As the world marks International Women’s Day (IWD) on March 8, 2026, Lawyer, philanthropist, counsellor and women’s rights advocate Ify Uzokwe is lending her voice to this year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” with a message rooted in collaboration, reciprocity and purposeful action.
For Uzokwe, a dynamic leader across various women-led organisations with over two decades of legal experience, the theme could not have come at a more critical time. In an era where individualism often competes with collective progress, she believes the call to give is, in fact, a call to grow.
“What a beautiful theme. In this era, collaboration is the key to achieving success, growth and multiplication.” To her, “Give to Gain” emphasises the power of support and reciprocity. Giving is not limited to financial contributions; it includes advocacy, mentoring, training and knowledge sharing. Every woman, she insists, possesses unique gifts and potentials that can uplift others.
She urges women to see themselves not as isolated individuals but as part of a larger ecosystem, as groups, unions, associations and communities that can support one another intentionally. By pooling resources, sharing expertise and amplifying voices, women can build networks strong enough to withstand systemic challenges.
Uzokwe’s commitment to justice and community development naturally feeds into her firm belief in gender equality. She describes gender equality as a fundamental human right and a necessary foundation for a peaceful, prosperous and sustainable world. It means equal rights, responsibilities and opportunities for all genders, particularly in access to education, healthcare, employment and financial independence.
She points to two common dimensions of gender equality social equality and economic equality. Social equality ensures equal access to education, healthcare and social services, while economic equality guarantees equal pay, equal employment opportunities and financial independence. While acknowledging that society may never completely eradicate sexism or inequality, Uzokwe believes that much of the suffering caused by these injustices can be significantly reduced if individuals and institutions exercise the power they already possess.
Yet, she also challenges women to look inward. According to her, some barriers stem from internalised limitations.
She observes that some women, despite being educated and equipped, sometimes shrink themselves due to background, societal expectations or personal insecurities.
“We sometimes are architects of our own problems,” she says, stressing the importance of confidence, visibility and advocacy. Increased awareness and stronger representation, she believes, will create a more supportive and interconnected world for women.
As a practicing lawyer with 21 years of experience in what was traditionally considered a male-dominated profession, Uzokwe offers a perspective that may surprise some. She does not believe women are currently discriminated against in the legal profession in the way they once were. While acknowledging that such biases existed in the past, she notes a gradual but undeniable shift.
Today, more women are graduating from law schools and stepping boldly into professional spaces. In Lagos State’s judiciary, she points out, female judges are notably present in significant numbers. Women are contesting for leadership positions in professional bodies, and winning. Many have been elevated within the profession.
However, she adds that there is still room for increased representation. The lingering question, she suggests, is whether female lawyers are willing and ready to pursue those heights with determination.
On gender diversity in the workplace, Uzokwe believes the days of male-dominated office spaces are fading. Performance, competence and results are increasingly taking centre stage. She acknowledges that while some fields still have fewer women, many organisations now embrace more equitable policies, including both maternity and paternity leave. Equitable representation, fair treatment and inclusion, she says, are becoming more visible, though continued advocacy remains necessary.
When asked which powerful woman she admires most, Uzokwe does not hesitate to mention Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization. She describes her as one of Nigeria’s most powerful women, frequently recognised globally for her impact in international trade and leadership. To Uzokwe, Okonjo-Iweala embodies service first to her country and now to the world, demonstrating how competence and resilience can break barriers on the global stage.
Despite progress, Uzokwe acknowledges that women in business continue to face formidable challenges. Limited access to capital, deep-seated gender bias and the ongoing struggle to balance demanding careers with family responsibilities remain significant hurdles. Additionally, women often contend with fewer networking opportunities, limited mentorship and cultural or administrative obstacles that slow their growth. Sexual violence and harassment, she notes, remain among the most pressing and painful challenges.
For young women and girls aspiring to become lawyers, Uzokwe offers practical and heartfelt advice. She reminds them that every successful professional once had a humble beginning. In law, she emphasises, pupillage is essential. One cannot leave law school and expect immediate prominence. The profession requires patience, mentorship and hands-on experience, learning the robes and understanding the practical realities beyond academic theory.
She encourages aspiring lawyers to identify their preferred areas of practice early, pursue continuous legal education and commit to constant self-improvement. Excellence, she says, is built on consistency and the willingness to keep learning.
