NAMI NEWSLETTER 206 March 18, 2024

With an impressive professional record spanning almost three decades, Omena Babalola possesses a wealth of expertise in diverse areas such as management, accounting, finance, risk management, audit, and information technology. She graduated with a bachelor of social science (Economics) from Obafemi Awolowo University in 1989 and has since added, Master’s in Business Administration (MBA), Certified Professional Accountant (CPA), Certified International Auditor (CIA), Certified Information Security Auditor (CISA), and Certification in Risk Management Assurance (CRMA) to her qualifications.

Beyond her professional achievements, Omena is an active community volunteer. She dedicates her time to serving on the boards of various not-for-profit, charitable, and professional organizations in Winnipeg. She is also a mentor to young people, supporting their career and athletic aspirations.

Elected to the Cambrian Credit Union Board in 2023, she has held various roles on boards throughout her illustrious career. She has been vice president (since 2018) and director (since 2012) for the Athletics Manitoba Board. For the past eighteen years, Omena has lent her auditing expertise to Manitoba Hydro, specializing in information technology, contracts, and operational engagements. Her tenure at Manitoba Hydro has been marked by an in-depth understanding of operations across all business units, identifying performance gaps, and formulating solutions, some of which have influenced corporate policies. Her abilities extend to identifying weaknesses in internal controls, uncovering opportunities for process enhancement, evaluating the impact of risks, and leading the charge in implementing effective solutions. Prior to her role at Manitoba Hydro, Omena contributed over six years as an Internal Auditor at the Western Canada Lotteries Corporation.

Currently, in her mid-50s, Omena has maintained a remarkable commitment to athletics, remaining a high-performing athlete with numerous accolades to her name. Her notable accomplishments include

• Earning a Canadian University Bronze medal,
• Dominating sprint events in Nova Scotia and Atlantic Canada, and
• Receiving Manitoba Championship titles in the 100m and 200m events.

A defining moment in her athletic journey was winning the bronze medal in the 200m at the Canadian Championships in 1992, defying expectations and emphasizing the limitless potential of striving to give one’s best. She remains one of the top female athletes competing in sprint events at the Masters level, and her name graces the Manitoba Provincial Masters record book for short sprints, a testament to her enduring prowess. Her passion for athletics has transcended generations, as her daughter also followed in her footsteps as a track athlete representing the University of Manitoba and the province. Their shared moment on the track in the 100m at the 2022 Manitoba Provincial Championships was a heartwarming testament to Omena’s enduring love for the sport.

As a coach and mentor, Omena has touched the lives of countless people, especially young women, at various stages of their athletic and career journeys, from elementary school to university and club levels. Her coaching philosophy centres on empowering young women to excel in the field, workplace, and personal lives.

She is an exceptional mentor whose qualities resonate deeply with those fortunate enough to have her guidance. One of her outstanding qualities as a mentor is her ability to inspire and motivate. She leads by example, demonstrating a solid work ethic, perseverance, and a passion for continuous learning. Her enthusiasm is infectious, encouraging mentees to push their boundaries and strive for excellence. Omena is a great communicator, adept at imparting complex concepts clearly and understandably, making her guidance highly effective. She instills confidence in her mentees, helping them believe in their abilities and encouraging them to take on challenges with determination. Omena’s guidance is not limited to just professional matters; she also takes a personal interest in the growth and well-being of her mentees. Her mentees are genuinely fortunate to have her in their corner. Her ability to provide constructive feedback in a nurturing and supportive manner is a testament to her excellent mentoring skills.

Omena’s inspiring journey reminds us that laudable achievement is possible despite societal perceptions and limitations on age, gender, or race.

Her contributions to our community, professionally, personally, and athletically, are truly exceptional.

Know a trailblazer within our community?…please share their profile