Career fairs have become an essential strategy for companies aiming to attract top-tier talents, and Vendease is redefining standards in talent acquisition and development. As a leader in the Food Technology sector, our innovative approach to hiring and nurturing talent was prominently showcased at the Jobberman Career Fair on May 25th, 2024, at Landmark Center. This event provided an opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to fostering a supportive and dynamic company culture, share our core values, and present unique growth opportunities to prospective candidates.
Our CTO and Co-founder, Wale Oyepeju, delivered an insightful speech on “The Role of Networking and Building Professional Relationships in Career Development.”
Drawing from his 20-year career, Wale provided valuable insights into his industry experience, spanning from his university days to the present. Here are some of the key takeaways from his talk:
1. The Power of Purposeful Networking
Wale shared how networking has been instrumental in creating numerous opportunities for his career growth. Through purposeful networking, he has connected with like-minded individuals, turning it into a powerful tool for his professional journey. He highlighted that “the life you want to live, someone is living it, and someone has lived it.” By learning from those who are already making strides in your desired field, you are able to forge meaningful relationships and initiate significant career changes.
2. Navigating Career Transitions
Another standout highlight was addressing pause moments. As Wale put it, “I haven’t experienced pause moments, but I’ve been fortunate to recognize when to make my transitions.” He emphasised the importance of authenticity, networking and in understanding one’s purpose, even when it brings discomfort.
3. The Role of mentorship and Choosing the Right Mentor
Wale shared valuable insights on the importance of mentorship and selecting the right mentor. He mentioned that he has mentors across different areas of his life, including Faith, Profession, and Family. According to Wale, “Don’t just pick a mentor because they’re famous or popular; look for someone who’s genuine and has the time to invest in you.” He highlighted the need for mentors who are authentic and available.
Wale’s parting words were a powerful testament to our company’s culture. He underscored the importance of elevating team members at Vendease, from graduate trainees to full-time staff. This is not just a growth strategy but a reflection of our value on each individual’s contribution during their time with us and beyond.
If you missed our hiring team at the Jobberman fair, click here to apply to any of our open roles, and our team will contact you.Watch the full event here.