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FACE OF THE WEEK

Rukayat Yusufu: Bridging Cultures Through Brand Ambassadorship at Miss Diaspora Nigeria USA

Rukayat Yusufu, a first-generation Nigerian-American, embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship and cultural pride as the Brand Ambassador for the Miss Diaspora Nigeria USA Pageant.

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Karra Ideozu Photography

Growing up in a family that values business acumen—her father is the founder of Ola-Ola—Rukayat gained invaluable insights from an early age that have profoundly influenced her career trajectory.

With a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations and Marketing from Long Beach State University, Rukayat has confidently established herself in the competitive realm of digital marketing. Specializing in influencer marketing, social media strategy, and brand partnerships, she has developed a keen ability to create impactful connections that resonate across diverse audiences. Her work is underpinned by the core values of hard work, resilience, and community—principles instilled in her through her family’s entrepreneurial journey.

As the Brand Ambassador for Miss Diaspora Nigeria USA, Rukayat uniquely blends her cultural heritage with innovative global marketing strategies. She honors her Nigerian roots while crafting campaigns that speak to a broader audience, showcasing the beauty and diversity of Nigerian culture. Her expertise lies in creating engaging content that not only drives measurable results but also tells compelling stories that resonate with people from all walks of life.

Karra Ideozu Photography | DIZZYDIDDY+PLUS FACE OF THE WEEK

I believe in the power of storytelling to connect with others. Through my role, I strive to celebrate our heritage and push for greater representation in every campaign we create.” Rukayat’s commitment to authenticity extends to her partnerships with brands that share her vision of making a lasting impact in the community.

Driven by a desire to embrace diversity and create extraordinary success, Rukayat Yusufu exemplifies what it means to be a modern leader in the marketing space. As she continues to shape narratives that matter, her work as a Brand Ambassador is not only about promoting the pageant but also about uplifting her community and fostering connections that transcend borders. With a passion for innovation and a dedication to her roots, Rukayat is poised to make a significant impact in both the marketing industry and the cultural landscape.

Can you tell us a little about yourself and what you do?

I’m Rukayat “Rue” Yusufu, a first-generation Nigerian-American, and I’ve always been driven by the entrepreneurial spirit that runs in my family. Those early experiences gave me a strong foundation in strategy and helped me develop a unique ability to connect brands with their audience in impactful ways. Today, I specialize in influencer marketing and event production, where I get to leverage that background to create memorable campaigns and collaborations that drive results.

What inspired you to pursue your career or business?

What truly inspired me to pursue a career in marketing and event production was growing up surrounded by entrepreneurship, largely thanks to my father. Witnessing him build and scale a successful business gave me a firsthand perspective on transforming a cultural delicacy into a high-quality, mass-produced consumer good. It also highlighted the importance of storytelling in brand building. I realized how effective marketing can elevate a brand and forge meaningful connections with customers.

That early exposure sparked my passion for marketing, and I knew I wanted to use those same principles to help other brands thrive. I’ve always been drawn to the creative process of crafting campaigns and events that resonate with people, so moving into influencer marketing and event production was a natural fit. I love the challenge of bringing together business strategy and creativity to create something impactful, whether it’s through a launch event, a digital campaign, or influencer collaborations.

How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals?

Staying motivated and focused on my goals is all about staying connected to my “why.” I constantly remind myself that what I do goes beyond just marketing or event production—it’s about helping brands make meaningful connections with their audience and creating experiences that leave a lasting impact. I’m driven by a desire to see the results of hard work, whether that’s through a successful influencer campaign or a well-executed event that brings a vision to life. Setting clear, actionable goals helps me stay focused, and I break them down into manageable tasks so I can see steady progress.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned in your career/business journey so far?

The biggest lesson I’ve learned in my career is the importance of adaptability. No matter how much planning you do, unexpected challenges will always pop up. Embracing change and being open to new ideas has helped me navigate those moments with confidence. It’s taught me that every setback can be an opportunity for growth. Staying flexible and keeping a positive mindset allows me to pivot when needed and find creative solutions, which has been a game-changer in my journey. Ultimately, it’s about trusting the process and knowing that each experience good and bad adds value to my path.

How do you define success?

” I define success as the ability to create a meaningful and lasting impact, both personally and professionally.”

It’s not just about hitting targets or achieving external milestones—though those are important—but more about how well I’m able to align my work with my purpose. Success, to me, is about consistently growing, learning, and pushing boundaries while staying true to my values.

How has your faith or spirituality played a role in your career/business?

My Christian faith has been a foundation in my career, providing me with both guidance and confidence, especially when navigating uncertain paths. There have been moments when I wasn’t entirely sure of a decision or the outcome, but my faith gave me the clarity and courage to move forward, trusting that things would work out as they should.

It’s helped me take strategic risks, believing that even when I can’t see the full picture, God has a plan. I lean on my faith to stay grounded, focused, and optimistic, even during challenging times. It reminds me that there’s a purpose in everything, and as long as I continue to work with integrity, creativity, and passion, I’m walking the path meant for me. It’s also given me the ability to lead with kindness, empathy, and a sense of service, knowing that my work can impact others in meaningful ways.

Who is your biggest inspiration, and why?

” My biggest inspiration is my father, Fatai Yusufu, the founder of Ola-Ola. “

Watching him build the business from the ground up has shaped so much of who I am today. His journey taught me the value of perseverance, strategic thinking, and the power of connections. He didn’t just build a business—he created a legacy by staying true to his vision and putting his heart into everything he does.

His entrepreneurial spirit, resilience in the face of challenges, and ability to create meaningful relationships through business have inspired me to approach my career with the same mindset. He showed me the importance of believing in yourself, trusting your instincts, and having faith even when the path isn’t clear. That’s something I carry with me every day, and it motivates me to push forward, make bold decisions, and build something impactful.

How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?

For me, keeping a healthy work-life balance comes down to setting boundaries and making time for what really matters. I stay organized and focus on getting the important stuff done, so I can enjoy my downtime without feeling overwhelmed. Taking time to recharge—whether that’s through family, faith, or just doing what I love—keeps me grounded and ready to tackle work with a clear mind. It’s all about finding that flow and not letting one side take over.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in your field?

If you’re just starting out in the field, my biggest tip is to stay curious and keep learning. Explore different areas and see what really excites you. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek advice from people who have been around a bit longer; having a mentor can be super helpful. Also, focus on building genuine relationships and networking with others in the industry. You never know where those connections might lead! 

What is something that people often misunderstand about your work/business?

People often assume my work is just about planning fun events for influencers to post online, but there’s a lot more to it. It involves strategic thinking, managing tight deadlines, coordinating with multiple teams, and ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. It’s not always glamorous, but seeing all the planning and hard work pay off in a successful campaign or event is incredibly rewarding!

What is the most rewarding aspect of your work/business?

The most rewarding part of my work is seeing everything come together and actually make an impact. After all the planning and behind-the-scenes work, it’s so satisfying to see an event or campaign resonate with people. Whether it’s influencers connecting with their audience or a brand’s message hitting the mark, knowing I helped make that happen feels great. And seeing everyone’s excitement and positive feedback? That’s just the cherry on top!

What is something that you’re passionate about outside of your work/business?

Outside of my work, I’m passionate about self-discovery and keeping my faith first. They both ground me, helping me grow personally and stay focused on my purpose, no matter where life or business takes me.

What is the most valuable skill you have learned in your career/business?

The most valuable skill I’ve picked up in my career is definitely effective communication. Whether I’m working with teams, connecting with influencers, or chatting with clients, being able to express my ideas clearly and really listen has made a huge difference. Good communication helps build strong relationships and makes it easier to tackle challenges together. Plus, it’s a skill that helps me connect with people on a personal level, too!

How do you deal with failure or setbacks?

When I run into setbacks, I like to see them as lessons rather than failures. I take a moment to reflect on what didn’t go as planned, figure out what I can learn from it, and keep moving forward. It’s all part of the process, and every challenge helps me grow. Staying positive and resilient is key—each setback is just a stepping stone to getting better and stronger.

Karma Ideozu Photography

Karra Ideozu Photography

What is your philosophy in life?

My philosophy in life is to stay true to myself, keep my faith at the center, and approach everything with a mindset of growth. I believe in embracing challenges as opportunities to learn, staying open to new experiences, and always striving to make a positive impact on others. For me, it’s about balancing ambition with gratitude and staying grounded while reaching for new heights.

What is that one life lesson that you learned a little too late?

One life lesson I learned a little too late is the importance of therapy, especially as a first-generation child in America. Growing up, I didn’t realize how much pressure I was carrying—from navigating cultural expectations to figuring out my own identity. Therapy has been crucial in helping me unpack those experiences, process emotions, and better understand myself. It’s something I believe all first-generation kids could benefit from, as it provides the tools to manage the unique challenges we face while staying connected to both our roots and our personal growth.

What is one thing that you have accomplished that you’re most proud of?

One of the accomplishments I’m most proud of is being considered for the Forbes 30 Under 30 list for my impact in influencer marketing within the fashion industry. While I didn’t place, the recognition itself was a huge milestone and was external validation of the work I’ve done to connect brands with their audiences in meaningful ways. On a personal level, I’m also proud of the time I’ve invested in developing my self-awareness and understanding of others. This journey has not only helped me grow but has also enhanced the way I work with teams and influencers. It’s all about making an impact, both professionally and personally!

How do you see yourself and your business/career evolving in the future?

I see myself and my career evolving in exciting ways as I continue to embrace new opportunities and challenges. I plan to expand my expertise in influencer marketing and event production, exploring innovative strategies to connect brands with their audiences even more effectively. I also envision building stronger relationships within the industry and mentoring others who are just starting out. Overall, I’m committed to continuous growth and learning, and I’m excited to see where this journey will take me in the future!

How do you give back to your community or make a positive impact in the world?

I give back to my community through my non-profit, SheConnects, which empowers young Nigerian women to break into the marketing field. We offer resources, mentorship, and training to help them build their skills and confidence as they pursue their careers. I really believe in the power of support and education to create opportunities, and it feels great to help shape the next generation of women in marketing.

Do you have a favorite quote? What is it?

One of my favorite quotes comes from the Bible, Ecclesiastes 3:11: “He has made everything beautiful in its time; also He has set eternity in their heart, yet so that man cannot find out the work that God hath done from the beginning even to the end.” I love this verse because it reminds me that everything happens for a reason and at the right moment. It encourages me to embrace the journey, knowing that even the challenges and waiting periods can lead to something beautiful and meaningful. It’s a great reminder to trust the process and have faith that everything will come together in its own time.

“He has made everything beautiful in its time; also He has set eternity in their heart, yet so that man cannot find out the work that God hath done from the beginning even to the end.”

What is the best advice you have ever received?

The best advice I’ve ever received is to have faith that everything will come together in its own time. This reminder has helped me stay patient and optimistic, especially during challenging moments. It’s easy to get caught up in the rush and feel pressure to have everything figured out, but trusting the process allows me to embrace each step of the journey. 

How do you stay innovative and adapt to changing circumstances in your field?

To stay innovative and adapt to changes in my field, I focus on continuous learning and keep my curiosity alive. I love diving into new trends, reading up on industry news, and attending workshops or conferences to soak up fresh ideas.

Finally, can you share a funny story or experience related to entrepreneurship that you’ve had?

I planned a fun Mother’s Day brunch to celebrate mothers out there for the brand I was working with, and I even got Christina Milian to host! She brought her sister, Danielle Flores, along, which was a nice surprise.

But then there was a funny mistake—the team accidentally printed out a picture of Elizabeth Flores instead of Danielle’s for the event. When Christina saw it, she just laughed, and I couldn’t help but join in. We ended up turning it into a little joke for the brunch, making light comments about how Elizabeth might show up unexpectedly!

In the end, everyone had a good laugh, and it just added to the fun vibe of the day. Christina was such a great sport about it, and we all left feeling good. Lesson learned: always triple-check the work from your team, but if you mess up, just go with it and enjoy the moment!

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ABOUT DIZZYDIDDY+MAG FACES:

“Celebrating Impactful Achievements Across Various Fields”

DIZZYDIDDY+MAG has launched a new initiative called “Face of the Week,” which aims to showcase the achievements of men and women who are making an impact in various fields, including entrepreneurship, entertainment, education, communication, and more. Each week of the year, from January to December, a new face will be introduced to the public through DIZZYDIDDY+MAG’s platform.

Many of these faces of the week will also be honored at the Crownys, which are the DIZZYDIDDY+MAG Awards and where all the faces and people who worked or partnered with DIZZYDIDDY+PLUS will be celebrated. The ultimate goal of this initiative is to give recognition and exposure to individuals who are making a positive difference in their respective fields.

The initiative will culminate with the release of a printed magazine in December for the Face Of The Year.

By highlighting the achievements of these individuals, DIZZYDIDDY+MAG hopes to inspire and encourage others to pursue their passions and make a positive impact in the world.