Reshaping Business Operations: A Look into Ignite VA with Visionary Founder Mmeyene Victory
By Awugo Julius
As COVID-19 swept across the globe, it dramatically reshaped our working landscape.
Packed office spaces traded places with quiet home offices, water cooler chats gave way to virtual coffee breaks, and rush-hour commutes were swapped out for just a few steps to our home desks. Amidst this shake-up, a silver lining emerged for the visionaries among us, and boy, did they seize it.
Grab a front-row seat on today’s Fellows Cafe special interview corner as we spotlight Mmeyene Victory.
She is the creative brain from Nigeria behind Ignite VA, a pioneering virtual assistant agency that’s redefining the way busy professionals and businesses navigate the digital age.
Mmeyene says the spark that ignited Ignite VA was not just the prospect to broaden her services, but also a heartfelt ambition to create jobs for tech-savvy individuals who share her fervor for technology.
Let’s get the ball rolling. Here’s the candid conversation between Awugo Julius (AJ) and our remarkable guest, Mmeyene Victory (MV), the visionary force behind Ignite VA.
AJ: Can you tell us about the inspiration behind Ignite VA? What motivated you to start a virtual assistant agency?
MV: The inspiration behind Ignite VA stems from my personal journey as a freelancer during the COVID-19 pandemic.
As the pandemic hit, many businesses were forced to transition to remote work and adapt to the new digital landscape. During this time, I recognized the growing demand for virtual assistance services and the immense potential of this industry.
What motivated me to start a virtual assistant agency was the realization that I could not handle all the client requests and projects on my own.
I saw an opportunity to expand my services and provide employment opportunities for other talented individuals who were passionate about technology. I strongly believe in empowering women and children in tech, and that was another driving force behind the creation of Ignite VA.
By launching Ignite VA, I aimed to create a platform where skilled women in different tech areas could come together, collaborate, and offer a wide range of virtual assistant services to clients.
I wanted to build a team of dedicated professionals who are not only passionate about what they do but also share a common vision of providing high-quality virtual assistance.
Overall, my motivation was to build a reputable agency that offers exceptional virtual assistant services while supporting women in the tech industry and helping businesses thrive in the digital age.
AJ: How did you identify the need for virtual assistant services, particularly among busy modern professionals? Can you share any specific insights or experiences that led you to this realization?
MV: Identifying the need for virtual assistant services among busy modern professionals was a result of observing the changing work dynamics and the challenges professionals were facing. Here are some specific insights and experiences that led me to realize this need:
- Remote Work Trend
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the shift towards remote work. Many professionals suddenly found themselves working from home without the usual office support system.
This highlighted the need for virtual assistance to help them manage their tasks and maintain productivity in a new work environment.
- Time Constraints
Modern professionals often juggle multiple responsibilities and have limited time to handle administrative tasks, scheduling, research, and other non-core activities.
This time constraint creates a demand for virtual assistants who can take care of these tasks efficiently, allowing professionals to focus on their core competencies.
- Digital Transformation
With the increasing reliance on technology, professionals needed assistance in navigating various digital tools, managing online platforms, and utilizing automation to streamline their workflows.
Virtual assistants who possess tech skills can bridge this gap and provide valuable support in the digital landscape.
- Scalability and Flexibility
Many businesses, entrepreneurs, and professionals require support on a project basis or during peak periods.
Hiring full-time employees for such short-term needs may not be cost-effective or efficient.
Virtual assistants offer scalability and flexibility, allowing clients to access support whenever required without the overhead of maintaining a permanent staff.
By combining these insights and experiences, I recognized the emerging need for virtual assistant services among busy modern professionals.
This realization further fueled my passion to establish Ignite VA as a reliable solution for individuals and businesses seeking efficient, tech-savvy virtual assistance.
AJ: What were some of the major challenges you faced during the initial stages of starting Ignite VA? How did you overcome them?
MV: While I would like to say here that IgniteVA is still in its initial stage, we just launched officially in February 2023. But I have encountered several challenges in the few months before and after our launch. Here are some of the major ones and how I overcame them:
- Establishing Credibility
Building credibility as a new virtual assistant agency was a significant challenge. Clients often prefer working with established companies with a proven track record.
To overcome this, I focused on highlighting my own expertise and experience as a virtual assistant, emphasizing the quality of services I provided to previous clients.
I also leveraged client testimonials and case studies to demonstrate the value and results delivered by Ignite VA.
- Finding and Retaining Talented Virtual Assistants
Assembling a team of skilled virtual assistants who shared the vision and values of Ignite VA was crucial.
However, attracting and retaining talented professionals in a competitive market presented a challenge.
To address this, I focused on creating an inclusive and supportive work culture, providing opportunities for growth and skill development. I offered competitive compensation packages and emphasized the benefits of remote work, such as flexibility and work-life balance.
Building a positive reputation and word-of-mouth referrals also helped attract talented individuals to join Ignite VA.
- Managing Workflow and Client Expectations
Balancing client demands and ensuring efficient workflow management was a challenge, especially as the agency grew.
To overcome this, I implemented robust project management and collaboration tools and systems to streamline processes and enhance communication.
Clear communication channels and regular check-ins with clients and team members helped manage expectations and ensure smooth project execution.
I also learned to prioritize tasks effectively and delegate responsibilities among the team members to optimize productivity.
- Marketing and Brand Awareness
Establishing a strong brand presence and gaining visibility in the crowded virtual assistant market posed a challenge.
To overcome this, I developed a comprehensive marketing strategy that included a professional website, social media presence, content creation, and networking.
Collaborating with industry influencers, participating in relevant online communities, and offering free resources and consultations helped increase brand awareness and attract potential clients.
- Adapting to Changing Client Needs
As the virtual assistant industry evolved, client needs and expectations also changed.
Staying updated with the latest trends, technologies, and industry best practices was essential. I invested time in continuous learning, attending webinars, industry conferences, and networking events.
This allowed me to adapt Ignite VA’s services and offerings to meet the evolving demands of clients and stay ahead in the competitive landscape.
By addressing these challenges with determination, adaptability, and a focus on providing exceptional service, Ignite VA is gradually overcoming the initial hurdles and establishing itself as a reliable and respected virtual assistant agency.
AJ: Building a world-class virtual assistant agency requires a diverse set of skills and expertise. Can you tell us about the backgrounds and experiences of the six African Tech Ladies who came together to create Ignite VA?
The team at Ignite VA consists of talented and tech-savvy women with diverse backgrounds and expertise. Here’s an overview of the team members:
Glory Praise Emmanuel — Creative Partner/Website Developer
Glory Praise Emmanuel is a tech industry luminary and a proud winner of the Superwoman Under 30 award in the category of women in tech.
She is a Creative Partner and Web Developer of IgniteVA. With a remarkable talent for web and blockchain development and a passion for tech content creation, she has made a lasting impact in the industry and beyond.
Her expertise in developing smart contracts and creating a diverse portfolio of websites, web apps, and decentralized applications (DApps) has earned her recognition as a thought leader in scalable tech solutions.
In addition to her technical prowess, Glory is a gifted technical writer and a captivating speaker. She shares her knowledge and inspires others, especially the next generation of women in tech, through her writing and speaking engagements.
Her unique combination of technical skills, passion for technology, and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact has made her a standout professional in the tech industry.
With her unrelenting drive and fearless spirit, Glory Praise Emmanuel is truly a visionary in her field.
Emmanuel Precious — Creative Partner and Head of Customer Support
Empathy and professionalism go hand-in-glove to get the job done. Which includes closing deals, meeting targets, and keeping the customers coming, happy and loyal.
Emmanuel Precious Joy, being people-oriented for a long time, earned a certificate in Customer Relationship Management in 2019 and has since worked as an affiliate customer support and care agent for MTN, New Phone Plus, Damiano Telecommunications, and The Life Class Community amongst others.
Deborah Wagor — Creative Partner/ Graphic and Product Designer
A Creative Graphic Designer and Book Cover/layout designer with over 3 years of experience. She helps business owners with social media graphics for online visibility.
She also helps busy professionals with social media template designs to ease stress and encourage productivity. She has worked with several authors to create stunning and attention-grabbing book cover designs that sell themselves.
Biniboi Grace — SEO Expert
Biniboi Grace is an SEO Blogger, storyteller, and digital entrepreneur, over the years, she has helped numerous startups scale and turn in revenue consistently through content marketing she’s the chief executive officer at X-TEND HUB and founder of smart affiliate tribe in view.
Mary Anu — Creative Partner/Administrative Assistant
A versatile virtual assistant certified with Alx Africa with expertise in administrative support, customer support, project management, and research.
She offers a range of services designed to help businesses, organizations, and individuals reach their goals. Whether you need assistance with scheduling appointments, managing emails, coordinating projects, or conducting research.
Elizabeth Lawal — Digital Marketer
Elizabeth Lawal is a talented digital marketer who creates effective marketing strategies for Ignite VA’s clients. She is the managing director at Liz Digital Marketing Media.
With her knowledge of various digital marketing channels, Elizabeth helps clients reach their target audience, increase brand awareness, and drive conversions through strategic online marketing campaigns.
Opara-Eze Tochi — Business Developing Manager
Opara-eze Tochi is a skilled data, business, and financial analyst. He is the Business Development Manager of IgniteVA. He provides corporate executives and entrepreneurs with his expertise in developing business strategies through the lens of data.
Tochi combines his passion for business with his analytic skills in proffering meaningful, data-based solutions to business problems. In the course of his corporate adventure, he has come to realize that it is preferable to “live with the failure of not succeeding than regret never trying.”
Mmeyene Victory
Mmeyene Victory is an ALX Certified Virtual Assistant with over two years of working experience. She is the founder and Creative Director of Ignite VA, formerly known as Ignitetoons. Ignite VA is situated in Nigeria.
Mmeyene Victory started delivering her VA services to clients in her network after just six weeks of nonstop effort to launch her business, she began to receive referrals from clients outside Nigeria.
Since then, her business has grown significantly, working with clients including online entrepreneurs, real estate companies, forex traders, online vendors, and fin-tech companies.
She has trained thousands of people both kids and youth on digital skills. Nevertheless, she has documented all of her knowledge and is now aiming to assist others in becoming virtual assistants in order to advance and begin to live their dream lives.
Together, this team of skilled professionals at Ignite VA offers their services to clients both within and outside the agency, catering to their diverse needs and helping them achieve their business goals.
AJ: How did you manage to build Ignite VA’s strong reputation through word of mouth? What strategies or initiatives have helped in marketing your services?
MV: Building a strong reputation through word of mouth is a testament to the quality of services provided by Ignite VA. Here are some strategies and initiatives that have helped in marketing our services and generating positive word of mouth:
- Delivering Exceptional Service
The foundation of our reputation lies in consistently delivering exceptional virtual assistant services to our clients.
By going above and beyond their expectations, providing high-quality work, and ensuring client satisfaction, we create a positive experience that clients are more likely to share with others.
- Client Testimonials and Referrals
We actively collect and showcase client testimonials on our website and other marketing platforms.
Positive feedback and referrals from satisfied clients serve as powerful endorsements of our services and contribute to building trust and credibility. We encourage our clients to refer us to their network.
- Thought Leadership and Content Marketing
Establishing ourselves as thought leaders in the virtual assistant industry has been instrumental in building our reputation.
We create and share valuable content through blog posts, articles, webinars, and social media platforms, offering insights, tips, and best practices.
This positions us as experts and builds credibility, attracting potential clients and generating word of mouth as people share our valuable content.
- Fostering Strong Client Relationships
Building strong relationships with our clients is crucial. We prioritize effective communication, active listening, and personalized service.
By understanding their goals, challenges, and preferences, we can tailor our services to their specific needs, leading to satisfied clients who are more likely to share their positive experiences with others.
These strategies and initiatives not only contribute to our marketing efforts but also reinforce our commitment to excellence and client satisfaction.
AJ: Could you provide some examples of the positive impact Ignite VA has had on the lives of your clientele?
MV:
- Time and Productivity
By outsourcing administrative tasks, content creation, social media management, and other virtual assistant services to Ignite VA, clients have been able to reclaim their time and focus on core business activities.
This has led to increased productivity, allowing them to accomplish more in less time and achieve their business goals more effectively.
- Work-Life Balance
Ignite VA’s services have helped clients achieve a better work-life balance.
By delegating time-consuming tasks to our virtual assistants, clients have been able to reduce stress, spend more quality time with their loved ones, and engage in activities they enjoy outside of work.
This improved balance contributes to their overall well-being and satisfaction.
- Professional Image and Branding
Through Ignite VA’s graphic design, content creation, and social media management services, clients have been able to enhance their professional image and branding.
Our team’s expertise in creating visually appealing graphics, engaging content, and maintaining a consistent online presence has helped clients establish a strong brand identity, attract their target audience, and build credibility in their respective industries.
- Cost Savings
By working with Ignite VA, clients have experienced cost savings compared to hiring in-house staff.
They avoid expenses related to recruitment, training, salaries, benefits, office space, and equipment.
Our flexible pricing options and customized service packages ensure that clients receive value for their investment while optimizing their budget.
- Peace of Mind
Ignite VA provides clients with peace of mind, knowing that their virtual assistant needs are being handled by a team of skilled professionals.
Clients can rely on our expertise, reliability, and commitment to delivering high-quality services.
This peace of mind allows clients to focus on their core business responsibilities and trust that their virtual assistant tasks are in capable hands.
AJ: Cultural barriers can sometimes pose challenges in business settings. Did you encounter any specific cultural barriers while building Ignite VA, and how did you navigate them?
MV: As the founder of Ignite VA, I have recognized and navigated certain cultural barriers while building the agency. Here are a few examples of such barriers and how we addressed them:
- Time Zones
Dealing with clients from different time zones can pose scheduling challenges.
We have implemented flexible working hours and have team members available to accommodate clients in various time zones.
This ensures that we can effectively communicate and provide assistance regardless of geographical differences.
- Building Trust and Relationships
Cultural barriers can sometimes impact the development of trust and relationships with clients.
To overcome this, we emphasize building rapport and trust by demonstrating our expertise, delivering on our promises, and providing exceptional service.
We actively engage with our clients, listen to their concerns, and adapt our approach to meet their specific needs, fostering strong relationships based on trust and mutual respect.
AJ: As a founder, what are some of the key lessons you’ve learnt throughout the journey of building Ignite VA? Are there any particular moments or experiences that have had a lasting impact on you?
MV: Throughout the journey of building Ignite VA, I have learned several key lessons that have shaped my perspective and approach as a founder. Here are some of the lessons that stand out:
- Embrace Adaptability
The business landscape is constantly evolving, and being adaptable is crucial for success.
I’ve learned the importance of being open to change, being willing to pivot when necessary, and embracing new opportunities that align with our vision.
Flexibility and adaptability have allowed Ignite VA to navigate challenges and capitalize on emerging trends.
- Prioritize Continuous Learning
The journey of building Ignite VA has reinforced the value of continuous learning.
Staying updated with industry trends, technological advancements, and best practices is essential. I invest time in personal and professional development, ensuring that I can provide the best guidance to my team and adapt our strategies to meet evolving client needs.
- Build a Strong Support Network
Surrounding myself with a strong support network has been invaluable.
This includes mentors, industry peers, and like-minded entrepreneurs who provide guidance, support, and valuable insights.
Collaborating and learning from others has helped me navigate challenges, gain different perspectives, and grow both personally and professionally.
- Trust in the Team
Building a competent and dedicated team is essential for business growth.
I have learned to trust my team members’ expertise, delegate responsibilities, and empower them to make decisions.
This fosters a sense of ownership and collaboration, enabling us to collectively drive the success of Ignite VA.
- Emphasize Client Relationships
Nurturing strong client relationships is paramount. Understanding their needs, providing exceptional service, and going the extra mile to exceed their expectations build long-lasting partnerships.
By putting clients at the center of everything we do, we not only create a positive impact on their lives but also drive our own growth through referrals and repeat business.
One particular experience that has had a lasting impact on me is witnessing the growth and success of our clients.
Seeing the positive impact Ignite VA has had on their professional lives, witnessing their achievements, and hearing their stories of how our services have transformed their businesses reinforce the purpose and fulfillment that come from building a business that genuinely helps others succeed.
Overall, the journey of building Ignite VA has been a continuous learning experience filled with challenges, victories, and meaningful connections.
It has taught me the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, team empowerment, strong client relationships, and the satisfaction that comes from making a positive impact on the lives of others.
AJ: On the last episode of the Fellows Cafe we had an interesting conversation on the topic: “To Japa or not to Japa”. Part of my argument about Japa is the fact that if we can train talents here and equip and connect them with job opportunities, most young people will forget the idea of Japa-ing. Do you think that the kind of platform Ignite VA creates is capable of changing young people’s minds away from the Japa syndrome?
MV: The decision to “Japa” is complex and deeply personal, influenced by a variety of individual circumstances and aspirations.
While Ignite VA’s platform can provide opportunities and contribute positively to the lives of young people, by encouraging them to start their own businesses or work as freelancers within their local communities, it can also offer young people the chance to acquire new skills and gain valuable work experience.
By equipping them with in-demand skills, Ignite VA can enhance their employability and create local job opportunities, potentially reducing the desire to leave their country in search of skill development elsewhere.
While this is just one piece of a larger puzzle in addressing the underlying factors that drive emigration.
Ultimately, the impact Ignite VA can have in changing young people’s minds about leaving their country depends on a holistic approach that includes creating a supportive economic ecosystem, addressing social and infrastructure challenges, and providing opportunities for skill development and entrepreneurship within their home country.
AJ. What advice would you give to VAs wanting to start an agency or someone wanting to start a similar business?
MV: Starting an agency or similar business in the virtual assistant industry requires hard work, dedication, and continuous learning.
By defining your niche, building a strong network, prioritizing client relationships, leveraging technology, marketing effectively, embracing growth opportunities, and taking care of yourself, you can increase your chances of building a successful and thriving business.
AJ: Looking ahead, what are your future plans and aspirations for Ignite VA? How do you envision the agency evolving and continuing to make a difference in the lives of people worldwide?
MV: As the founder of Ignite VA, my future plans and aspirations for the agency involve both growth and impact. Here are some of the key aspects I envision for Ignite VA:
- Expansion and Global Reach
I aim to expand Ignite VA’s reach and serve clients not only within our current target markets but also worldwide.
This expansion will involve establishing partnerships, leveraging digital platforms, and reaching out to diverse industries and regions.
- Diversification of Services
Ignite VA will continue to evolve and offer a broader range of services to cater to the changing needs of our clients.
This may include incorporating emerging technologies, expanding into new service areas, and staying at the forefront of industry trends.
- Talent Development and Empowerment
Ignite VA will focus on nurturing and empowering our team members by providing ongoing training, mentoring, and growth opportunities.
By fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, we aim to attract and retain top talent, ensuring the continued delivery of high-quality services to our clients.
- Social Impact Initiatives
I envision Ignite VA engaging in social impact initiatives that go beyond our core business.
This could involve providing digital skills training to underprivileged communities or supporting educational programs that promote digital skills development.
- Technology Integration
Embracing technology advancements will be a key aspect of Ignite VA’s future plans. This includes leveraging automation tools, artificial intelligence, and data analytics to enhance our service delivery, streamline operations, and provide clients with innovative solutions.
- Thought Leadership and Industry Influence
Ignite VA will continue to contribute to the virtual assistant industry by sharing insights, best practices, and thought leadership content.
We aim to be a trusted resource and influencer in the field, actively participating in industry events, speaking engagements, and knowledge-sharing platforms.
- Sustainability and Ethical Practices
Ignite VA will strive to adopt sustainable and ethical practices in our operations.
This includes reducing our environmental footprint, promoting diversity and inclusion, and ensuring fair and transparent working conditions for our team members.
Through these future plans and aspirations, I envision Ignite VA making a positive difference in the lives of people worldwide.
By providing valuable services, creating employment opportunities, nurturing talent, embracing technology, and contributing to social impact initiatives.
Ignite VA will continue to empower individuals, support businesses, and make a meaningful impact in the virtual assistant industry and beyond.
Mmeyene’s story stands as a powerful reminder of the magic that can happen when one spots opportunities amidst the chaos and the value of fostering a supportive, inclusive community.
