Tinkuma Edafioghor
My career journey
From a young age, I dreamed of pursuing a career in higher education. I began my academic journey in business management, progressing through undergraduate and postgraduate studies before completing my PhD in the same field.
During my doctoral studies, I realised my passion for understanding people and the dynamics of the workplace, which led me to focus on human resource management (HRM).
Currently, I am a senior lecturer in HRM at UWE Bristol, with over eight years of experience in higher education teaching. I teach across a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate modules and supervise student dissertations.
My research focuses on organisational resilience and employee wellbeing, two areas I believe are critical to the success and sustainability of businesses today.
How I've developed my career
My career development has been driven by a passion for teaching and research, combined with a strong desire to make a positive impact in the field of human resource management. I have pursued continuous professional development, attending academic conferences and workshops to enhance both my teaching and research skills.
One key factor in my career development has been the support and investment of senior colleagues, particularly through the 100 BWPN programme. This network has provided invaluable mentorship, allowing me to learn from experienced professionals who have guided me in shaping my career path.
Their support, advice, and encouragement have been instrumental in helping me navigate the challenges of academia and grow in my role as a lecturer.
Overcoming the challenges of academia
Working in academia comes with its own challenges. Early in my career, I struggled with balancing the demands of research, teaching and administrative responsibilities, while also maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Additionally, navigating the competitive nature of securing research funding and getting published posed another hurdle.
I overcame these challenges by seeking mentorship from senior colleagues who shared their insights on effective time management and research strategies. I also made use of professional development opportunities, including attending workshops and training sessions.
By focusing on what I could control and seeking support from my network, I was able to build resilience and establish a sustainable balance between my professional and personal life.
Attending the 100 Black Women Professors NOW programme
The 100 BWPN programme has been an incredible source of support and growth for me. The mentorship I’ve received from senior colleagues through the programme has been invaluable in shaping my career trajectory and helping me develop professionally.
A key highlight for me has been the networking opportunities provided by the programme. Connecting with like-minded professionals, learning from their experiences and sharing insights has expanded my perspective and enriched my teaching and research.
The programme has also given me access to resources and tools that have been directly applicable to my work, helping me to refine my skills and continue growing as an academic.
"Connecting with like-minded professionals, learning from their experiences and sharing insights has expanded my perspective and enriched my teaching and research."
Tinkuma Edafioghor Senior Lecturer in Human Resource Management, Bristol Business School
My advice to university colleagues
My advice to my university colleagues would be to seek mentorship and build a supportive network. Academia can be challenging but having trusted colleagues and mentors to turn to for advice, guidance and encouragement makes a world of difference.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help or invest in your own professional development, whether it’s through formal programmes like 100 BWPN or through more informal channels.
Also, remember to stay adaptable. The higher education landscape is constantly changing, so being open to new opportunities, whether in teaching, research or personal growth, will ensure you thrive in your academic career.
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