereotyped as a black minority and as a woman. I had to change my strategy by being results driven rather than focusing on the negativity. I learned what people talk about in meetings and worked out how I could contribute to discussions outside of work.
Q: What advice would you give to female students intending on embarking upon a career within investment banking and/or the corporate world?
Tutu: Focus focus focus. Make sure you do the right course in Uni, select the right A level subjects and go to a Russell group uni. Do not aim for anything less than a 2:1. Be the best at what you do. The road will be a walk in the park if you fulfil those criteria. As part of the services I provide, I offer advice and coaching to candidates who are looking at starting up a career within the investment bank or climbing up the career ladder.
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Q: Great! So what made you change direction and progress your career towards coaching and leadership development?
Tutu: I come from a background where education is crucial and all my siblings are well read and intelligent. I believe in setting the right foundations. Some people have to take this journey alone, so I thought that I could use my personal experience to help others to get to the top in whatever career path they choose to pursue.
I also believe that the simplest route to success will be to get it right from the beginning, then you are made forever. This is not just in terms of education but also in the career path that you may choose in life. I also help clients with turning their skills into money making ventures.
In terms of leadership it is important you see yourself and your life as a project which needs to be delivered. You are the project manager of your own life and you either fail or pass! If you manage and lead your life well then you can also manage others and wider life issues, hence my focus on leadership
Q: With regards to coaching, why do you think it is an essential tool for those seeking to climb in their career and reach their goals? What can be gained from booking a Career Coach at Dwelling at Ease?
Tutu: Everyone needs a coach and a mentor. It helps you to remain focused and can prevent you from making some mistakes that could have been avoided. It also saves you time.
Q: You are also a Redundancy Expert, I can imagine the demand for your expertise in this area is high currently (or will be in the very near future) due to the effects of Covid-19 on the jobs and careers of many. What services can people expect to receive from you as a Redundancy Expert and how can you help them?
Tutu: I am all ears. This is an experience which I have had personally. People need the ability to bounce back after unexpected loss of jobs or contract termination. I'm passionate about people who fall in this category. We help them to identify what the next steps are, assist with job search, offer counselling and support where necessary and I've also partnered with a renowned cv company to assist with cv creation.
Q: Which females, past or present, have been your biggest inspirations?
Tutu: My sister Foluso has been a role model and she taught me that hard work does pay off in the end. Michelle Obama went from nothing to the first black woman in the white house she has proved that anything is possible if you put your mind to it.
Q: You also have spent some time on philanthropic projects including the role of Executive Director at the Autism Treatment Support Initiative.
Can you tell us a little more about this?
Tutu: Yes. Any autism charity is very close to my heart. I ran the London Marathon to raise money for 'Ambitious about Autism' and also (as) a way to give back to the community.
Q: What gets you up in the morning and pushes you to be at your best?
Tutu: My two children for which I have to provide and ensure they are well looked after.
Q: Do you have a life motto or mantra that you follow in your daily life?
Tutu: Yes I do. The road to the top is rocky but you get the best view when you are there. Aim for the top.
Get in Touch with Tutu Soetan today!
Linked in: Tutu Komolafe Soetan
Website: www.dwellingatease.com
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Inspirational read, this has motivated me. I will be getting in touch. Thank you
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