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Published on August 18, 2022.
By: Priscilla Wiredu
This is an interview with a content creator named Reni Odetoyinbo, known as Reni the Resource. Reni is a Toronto-based marketing consultant and finance enthusiast. She decided to pursue a career in content creation to share her knowledge on helping people with “adult” issues. She creates content on topics such as financial literacy, lifestyle content, and offers resources on complex topics.
1. Tell us a bit about yourself; who is Reni the Resource? What are some of the services you offer?
Reni The Resource is a content creator, a marketing consultant, and a financial education platform. I create educational content to teach BIPOC folks ages 18-35 about money and career development in an easily accessible manner. Services include creating content on social media, hosting workshops and webinars, one-on-one career consulting, and partnering with multinational corporations to promote their products and/or services.
2. What inspired/motivated you to pursue the financial career/content creator field?
After purchasing my first house at the age of 23, I decided to share my knowledge with others with the goal of helping people understand “adulting.” My friends informed me that buying a house at 23 was not “normal” and the methods I used to purchase it should be shared with others. I listened to them (thankfully!) and started my own YouTube channel just a week or two after. I wanted people to know that if I can do it, they can too. Truthfully, I have always wanted to start a YouTube channel so this encouraged me to take the leap. Through my content, I help others become financially literate and understand integral tips to help them excel in their careers.
3. What is a common misconception regarding finances that you think people should understand?
When it comes to finances, many people assume that you need to be rich to generate wealth. For example, many believe that you need to be affluent to invest in the stock market. The reality is that engaging in these investments is what helps you become rich. Anyone can invest and build wealth. You can start building your investment portfolio with as little as one dollar.
4. What is the most significant learning experience you have had since starting your career?
The most significant learning experience I have encountered is learning the importance of advocating for myself. As a self-employed entrepreneur, there is no guideline of what you should do in order to be successful. For example, charging clients for your services is up to you and you may be undercharging which people take advantage of. I learned the importance of advocating for myself and demanding what I am worth.
5. If you could give one piece of advice to young Black women just starting their careers, what would it be?
My advice for young Black women who are pursuing their careers would be to be bold and relentless in the pursuit of what you want. You may not see many Black people in the industry but that does not mean the space is not for you. You are worthy. You are deserving. You should take up space just like a mediocre White man would (oop!). Also understand that simply existing in a space is powerful and inspiring to the next young Black woman.
6. Is there anything you wish you knew before getting into this field?
I wish I knew how much work it would be! Entrepreneurship is not all glitz and glam like people make it out to be. As a content creator, you are not just recording videos—you are also doing the behind the scenes finances, you are an administrative assistant, you are the sales person and more. Be ready for that when you enter!
7. What is one thing you love and hate about content creation?
One thing I love about content creation is the flexibility it provides. I can truly work from anywhere in the world and I get to establish my own schedule. I also provide value to others, so it is very rewarding.
One thing I dislike about content creation is the unsolicited feedback you will receive. You know how they say, “if you have nothing nice to say, do not say anything at all”? Well, online, people say whatever they want—they spew racist comments, they judge how you speak, the way you look and more. You truly need to develop a thick skin when creating content.
8. Any advice for young people hoping to begin content creation?
Find something that you are passionate about and start creating. You do not need to have all of the latest equipment nor do you need the fanciest set up, just start from where you are. Also, do not go into this industry for the money. While money will accumulate eventually, if it is the driving factor behind why you are pursuing this profession you will not have the drive to make a career last for the long term.
9. What is the last good book that you read?
The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel.
10. Finally, to end things off with a bang, what is the best piece of financial advice you have been given?
The best piece of financial advice that I have been given is to develop multiple streams of income. Having only one stream of income is like having all your eggs in one basket. It is too close to having zero streams of income.
Below are her social media hooks to follow:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reniodetoyinbo/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/xoReni/videos
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xoreni/
Website: https://renitheresource.com/
Priscilla Wiredu is a writer for this year’s Black Voice project. An alumni of York University, she graduated with Honors where she studied Social Sciences. She then went on to get an Ontario Graduate certificate in Creative Writing from the Humber School for Writers, and a college certificate in Legal Office Administration at Seneca College. She is currently studying for the LSAT in hopes of going to law school. Her main goal as a Black Voices writer is to ensure Black issues and Black Pride are enunciated through her works.