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Nkiru Olumide-Ojo’s New Book ‘Marketplace Readiness’ to Equip Young Nigerians for Marketplace Success

by Women Times on

In a bold step to enforce and ensure inclusive and equitable quality education, and to promote lifelong learning opportunities for everyone under the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG4) in Nigeria, Corporate Executive and Founder of the LightHouse Network, Nkiru Olumide-Ojo, launched her new book titled “Step Forward: Market Place Readiness.”

The book launch took place at the Alliance Française, Mike Adenuga Event Center, Osborne Road, Ikoyi, on Thursday, June 6, 2024.

According to the National Planning Commission, Nigeria faces a significant challenge with approximately 53% of its youth currently unemployed. To address this pressing issue, Nkiru Olumide-Ojo dedicated her efforts to preparing young people for the job market, equipping them with the necessary skills to seize available opportunities or even create new ones.

In her opening remarks, Mrs. Yetunde Baderinwa, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Lagos State Coordinator, stated that “the marketplace today is dynamic, competitive, and full of opportunities; however, it also provides numerous challenges that businesses must be ready to face. Market readiness involves understanding these challenges, adapting to changes, and strategically positioning oneself to capitalize on opportunities as they arise.” She further noted that “in the last 13 years, NYSC has sensitized three million, three hundred six thousand, six hundred and forty-six corps members, opening their eyes to entrepreneurship development.

Also speaking at the event, Mrs. Adenike Ogunlesi, Founder of Ruff and Tumble, addressed both the corps members present and guests who are already in the workplace. She emphasized, “Be intentional about building your mindset. Stand your ground based on three things: building your character, understanding what you value, and what your values are as a human being, and building your competence.”

The event was remarkable, featuring discussions on marketplace readiness across two generations, including thought leaders, educators, and advocates for sustainable development. Attendees benefited from insightful panel sessions featuring distinguished speakers, engaging conversations, and networking opportunities with individuals passionate about education and sustainable growth.

Leading the panel session were Mrs. Adenike Ogunlesi, Founder of Ruff and Tumble; Mrs. Yetunde Baderinwa, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC); Mr. Victor Banjo, Director of Executive Education at Lagos Business School; Joseph Onaolapo (Jay On Air), a renowned radio and TV broadcaster, content creator, actor, and event host; and Tobiloba Aboaba, a dynamic young professional at Stanbic IBTC, among others.

The book, “Step Forward: Market Place Readiness,” is a product of Nkiru and her team’s extensive work in underserved tertiary institutions, providing essential market readiness skills to students. This book aims to broaden their reach and impact, offering valuable insights and practical advice to a wider audience. It delves into situations and issues that undergraduates face in their everyday lives, preparing them for the challenges of the marketplace.

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Instagram Celebrates African Women in ‘Made by Africa, Loved by the World’ 2024 Campaign

by Women Times on

In celebration of Africa Day on May 25, Instagram has launched its international and pan-African campaign ‘Made By Africa, Loved by the World’. In a first, this year’s Instagram campaign celebrates women of impact, spotlighting four trailblazing women from the continent and diaspora – all of whom have built a global presence through their exceptional talents and passions across sports, entertainment and music.

Now in its fourth year, the women featured in this year’s 2024 campaign hail from Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya and for the first time Egypt. Eniola Aluko, Bontle Modiselle, Victoria Kimani and Tasneem Elaidy tell their inspiring stories in four beautiful short films highlighting their successes, challenges and passions. Shot in collaboration with five rising filmmakers, Haya Khairat from Egypt, Michael Rodriques from South Africa, Nyasha Kadandara from Kenya and London based Nigerian Aaliyah Mckay alongside co-director Shehroze Khan, these films amplify the unique voices and stories of women who are changing the way Africa is viewed on the international stage.

 

As part of the campaign, Instagram is also partnering with local African content creators to  host the third edition of its community challenge, ‘#ShareYourAfrica,’ bringing together emerging and established content creators to create a movement and celebrate what it means to be African.

 

Speaking about the campaign, Kezia Anim-Addo, Communications Director, Africa, Middle East & Turkey (AMET) at Meta, said, “For the fourth year running, we’re incredibly excited to shine a spotlight and celebrate just some of the amazing women from across the continent and beyond, who are having a remarkable impact globally. These are women who are contributing to positively shaping the female African narrative and inspiring change across football, music, entertainment and culture. At Instagram, we’re deeply rooted in culture and connection, and we know our platform provides the perfect space to showcase passions and creativity, whilst inspiring a worldwide audience.”

 

Meet the stars of ‘Made by Africa and Loved by the World’ 2024:

 

  • Bontle Modiselle (South Africa): An award-winning dancer and influential figure in the South African entertainment industry, Bontle has won numerous awards, including a ‘Africa Movie Academy Award’ and has travelled the world showcasing her impressive dance skills

 

  • Eniola Aluko (Nigeria): A trailblazer in women’s football whose contributions to the women’s game has made her a significant figure in the world of sports. Eniola has played for some of the world’s leading football clubs, and recently made history by becoming the first African female to make the board of Italy’s female top-flight football club FC Como Women.

 

  • Victoria Kimani (Kenya): A singer, songwriter and entertainer known for her distinctive blend of R&B, Afropop and Hip-Hop. Victoria has carved a successful path in the African music scene and beyond, collaborating with well-known local and global artists, and was once referred to by the Grammy Awards as ‘Kenya’s Best Kept Secret’.

 

  • Tasneem Elaidy (Egypt): A singer and songwriter with strong vocals whose songs have earned her international recognition, Tasneem started out on social media, releasing cover songs and original music. She went viral after releasing her version of a popular song and today, she has a growing audience of nearly 2 million followers on Instagram, 3 million on TikTok and over 100 million combined views for her music!

 

To view each short film, follow the four women featured on Instagram or via the Meta Africa Facebook Page.

 

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Gender Inclusion: PIC Unveils 2nd Edition of ‘The Purple Book’

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The Policy Innovation Centre (PIC) has launched its second edition ‘The Purple Book’, an advocacy tool to catalyze innovation and measurable progress towards advancing a gender-inclusive society in Nigeria. This significant milestone was achieved during the 30th Nigerian Economic Summit (NES #30) Public Lecture and Founders’ Forum held at the Lagos Business School on Thursday. 

The Policy Innovation Centre is an initiative of the Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG), a leading think tank in Africa, redefining evidence-based policy advocacy.

In his opening remark, the Chairman of NESG, Mr Niyi Yussuf, stated that the Public Lecture reaffirmed the essentiality of Public Private Partnership in tackling the complex economic realities of vulnerable Nigerians.

He reiterated NESG’s unwavering commitment in driving reforms through rigorous research, economic and social programs, and inclusive summits, all aimed at shaping the socio-economic development of the society.

“Thirty year ago, at a critical juncture in our nation’s history, the NES was borne out of necessity when the winds of economic challenges blew fiercely, necessitating a platform for a robust public-private dialogue in Nigeria”.

During the unveiling of ‘The Purple Book’, the Executive Director of Policy Innovation Centre, Dr Osasuyi Dirisu said that “the Purple Book serves as an advocacy tool that stakeholders, governments and organizations could use to achieve better policy implementation for gender and inclusion in Nigeria. It is also a curation of new evidence, contextually relevant solutions and recommendations from the Gender and Inclusion Summit. The Gender and Inclusion Summit was conceptualized in 2022 as an annual event to explore transformative ways to advance inclusion and gender-responsive governance in Africa.”

She stated further that “the Gender and Inclusion Summit served as a platform to amplify stakeholders’ voices about Gender Equality and Inclusion. ‘The Purple Book’ provides an opportunity for us all to move ‘From Voices to Action’ by reflecting on approaches to improve the Gender Equality profile of Nigeria.

The Purple Book is now available for download via the link below; https://policyinnovationcentre.org/the-purple-book

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Inlaks Promotes Women’s Inclusion in Celebration of International Women’s Day

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Inlaks, a leading ICT infrastructure and systems integrator in Sub-Saharan Africa, proudly joins the global community in celebrating the accomplishments of women to commemorate the International Women’s Day. This annual event is dedicated to honoring women’s achievements, addressing challenges, and advocating for women’s rights and inclusion.

This year’s theme, “Inspire Inclusion,” highlights the importance of women’s participation in creating a more equitable and inclusive world. Inlaks organized two panel sessions featuring women and men from various business units within the organization. These sessions focused on discussions about inclusion and its significance for progress and growth.

Adetokunbo Ayo-Ogunsanya, Group Head of Human Resources and Administration at Inlaks, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting women’s growth and empowerment. She emphasized the pivotal role women play in driving innovation, creativity, and success when given equal opportunities.

“At Inlaks, we understand that empowering women is not just a moral obligation but also a strategic imperative. Our goal is to foster an inclusive workplace where women can unleash their full potential,” stated Adetokunbo Ayo-Ogunsanya.

The panel discussions underscored the importance of empowering women through mentorship programs, leadership development opportunities, and policies promoting work-life integration. Panelists also highlighted the need to create a supportive environment that fosters equal opportunities for genders in both professional and societal settings.

In addition to celebrating International Women’s Day, Inlaks remains steadfast in its commitment to providing an equitable growth platform for all employees. Adetokunbo Ayo-Ogunsanya emphasized the company’s dedication to promoting efficiency and equality within its workforce.

“As we mark International Women’s Day, we must actively champion inclusivity across all facets of life, including workplaces and homes. Inlaks is aligned with these ideals, striving to ensure every voice is heard, every idea is valued, and every individual feels empowered to succeed,” remarked Adetokunbo Ayo-Ogunsanya.

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McEnies CEO, Olaosebikan Honoured with Chieftaincy Title, Gimbia Of Durumi (Women Leader)

by Women Times on

Marketing Communications professional and the Chief Executive Officer of McEnies Global Communications, Dr. Omolaraeni Olaosebikan has been honoured with the chieftaincy title, Gimbia of Durumi, (meaning Women Leader) in FCT, Abuja, North Central Nigeria.

Dr Olaosebikan recorded this latest feat on Friday, March 22, 2024 during the global commeration of the United Nations World Water Day, where a solar-powered borehole was donated to the Gudu Community in Abuja by the LG Electronics, a global leader in technology and innovation

The theme of this year is ‘Water for Peace’, emphasizing the vital significance of water in ensuring the stability and prosperity of human existence.

Expressing her joy during a chat with some journalists, the integrated marketing communication expert said:

“A chieftancy tittle has been conferred on me this last Friday, March 22, 2024 as, GIMBIA of DURUMI, meaning Women Leader. I am so pleased to announce that I am now Dr. Chief (Ms) Omolaraeni Olaosebikan. It’s a huge privilege for me to have been conferred and honoured with the distinguished tilte, Gimbia Of Durumi in Abuja.

“Durumi (Gbagi) is a small community in the Northern part of Nigeria that has decided to recognize my tenacity to bring some goodness for the first time into their community through a corporate organization and I assure them that I will not disappoint neither will I disappoint humanity in the journey of life.

“This worthy honour simultaneously came during the drilling of a solar-powered borehole for the people of Durumi, Gudu. The CSR initiative was part of the well thought out programme to celebrate the United Nations World Water Day.

“I so much love and appreciate everyone who have been part of the feat particularly the traditional institution in Gudu community, FCT Abuja. I feel so elated to extend my appreciation to the District Head, Garki, Chief Tanko Zekeri, as well as Chief Iya Bawa and others.” She said.

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Gender Links & International IDEA to Host Webinar on Findings of Women Political Participation Africa Barometer on International Women’s Day

by Women Times on

On 8 March 2024, the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA) together with Gender Links, will mark a milestone as they present findings of the second edition of the Women Political Participation Africa Barometer. This event underscores the achievements of the Women in Political Participation Consortium, which was launched in 2019 with support from the Embassy of Sweden in Addis Ababa.

 

Through this initiative, the consortium is advancing the project titled “Enhancing the Participation of Women in Political Participation in Africa.” Details of the 1st Edition of the WPP Barometer, published in 2021, are available here.  

 

Central to the project’s mission is the promotion of women’s political participation and representation across Africa. Drawing inspiration from the Maputo Protocol of 2003, sub-regional protocols, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the project aims to amplify the voices of women in political spheres.

 

To achieve its objectives, International IDEA and its partners engage with a diverse range of stakeholders, including political parties, media organizations, election management bodies, parliaments, and governmental ministries focused on gender and women’s issues. By collaborating with policymakers and regional bodies such as the African Union and regional economic communities, the project aims to effect meaningful change throughout the continent.

 

Currently operational in eight African countries—Botswana, Democratic Republic of Congo, Eswatini, Cote d’Ivoire, Kenya, Senegal, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe—the Women in Political Participation (WPP) project is making significant strides towards its goals.

 

The International Women’s Day sets the celebratory tone for amplifying achievements by women and the African continent is celebrating a one percentage point increase in women’s representation in the African Parliament from 24% in 2021 to 25% in 2024, as revealed in the topline findings of the International IDEA Women’s Political Participation in Africa Barometer, led by Gender Links.

 

The presentation of the WPP Barometer Topline findings follows the publication of the 1st Edition of the WPP Barometer in 2021, providing valuable insights into the status of women’s political participation in Africa.

 

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The Beast Foundation Launches Pan-African Female-Focused Leadership and Education Initiative, Lead Like a Girl

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The Beast Foundation, in collaboration with Elyseum Family Office (Elyseum), is pleased to announce the launch of the Lead Like a Girl programme aimed at empowering young women from underprivileged contexts in South Africa and Zimbabwe, providing them with opportunities to realise their full potential.

 

Arising from a partnership established in July 2023 between The Beast Foundation and Elyseum, this visionary programme is geared towards creating a brighter future by fostering leaderships skills and generating opportunities for success among younger women in marginalised communities.

 

Recognising the disparities in educational resources, Lead Like a Girl offers a well-rounded environment with expert mentorship and leadership development for young women. Structured around five core pillars, Lead Like a Girl encompasses crucial aspects such as schooling support (including tuition, boarding fees, textbooks, and learning materials), annual leadership camps, inter-African country visits, ongoing mentorship, and a dedicated alumni community.

 

Partnering with development organisations like The Amathuba Foundation, The Imbeleko Foundation, Mondi South Africa, and Higherlife Foundation Zimbabwe, the first cohort of 15 learners from KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng in South Africa, as well as Harare and Bulawayo in Zimbabwe, was carefully selected based on academic, sporting, and cultural achievements, as well as financial need.

 

“Lead Like a Girl represents a collective effort to uplift young women and foster positive change in underserved communities across Africa. Through mentorship, scholarships, the influence of inspiring female patrons, and the establishment of a robust alumni network, our goal with Lead Like a Girl is clear: to provide unwavering support, comprehensive training, and quality education to young girls. We aim to nurture them into formidable future leaders, in turn, empowering them to guide the next generation of young girls as they forge their own unique paths,” says Chairman of The Beast Foundation, Tendai Mtawarira.

 

Lead Like a Girl aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goals 4, Quality Education, and 5, Gender Equality. Moreover, the UN Women Annual Report (https://apo-opa.co/48a3OF7) highlights the urgent need for accelerated progress, indicating that achieving gender equality could take up to 300 years without the allocation of increased resources. Lead Like a Girl aims to address these challenges by providing opportunities for girls to pursue education, thus contributing to breaking the cycle of poverty and reducing vulnerabilities to issues like child marriages and domestic violence.

 

“With Lead Like a Girl, we’re not just envisioning a brighter future; we’re actively shaping it. Together, with the support of our partners and the dedication of our team, we’re laying the foundation for a generation of empowered and resilient young women who will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the world,” adds Mtawarira.

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Oguntala Has Shattered the Glass Ceiling for Women – Sen. Godswill Akpabio

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The President of Nigeria’s 10th Senate, Sen. Godswill Akpabio, stated that the 34th president of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has shattered the glass ceiling for women, becoming the first female president in the society’s 65-year history.

 

Sen. Akpabio, the keynote speaker during the investiture ceremony held at the International Conference Centre in Abuja on January 20, 2024, and also an engineer, was represented by the Deputy Senate President, Sen. Ibrahim Barau Jibrin.

 

He emphasized that her historic presidency inspires women to aim high, asserting, “The time has come for the NSE to enter the labour room and give birth to a new version of itself. Our society faces numerous obstacles hindering growth and development. With determination, we will get it right. Engineers must provide solutions, enable economic development, and aid national development.”

 

“We must attract engineers abroad to come home and contribute to national development. Also, we must support our young engineers to excel. We must create diversity and inclusivity in the profession, where individuals of all backgrounds can learn and contribute their expertise and experience to our development,” he further said.

 

Other dignitaries at the event included the Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa; the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde; members of the Diplomatic Corps; traditional rulers; members of international engineering associations; and other professional bodies in Nigeria.

 

Oguntala, a three-time Vice President of the association, holds an impressive record with over 53 awards, including the prestigious NSE Presidential awards received ten times. She has also been honoured with the APWEN Innovative Leader Award, APBN Meritorious Service awards, and recognitions from various NSE Branches and Divisions.

 

The investiture also saw the inauguration of the Deputy President, Engr. Ali Alimasuya Rabiu, and six Vice-Presidents: Joseph Sunday Adebayo (South-west), Danladi Ushiki Adamu (North-east), Rose James Madaki (North-west), Felicia Nnenna Agubata (South-east), Bemogho Ofoeyeno (South-south), and Ademola Isaac Agoro (South-west).

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Too Much Money Entertainment Empire Unveils ‘Ideal Public Role Model Figure’ to Support Girl Child

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By Mene Prosper

In a move to curb the moral decadence prevalent in the society today, Too Much Money Entertainment Empire in conjunction with Streetster Philanthropic Services, recently unveiled , Ideal Public Role Model Figure, in Lagos Nigeria.

According to the organisers of the event Ideal Public Role Model Figure, is geared towards nurturing the girl child from a tender age to ensure that she is properly groomed to fit into womanhood and motherhood.

Speaking at the event, Chief Operating Officer Too Much Money Entertainment Empire, Mr Emini Ofo Tolorun , hinted that the programme will be carried out through the Imperial School of Science and Technology, which was primarily established to groom the girl child to become a role model figure to the next generation woman..

He further, pointed out that considering the biological factors in human reproduction the girl child should be groomed and nurtured early in life to enable her acquire all that is required morally, economically and socially to fit into womanhood and motherhood.

Tolorun, who is concerned about the home front , which according to him should be the springboard on which destinies should be molded, pointed out, that most homes and marriages are distressed and shattered because the women in such homes were not properly groomed as homemakers.
He asserted that grooming of the girl child should begin at age 16 upwards as they attain maturity. He opined that the home suffers if the girl child does not acquire the needed education in home management before going into marriage, “if the girl child is not properly groomed, while in marriage she goes about chasing shadows , leaving the home to dwindle while the children are at the mercy of moral decadence” He said.
Noting that the school was created to teach the basics of what the young females ought to learn in the University to prepare them for marriage.

Speaking on his inspiration to establish the school, he explained that he is a world problem solver and has discovered the solution to disharmony in homes, and intends to solve those challenges through the establishment of the imperial school of science and technology, which he is sure will tackle the issue.

The Imperial School of Science and Technology is currently in session and admitting new students, for more information and details on the school visit www.TooMuchMoney.site, ImperialSchool@ToomuchMoney.site

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Business Leaders, Politicians Set to Pay Tribute to Victoria Yewande Ayeni, as Burial Holds Feb. 2

by Women Times on

The ancient town of Ilamo Ekiti in Ikole Local Government of Ekiti State, will come alive as from next week as traditional activities begin in respect of the burial of a respected community leader and business woman, Late Chief Mrs. Victoria Yewande Ayeni, mother of the Peoples Democratic Party Senatorial Candidate in the last year general election.

According to a statement signed by the leader of the Ayeni family, traditional activities for the burial will start on Wednesday 31st with procession round the town while Christian Wake keep will hold on Thursday Feb. 1 at the Holy Apostolic Primary School field, Asin Ekiti.

The statement further stated that on Friday, Feb. 2 which is the peak of the three-day burial ceremony , Church service and Interment will hold at St. Peter’s Anglican Church Isaba which will be followed immediately with reception at St Theresa’s field, Ikole Ekiti.

It was also stated that the traditional procession would be led by Chief Omolayo Ayeni and other siblings.

The people of Ikole Ekiti and Funso Ayeni political family within and outside Ikole Ekiti are expected to troop out in their hundreds to join the procession, which will start from Ilamo area of Ikole Ekiti.

Speaking on expectation and preparation for the burial, Prince Funso Ayeni said the procession would be held amidst funfair at every junction, with various age groups, politicians and board members of Funso Ayeni Foundation joining.

Meanwhile, it has been indicated that politicians, top corporate players and representatives of various professional and religious bodies from all walk of life would attend the burial.

In a condolence letter sent to the family by Egbe Omo Ilamo, the community had indicated their readiness to rally round the Ayenis and pay them back for all the good humanitarian services they have consistently embarked upon to lift individuals and various communities in Ikole Local Government and Ekiti state at large.

Mrs. Victoria Ayeni died on the 14th of November, at the age of 83 years.

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