I Am African And I Can: Linda Arrey

Women Taking On Leadership Roles

Linda Arrey is not your typical girl next door. She exudes waves of confidence wherever she goes. The Cameroonian-born philanthropist and businesswoman is using her lived experiences to empower masses.

Just when you thought one degree is enough to live a fulfilling life, Arrey pulls out not one, not two, but three degrees. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science, a Bachelor of Science in Biology, and a Masters in Healthcare Administration.

Arrey's energy is invested in helping others. She is a healthcare administrator for the US Air Force.

Everyday, Arrey looks forward to going to work because she loves her profession. From 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., she is responsible for keeping things running on track: meetings, conference calls, problem resolutions, looking into proposals, educating her clients, and making sure that staff is doing what they are supposed to do.

Her day doesn't end there. When she is not at the office, she is home building her own business.

"I have a gift in bringing people's vision to life," she said.

She owns her very own Consultation firm, Lindaarrey Inc, and is President and CEO at WILDE (Women In Leadership Development and Empowerment).

Currently, there are 22 members enrolled in WILDE. Her not for profit membership-based organization is a melting pot of women with different professions -- they, too, run their own businesses.

When these successful women collaborate for humanitarian purposes, we can expect innovation at its best.

Although Arrey is always surrounded by ambitious women, she would like to see a lot more women believe in themselves and take initiative.

"People always ask me how I am able to do what I do; my response to them is: 'I just do it.'"

"You cannot do life alone," she added. Arrey believes that with the right guidance, many women can accomplish their goals.

"Every body needs a mentor and every mentor should reach out to a mentee," she went on to say.

Arrey believes in a push-pull system, where those who are at the top must learn to reach and pull up those who are not.

To some people, "no" is a rejection. To Arrey, it is the contrary: "When you tell me 'no,' it encourages me to do more," she said passionately. Her inspiration comes from wanting to be better.

"My goals are my inspiration because I know I can achieve them."

How does a woman who dedicates her all to helping others find balance in her own life?

In Arrey's mind, it is simple arithmetic. No matter how hectic her job gets, she always finds time for herself. "I have to take care of me, then I can take care of others."

Her philosophy on work ethic is: "you need time to rest so you can recuperate and be more productive."

Arrey enjoys connecting with nature. She also liberates her mind and body by running at least three to four times a week, and dedicates her "lazy days" to not doing anything -- she doesn't leave the house or use the internet.

According to the philanthropist and businesswoman, we have to earn our "lazy days." A well deserved "lazy day" is earned after having worked hard throughout the week and managed time wisely.

"Project 2020," as she calls it, is her brainchild that aims to open a professional base institution in Africa, producing graduates that are well equipped for the competitive workforce. The program will also open doors for intercultural exchange, whereby students from the institution will travel to the United States for Internship purposes.

Arrey's vision unfolded beautifully. In fighting to reach her goals, she not only grew as an individual, she helped many people believe in themselves in ways they have never imagined.

A Glimpse of Arrey's World

Arrey sharing insightful advice at the "She's The Way Summit," held at Columbia University

Arrey with recipients of the WILDE Leadership and Service Award

Networking: 2010 Bill Signing in Atlanta

(right) Linda, Georgia State Representative Mike Glanton, Governor Sonny Perdue (left)

Arrey (right) being presented a Certification of Appreciation by Gabrielle Starr (left), the founder and CEO of Ladies of Favor Mentoring Program (LOF)