It’s pathetic that female footballers are labelled lesbians —Cynthia Uwak

Cynthia Uwak is an ex-Super Falcons’ player who has been named the African Woman Footballer of the Year twice. The striker, who hails from Akwa Ibom State, has played for clubs in Germany, Finland, Sweden and France. She speaks with DOYIN ADEOYE in this interview about her career, style and the world of female footballers. Excerpts

Your Foray into sports, how did it begin?
I’ve always been a sports lover. In fact, I started playing football when I was young. I used to run around with boys then, playing with anything that was round and kickable. So it came as no surprise when I eventually took up football as a career.
Many girls are often discouraged from pursuing a career in football. Did you have the same experience?
I actually didn’t experience many difficulties. I loved soccer and wanted to play.  Though the money wasn’t coming in that much when I started, I was so much into it that it didn’t bother me.  My mother was my biggest fan. She still is. She not only encouraged me, she supported me. So, as regards having support from home, let’s just say I was lucky.

The idea is the biggest capital anyone can have —Eric Kinoti

Eric Kinoti is an entrepreneur and a mentor. The founder and director of Shade Systems (EA) Ltd, SafiSana Home Services, Alma Tents and Bag Base Kenya Ltd, has appeared twice on Kenya’s list of Top 40 under 40, and the Forbes Top 30 under 30 in Africa. He is also a patron at the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the self-made millionaire speaks with DOYIN ADEOYE in this interview on how he achieved such feats and what it takes to make one’s business survive in Africa. Excerpts:

What spurred you into being an entrepreneur? 
I’ve always wanted to be financially independent, be my own boss and be able to create job opportunities. So when getting a blue collar job became difficult after I completed my tertiary education, I started selling eggs and it was during this time that I discovered I did not need to be employed anymore.
How easy was it getting started as an entrepreneur?
It was never easy, and it will never be easy to start up. I faced a lot of difficulties, so many hurdles and obstacles. In fact, all odds were against me, but I was determined to make my dream a reality.