How We Made It In Africa sat down this week with our Equatorial Guinea Director Estela Nse Mansogo, for their ‘Meet the Boss’ segment. Learn more about Estela’s story, and her ambitions for Centurion:
What was your first job?
As a student in Spain, I was flipping burgers and also worked as a cashier with McDonald’s. My first job in the legal profession was with Centurion Law Group. I studied for my law degrees in Spain. After I completed my master’s in legal practice, my idea was to return to Equatorial Guinea and become the country’s best lawyer. So I came here and submitted my resume to all the law firms in the capital Malabo. On the first day our CEO, NJ Ayuk, gave me a call, and I haven’t looked back since.
What parts of your job keep you awake at night?
I like to go home in the evenings knowing that our clients are satisfied, and that my colleagues are motivated. So if any of these things are not done, I’m not going to get any sleep. I’ll be up all night thinking about a solution for the problem.
Who has had the biggest impact on your career?
My father. Even though he has a steady job, he is still going the extra mile, working from 6am. He instilled in me a strong work ethic, basic decency and attention to detail. I am the professional that I am today thanks to his example and leadership.
The top reasons why you have been successful?
As an African woman, I refuse to accept that we can’t be the best. I think about the vision of our fathers, the reasons that led me to become a lawyer in the first place and the many people I can help by using my legal education and leadership position within Centurion Law Group and Equatorial Guinea. I get inspired to do more and be successful. I know I have an obligation to many young people who look up to me and expect more from me. This has inspired me to work harder and not only think about being successful, but being great, while staying humble and living up to the ethics and demands of my profession. Sometimes I can be very direct and frank, but I guess you need that character when dealing with the challenges in Africa.
