When Ogaga Johnson moved to Canada, she was told she’d have to start over. No career. No prospects. No opportunities waiting.
But Ogaga had other plans. She landed a project manager role at a local tech company and kept climbing from there—no reset required. Defying the narrative for immigrants lit a fire in her: she wanted others to know they could do it, too.
In 2023, she launched Verisult—a company dedicated to helping immigrants and professionals access meaningful careers and helping businesses build diverse, high-performing teams through smart talent strategies and skills development. Today, Ogaga leads that mission, opening doors in project management and beyond.
Here, she shares how it all began—and what keeps driving her forward.
What is the underlying mission of your business? How does your work make a difference in people’s lives?
We help individuals gain clarity on their career paths, build the confidence to pursue their goals, and provide access to networks that open doors to new opportunities. Whether it’s through our Career Accelerator Program, Technology Accelerator Program, or PMP Exam Coaching, we equip our clients with the skills, resources, and industry connections needed to secure meaningful, long-term career opportunities. We’re committed to making a real impact by helping people not just survive, but thrive in their professional lives.
By empowering immigrants with the skills and support needed to succeed in high-demand industries, we’re bridging workforce gaps, driving diversity, and contributing to Canada’s economic future. Our work not only helps individuals thrive, but also strengthens organizations by tapping into the untapped potential of skilled immigrants eager to make a difference.
Looking back, what are the most meaningful impacts your work has had? How do these outcomes align with your original vision?
I’m most proud of the real impact Verisult has had on our students. Seeing immigrants move from survival jobs into thriving, high-paying careers is incredibly fulfilling. It drives me and the team to keep pushing forward. When I think about how our programs have helped people gain confidence, provide for their families, and chase their dreams, it reminds me of why I started this journey in the first place. The difference we’ve made in so many lives is what truly defines our success—and we’re just getting started.
One moment that stands out was when I started seeing the real impact of Verisult’s work. Early on, I knew there was a gap in how immigrants navigated the job market, but the real confirmation came when I received messages from people saying, “Because of your program, I landed my first role in Canada,” or “I was frustrated and dreaded going to work but I just had to because of my children. Now, I’m working fewer hours, from the comfort of my home, using my education and skills, and earning more. Thank you,” or “Your content gave me the confidence to negotiate my salary.”
For me, the biggest sign that I’m on the right track is more than financial success; it’s the real stories of transformation. When people go from underemployed to thriving in their careers because of something I built, that’s the moment I know—I’m exactly where I need to be. We track student impact and growth, average salary increase, and total student income.
“When people go from underemployed to thriving in their careers because of something I built, that’s the moment I know—I’m exactly where I need to be.”
What core values guide your business? How do these principles reflect your personal values, and how do they influence your leadership?
At Verisult, our core values—Excellence, a Possibility Mentality, Integrity, and Continuous Improvement—are at the heart of everything we do, and they’re a direct reflection of my personal approach to leadership. I believe in giving my best in all things and always seeing the possibility in any situation. As a Christian, I live by integrity—my yes is my yes, and my no is my no—because I know that trust is everything. Continuous improvement is a mindset I carry with me; there’s always room to grow, and I lead by example in striving to do better each day. I empower my team to do the same by providing them with the tools, opportunities, and support they need to grow and succeed. I encourage them to innovate and try new things, knowing that failure is just a stepping stone on the way to growth. My goal is to ensure that we, as a team, embody these values and create an environment where excellence and growth are the standards.
When your work life gets intense, how do you disconnect and recharge? What rituals help you reset and refocus?
When my work life gets intense, I make it a priority to disconnect and recharge by traveling with my family, since I enjoy spending time with my husband and little ones. I also take time to pray, casting all my cares on the Lord and dwelling in His presence. It always brings peace and hope, which is great for my mental well-being. Finally, I enjoy watching Nigerian movies (Nollywood) to relax and unwind, as it gives me a chance to enjoy storytelling and laughter while recharging my energy.
How have your experiences as a parent or in other significant roles influenced your leadership style? What life lessons have you applied to your professional journey?
Being a mom has had a huge impact on my leadership style. One of the biggest lessons is patience. Parenting has taught me to stay calm and trust the process, even when things don’t go according to plan. I’ve learned that sometimes you need to let things unfold and allow room for growth, which I bring into my work. It’s also made me more caring and empathetic, and those qualities have really shaped how I connect with my team. I approach everyone with a sense of understanding, making sure they feel supported, heard, and valued. This has also improved my coaching skills. I’m always looking for ways to guide my team members with care, helping them grow without rushing them. The lessons I’ve learned from motherhood—whether it’s consistency, being present, or listening—have become essential parts of my leadership, allowing me to lead with both heart and strategy.
What is the most important lesson you’ve learned in your entrepreneurial journey so far?
Don’t take no for an answer. If you hear no, find out why, understand what’s missing, and figure out what you need to do to get a yes. Every challenge you face is shaping you. It’s part of your story. Embrace it.
What advice would you give to other women wanting to start or grow businesses in an intentional way?
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. As women, we’re often socialized to feel like we have to do everything by ourselves. But you don’t have to! Seek out mentors, hire experts in areas where you’re not strong, and build a team of people who complement your skills. Surround yourself with other women who inspire and support you. Collaboration is powerful, and it’s crucial to build a network that lifts you up.
It’s also important to embrace failure as part of the journey. Not everything will go according to plan, and that’s okay. Failure doesn’t mean the end; it’s often where the greatest lessons are learned. Be resilient, pivot when necessary, and keep moving forward with the same passion you started with.
Ogaga is a member of Dreamers & Doers, an award-winning community that amplifies extraordinary women entrepreneurs, investors, and leaders by securing PR, forging authentic connections, and curating high-impact resources. Learn more about Dreamers & Doers and get involved here.