With the thematic preoccupation ‘Inspire Inclusion’, Nigerians, both men and women were not excluded in the celebration of the just concluded International Women’s Day (IWD), as every nook and cranny of the nation joined the world in the advocacy for gender equality, women empowerment and inclusion in all ramifications.
Overtime, there have been notable women who have advocated for women empowerment and inclusion in Nigeria, and this year’s IWD celebration presented the opportunity to celebrate the women who relentlessly empower other women.
This was part of the highlights at the Wema Bank IWD celebration held on March 8, at the Oriental Hotel, as the bank through its women-focused proposition, She Empowers Her Award by SARA, spotlighted and awarded Nigerian women in different fields who have not only reset the standards in their respective fields but have also been instrumental in empowering other women and inspiring more inclusion for women.
Empowering women goes beyond the government, but also individuals and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), institutions, though not obligated, play a big role in national development and the achievement of global goals like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This is why She Empowers Her Award by SARA initiative which is diversifying its empowerment portfolio beyond solutions, products and propositions to include recognition is one that is welcomed and appreciated by everyone in the advocacy for gender equality, inclusion and balancing.
The criteria for the She Empowers Her Award by SARA includes: the woman in leadership roles in the society (no preference to sector or industry); woman with professional/career achievements; women who have used initiatives/programme to empower people in the society; women with socio/economic contributions in the society and women with positive track records with a minimum of five years driving inclusion.
Following these criteria, 85 female professionals were nominated, from which an internal jury selected the top 20. These top 20 nominees were reviewed by an independent auditor who verified the entire selection process and charged the internal jury with selecting the top nine finalists who were eventually shortlisted to five via a public vote.
The Top five winners who were revealed and awarded at the Wema Bank IWD event are as follows:
Adesunmbo Adeoye – passionate for multifaceted impact, is the convener of the Inspiring Change Conference, an annual life-changing event, born out of the urge to impact the lives of women, inspire boldness for change and transform the lives of women striving to lead in their diverse professions. This conference has evolved over the past 10 years to become one of the most inspiring women’s conferences in the country, imparting knowledge and expertise to produce educated and enriched women equipped as future leaders and assets for nation-building.
On her part, Adebola Agunbiade is an accomplished economist and chartered accountant with over 22 years of experience in various aspects of accounting. She leads CandourCrest Group, a prominent finance and leasing company in Nigeria. Recognised as a leader in finance, she served as the former CEO of CFS Financial Services and became the first female President of the Finance Houses Association of Nigeria. Leveraging her background, she has positively impacted numerous businesses and individuals by providing financial support and sharing knowledge, skills, and experiences acquired over the years, standing as a role model for many women.
Also, Debola Deji-Kurunm, fondly known as DDK, is a renowned author, coach and leader of Immerse Coaching Company and Ideation Hub Africa. She has impacted thousands of women through coaching and public policy advisory. She is recognised globally for her leadership. She is honored as Nigeria’s leading coach and among Africa’s most inspiring voices. She has authored 24 books and spoken internationally to diverse audiences on leadership and purpose.
Funke Felix Adejumo is the President of the Funke Felix-Adejumo Foundation, a passionate advocate for womanhood and philanthropy. Through her work, she’s impacted millions globally, establishing initiatives like Grace Orphanage and a Children’s Hospital. With over 50 authored books, she continues to inspire and empower women worldwide, sharing her story of divine assistance and family bliss.
Pastor Mrs. Mary Kristilere is a woman passionate about God, family, and humanity, she empowers women through the Blessed Above Women Conference (BAWCO) and simultaneously provides assistance for victims of sexual abuse while combatting sexual abuse, through the UASA (United Against Sexual Abuse) Foundation. Additionally, she leads the FITAH Foundation, aiding women in adopting healthier lifestyles.
These powerful women are living proof that the capabilities and capacities of women are limitless and that women can achieve success across diverse areas of their lives, just as well as, or even better than men. These women have reset the standards for success, building successful empires and enviable careers that show younger women that greatness is achievable and every woman can accomplish much more.
Their unique profiles and stories are testament to the duality of women; the ability to succeed both in their personal lives as women and in their professional lives as experts in their field. By celebrating the accomplishments, achievements and impact of these great women, Wema Bank has taken a huge leap forward in its empowerment of women and in inspiring inclusion for all women.
