At the Smart Stewards UK Money Conference 2025, held earlier this year at Mary Ward House in London, motivational speaker and accountability coach Michelle Lanre Omiyale delivered a powerful fireside reflection that resonated deeply with attendees. The event, hosted by financial literacy advocate Sola Adesakin, brought together professionals, entrepreneurs, and purpose-driven leaders to explore how to “make, manage, and multiply” wealth with clarity, courage, and community.

During the panel discussion, Omiyale was asked a poignant question: “What personal pivot changed the game for you financially?” Her response traced a journey marked by loss, resilience, and reinvention.

Omiyale recounted how the passing of her husband became a turning point in her financial life. Previously, decisions around property, shares, and life insurance had been made reactively. As a widow raising two teenagers, she recognised the need for intentional wealth-building – not just in monetary terms, but in legacy, time, health, and social capital.

This realisation led her to embrace financial education, strategic planning, and investment. “I committed to ensuring my children’s stability beyond my lifetime,” she shared. That commitment evolved into a broader mission: empowering others to find purpose through faith, motivation, and practical action.

Omiyale also spoke about transforming her personal expertise into economic power. Her debut book, Anchored on the Faithfulness of God, was born from grief and became a message of hope. When she couldn’t find planners or journals that met her needs, she designed her own – products now available on Amazon and through her website, www.michelleomiyale.com.

She emphasised the importance of visibility in building influence and income. By stepping outside her comfort zone, leveraging digital platforms, and showing up consistently, Omiyale expanded her reach through coaching, mentorship, speaking engagements, and publishing. “Expertise alone doesn’t generate income,” she noted. “It must be positioned, packaged, and shared boldly.”

The panel also explored themes of strategy and stewardship. Omiyale credited her involvement with Smart Stewards (CSA) for equipping her with the financial literacy and community support needed to diversify her investments and grow with intention. Through mentorship and digital engagement, she has built a platform that encourages others to live purposefully – with faith, clarity, and impact.

The fireside chat was described by attendees as a moment of truth and transformation. Omiyale’s story served as a reminder that pain can be a catalyst for purpose, and that personal narratives have the power to inspire change.

Her message to those facing their own financial pivot was clear: “Your expertise is valuable. Your story matters. And your financial future deserves intentional stewardship.”

The full fireside chat is available to watch online, offering insight and inspiration for anyone seeking to redefine wealth, leadership, and legacy.