Guardian Woman means business

On March 14, 2025, Guardian Woman will host the second edition of the Guardian Woman Festival with the theme ‘Women Mean Business’. Chief Strategy Officer (Global), Anita Ibru takes us through the inaugural event highlights and what to look forward to at the second edition.

We launched the Guardian Woman Festival in March this year as a rallying cry in celebration of the outstanding achievements of Nigerian women. A rallying cry because together, we know we are stronger. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we can lift this nation and help those who need it.

A celebration because Nigerian women are succeeding on the global stage. Around the world, Nigerian women, those who are part of the diaspora and those with Nigerian heritage are succeeding at the highest level of politics and finance, sport and music, media and arts – and even at genius level (girl-child prodigies).

Delve a little deeper, and we also see success in less visible sectors, too: construction, technology, hospitality, health and wellness. The ones we celebrate are those who use their talents and influence to help and inspire others.

During our first event, which formed a part of International Women’s Month, with the theme ‘Inspiring Inclusion,’ hundreds of participants united to share messages surrounding the need to make change. We ran a series of interactive panels, networking events, education sessions, and a gala dinner. We brought together women from diverse fields and experiences to share their unique journeys.

The centrepiece was the Seven Wonder Women Awards ceremony, where Guardian Woman finalists were celebrated for their distinct service. It was a beautiful and inspiring event that will linger in the memory for many years to come. A huge thank you, too, to our partners and sponsors, who made the event possible.

Guardian Woman has long been part of The Guardian’s core offering. It serves as a dedicated platform to amplify women’s voices, experiences, and contributions worldwide, thereby enriching public discourse and fostering gender equality.

Our mission is resolute: to empower, inspire, and educate through compelling stories and insightful content that showcase the achievements and challenges faced by women worldwide.

Women from Nigeria and across the globe will gather at the Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos Island, for an event that will include engaging, impact-driven panel sessions, premium networking opportunities, and innovative displays.

Our goals for the event are simple: To inspire action and create a lasting impact on the inclusion of women and girls across various sectors. To forge a better world where diversity is celebrated and everyone – regardless of gender – has equal opportunities and recognition. To promote and celebrate the social, economic, cultural, political progress, and achievements of women in Nigeria and Africa.

The event will culminate in the Seven Wonder Women Awards, celebrating women in business and those who mean business. Come and be part of change.

If you’d like to be involved as a sponsor, please email [email protected]
or call 0703 342 2652.
To book your place, visit www.guardianwomanfestival.com.