Female Founder : Anita Erskine

Business Name: Anita Erskine Media

Industry : Broadcasting and Media Production

Instagram Handle: @theanitaerskine

What inspired you to start your business?

Necessity! I wanted to create a certain kind of audio visual content which spoke to my target in a particular way. I wanted to break the rules! So I decided to do things my own way. And created my business to do that! 

When did you start?

Officially in 2016

Why this specific industry

For me, Communication is key. To be able to reach an audience through the power of words is crucial. 

When I began my journey in communications I was very young! I stuck with it because I learnt the power of connecting with audiences! I’ve never looked back! 

What obstacles did you face starting up, and how did you overcome them?

As positive as my raw ambition was (and still is) I needed to learn how to plan to be more effective and efficient. To be bold, almost wild and loud came with its own risks! But I told myself there was absolutely NO PLAN B!!! I’m not sure I have overcome all the challenges because every phase comes with its own challenges! 

What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned since starting your business?

This is a tough one. I can’t give you only one! A few maybe. Be honest. Be transparent. Be vocal. Commit. Don’t make excuses! That’s it. 

Why work for yourself when there’s stability in working for others?

I dedicated a few years to working for others. I learnt some major invaluable lessons. But one day it occurred to me that just as they had shaped me, I could shape others! Today, being able to create opportunities for the next generation is absolutely priceless for me.  Additionally, to be brutally honest, I was led by my raw ambition. I don’t think I ever stopped and said “I won’t work for anyone”. I think who I am today and the business I’m running, happened! And I have no regrets. 

What is the one characteristic that you possess that has helped make you so successful? 

I am fearless. Simple. 

What’s your guiding business philosophy?

The space between the dream and the eventual success, is EFFORT. 

At what moment did this venture become real for you?

When my show, Sheroes was first licensed! From then on, I knew it wasn’t just a passion. It was a livelihood! 

What is the worst part about being an entrepreneur?

If you truly want to succeed, you have no choice but to MAKE THINGS HAPPEN! This means, you have to be the leader, the follower, the doer. All of it! This can be overwhelming and very exhausting. 

What makes it all worth it?

The end goal! Reaching that pinnacle is always sweet victory! 

What advice do you have for someone just starting out?

First, discover your WHY! It facilitates the WHAT! 

How do you define success? 

I define success as the moment when you realize that someone’s life has just changed because of you! 

What did you do differently from the rest of us?

Haha! Is this a trick question? I’m not sure that it is fair, I did things differently from the rest of you. I believe I identified all the things that LIFTED my spirit and I pursued them without fear! 

What do you believe is the female founder effect?

The female founder effect is the acceptance of ownership and the intention that guards THAT woman to excel without the fear that her environment or community can or will stop her. 

As a Generation Equality ambassador, what do you believe is the most impactful and immediate action society need to the to move closer to Generation Equality goals 

We need to back the conversation with action. We have to hold ourselves accountable and we have to aggressively pursue the policies that will change the attitudes that prevent women and girls from excelling in their various fields. 

Which woman has positively impacted you in your career/business? And what is the one lesson she taught you?

I will always give the honor to my mother! Whose sacrifices have truly strengthened my will power to excel! I have always believed that success is the by-product of a firm and strong personal mission. 

What is your superpower?

My higher power. My God. 

What centres you?

My children. They really do now how to make me feel cool, strong, wanted and relevant. 

What is your next adventure?

In 1995 I did my first theatre play. I discovered a whole new side of me. Radio and TV Broadcasting however took center stage. In 2018 I had an opportunity to feature in a 13 week series. A new light within me shone! My love for acting came right back! This year I have had the opportunity to act in a major soap on DSTV’s Akwaaba magic. I can confirm that I will remain in this exciting space for a while!! My show, SHEROES OF OUR TIME has also just been syndicated around the world! This is big for me. Because I’m on a mission to have a global conversation about the power, effect and impact of our Women! 

Rapid Fire Questions 

Favourite way to unplug 

• Hang out with the kids. 

Apps I can’t live without 

• LinkedIn! 

Three books  that changed my life 

• Our Sister Kill Joy by Ama Atta Aidoo 

• Harmattan Rain by Ayesha Harruna Attah 

• The Justice by Boachewaa GLover 

Best advice for female founders 

• Start today...do it on your own terms......live with intention and OWN YOUR SPACE!