Funmi Fatona-Ayowole is a global voice championing total wellness. She is an Executive SoulCoach, Corporate Trainer and Speaker, Certified Wellness and Advanced Teams Coach, OLC-Certified Visionary Leadership Coach, and a Canada-licensed financial advisor who deploys her relational gifts of natural empathy, and disciplined connectedness to help unlock people’s potentials and visions.
Through her work of healing facilitation and wellness coaching, Funmi (fondly referred to as TFA) aims to contribute to healing the world and leaving a legacy of impact, health, and wealth for the next generation. Funmi is also a speaker, project management and marketing communication professional, non-profit founder, and committed entrepreneur.
Funmi began her entrepreneurship journey in 2020 running her private coaching practice – TheSoulClinic – through which she delivers individual and group coaching programmes and content, helping clients build their soul strength for increased mental and emotional independence, clarity, and resilience. She generously offers her services to individuals and communities of Nigerian and African entrepreneurs in Canada by building strong connections and fostering impactful therapeutic relationships.
She is one of Canada’s Top 100 Black Women to Watch for 2024 and she earned the Community Impact Award from Canada Vendors in 2022 due to her work that empowers individuals and organizations to thrive authentically by putting on their oxygen masks first. Recognised for her impact cutting across multiple sectors, Funmi is a trusted expert in transforming how leaders at various levels recharge, recover, and heal mentally and emotionally. From emerging managers to C-suite executives, she is known for creating safe spaces and coaching experiences that facilitate soul healing and emotional clarity. Through her work, she is enabling a new generation of leaders who will be well-equipped to lead and drive their organisations successfully from a place of wholeness and strength.
Funmi is a leading advocate for mental health and complete wellness. As a seasoned Coach, Trainer, and Speaker, she ensures leaders across multiple sectors and disciplines prioritize their well-being. Funmi is also the Founder at TheVirtualSoulClinic – a tech-driven non-profit organisation democratising a listening ear by connecting trained volunteer coaches with people in the community who require mental health support via virtual, high-quality safe spaces. The non-profit platform, launched in 2021, provides mental health first aid – first with an evidence-based QuickScan. This proprietary tool is used to diagnose the client’s mental and emotional health status and based on the results, the client books a free 15-minute call with a support coach that listens, helps untangle mind webs, and invites the client to take initial steps in the direction of healing and recovery.
Services at TheVirtualSoulClinic (diagnostic survey, results, support cal,l and post-call recommendations) are all free of charge. Beneficiaries include new (and not so new) immigrants settling into Canada and young leaders that identify as people of colour from all walks of life. So far, the organisation has trained over 84 support coaches and virtually helped about 900 people via its services. TheVirtualSoulClinic is on a quest to expand its network of support coaches, equip them via continuous training and mentoring, improve the platform’s user experience, and increase its reach.
Connected to Funmi’s global wellness mandate is her work as a licensed financial advisor helping to educate as many North Americans as possible. She believes that families are rescued from the cycle of lack and liabilities along with its mental and emotional health challenges through the right knowledge and corresponding actions.
As a certified project management and marketing communication professional, Funmi brings expertise and over 17 years of experience to several high-value projects, community-building initiatives and visions.
Funmi Fatona-Ayowole is a wife and a supermom who loves to thrive first within and then with her family and inner circle.
Funmi, can you share the vision behind your journey as an Executive SoulCoach and the founding of TheSoulClinic?
My vision for my work as an Executive SoulCoach and the founding of TheSoulClinic is deeply rooted in my personal experience from 2017 till date and the experiences of my clients. As you know, we are all under construction, but in 2017, I hit a record low. I had just experienced a house flood in Maryland, Lagos State that triggered shakings in my mental and emotional health, my marriage and family life and my finances. I was assailed with suicidal thoughts and a completely lack of a sense of self-worth. ‘Co-incidentally’ (because there are actually only God-incidences in life), while aimlessly strolling the streets of Instagram, I came upon a Mom-Coach that changed the trajectory of my life.
I worked closely with her – doing assignments, journaling, asking and answering powerful questions, feeding on resources – for 4 months and it was like my soul was jolted back to life! In the time of our coaching relationship, I discovered my essence and calling to help others. Moving forward, I spent another 2 years getting trained as a faith-based counsellor and an emotional health and wellness coach. I dug deep to explore soul wounds that assailed women and the men who love them and how to facilitate an intentional and highly transformational journey of healing.
My conviction around the #SoulCoaching work was further entrenched when I received a very detailed feedback report expressed by the very first paid client who invested her time and energy into working closely with me for about 120 days. She described such a vivid before-and-after metamorphosis that evidenced a mindset shift, a radical departure from her limiting beliefs, problematic patterns and stark clarity about her identity and what changes she was making going forward. Before my eyes and within a few months, I saw a brand-new woman emerge with fresh confidence that wasn’t as a result of conventional confessions or manifestation theories, but because of the rigorous inner process I led her through. Now, she is a very close friend who has sustained her growth and personal development and I couldn’t be more grateful. On certain days where I doubt myself, I go back to her ‘liquid-gold’ testimonial and say “Funmi, you’ve got this!”
As an Executive SoulCoach, I work with leaders to help them connect with their inner selves, find deeper meaning and purpose in their work, and lead from a place of authenticity. This involves building ‘soul strength’, helping executives develop mental and emotional resilience, clarity, and independence. I address not just professional development, but also the mental, emotional, and spiritual needs of leaders, empowering them to lead with greater self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and a strong sense of purpose.
All these foster healing and remarkable growth, creating a space for clients to address past traumas, overcome challenges, and unlock their full potential. With a focus on immigrants of colour in the Diaspora, I aim to provide culturally relevant support and guidance. “Putting on your oxygen mask first,” my motto, emphasizes the importance of prioritizing one’s own well-being as a foundation for success in all areas of life.
My work is centred around healing past wounds and restoring individuals to a state of wholeness, and I am passionate about empowering individuals to take control of their lives and unlock their innate potential. In essence, my vision is to empower individuals, particularly leaders and entrepreneurs, to achieve total wellness by connecting with their inner selves, building resilience, and leading from a place of authenticity. TheSoulClinic serves as a key vehicle for realizing this vision through coaching, content, and community support.
2020 was a transformative year for many businesses and while many businesses struggled, you saw an opportunity to begin your entrepreneurial journey. Tell us about your background before becoming an entrepreneur.
Prior to launching TheSoulClinic in 2020, my background was quite diverse, providing a rich foundation for my entrepreneurial journey. I spent over 17 years honing my skills as a certified project management and marketing communications professional. This experience exposed me to a wide range of industries and projects, allowing me to develop a strong understanding of strategic planning, communication, and execution. I learned how to manage complex projects, navigate diverse teams, and effectively communicate with various stakeholders.
Alongside my corporate career, I also explored my passion for helping others through various community-building initiatives. This work allowed me to connect with people on a deeper level and understand the importance of fostering strong relationships and creating supportive communities. I also gained experience in the non-profit sector, which further solidified my desire to make a positive impact on the world.
Furthermore, my background as a Canada-licensed financial advisor instilled in me a deep understanding of the importance of financial well-being and its connection to overall wellness. I recognized that financial stress can significantly impact mental and emotional health, and I wanted to address this interconnectedness in my work.
These experiences, combined with my natural empathy and desire to connect with people on a soul level, ultimately led me to pursue my calling as an Executive SoulCoach and found TheSoulClinic. While 2020 presented challenges for many, my diverse background had prepared me to embrace the opportunity and embark on this fulfilling entrepreneurial path.
Tell us what inspired you to focus on mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness, especially for leaders and high-achieving women.
My focus on mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness, particularly for leaders and high-achieving women, is deeply personal and stems from several key inspirations.
Throughout my corporate career and community work, I observed a stark contrast between the outward success and the inner turmoil experienced by many leaders, especially women. They often appeared to have it all together, yet privately struggled with stress, burnout, self-doubt, and a sense of disconnect. I saw how the pressure to “have it all” and maintain a flawless facade took a significant toll on their well-being. This inspired me to create a space where these hidden struggles could be acknowledged and addressed.
I intimately understand the challenges of balancing ambition, personal life, and societal expectations. I recognized the importance of inner strength and resilience, and I knew that true success wasn’t solely defined by external achievements but also by inner peace and fulfillment. This personal understanding fueled my desire to help others navigate similar challenges.
My experience as a financial advisor highlighted the strong link between financial health and overall well-being. I saw how financial stress could negatively impact mental and emotional states, creating a vicious cycle. This reinforced my belief in a holistic approach to wellness, one that addresses the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.
I believe that true leadership comes from a place of authenticity and self-awareness. When leaders are connected to their values, purpose, and inner selves, they can lead with greater clarity, compassion, and impact. I wanted to empower leaders, particularly women, to cultivate this inner alignment and lead from a place of wholeness.
Ultimately, I felt a strong calling to serve and empower others, particularly women who are often underrepresented and underserved in the realm of holistic wellness. I wanted to create a safe and supportive space where they could prioritize their well-being, reconnect with their inner selves, and unlock their full potential. This deep sense of purpose is what drives my work and continues to inspire me every day.
From your experience, what are some of the most common mental and emotional challenges that leaders face, and how do you help them overcome them?
From my experience working with leaders, particularly women, I’ve observed several recurring mental and emotional challenges.
Imposter Syndrome is incredibly prevalent, especially among high-achieving women. They often attribute their success to luck or external factors, fearing they’ll be exposed as a “fraud.” I help them reframe their narratives, acknowledge their accomplishments, and recognize their inherent worth and capabilities. We work on building self-compassion and silencing the inner critic.
The pressure to be perfect in all areas of life – career, family, personal life – can lead to immense stress, anxiety, and burnout. I guide them in letting go of unrealistic expectations, embracing imperfection, and prioritizing progress over perfection. We explore self-acceptance and the power of “good enough.”
Many leaders, especially women who are often socialized to be caregivers, struggle with setting healthy boundaries. They tend to overextend themselves, leading to exhaustion and resentment. I work with them to identify their boundaries, communicate them effectively, and prioritize their own well-being without guilt.
Leaders often feel pressure to project an image of strength and invulnerability. This can prevent them from seeking support or expressing their true emotions. I create a safe and confidential space where they can be authentic and vulnerable without judgment. We explore the power of vulnerability as a strength and how it can foster deeper connections and more effective leadership.
The constant pressure to perform, meet deadlines, and manage multiple responsibilities can lead to chronic stress and burnout. I help them develop strategies for managing stress, prioritizing self-care, and finding balance in their lives. This includes techniques like mindfulness, time management, and setting realistic goals.
Past experiences, often buried deep, can significantly impact present-day thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. I facilitate a process of self-exploration to uncover these root causes and help them heal from past traumas. This is done with sensitivity and care, providing a safe space for processing difficult emotions and rewriting limiting narratives.
My approach to helping leaders overcome these challenges is holistic and personalized. I use a combination of coaching techniques, including deep listening and empathy, creating a safe and non-judgmental space for them to share their experiences. I guide them to identify their patterns, beliefs, and triggers through self-reflection and awareness. I help them challenge negative thoughts and replace them with more positive and empowering ones through reframing and cognitive restructuring. I co-create personalized strategies and actionable steps to achieve their goals through action planning and goal setting. I introduce tools and techniques for managing stress and prioritizing well-being through mindfulness and self-care practices.
Ultimately, I empower leaders to connect with their inner strength, cultivate resilience, and lead from a place of authenticity and wholeness.
How do you stay ahead of trends in wellness and coaching to ensure your methods and approaches are innovative and effective?
Staying ahead of trends in wellness and coaching is crucial for ensuring my methods remain innovative and effective. I prioritize continuous learning and engagement in several ways. I actively pursue certifications, workshops, and conferences related to coaching, psychology, neuroscience, mindfulness, and other relevant fields. This allows me to stay informed about the latest research, techniques, and best practices. I’m committed to expanding my knowledge base and refining my skills.
I actively engage with other coaches, therapists, and wellness professionals through memberships in professional organizations, attending industry events, and participating in peer supervision groups. These connections provide valuable opportunities to exchange ideas, learn from others’ experiences, and stay abreast of emerging trends.
I dedicate time to reading books, articles, and research papers on topics related to wellness, leadership, human behavior, and personal development. I also follow thought leaders and experts in these fields to stay informed about their latest insights and perspectives.
My clients are a valuable source of information. I actively solicit feedback on my coaching methods and observe the results they achieve. This allows me to identify what works effectively and what areas could be improved. I believe in adapting my approach based on individual needs and evolving trends.
I prioritize my own personal development and well-being through regular mindfulness practices and self-reflection. This allows me to stay grounded, maintain clarity, and be more attuned to the needs of my clients. It also helps me identify any personal biases or blind spots that could impact my coaching.
I explore and integrate relevant technologies and innovative approaches into my coaching practice, such as virtual platforms, online resources, and new assessment tools. This allows me to reach a wider audience and provide more engaging and effective coaching experiences.
By consistently engaging in these practices, I ensure that my coaching methods are grounded in evidence-based principles, aligned with current trends, and tailored to meet the evolving needs of my clients. I’m committed to providing the highest quality coaching experience and empowering my clients to achieve lasting transformation.
Let’s talk about one of the many impactful recognitions you’ve received. In 2024, you were recognized as one of Canada’s Top 100 Black Women to Watch for 2024. How do accolades like this influence your work and mission?
Being recognized as one of Canada’s Top 100 Black Women to Watch for 2024 is truly an honor and a deeply humbling experience. Accolades like this have a profound influence on my work and mission in several ways.
It serves as powerful validation that the work I’m doing is making a difference. It reinforces that my commitment to empowering women, particularly Black women, is seen and valued. This encouragement fuels my passion and motivates me to continue pushing boundaries and striving for an even greater impact.
This recognition significantly amplifies my visibility and reach, allowing me to connect with a wider audience. It opens doors to new collaborations, partnerships, and opportunities to share my message and expand my impact. It helps me reach women who may not have otherwise found my work.
Being recognized by a reputable organization enhances my credibility and builds trust with potential clients and partners. It signals that my work is of high quality and that I am a recognized leader in my field. This increased trust makes it easier to connect with and serve those who need my support. With increased visibility comes increased responsibility. I feel a deeper sense of accountability to continue upholding the values and principles that led to this recognition. It motivates me to be a role model and to use my platform to advocate for positive change and empower other Black women.
Perhaps most importantly, I hope that this recognition inspires other Black women and girls to pursue their dreams and make a difference in their communities. I want them to see that their voices matter, their contributions are valued, and their potential is limitless. I believe that representation is crucial, and I hope that my journey can inspire others to believe in themselves and pursue their passions.
Ultimately, accolades like this are not just about personal recognition; they are about amplifying a message of empowerment, creating positive change, and inspiring others to reach their full potential. I am deeply grateful for this recognition and committed to using it to further my mission of empowering women to thrive.
Most people lived 2024 in survival mode and hope to thrive in this new year. In your words, what does it really mean to ‘Thrive’, regardless of the season one is in, and how do you help your clients achieve this transformation?
“Thriving,” to me, transcends simply surviving or getting by. It’s about living a life of purpose, fulfillment, and joy, regardless of external circumstances. It’s about cultivating inner resilience, connecting with your authentic self, and living in alignment with your values. It’s not about achieving a state of constant happiness—life inevitably brings challenges—but about having the inner resources to navigate those challenges with grace, strength, and a sense of meaning.
More specifically, thriving encompasses inner peace and well-being, cultivating a sense of calm, contentment, and self-acceptance, even amidst stress or adversity. It includes purposeful living, aligning your actions with your values, and pursuing goals that are meaningful and fulfilling. It involves resilience and adaptability, developing the capacity to bounce back from setbacks, learn from challenges, and adapt to change. It’s about authenticity and self-expression, living in alignment with your true self, expressing your unique gifts and talents, and building genuine connections with others. Thriving is also about growth and development, continuously learning, evolving, and expanding your potential. It includes meaningful relationships, and cultivating strong, supportive relationships that nourish your soul.
I help my clients achieve this transformation through a holistic and personalized coaching approach. I guide them through a process of self-discovery, helping them identify limiting beliefs and patterns, and exploring deeply rooted beliefs and patterns that may be holding them back from thriving. We address unresolved traumas or past experiences that may be impacting their present-day lives by healing past wounds. We work together to define their core values and identify what truly brings them meaning and fulfillment by clarifying values and purpose. I equip them with practical tools and techniques for managing stress, building resilience, and navigating challenges by developing resilience strategies. We co-create actionable steps to achieve their goals and live a life aligned with their values through setting meaningful goals and creating action plans. I encourage them to prioritize their well-being and develop sustainable self-care practices by cultivating self-compassion and self-care.
Ultimately, my goal is to empower my clients to move beyond surviving and truly thrive, regardless of the season they are in. I help them build the inner resources, clarity, and confidence to live a life that is both meaningful and fulfilling.
How do you define “true leadership” and how does your work empower individuals to become authentic and impactful leaders?
I define “true leadership” as leading from a place of wholeness, authenticity, and service. It’s not solely about holding a title or position of power, but rather about inspiring and empowering others through integrity, empathy, and a clear vision. True leadership encompasses self-awareness, and understanding your strengths, weaknesses, values, and beliefs. Knowing yourself deeply is the foundation for leading others effectively.
It involves authenticity, leading from your true self, and being genuine and transparent in your interactions. This builds trust and foster stronger connections. True leadership includes empathy and compassion, understanding and valuing the perspectives and experiences of others. This creates a supportive and inclusive environment. It requires vision and purpose, having a clear vision for the future, and inspiring others to work towards a common goal. It demands integrity and accountability, acting with honesty and ethical principles, and taking responsibility for your actions and decisions. True leadership involves empowerment and development, investing in the growth and development of others, and empowering them to reach their full potential. And finally, it focuses on service and contribution, focusing on making a positive impact and contributing to something larger than yourself.
My work empowers individuals to become authentic and impactful leaders by focusing on several key areas. Through self-reflection exercises, assessments, and deep conversations, I help clients gain a deeper understanding of themselves, their values, and their leadership style by cultivating self-awareness. I create a safe space for clients to explore their true selves, identify any limiting beliefs or patterns that may be hindering their authenticity, and develop the courage to lead from a place of genuine self-expression by embracing authenticity. I help clients enhance their emotional intelligence by improving their self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, and social skills. This enables them to build stronger relationships, communicate effectively, and navigate complex interpersonal dynamics by developing emotional intelligence. I guide clients in defining their vision for their leadership and aligning it with their personal values and purpose. This provides them with a clear direction and inspires them to lead with passion and conviction by clarifying their vision and purpose. I equip clients with tools and techniques for managing stress, building resilience, and navigating challenges effectively. This enables them to lead with greater clarity and composure, even in demanding situations by building resilience and managing stress. I help clients develop their ability to empower and develop others by fostering a culture of trust, support, and accountability. This creates a positive and productive environment where everyone can thrive by empowering others.
By focusing on these key areas, I empower individuals to move beyond traditional notions of leadership and embrace a more authentic, impactful, and fulfilling way of leading. They learn to lead not just from their minds, but from their hearts and souls, creating a positive ripple effect in their organizations and communities.
What personal practices do you engage in to ensure you stay mentally, emotionally, and physically fit to do the work you do?
As someone who guides others on their wellness journeys, I prioritize my own well-being to ensure I can show up fully present and effective for my clients. I engage in several personal practices to maintain mental, emotional, and physical fitness.
I practice daily mindfulness and meditation to cultivate inner peace, enhance self-awareness, and manage stress. This helps me stay grounded and present, even during demanding periods. I incorporate regular physical activity into my routine, whether it’s walking, yoga, or other forms of exercise. This helps me boost my energy levels, improve my mood, and maintain physical health.
I prioritize a balanced and nutritious diet to fuel my body and mind. I focus on whole foods, plenty of fruits and vegetables, and stay hydrated. I prioritize getting enough quality sleep to allow my body and mind to rest and recharge. I maintain a consistent sleep schedule and create a relaxing bedtime routine.
I set clear boundaries between my work and personal life to prevent burnout. I also prioritize self-care activities that nourish my soul, such as spending time in nature, reading, listening to music, or engaging in creative pursuits. I nurture my relationships with family and friends, and engage in activities that connect me with my community. This provides me with support, connection, and a sense of belonging.
I am committed to ongoing personal and professional development. I engage in activities that challenge me, expand my knowledge, and keep me inspired. I dedicate time to self-reflection and journaling to process my experiences, gain insights, and track my progress. This helps me stay aligned with my values and purpose.
I believe in the power of seeking support when needed. I have my own support system, including mentors, coaches, and therapists, who provide guidance and support on my own journey. These practices are not just occasional activities but integral parts of my lifestyle. They help me maintain balance, resilience, and a deep sense of well-being, allowing me to effectively support my clients on their own paths to thriving.
What are some future goals you’d like to share for TheSoulClinic and TheVirtualSoulClinic, and how do you plan to expand your impact around the world in the coming years?
I have ambitious goals for both TheSoulClinic and TheVirtualSoulClinic, driven by a deep desire to expand my impact and reach more people around the world.
For TheSoulClinic, my vision includes expanding program offerings with more specialized programs and workshops tailored to specific needs, such as leadership development for women of color, navigating career transitions, and building stronger relationships. I envision creating a thriving online community where clients can connect with each other, share experiences, and receive ongoing support. This will foster a sense of belonging and create a powerful network of empowered individuals. I aim to collaborate with other organizations and businesses that share my values to reach a wider audience and offer more comprehensive services.
For TheVirtualSoulClinic, my focus is on scaling reach and impact by significantly increasing the number of people we serve by expanding our network of trained volunteer coaches and improving our platform’s accessibility and user experience. This includes exploring different languages and cultural adaptations. I plan to invest in technology to improve our diagnostic tools, streamline our processes, and provide more personalized support. This includes exploring AI-powered solutions to enhance the matching process between clients and coaches.
My ultimate goal is to expand TheVirtualSoulClinic’s reach globally, providing accessible mental health first aid to underserved communities around the world. This involves building partnerships with local organizations and adapting our services to different cultural contexts. I am actively working on securing sustainable funding to support the long-term growth and impact of TheVirtualSoulClinic. This includes exploring grant opportunities, corporate sponsorships, and other fundraising initiatives.
To expand my impact globally in the coming years, I plan to leverage technology, utilizing online platforms, social media, and virtual events to connect with people and organizations around the world. I will build strategic partnerships, collaborating with international organizations, NGOs, and community leaders to reach diverse populations and address specific needs in different regions. I intend to develop culturally relevant programs, adapting my coaching programs and content to be culturally sensitive and relevant to different audiences. I will empower local individuals by providing training and mentorship to become certified coaches in their communities, creating a sustainable and localized impact. I will share my message and expertise at conferences, workshops, and other events around the world to inspire and empower a global audience.
My vision is to create a global movement of empowered individuals who are thriving in all areas of their lives. I believe that by working together and leveraging technology, we can create a world where everyone has access to the support and resources they need to achieve their full potential.
What is the most important message you want to share with our readers as we embark on a new year?
As we embark on a new year, the most important message I want to share is this: YOU ARE WORTHY OF THRIVING. Regardless of what the past year held, regardless of the challenges you may be facing right now, you possess an inherent capacity for resilience, growth, and joy. You are not defined by your struggles, but by how you rise above them.
This new year is a fresh start, a chance to write a new chapter in your story. You may have been diligently working on your mental health, but sometimes deeper healing is required to break free from persistent patterns and limiting beliefs rooted in past experiences. If you suspect unresolved trauma, ingrained patterns, or deep-seated emotional wounds are impacting your present-day life, consider giving yourself permission to work with an emotional health coach in 2025. An emotional health coach provides a safe, trauma-informed space to explore these deeper issues, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and cultivate self-compassion.
I encourage you to embrace this new year with courage, self-compassion, and a deep belief in your own potential. You are capable of creating a life that is not only successful but also deeply fulfilling. You are worthy of thriving, and I believe in you.
This new year is an opportunity to prioritize your well-being, to reconnect with your authentic self, and to create a life that is truly aligned with your values and purpose. This means giving yourself permission to prioritize your mental and emotional health. Investing in your inner well-being is not a luxury, but a necessity. Prioritizing your own needs is not selfish; it’s essential for your overall well-being and your ability to show up for others.
It means giving yourself permission to embrace imperfection and practice self-compassion. You don’t have to be perfect to be worthy of love and belonging. Be kind to yourself, especially during challenging times. It means giving yourself permission to connect with your purpose and pursue your passions. You have unique gifts and talents to share with the world. Don’t be afraid to pursue what truly lights you up.
