Women Mean Business… with Engr. Oluwakemi Ann-Melody Areola

The Guardian Woman Festival is a few weeks away. With the theme, Women Mean Business, the festival which holds at the Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island on the 14th of March is keen on celebrating and connecting women from diverse fields. On the column this week is the CEO and Managing Director, Vivacity, Engr. Oluwakemi Ann-Melody Areola. She speaks on the festival’s theme.

Share with us your career journey.
My career has been a dynamic journey across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors, all rooted in my passion for sustainable development, youth empowerment, and innovation. I have had the privilege of serving as the Special Assistant on Youth, ICT, and Corporate Relations to the Minister of Youth and Sports Development in Nigeria, as well as the Special Assistant on New Media to the Minister of Communications. These roles deepened my understanding of policy-making, digital transformation, and the impact of technology on economic growth. As the CEO of Vivacity Development, I currently lead initiatives that align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on entrepreneurship, climate action, and the future of work. Through Vivacity PR, I help brands and organizations amplify their impact with strategic communications and high-profile event planning, including engagements at CSW, UNGA and COP.

One of my most impactful initiatives is ‘Nigeria Works 2030’, which is dedicated to upskilling Nigerian workers—especially women—for the future of work. This initiative ensures that the Nigerian workforce is equipped with the necessary skills to thrive in emerging industries, including technology, digital entrepreneurship, and the green economy. The world of work is evolving rapidly, and my goal is to ensure that Nigerians are not left behind but rather positioned as leaders and innovators in these fields.
Beyond development work, my passion for fashion and accessories led me to build a business that merges creativity with cultural identity. I firmly believe that fashion is not just about aesthetics—it influences confidence, identity, and economic growth.

Through my various roles, I am committed to driving systemic change, fostering inclusion, and creating opportunities for young people, especially women, in global development, technology, green and creative industries.

What does ‘Women Mean Business’ represent for you?
For me, ‘Women Mean Business’ is more than just a phrase—it is a movement. It signifies impact, leadership, and economic transformation. Women-led businesses are key drivers of sustainable economic growth, community development, and job creation. It also represents the need for structural support, including access to funding, mentorship, and global networks, to ensure women can scale their businesses successfully. We are in an era where women are not just participants but leaders and changemakers, breaking barriers across industries. As someone leading initiatives like ‘Nigeria Works 2030’, I see ‘Women Mean Business’ as a call to action for ensuring women are prepared for the future of work. We must create spaces where women can access training, embrace digital transformation, and thrive in high-growth sectors like AI, fintech, and sustainability. Additionally, it signifies collaboration over competition—women supporting women through mentorship, partnerships, and knowledge-sharing to create a thriving ecosystem. True success is when more women rise together, shaping policies, industries, and societies for the better.

How can women continually stay relevant and build a successful business?
Staying relevant in business requires innovation, adaptability, and lifelong learning. Women must embrace digital transformation—leveraging technology, social media, and data-driven insights to scale their businesses. Building a successful business also requires strategic networking. Connecting with the right mentors, industry leaders, and peer communities helps women access opportunities, funding, and global markets. Platforms like LinkedIn, business accelerators, and women-focused investment networks are essential tools for growth. Financial literacy is another key factor. Women must understand funding options, financial planning, and investment strategies to build sustainable enterprises.

Seeking grants, venture capital, or impact investors can provide the necessary resources to scale. One crucial aspect of staying relevant is future-proofing skills. Through initiatives like ‘Nigeria Works 2030’, I am actively working to equip women with digital skills, entrepreneurship training, and access to high-growth industries. Women who invest in continuous learning, explore emerging industries, and adapt to market shifts will not only stay relevant but lead the future of business and work. Finally, resilience and authenticity are crucial. The entrepreneurial journey comes with challenges, but staying true to one’s vision, adapting to market needs, and continuously innovating ensures longevity and success. Women don’t just build businesses; we build legacies.