
Rejections. Many times, this term causes anxiety, self-doubt, and uncertainty. For Vivian Chinazor Kalu, however, it proved the turning point in a trip marked by accomplishment, self-discovery, and fortitude. Vivian’s tale today, a senior program manager at Niyo Group, offers hope to everyone hoping to be successful on a worldwide scene.
Introducing Vivian Chinazor Kalu
Vivian begins her story by sharing her current role: “I am a senior program manager at Niyo Group, where we economically empower Black and Asian minority women looking to get into tech and thrive in the industry.” Through government funding, Vivian leads initiatives that upskill career changers, tackling underrepresentation in tech for women and minorities.
But Vivian’s route to this position was not straightforward. She reflects on her career trajectory, which has included a variety of responsibilities and unusual encounters. She has worked in a variety of businesses, including telecoms and finance, leaving a path of accomplishments. “It’s like my career wasn’t aligned to a particular path, even though I was always into tech,” she explains.
Her career highlights include managing a product launch for mobile number portability in Nigeria, overseeing core banking application projects, and taking on managerial roles at international organizations supporting giants like Microsoft. Yet, despite her accomplishments, the thought of applying for the Global Talent Visa initially felt daunting.
What led you to discover the Global Talent Visa?
Vivian first learned about the Global Talent Visa by chance. While pursuing her master’s degree in Business Strategy and Artificial Intelligence in the UK, she attended an interview where her employer mentioned it. She said, “from your story, you don’t even need a sponsorship visa. Why don’t you apply for the Global Talent Visa?” This was the second time Vivian had heard about the program.
The first time, she had come across it through clips and mentions online but dismissed it. “I felt it didn’t concern me. Look at me—what do I know? Everything I’ve done never felt significant enough for something like this,” she recalls. Even when the idea resurfaced, the requirements seemed insurmountable.
The First Attempt
Vivian’s route to her first application was riddled with self-doubt. She describes this phase as one of hesitation and uncertainty. “When you haven’t seen or heard from people who’ve experienced it, you write yourself off. I second-guessed myself and thought, This is not for me.”
Regardless of her concerns, the impending expiration of her visa compelled her to act. Vivian conducted extensive investigation, delving into TechNation’s guideline materials and standards. She made a workbook that listed each criterion and brainstormed possible proof to support her application. “I wasn’t fully convinced I had what it took, but I had no options,” she admits.
The procedure was taxing. As she assembled her proof, restless nights became days. Vivian joined forums, contacted supporters, and asked those who had gone through the procedure for help. Her initial contribution, however, was not at all strategic. “It was like throwing everything together just to say I’ve done it,” she recalls. And when the rejection came, it was a bitter pill to swallow.
Turning Rejection into a Catalyst
Rejection could have ended Vivian’s route, but instead, it became her motivation. “Rejection isn’t failure. It’s an opportunity to grow and refine,” she reflects.Determined to overcome this setback, Vivian took a step back to examine her application.
She began by reviewing the feedback from her rejection, seeking places for growth. This time, she used a more deliberate approach. She rebuilt her evidence, ensuring each item clearly highlighted her influence and skill. Vivian additionally honed her digital footprint, enhancing her exposure and authority within her sector.
The Road to Success
With renewed confidence, Vivian submitted her revised application. The result? Approval. “Getting the Global Talent Visa was transformative,” she says. “It validated all the hard work, late nights, and sacrifices I made.”
Her accomplishment opened doors to additional possibilities, including her present work at Niyo Group, where she now supports people to fulfill their potential. But beyond the professional triumphs, the voyage altered her self-perception. “I realized I was capable of more than I’d ever imagined,” she shares.
👉 Watch the full video on YouTube to hear Chinazor’s inspiring journey and practical advice!
Handling Rejection in the Global Talent Visa Journey: Part 2 – A Real-Life Success Story
When Vivian Chinazor Kalu out on her path to win the renowned Global Talent Visa, she had no clue how much the process would push her determination, transform her sense of resilience, and ultimately, redefine her story. In this part of her testimony, Vivian reveals the highs and lows of her journey, delivering a real, sincere, and inspiring narrative of her route to achievement. This is more than simply a narrative of rejection and victory; it’s a monument to the power of tenacity, strategy, and community.
Starting from Doubt
When Vivian first heard about the Global Talent Visa, she disregarded the notion outright. As a stay-at-home mom managing her household obligations, the prospect of pursuing such a lofty ambition seemed virtually unachievable. However, a later interview with a possible employer revived the notion. This second encounter sowed the germ of possibilities and prompted her to really consider applying. Even yet, it took her seven months to ultimately take the plunge and begin drafting her application.
“At first, I didn’t see myself in it,” Vivian recalls. “But eventually, I started putting things together and decided to apply.” Her debut attempt, however, was distinguished by a lack of planning. She relied on assistance from friends and informal sources, putting together her evidence without fully grasping the intricate requirements specified by Tech Nation, the endorsing body.
The Shock of Rejection
When Vivian received her rejection letter, the disappointment was overwhelming. “It hit me really hard,” she admits. “It felt very personal. Self-doubt crept in, and I began questioning my abilities, wondering if I had overestimated my qualifications and impact.”
Rejection, she found, wasn’t just about the application being turned down—it felt like a rejection of her professional journey and self-worth. But amidst the grief, Vivian began to see the experience as an opportunity to grow and refine her approach. “I realized this failure was just a step on the path,” she says. “Even if you stumble, turn it into a dance.”
Lessons Learned
Through reflection and the detailed feedback provided by Tech Nation, Vivian identified critical flaws in her first application. Her evidence was misaligned with the required criteria, and while she had achievements to her name, she had failed to present them in a compelling and impactful way. “My narrative lacked specificity,” she notes. “I hadn’t demonstrated my contributions as a leader or authority in my field.”
Determined to succeed, Vivian sought structured guidance, enrolling in a coaching program through Glotale. This decision proved transformative. “The coaching program clarified the criteria for me,” she explains. “They reviewed my previous application, offered personalized feedback, and helped me craft a stronger narrative for my second submission.”
The Power of Strategy and Structure
One of the most significant modifications Vivian made was her approach to arranging and presenting her findings. In her original application, she had sought to communicate her tale in a word-heavy fashion, leaving little opportunity for supporting material like images, letters, and measurements. Her new application focused on quality above quantity, ensuring every piece of proof clearly corresponded with the visa criteria.
For instance, one of her key achievements was being invited to speak at a high-profile conference attended by over 500 people, including industry leaders from companies like Google and PayPal. In her first application, she had merely described the event without providing visual proof or metrics of its impact. In her second attempt, she included:
- An invitation letter emphasizing her status as a recommended speaker.
- Photos from the event showing her on stage with the audience in the background.
- Metrics detailing the event’s reach and subsequent outcomes, such as publications and follow-up collaborations.
- Testimonials from attendees highlighting the value of her contributions.
“This time, I didn’t just tell a story,” Vivian says. “I showed evidence of the impact I’d made and aligned it with the criteria.”
Resilience and Renewal
Vivian’s second application wasn’t just a submission; it was a culmination of hard work, introspection, and collaboration. Through the Glotale coaching program, she learned to articulate her achievements in a way that showcased her leadership, influence, and innovation.
The process also taught her the importance of patience and accountability. “I was often in a hurry,” she admits. “But my coaches reminded me that quality matters more than speed. They kept my anxiety in check and helped me stay focused.”
Ultimately, Vivian’s persistence paid off. Her second application was successful, and she received the endorsement she had worked so hard to achieve.
Reflections and Advice
Looking back, Vivian emphasizes the value of seeking the right support and doing things correctly from the start. “Had I enrolled in the coaching program before my first submission, I could have saved myself a lot of stress and anxiety,” she says. “Experience is not always the best teacher. Learn from others who’ve been through the process.”
Vivian also highlights the emotional toll of rejection and the importance of surrounding yourself with a supportive community. “Rejection can feel very personal, but it’s crucial to remember that it’s just a step in the journey,” she advises. “Build positive relationships and always have a checkpoint to ensure you’re on the right path.”
Her path from rejection to endorsement is a strong reminder that failures are not the end. They are opportunities to learn, develop, and come back stronger. For everyone contemplating the Global Talent Visa, Vivian’s tale is a light of hope and encouragement.
Stay tuned for the second part of this series, when we’ll go further into the particular techniques and tools Vivian employed to alter her application and get her visa.
👉 Watch the full video on YouTube to hear Chinazor’s inspiring journey and practical advice!
https://youtu.be/VQcsb_sswEc