Ronke Lawal is a UK-based PR and personal-branding coach behind Ariatu PR. From starting her business with her own savings to becoming an award-winning alumna and confident solopreneur, Ronke’s story is about grit, honesty and building visibility on your own terms. We’re featuring her because her journey — navigating class, race and the hidden costs of entrepreneurship — speaks directly to our 5M+ community of women and allies working to lift each other up.
Q: What sparked your decision to start your own business?
Ronke: It was a mix of ambition and frustration — feeling my drive wasn’t being fulfilled in a traditional nine-to-five. I didn’t come from privilege, so I started with savings and a hunger to create something that matched what I knew I could do.
Q: What were the biggest challenges you faced early on?
Ronke: There were several: class and cultural expectations in the UK, subtle biases around race and gender, and the way those things chip away at confidence. Financial lessons from academia didn’t fully prepare me for running and growing a small business — the practicalities of networking, risk and how we invest in ourselves mattered a lot. Over time I had to rebuild my confidence and learn to reframe how I treat money and growth.
Q: What milestone are you most proud of so far?
Ronke: Staying self-employed and being recognised by my university with an alumni award in 2018–2019 was hugely meaningful. It felt like validation — not because I’m after fame, but because it affirmed the value of my work and persistence.
Q: What are your views on women in leadership today?
Ronke: Patriarchy and invisible labour still shape how women are perceived. We do a lot of unseen work at home and in communities, yet are still underestimated professionally. Visibility matters — showing up consistently as role models, building communities, and encouraging proactive allyship (sponsors, not just mentors) are vital to shifting that balance.
Q: What practical advice do you give to future women leaders?
Ronke: Take a chance on yourself. Put yourself in discomfort sometimes, be willing to make mistakes, and invest in skills like public speaking and clear communication. Build a community where you can unload and get honest feedback, then stay laser-focused and consistent about your goals.
Q: Are you a solopreneur or do you run a team?
Ronke: I identify as a solopreneur. I have support for admin tasks, but I’ve chosen a model that fits my lifestyle and prevents burnout. For me, leaning into my personal brand and selective support works best.
Q: How do you define success — professionally and personally?
Ronke: Professionally, success is transforming clients’ visibility and confidence so they can communicate powerfully to stakeholders. Personally, it’s financial security and a relaxed life where I can enjoy family, friends and travel without the constant stress of money.
“You have to take a chance on yourself and back yourself.” — Ronke Lawal
Connect with Ronke Lawal (Ariatu PR):
Ronke Lawal | LinkedIn
Want to be featured? If you’d like to be featured in the Humans of Fuzia series, email us at fuziatalent@fuzia.com.
