For some, leadership is purely about targets and strategy. But for Ugo Umeseaka, Chief Operating Officer of Redtech, devoted family man, and passionate artist, true leadership is as much about creativity and empathy as it is about performance.
In honour of International Men’s Month, Ugo sits down with Akindamola Akintola to reflect on the evolving meaning of masculinity in today’s world. Known for blending a thoughtful approach to work with the expressive insight of an artist, he shares how painting, music, and moments of stillness recharge his spirit. Ugo invites us to look beyond the stereotypes, exploring the role of balance, vulnerability, and creativity in shaping a modern man’s journey, as a father, husband, leader, and friend.
AA for HH People: November is International Men’s Month. What does that mean to you personally?
UE: It reminds me that being a man today goes far beyond the traditional idea of strength or provision. It’s about balance, leading with purpose, protecting with empathy, and nurturing with intention. For me, it’s a time to pause and reflect — to ask how we’re growing, not just as professionals, but as fathers, sons, brothers, and friends.
AA for HH People: Outside the title of COO, who is Ugo? How would your family or friends describe you?
UE: Outside work, I’m simply Ugo — a husband, father, artist, and sometimes, a quiet thinker. My family would say I’m playful and home-focused; my friends would probably call me loyal, a good listener, and the one who helps people find meaning in what they do. I enjoy stillness — painting, music, or just quiet time — that’s where I recharge.
AA for HH People: If you could talk to your 16-year-old self, what would you tell him about becoming a man in today’s world?
UE: I’d tell him that strength and kindness can co-exist — that real confidence comes from understanding yourself, not proving yourself. The world will always try to define what being a man means, but the real journey is defining it for yourself, with empathy and integrity.
AA for HH People: Was there a moment you felt you’d crossed from boyhood into manhood?
UE: Yes, the moment I became a father. That changed everything. Responsibility took on a new meaning — not just carrying yourself but carrying others too. It taught me patience, restraint, and the beauty of sacrifice. I realized manhood isn’t a single event; it’s a journey of accountability and growth.
AA for HH People: Who were the men that shaped your view of manhood, and how has that evolved?
UE: I was shaped by men who led with quiet strength — my father, mentors, and leaders I admired from afar. They modelled discipline and integrity. Over time, I’ve learned that compassion and emotional intelligence are just as vital. Today, I believe real men aren’t defined by perfection, but by presence, authenticity, and grace.
AA for HH People: The phrase “man up” gets thrown around a lot. What does strength mean to you now?
UE: It has evolved. Strength isn’t about dominance or control anymore — it’s about consistency, restraint, and the courage to face your fears, even emotional ones. Real strength is showing up — especially when it’s uncomfortable.
AA for HH People: As a leader, how do you balance confidence and vulnerability?
UE: I’ve learned that vulnerability isn’t weakness — it’s connection. People relate more to honesty than perfection. I try to lead with empathy and transparency, letting my team know it’s okay to make mistakes and grow. Confidence without humility creates distance, but openness builds trust.
AA for HH People: here’s more openness about men expressing emotions now. What’s your take on that?
UE: It’s long overdue — and it’s healthy. Crying or showing emotion doesn’t make you less of a man. Suppressing everything does. We’re learning that emotions don’t make us weak; they make us human. When leaders show authenticity, it gives others permission to do the same.
AA for HH People: What do your male friendships look like? Are men becoming more open with one another?
UE: My friendships are built on honesty, mutual respect, and shared growth. I think men are beginning to realize that brotherhood isn’t about competition but connection. When we start having real conversations — about struggles, family, and wellbeing — we grow stronger together.
AA for HH People: Showing care among men is sometimes labelled “effeminate.” What’s your view?
UE: Caring isn’t masculine or feminine — it’s human. Empathy, kindness, and loyalty are universal values. The evolution of masculinity is about reclaiming our full humanity, including the ability to care deeply and express it without apology.
AA for HH People: Do workplaces do enough to support men’s mental and emotional wellbeing?
UE: We’ve made progress, but there’s still work to do. Too often, wellbeing is viewed through a productivity lens rather than a human one. Men should feel safe saying, “I’m overwhelmed” without fear of judgment. That’s why I value Redtech’s OEEE culture and our Great Place to Work programs — they remind us that people, not positions, drive performance.
AA for HH People: There’s growing concern that the boy child is being left behind. Do you agree?
UE: To some extent, yes. We’ve focused so much on achievement that we’ve neglected emotional development. Many boys grow up without learning empathy or self-awareness. We need to raise boys who are both ambitious and emotionally intelligent — who know how to lead with respect, discipline, and compassion.
AA for HH People: If you could design a mentorship programme for young men, what would be its core lesson?
UE: It would teach emotional intelligence — how to handle failure, express yourself, and build meaningful relationships. Those are lifelong skills. The message would be simple: be accountable, be curious, and be kind. The world needs more men like that.
AA for HH People: Why do you think International Men’s Day doesn’t attract as much energy as International Women’s Day?
UE: Because for a long time, men have been seen as the default — so advocacy for men hasn’t felt urgent. But it matters. Men’s mental health, fatherhood, and emotional wellness deserve space too. This isn’t a competition of causes; it’s about balance. Empowered women and grounded men make for healthier societies.
AA for HH People: One stereotype worth keeping, and one that needs to go?
UE: Keep the sense of responsibility — when it’s rooted in integrity and service.
Drop the idea that men must suppress emotion to be strong. That mindset has cost too many men their peace, health, and connection.
