Ezinne Kufre-Ekanem is a transformational speaker, author, strategist, and host of ‘Up You With Ezinne’, a talk show that empowers women to rise above limitations and live with intention. A visionary entrepreneur, mentor, advocate for women’s empowerment she is also the convener of the UpYouWomen Conference. Kufre-Ekanem is an alumna of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Lagos Business School, and Strathmore Business School in Kenya. In this interview, she shares her thought on women empowerment, the Up You Women Conference and other sundry issues.

Tell us about the ‘Up You With Ezinne’,
It is an upbeat, engaging, and straightforward radio talk show that speaks directly to the heart of every woman, regardless of her age, background, or status. A platform that encourages women to rise above limitations, reclaim their voices, and show up as their most powerful selves. Every episode is thoughtfully curated to address the real-life challenges women face personally, professionally, spiritually while offering insight, inspiration, and tools for transformation. It is a clarion call that says: You are more. You can do more. You deserve more.

How have you built confidence over your career?
Confidence for me was built in the fire through trials, failures, and the courage to start over. I’ve had to speak when my voice trembled, lead when I doubted myself, and rise even after major falls. Over time, I’ve learned that clarity and courage come through action. The more I showed up, the stronger I became. I’ve also leaned on mentors, coaches, and a strong support system who remind me of who I am, especially when I forget. Confidence isn’t something you “have”; it’s something you keep choosing and nurturing every day.

The Up You Women’s Conference coming up in August, what should women expect?
This year’s Conference is themed “Unbound… Rising Beyond Limits.” It’s a rallying cry to every woman who knows deep within that she was made for more. It’s about defying labels, breaking limitations, and choosing to soar no matter the obstacles. The inspiration behind the conference is our deep desire to help every woman find herself and fulfill her purpose. Our themes are not random; they are intentional and speak to our collective journey as women. In the first edition the theme was Building Bridges from Within. In our second year the theme was Through the Fire… Triumphing in Adversity. We are now set to do the third edition and this year’s theme is, Unbound… Rising Beyond Limits. So, this year, we’re moving beyond limits not just in message but also in execution. We are expanding to two full days, August 29 to 30 and hosting a hybrid experience.

That means women from all over the world can join us virtually, while those attending in person will gather at the iconic EbonyLife Place, Victoria Island, Lagos. We are also introducing the Soar Circle, an intimate fireside experience where raw wisdom meets practical truth, and real stories meet divine insight. From real conversations to powerful speakers, hands-on sessions, networking opportunities, and an atmosphere charged with courage and clarity, it’s not just another event. It’s a divine appointment.

As an entrepreneur, how do you manage your businesses with other roles without one suffering?
Grace, structure and learning to ask for help. I wear many hats as an entrepreneur, show host, mother, and advocate but I’ve learned to pace myself and be intentional. I don’t try to do everything at once. I prioritise, delegate, and rest when I need to. My businesses are aligned with my purpose, so they don’t feel like distractions but extensions of my calling. I also believe in building capable teams that carry the vision with me. When you’re driven by purpose, clarity and focus will always find you.

What concrete steps can we take to advance women empowerment?
We must move from inspiration to implementation. Empowerment is not a buzzword; it’s a daily commitment. Invest in girl-child education, create safe and inclusive workspaces, mentor intentionally, fund women-owned businesses, pass policies that protect and promote women’s rights. Every empowered woman becomes a ripple impacting her home, her community, and the next generation. It’s a legacy we must build intentionally.

What advice do you have for women going through one challenge or the other?
Don’t bury your story in shame, own it, learn from it, and rise with it. Life’s challenges are not designed to break you, but to shape you. You are not weak because you are struggling; you are strong because you are still standing. Find your tribe, ask for help, hold on to your faith, and take one step at a time. The fire you are walking through is not the end it may just be your refining ground.