Thousands of women gathered in Lagos last week with a shared determination to expand their horizons, challenge limitations, and redefine success on their own terms.
At the seventh edition of the SheCan Conference, held last weekend at the Balmoral Convention Centre, Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, speakers from diverse sectors encouraged women to stop measuring themselves against others and instead focus on building purposeful, impactful lives.
With over 13,800 registrations for the annual gathering, which has become one of Nigeria’s leading platforms for women’s empowerment, leadership development, and economic advancement, the theme, She Can Do More, attracted entrepreneurs, professionals, policymakers, corporate executives, and emerging leaders seeking practical insights on personal growth, leadership, financial independence, and resilience.
Opening the conference, General Manager, Enterprise Sales at MTN, Febisola Oyeniyi, challenged women to rethink their understanding of excellence. Drawing from her experience in sales leadership, she described excellence not as perfection but as the commitment to doing things well and confidently acknowledging one’s achievements.
Convener and Founder of SheCan Nigeria, Dr. Ezinne Ezeani, reiterated the organisation’s mission to educate, empower, and transform women beyond the annual event. She highlighted the year-round initiatives of SheCan Nigeria, including mentorship programmes, business and career development opportunities, networking platforms, charity fairs, and skills acquisition projects designed to help women achieve sustainable growth.
“SheCan Nigeria is not just an event; it is a movement,” Ezeani said, noting that the organisation remains committed to helping women access knowledge, build meaningful connections, and unlock opportunities for greater impact.
For beauty entrepreneur and founder of House of Tara, Tara Durotoye, success begins with self-awareness rather than comparison. Encouraging women to define achievement according to their personal values and aspirations, she warned against measuring progress through the lens of others.
Her husband, leadership coach and business consultant, Fela Durotoye, challenged societal expectations that often tie a woman’s success to the accomplishments of her spouse. He stressed that a woman’s growth, purpose, and contributions should be recognised independently.
Group Managing Director, Mojec Int’l Ltd., Chantelle Abdul urged participants to develop the ability to identify opportunities hidden within challenges. She encouraged women to look beyond immediate obstacles, explore emerging sectors such as agriculture, and cultivate a mindset that prioritises possibilities over limitations.
Chairman of Loft & Keys Advisory, Austin Albert, shared his personal journey from humble beginnings to business success, inspiring attendees with lessons on resilience, vision, and strategic decision-making. Speaking on wealth creation through real estate investment, he encouraged women to embrace financial education and position themselves for long-term prosperity.
Non-executive Director, WEMA Bank, Yewande Zaccheaus focused on the importance of clarity and intentionality, reminding women that not every opportunity deserves acceptance. According to her, understanding one’s purpose is essential to making the right decisions.
Faith and resilience formed the core of COO and Executive Director, SAS Textiles Limited, Toyin Bakare’s message as she encouraged women to remain steadfast through difficult seasons and continue building even when progress appears slow.
One of the most engaging sessions of the day was a panel discussion featuring Managing Director of 7UP Bottling Company, Sari El-Khalil, alongside Abdul and Bakare. The conversation explored leadership, purpose, workplace culture, and personal growth. El-Khalil emphasised the importance of valuing people, noting that organisations thrive when individuals feel appreciated and empowered.
Joining virtually, President of the Africa CEO Club, Dr. Fatoumatta Gaye, reflected on her journey from modest beginnings to global leadership, reminding participants that circumstances at the start of life do not determine future outcomes.
Actor and filmmaker, Ruth Kadiri encouraged women to pursue their ambitions boldly, particularly in creative industries where unconventional ideas are often met with scepticism. She urged attendees to set ambitious goals and avoid limiting their futures to a single outcome.
Closing the conference, Business consultant, Olushola Olaleye reminded participants that success requires daily commitment and continuous effort, leaving the audience with a powerful reflection on consistency and discipline.
Beyond the conversations and networking opportunities, the conference also delivered tangible impact. Grants and financial empowerment support were provided to selected participants, while members of the deaf and sickle cell communities received financial assistance.
With two halls filled to capacity and a programme packed with practical insights, inspiring stories, and opportunities for advancement, SheCan Conference 7.0 reinforced a message that resonated throughout the day: every woman has the potential to do more when she recognises her worth, embraces her purpose, and acts with courage.
As one participant summed it up: “I know I can be more.”
