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Racheal Oyegoke is a senior leader in the United States Navy, currently stationed in Manama, Bahrain. As a Navy Career Counsellor, she serves as the Command Career Counsellor and Programme Manager for the Career Development Programme and Retention. In this interview with DAYO OYEWO, she shares valuable insights and advice on how to navigate life’s challenges and achieve success

How do you think your experience in the US Navy could inspire and impact the lives of young Nigerians, especially in the current socio-economic climate?

The US Navy taught me discipline, resilience, and leadership, values that can inspire young Nigerians to foster community, persevere, and excel in the current socio-economic climate, and in the pursuit of excellence in all endeavours.

What advice would you give to Nigerian youths facing challenges in their career development and transition in today’s competitive job market?

I would advise Nigerian youths to focus on continuous skills development, embrace lifelong learning, seek mentorship opportunities, and maintain a resilient and adaptable mindset to navigate and thrive in the competitive job market.

How can mental health, wellness, and mindfulness address the pressing issues affecting Nigerian youths?

Mental health, wellness, and mindfulness can provide Nigerian youths with essential tools to manage stress, build resilience, and cultivate a positive outlook, thereby effectively addressing pressing issues like depression and anxiety and promoting overall well-being.

As a motivational speaker and corporate trainer, what do you think is lacking in the growth and development of Nigerian businesses and entrepreneurs?

 I believe Nigerian businesses and entrepreneurs often lack access to continuous professional development and mentorship opportunities, which are crucial for fostering innovation, strategic thinking, and sustainable growth.

What strategies would you suggest for Nigerian youths to develop resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity, based on your experience in the Navy?

I would suggest that Nigerian youths develop resilience and adaptability by setting clear goals, embracing disciplined routines, seeking mentorship, and cultivating a strong support network to navigate and overcome adversity.

What words of encouragement and inspiration would you like to share with Nigerians, especially the youth, to motivate them to achieve their aspirations despite the current challenges?

I would like to encourage them to remain steadfast in their dreams, embrace a mindset of perseverance and optimism, and believe that with determination and faith, they can overcome any challenge and achieve their aspirations.

What inspired you to join the military and what has been your most rewarding experience serving in the Navy?

My inspiration to join the Navy was to seek challenges and escape financial struggles, with my most rewarding experience being completing Battle Stations and officially becoming a Sailor, a culmination of personal and professional goals.

Joining the US Navy was a life-changing decision for me, and one that I made out of necessity and desire for something greater. Before enlisting, I found myself in a difficult situation, working two jobs while also attending school full-time. Despite my best efforts, I was still struggling financially, and the weight of that burden began to affect other areas of my life. My family, always supportive, helped where they could, but I knew that I needed to find a way to stand on my own and build a stable future.

I needed a challenge that would not only change my circumstances but also push me to grow in ways I hadn’t imagined. The military and, specifically the Navy, offered me that opportunity. I was drawn to the structure, the discipline, and the sense of purpose that comes with serving. I knew that joining the Navy would challenge me physically, academically, spiritually, financially, and emotionally. It was exactly what I needed — a way out of the cycle of financial instability and a path to becoming the person I aspired to be.

Can you share a challenging situation you faced in your career and how you overcame it?

During the initial training, overcoming physical challenges like running and swimming was tough, but with support from family, a positive mindset, and prayer, I persevered and succeeded in passing crucial tests.

What is your most rewarding experience in the Navy?

When I think about the most rewarding experience during my time in the Navy, it’s difficult to pinpoint just one moment, as the entire journey has been transformative. However, if I had to choose, it would be when I completed Battle Stations and earned the title of Sailor. That moment was the culmination of all the hard work, sacrifice, and determination I had poured into my training. It wasn’t just about finishing a challenging task; it was about realising that I had become part of something bigger than myself. I had taken on the responsibility of representing the Navy and the values it stands for. That pride and sense of accomplishment have stayed with me throughout my career.

Being a Sailor first has shaped every aspect of my life, both personally and professionally. The Navy has provided me with countless opportunities to grow and develop skills that I never thought possible. From leadership positions to advanced technical training, the Navy has continuously pushed me to reach new heights. The camaraderie and bonds formed with fellow service members have been another significant reward. The shared experiences, challenges, and triumphs have created lifelong friendships that I treasure. Reflecting on my journey, I realise that joining the Navy was the best decision I could have made for my life. The financial stability, the educational opportunities, and the personal growth I’ve experienced are all reasons I am thankful for my service.

But beyond the tangible benefits, the Navy has given me a deep sense of purpose and fulfilment. It has taught me resilience, discipline, and the importance of serving something greater than myself. After more than a decade of service, I look back with gratitude. I’m thankful for the support of my family, who believed in me even when I struggled. I’m grateful to the Navy for providing me with the tools and opportunities to build a better life. And above all, I thank God for guiding me through this journey. Serving in the Navy has not only been a rewarding experience, it has been a blessing.

How do you think your military background has prepared you for your current role as a career counsellor and motivational speaker?

My military background has equipped me with leadership, resilience, and teamwork skills crucial for my current roles as a career counsellor and motivational speaker, helping guide others towards their goals.

What advice would you give to someone who is struggling to find his purpose or passion in life?

I will advise such people to self-reflect, explore new activities, set small goals, seek guidance, stay open to change, network, prioritise well-being, pray, and trust in their unique journey of discovery and achievement.

How do you balance your personal and professional goals with your desire to help others achieve their aspirations?

Balancing personal and professional goals with helping others involves setting SMART goals, integrating gratitude and prayer, and maintaining a positive mindset and work-life balance.

What do you believe are some of the most important qualities or skills required for effective leadership?

Effective leadership requires visionary thinking, communication, integrity, empathy, decision-making, adaptability, inspiration, problem-solving, delegation, resilience, accountability, and collaboration.

Can you share an experience where you had to navigate a difficult conversation or conflict, and how you resolved it?

In resolving conflicts, active listening, private meetings, open dialogue, compromise, clear roles, and regular check-ins are keys to mediating and finding common ground between team members.

How do you prioritise your mental health and well-being, especially in high-stress situations?

This involves self-awareness, time management, physical activity, learning to say no, healthy habits, setting boundaries, seeking support, and engaging in hobbies.

What message do you hope to convey to young people, especially women, who are just starting their careers or considering joining the military?

To young people, especially women starting their careers or considering military service, believe in your potential, pray, embrace challenges, trust your abilities, seek mentors, and remember your voice and contributions matter.

How do you see your work impacting the community, and what legacy do you hope to leave behind?

My work aims to inspire and empower others, particularly women and young people, to reach their potential and make a positive impact in their communities, striving to leave a legacy of resilience, empowerment, and service.

Can you share a resource that has greatly influenced your personal or professional development?

“The Enlightened Passenger” by Corey Poirier has significantly influenced my personal and professional growth, offering insights into leadership, personal development, spirituality, and navigating life’s challenges with wisdom and purpose.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learnt about resilience and perseverance, and how has it shaped your approach to challenges?

Resilience and perseverance have taught me to see challenges as opportunities for growth, believe in myself and my faith, know I can overcome obstacles with a positive mindset and God’s guidance and never see the cup as half-empty.