Bume Ada Olive Epse KIMA-OBEN is a project management professional and Business Analyst at ENEO Cameroon. She has over 22 years of experience in the energy and industrial sectors.
In this exclusive with Ahone Jessy, she talks about her professional life and activities that have transformed women over the years.
Happy Reading
Kindly introduce yourself?
I founded Better Cameroon CIG (Betcam) and Bano Group Company Ltd and had the honor of serving as the first female President of the PMI Cameroon Chapter. Currently, I volunteer globally with the Project Management Institute (PMI) and am pursuing a doctorate in Sustainable Change Management for Project Innovations at Atlantic International University. I am from Nyasoso, a village in the Kupe Muanenguba Division of Cameroon.
Can we know where you work?
I work as a Business Analyst at ENEO Cameroon. Additionally, I am engaged in consultancy, project management, and business development initiatives through Bano Group Company Ltd, a firm providing instrumentation, automation, and calibration services to industries across Cameroon.
How long have you been working as a career woman?
I have been working professionally for over 22 years. My career began in 2001 with Pipeline Cameroon, and I joined AES-Sonel (now ENEO Cameroon) in 2003.
What are some of your activities that have impacted the lives of women over the years?
I have mentored and empowered women through leadership and career development programs, particularly in project management. As the first female president of the PMI Cameroon Chapter, I championed initiatives supporting women in project management and STEM fields. I am also a speaker and have presented on various topics in webinars and conferences, aiming to inspire and educate women. Additionally, through involvement in beauty pageants like Miss Kupe Muanenguba and Miss Nyasoso, I have promoted female empowerment by creating platforms highlighting leadership, education, and entrepreneurship among young women.
As a career woman, how do you cope with family issues and your career?
Balancing career and family require discipline, planning, and a strong support system. I prioritize effective time management, set clear boundaries, and maintain open communication with my family. My husband and children are my greatest supporters, and their encouragement allows me to excel both personally and professionally.
Special advice to women as they celebrate Women’s Day?
Women should embrace their potential, invest in continuous learning, and seize leadership opportunities. Women’s Day reminds us to uplift one another, break barriers, and contribute meaningfully to society. No dream is too big to achieve—hard work, resilience, and networking are key to success.
What are your side hustles? Could be a lesson to women?
Beyond my corporate career, I engage in consultancy, project management training, and business development. I am involved in industrial instrumentation services through Bano Group Company Ltd and contribute to community projects, including renewable energy initiatives. I also participate in food processing, transforming plantains into chips and flour under the brand name “Etom Ekosse.” My advice to women is to diversify their skills, identify additional income streams, and turn their passions into sustainable businesses. Financial independence is empowering.
Anything to add?
I encourage women to believe in their capabilities and take advantage of professional networks that foster growth. The journey to success is not always easy, but with determination and the right mindset, women can achieve greatness in any field.
Interviewed By Ahone Jessy
