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Applications Open for 2024 Aurora Tech Award for Women Innovators

Application for the 2024 Aurora Tech Award for women innovators and entrepreneurs are now open beginning from September 2, 2024, till November 21, 2024.

The award, which is open to women tech entrepreneurs from around the world, offers opportunities to showcase their innovations.

In the last two consecutive years, African innovators have won home the coveted top prize, offering an exciting opportunity for female tech visionaries across Africa to step into the global spotlight and make their mark once again.

This year, the award returns with expanded opportunities, increased financial support, and an ongoing commitment to nurturing the next generation of women tech leaders.
In recognition of the vital role women play in the tech industry, the prize fund for the award has been significantly increased with new prize distribution as follows: 1st Prize: $30,000; 2nd Prize: $20,000; 3rd Prize: $15,000; 4th Prize: $10,000 and 5th Prize: $10,000.

The application process for the award includes three stages of assessment: longlist, midlist, and shortlist.
After an initial evaluation by venture fund analysts, 100 participants will be selected for a pitching session with fifteen of them to be advanced to the final shortlist.

Aside that, shortlisted participants will also benefit from an enhanced mentoring program offering sessions with leading industry experts. This mentorship will span 2 to 2.5 months and will provide critical insights and guidance to help participants refine their projects and implement strategic changes.

To be eligible to participate, women entrepreneurs must meet the following criteria and these include ownership or co-ownership of a startup, the startup should have received funding or seed round less than or equivalent of $4million, startup must be 5 years or less, and a minimum viable product to showcase.
Interested applicants can submit their entries through the Aurora Tech Award website at https://www.auroratechaward.com/https://www.auroratechaward.com/

Speaking on the new development, Operations Excellence and Sustainability Director at inDrive, Asya Vildt stated that the company remains committed to women’s empowerment adding that supporting women in tech isn’t just about leveling the playing field but about unlocking the full potential of innovation.

“Women entrepreneurs bring fresh perspectives that are essential for solving today’s complex problems. At inDrive, we are committed to creating opportunities that empower women to lead in technology, as their success drives positive change across industries and communities. The Aurora Tech Award reflects our belief in the power of diverse leadership to shape a better, more sustainable future,” Vildt said.

Folake Owodunni, 1st prize winner of the 2024 Aurora Tech Award and founder of Emergency Response Africa in Nigeria, emphasized the importance of this platform, stating, “I don’t dwell on whether it’s because I’m a woman, or because of my color, or simply personal dislike. As entrepreneurs, we build resilience. We optimize for those who understand or align with us in some way.

They don’t have to agree with everything, but at least there’s common ground”.
Also commenting, 3rd prize winner of the 2024 Aurora Tech Award and Founder of Deaftronics in Botswana, Sarah Phiri-Molema said winning the Aurora Tech Award has truly accelerated the company’s development and opened new doors.

“We participated in various other competitions, increased our visibility, especially outside our home country, and attracted the attention of international investors and potential partners.”

The Aurora Tech Award was established in 2020 to recognize and empower women founders of IT startups who are driving innovation and breaking down barriers. Both finalists and winners of the award will be announced between March and May 2025.

 

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Nigeria’s Therapist Makes 50 Under 50 Awards List of Top Female Founders in Middle East and Africa

Foremost therapist and Founder of the Institute of Counselling in Nigeria (ICN), Dr. Tolulope Oko-Igaire has been named as one of the top 50 under 50 female founders in the Middle East and Africa.

She received the 50 Under 50 awards organised by the Female Founders Initiative Middle East and Africa in recognition of her contributions to counseling and mental health awareness in Africa including spreading the knowledge to future generations through her institute.

According to the organisers of the award, “This honour recognises the remarkable achievements of women entrepreneurs in our region and celebrates their contributions to transforming industries and inspiring future generations.”

It added that the award celebrates the exceptional drive, determination, and resilience of female founders who have not only broken barriers but also paved the way for others to thrive.

The 50 Under 50 awards ceremony took place during the SheEO Leadership Bootcamp in Doha, Qatar held from the 9th to the 11th of May, 2024.

Receiving the award, Tolulope said the special recognition will spur her to keep making an impact and contributing to the growth of counseling and mental health awareness in Africa and the world.

“I am truly honoured to receive this prestigious award and be nominated as one of the top 50 under 50 female founders making an impact in the Middle East and Africa. I will continue to work to contribute my part to making the world a better place by passing the knowledge of counseling and mental health to future generations and helping those in critical conditions to get back on their foot,” she said.

Tolulope popularly known as The Fixer is one of Africa’s Foremost Sex Therapist and Professional Mental Health Practitioners. She is instrumental in the growth of counseling and mental health awareness in Nigeria and Africa.

She is a Clinical Counselor with demonstrated experience in Depression Treatment, PTSD Counseling, Human Sexuality, and Dysfunctional Behavioral Treatment. Also, she is a leading Gestalt, CBT, and Psychodynamic expert with specialisations in Personality Disorders, Sexual Dysfunction, and Family Dynamics.

Tolulope started in an environment where professional Counseling is non-existent and discussing Mental and Sexual Health issues is considered taboo. She singlehandedly took Mental Health Counseling and Psychotherapy from the backward traditional level to a more professional forefront, blending Counseling skills and ethical values.

With hundreds of articles and publications to her credit, Tolulope has worked with various Multinationals and governmental and Non-Governmental organizations across Africa in various capacities as a volunteer, Speaker, and Facilitators on Mental Health Issues.

Originally, a University of Port Harcourt social scientist graduate, at Masters level, Tolulope is an alumnus of The International Institute of Counseling United Kingdom. With years of research work, an Advanced Diploma, and extensive training in specialized fields of Mental Health Counseling like Grief and Bereavement, Crisis, Child & Adolescent, and Couples & Family Counseling, she’s a United States certified human sexuality specialist. She has an honorary doctorate in counseling from The Development Institute of Counseling United States.

She is also the President of the Association for Counseling & Psychotherapy of Nigeria (ACMPN) and a member of numerous International Counseling & Psychotherapy organizations. She prides herself on being up to date with the most recent scientific literature surrounding Mental Health Counseling and Human Sexuality. She is currently rounding up her Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology at Texilla American University as well as a Ph.D. in Sexology at the International Institute of Clinical Sexology Florida. Tolulope has received numerous awards both in Nigeria and abroad.

 

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Aradel Holdings CEO Honored with 2023 WIEN Gender Advocate of the Year Award

Aradel Holdings Plc has announced that its Managing Director and CEO, Mr. Adegbite Falade, has been awarded the prestigious 2023 WIEN Gender Advocate of the Year award by the Women In Energy Network (WIEN).

 

The award was presented to Mr. Falade during a special ceremony held at Aradel Holdings Plc headquarters on Friday, 16th February 2024.

The President of WIEN, Eyono Fatayi-Williams, along with key members of WIEN’s executive team, including Asanimo Omezi, Onyema Obi, and Bassey Alorye Adie, visited Aradel Holdings Plc to honor Mr. Falade for his outstanding dedication to promoting gender diversity and equity in the workplace.

This esteemed accolade is a testament to Mr. Falade’s unwavering commitment to fostering a culture of inclusivity and diversity throughout his career. WIEN highlighted Mr. Falade’s proactive efforts in creating an inclusive work environment for all employees at Aradel Holdings Plc.

The WIEN Gender Advocate of the Year award is conferred after a meticulous selection process and is voted for by the entire WIEN membership, underscoring the significance of Mr. Falade’s achievements in advancing gender equality. Expressing his gratitude for the recognition, Mr. Falade reiterated his commitment to championing gender inclusivity policies within the workplace. In his acceptance speech, he stated, “I am profoundly grateful to receive this award. As a business leader, I will continue to use my position to champion gender inclusivity policies in the workplace.”

The WIEN team was warmly welcomed by senior members of the Aradel executive leadership team, including Ms. Titi Omisore, Company Secretary & Group General Counsel, Dr. Ebeneezer Ageh, Chief Technical Officer, Mr. Temitayo Ogunbanjo, General Manager of Aradel Refineries, Ms. Oshio Adams, ICT Manager, and members of the Aradel Women’s Network.

Aradel Holdings Plc congratulates Mr. Adegbite Falade on this well-deserved honor and remains committed to fostering an environment of equality and diversity in the workplace.

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Lagos First Lady, Others Honoured at 2023 LCYDI Social Impact Awards Night & Banquet

… LCYDI Launches Cooperative Society

It was a night of excellence and celebration as the Lagos Community Youth Development Initiative (LCYDI) honoured the first lady of Lagos State, Dr. Claudiana Sanwo-Olu, and other distinguished individuals and organisations both in the public and private sectors for their contributions to the development of the state through various initiatives.

The Award was held on December 10, 2023, at the Green Life Event Centre, Lagos with the theme “Reward for Service: Celebrating Social Impact Icons”.

According to the organisers, LCYDI Social Impact Awards Night & Banquet is an initiative crafted to honour, celebrate, and reward remarkable individuals and organisations for their extraordinary contributions to Lagos State. The organisers also used the avenue to launch its cooperative society known as “Eko Youth Development Initiative Co-operative Multi-Purpose Society Limited”.

The first lady of Lagos State was awarded the LCYDI Personality of the Year alongside the Special Adviser to the Commissioner of Works & Infrastructure, Lagos State, Dr. Adekunle Olayinka.

The Chairman of the Event Planning Committee, Comrade Babatunde Yaya disclosed that the award serves as a platform to reward outstanding individuals and organisations for making a positive impact in their communities.

In his words, “Tonight, we assemble not merely as individuals but as a united force united by a common commitment to positive change and social impact. Beyond meticulous planning, this gathering is a celebration of the outstanding individuals and organisations that embody the true essence of social impact.

“This evening underscores the strength of community, collaboration, and the belief that even small actions can catalyze transformative change. We join together to shine a spotlight on those whose tireless efforts have left an enduring impact on the lives of others.”

Speaking in the same vein, the State Chairman, LCYDI, Amb. Akanni Michael said the aim of the award is beyond just celebrating and rewarding social impact makers but to also encourage other Nigerians to emulate the good work the awardees are doing, adding that LCYDI on its part has also been making an impact through various developmental initiatives.

 

“Lagos Community Youth Development Initiative has made significant strides through community service this year, and this is not limited to the LCYDI feed the community projects executed by over 80% of our chapters in Lagos State; in most of the local government areas, conducting impactful medical outreach in partnership with other Non-Governmental Organizations in most of the Council areas across the state and organizing clean-up initiatives in collaboration with various youth groups.

“These achievements gave hedge to LCYDI’s commitment to making a positive impact toward the Greater Lagos for all. We strongly believe in the THEMES PLUS Agenda of this present state government toward engaging community youth stakeholders for most of LCYDI programs,” he stated.

LCYDI is a not-for-profit initiative created in 2017 for young people who are committed to becoming change agents in their various communities. It is also a conglomerate of community volunteers in Lagos State, whose passion is of participatory communal development under the supervision of the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development with local chapters in all the 20 local government areas and 37 local council development areas in Lagos State.

FULL LIST OF AWARDEES

Section A
LCYDI PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR
Dr. Claudiana Sanwo-Olu, First Lady of Lagos State
Dr. Adekunle Olayinka, Special Adviser to the Commissioner of Works & Infrastructure, Lagos State

Section B
1. Mrs. FeyikemiFabiyiOmoniyi
2. CSP OgunniyiBabatunde
3. Engr. SikiruGaniuOlakunle
4. CSP Okoruwa Godwin
5. Hon. Olaibi Emmanuel
6. Hon. AbdulmumiEdidi
7. Comrade OlamiboIkuomola
8. Mrs. KehindeOlumegbon
9. Hon. Seriki Hammed Ayinde

SECTION C
LCYDI IMPACT AWARD
1. The Most Outstanding Community Youth Influencer in Lagos State – Comrade Asoro Abubakri
2. The Most Active Community Youth Leader in Lagos State – Adeyemo Akeem Gbolagade
3. The Most Supportive LCYDI Local Government Coordinator for the Year – Comrade Samsideen Salami
4. The Best Local Chapter P.R.O. on Community Relations – Comrade AyindeOlawale
5. The Best Local Chapter P.R.O. in Lagos Central – Comrade AdeoyeYussufMoyosore
6. The Best Local Chapter P.R.O. in Lagos West – Comrade IdowuOlatunbosunAtanda
7. The Most Outstanding State Executive Member – Comrade OlajideFashola
8. The Most Supportive Local Government Executive Member
For the Year 2023. – Comrade Emmanuel Oladeji
9. The Most Outstanding LCYDI Coordinator of the Year – Comrade Adeyemi Yusuf
10. The Most Outstanding LCYDI Member of the Year – Comrade Babatunde Yaya
11. The Most Outstanding Local Government Chapter for the Year – LCYDI Lagos Island

SECTION D
HUMANITARIAN SERVICE AWARD
1. Comrade OlatunjiTaiwoAyodele
2. Comrade IfyKadiri
3. Comrade AladeIsiaka
4. Comrade FolashadeAdesanya
5. Comrade AdetayoOlayinka
6. Comrade TemitopeAdetoroYemitan
7. Comrade Felix Onilekere
8. Comrade AshadeAbdulsalamAbiodun
9. Comrade Mary AdeduroNnneka
10. Comrade FunmiOlabode
11. Comrade RamotaKabirOlugbon
12. Comrade Moses OluwasegunAdedeji
13. Comrade KehindeOmotehinse
14. Comrade FatoyinboKazeem
15. Comrade AyodejiAyodele
16. Otunba Bode Ogunniyi
17. Prince ShogunleRotimi
18. Comrade Ashe Gabriel
19. Hon. OlajumokeOkedara

SECTION E
LCYDI APPRECIATION AWARD
1. Amb. Dele Moses
2. Amb. OlalekanOjelade
3. Comrade OyefoluHalimatAdeyanju
4. Comrade OlufowobiMojeed Tunde
5. Comrade TaiwoOmotehinse
6. Amb. ShittuSulaimonOlogundudu
7. Comrade MayegunOlawale.

 

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Empowering Women in Tech: Aurora Tech Awards 2024 Entries Now Open

Celebrating Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Inclusivity

In a world where gender equality remains an ongoing challenge, the African tech industry is witnessing a transformative revolution, highlighted by the prestigious Aurora Tech Awards. Launched in 2020, the Aurora Tech Awards is a global annual celebration of women founders of IT startups who are breaking boundaries and shattering stereotypes in the tech world. The Aurora Tech Awards is proud to announce that entries for the 2024 Aurora Tech Awards are now open.

The significant shift in Africa’s technological landscape became undeniably evident during the 2023 Aurora Tech Award. A large portion of the nominations highlighted the achievements of African women in tech from Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, and Uganda, all of whom helm IT startups that have rendered immense value to their communities. These visionary women not only harnessed technology to bridge the gap between communities and essential educational, health, and financial services but also fervently supported fellow entrepreneurs in their pursuits. The 2023 award was ultimately won by Elizabeth Mwangi from Kenya and her startup, Gwiji for Women, which connects cleaners living in the slums of Nairobi with their clients.

The award’s mission is threefold: to applaud the strides of women in IT entrepreneurship, to empower them with the resources they deserve through substantial cash prizes, and to shatter the very gender biases that have long confined the industry.

“In a tech world still grappling with gender disparity, awards like the Aurora Tech Award are catalysts for change. Our recognition empowers women, shattering barriers and inspiring young minds. The positive feedback from past winners resonates with the transformative impact. As applications pour in globally, we’re excited to spotlight talents making community-changing impacts and serving as role models. We envision a future where gender ceases to limit potential. This award isn’t just a recognition; it’s a step towards a more inclusive and innovative tomorrow” says Ekaterina Smirnova, executive director of the Aurora Tech Award.

The Aurora Tech Award heralds a future where innovation knows no gender and where women’s potential flourishes uninhibited. It’s not just about breaking glass ceilings; it’s about forging an industry that stands as a testament to the capabilities of all, regardless of gender.

The application must meet the following criteria:

1. Women founder
The startup must be founded or co-founded and led by a woman entrepreneur

2. Funding stage
The startup should not have received investments exceeding $4 million in funding, including the seed round

3. Operation time
The startup must be no more than 5 years old

4. Minimum viable product (MVP)
The startup should have a functional prototype. If you have only an idea, your application will not be considered

Applications can be submitted via the award’s website at https://www.auroratechaward.com/

Dates and deadlines
Entries should be submitted between September 5 and December 1, 2023.
Finalist announcement date: Jan. 31, 2024
Final assessments and announcement of winners: Mar. 8, 2024

The panel of judges will include prominent female IT entrepreneurs, the winners of last year’s Aurora Tech Award, and key industry experts.

The prizes will be awarded as follows:
First prize: $30,000
Second prize: $20,000
Third prize: $10,000

There will only be one winner per category, and the prize can be awarded to a contestant from any of the participating countries. In addition to the prizes, the entrepreneurs will gain access to the inDriver mentorship program.

 

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Nigeria’s Simi Nwogugu Named Top 10 Finalist for Africa Education Medal 2023

Nigeria’s Simi Nwogugu, CEO of JA Africa, has been named as a Top 10 finalist for the Africa Education Medal 2023. Founded last year by T4 Education and HP in collaboration with Microsoft, the Africa Education Medal is Africa’s most prestigious education accolade. 

The Africa Education Medal was established to recognise the tireless work of those who are transforming education across the continent – to celebrate the stories of those who have lit the spark of change so others will be inspired to take up the torch. It is given to an outstanding individual who has demonstrated impact, leadership, and advocacy in the field of education. 

 

Simi Nwogugu is CEO of JA Africa, part of the Nobel Peace Prize-nominated JA Worldwide, one of the world’s largest youth-serving NGOs that prepares young people for the future of work. She was first introduced to JA while working at Goldman Sachs in New York City. Impressed by the organisation, she quit her lucrative job at the age of 24 to bring JA to Nigeria, where it now reaches more than 1 million people, before going on to head up JA’s operations across the continent.  

 

The vital importance of Nwogugu’s work is highlighted by the fact that 60% of the population of sub-Saharan Africa and about 37% of its workforce are under the age of 25. By 2025, Africa will be home to 25% of the world’s youth population. Through the delivery of hands-on, blended learning in financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship, her organisation empowers young people to grow their entrepreneurial ideas, hone their work skills, manage their earnings and secure better lives for themselves, their families, and their communities. 

 

For 25 years, Nwogugu has been leading JA’s efforts in various capacities as it embarked on a mission to help young people to generate and effectively manage wealth and create jobs for their communities. Her passion for strategy and innovation led to the development of many impactful programmes that are ensuring young Nigerians have the skillsets and mindset to succeed.  

 

She is a passionate advocate for girls’ education and one of her unique initiatives includes the Leadership, Empowerment Achievement & Development (LEAD) Camp for Girls, which has impacted 1,000 young girls and inspires and empowers them to become high-achieving women leaders in society. Another initiative she has championed is the Venture in Management Programme (ViMP), which is designed to empower young people in the different facets of managing a business, making crucial business decisions and developing skills for general management. She also built digital and out-of-school youth programmes that enabled her organisation to reach underserved populations in the North of Nigeria, even during the Boko Haram crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic.  

 

Prior to becoming JA Africa CEO in 2020, she led JA Nigeria to impact the lives of over 1 million Nigerians in 5,000 schools. Among the many JA alumni who have gone on to become job creators and social entrepreneurs is Iyin Aboyeji, the founder of two unicorns: Andela and Flutterwave. 

 

Nwogugu also serves as president of the governing board of the Harvard Business School Association of Nigeria (HBSAN). She is a member of the Advisory Council of the African Capital Alliance Foundation, and of the Global Advisory Committee for Teach For All. 

 

Mayank Dhingra, Senior Education Business Leader, Southern Europe, Middle East and Africa, at HP said: 

 

“My warmest congratulations to Simi Nwogugu on being named a Top 10 finalist for the Africa Education Medal 2023. Her tireless work to improve education stands as an inspiration to us all and I hope many others will follow in her footsteps to become leaders in the field.

“HP has a bold goal to accelerate digital equity for 150 million people globally by 2030. Only by joining forces and aligning with NGOs, government, educators and businesses can we truly improve the education environment. The Africa Education Medal brings together all those who are changing the face of African education, whose vital work deserves to be celebrated.”
 

 

Vikas Pota, Founder and CEO of T4 Education, said: 

 

Africa’s teachers and school leaders, and its leaders of governments, NGOs and businesses, all play a crucial part in unlocking the continent’s potential through quality education.  African education stands at a crossroads in the wake of the pandemic, but if leaders from across the continent in every field can work together then they can build the lasting change needed. 

 

“I congratulate Simi Nwogugu on her achievements in skilling up Africa’s young people and I hope her success serves as rallying cry for changemakers to come forward and make a difference.” 

 

The Top 10 finalists for the Africa Education Medal are:  

 

  • Mary Ashun, Principal of Ghana International School, Ghana 
     
  • Mohammed Elmeski, Senior Education Adviser, Office of the Head of the Government, Morocco 
  • Laura Kakon, Chief Growth & Strategy Officer of Honoris, South Africa 

     

  • Grace Malthape, CEO of SmartStart Early Learning, South Africa 

     

  • Mary Metcalfe, former policymaker and CEO of Programme to Improve Learning Outcomes (PILO), South Africa 
     
  • Martha Muhrezi, Executive Director of FAWE, Uganda 
  • Sarah Ruto, Former Chief Administrative Secretary of Kenya’s Ministry of Education and CEO of PAL Networks, Kenya 

     

  • Jean Claude Nkulikiyimfura, Executive Director of Agahozo Shalom Youth Village, Rwanda 
     
  • Simi Nwogugu, CEO of JA Africa, Nigeria 
     
  • Snehar Shah, CEO of Moringa School, Kenya 

     

    Nominations for the Africa Education Medal opened in February 2023 for individuals working to improve pre-kindergarten, K-12, vocational and university education who are either educators, school administrators, civil society leaders, public servants, government officials, political leaders, technologists, or innovators. 

        

    The winner of the Africa Education Medal will be announced in July. Finalists will be assessed by a Jury comprising prominent individuals based on rigorous criteria.  

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Tems Emerges First Nigerian Female Singer to Win Grammy

Nigerian artist, Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems,has emerged the first Nigerian female singer to win Grammy Awards..

The 27-year-old artiste won her first grammy for her part in Future’s hit single ‘Wait For U’ under the award category for ‘Best Melodic Rap performance’ at the 65th grammy award which was held on Sunday at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

Premium Times report that Tems’ is also the first non-mixed Nigerian female musician to win the prestigious award.

Sade Adu, who won the Grammy for ‘Best new artist’ in 1986, and Cynthia Erivo, who bagged ‘Best theatre Album’ in 2017, were British Nigerians

The Afrobeats singer has added this to her list of accomplishments following her Africa Future awards win and her Oscar nomination.

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Three Crowns Mum of the Year: Three Mums Win All-Expense-paid Trip to Dubai

Three mums have emerged winners of the Three Crowns Mum of the Year, smiling home with an all-expenses paid trip to Dubai.

The Three Crowns Mum of the Year campaign organized by Three Crowns Milk, Nigeria’s heart-friendly dairy brand

The campaign started with a call for members of the public to nominate any mother or mother figure deserving of a much-needed vacation, an all-expense-paid trip to Dubai – an amazing travel destination with exciting attractions.

After weeks of intense and interesting competition, over 300,000 entries were received, screened and narrowed down to the top 6 contestants. These contestants went on to battle for the grand prize of an all-expense-paid trip to Dubai, one year’s supply of Three Crowns milk, and other exciting prizes, courtesy of  Three Crowns milk.

The finale was hosted by the delectable, energetic influencer and host; Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori, aka Kie-Kie, and judged by Public Health Professional and Nutrition Specialist, Jamila Lawal; award-winning actor and host; Linda Ejiofor-Suleiman; multi-award-winning weight loss expert, Adedamola Ladejobi (AskDamz); and fitness expert, Seyi Olusore (Shedams). It was indeed a beautiful event with celebrities, top government officials and other stakeholders in attendance.

The top 6 contestants were judged based on set criteria, including fitness, smartness, dance moves, and the number of votes by the audience. At the end of the day, Mrs. Joy Obieze won 1st place, followed by Mrs. Ivbade Odigie and Mrs. Oluchukwu Rose Igwe, who clinched the 2nd and 3rd spots respectively, winning an all-expense-paid trip for themselves and two family members to Dubai as well as one year’s supply of Three Crowns milk.

Clinching the 4th, 5th and 6th positions are Mrs. Jane Francis, Mrs. Elizabeth Olanrewaju and Mrs. Blessing Caleb, winning N500,000, N400,000 and N300,000 respectively, and a year’s supply of Three Crowns milk.

For the first time, the Three Crowns Mum of the Year competition recognized and also rewarded an outstanding retailer mum, Mrs. Abiodun Abolade Sodiq, with an all-expense-paid trip to Dubai and one year’s supply of Three Crowns milk.

One of the winners, Mrs. Joy Obiese thanked Three Crowns Milk for being genuinely intentional about caring for mums.

In her words, “I feel so elated and very grateful to Three Crowns milk for making this a reality for me. Motherhood is very interesting and rewarding with Three Crowns milk”.

According to Chris Wulff-Caesar, Marketing Director, FrieslandCampina Sub-Sahara Africa Cluster, “Motherhood can be a thankless job and even when mothers are appreciated, one can never repay them for all they do. Their enormous sacrifices, sometimes to their detriment, put an emotional and physical burden on them. This is the reason we created the Mum of the year campaign to show appreciation for mothers or mother figures and give them their well-deserved rest and pampering.

The Marketing Manager of Three Crowns milk, Gloria Jacobs, noted that Three Crowns milk remains positioned to care for mums because if mums take care of themselves, they can in turn care for the rest of their families. Three Crowns milk will continue to show care to mothers while acknowledging the important role they play in the family.

“We appreciate every family who participated and contributed significantly to the successful execution of Three Crowns Mum of the Year 2022. We congratulate the winning mums. We look forward to another exciting edition later this year,” Jacobs added.

The Three Crowns Mum of the Year campaign debuted in 2015 with Olamide Olaleye as the winner. Nkechi Brayila won in 2016 and Oluwakemi Longe in 2017.

In commemoration of its 30th anniversary in 2018, Three Crowns raised the bar by awarding the grand prize to three winners: Jennifer OtoGod, Pauline Pambolo Daniel, and Adaobi Okonkwo. They were each rewarded with an all-expense-paid vacation to Dubai with two members of their families and a year’s supply of Three Crowns milk.

Three Crowns milk was established in 1988 to provide Nigerians with quality nourishment with great taste, creaminess, and low cholesterol, making it Nigeria’s heart-friendly milk. It has delivered on this promise consistently as it continues to offer low-cholesterol nourishment to millions of Nigerian homes.

It is also enriched with essential vitamins and minerals required for mums to keep fit and live healthy lifestyles.

 

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MARS Awards 2022 of Best African Women Researchers And Young African Researchers Announced

Merck Foundation announced the winners of Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit – MARS Awards winners 2022, 7 Researchers from 7 different African Countries recognized for two categories – Best African Women Researchers and Best Young African Researchers; Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit – MARS 2022 Awards was in partnership with African Union Scientific Technical Research Commission.

 

Merck Foundation also announces the Call for Applications for Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit – MARS Awards 2023 to empower Women and Youth in STEM in Africa with special focus on scientific research in Women Health and Infertility & Reproductive Health; The 2023 MARS Awards will emphasize the collaboration between Merck Foundation and Internationale Federation of Fertility Societies -IFFS, Africa Reproductive Care Society – ARCS, Manipal University and African Union Scientific Technical Research Commission. 

Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck Germany announced the winners of Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit (MARS) Awards 2022 announced in partnership with African Union (Scientific Technical Research Commission) to recognize African Researchers for their valuable research work and contribution to empowering women and youth in STEM in Africa with special focus on Scientific Research in Infectious Diseases and Cancer Research.

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and Chairperson of Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit -MARS expressed, “Like every year since 2016, I am extremely proud of MARS 7 winners who have been recognized under the two categories of ‘Best African Women Researchers Awards’ and ‘Best Young African Researcher Awards’ for their valuable contribution in research, especially by African Female Researchers who are under presented in this field, as we all know. Through Merck Foundation African Research Summit – MARS Awards, we aim to empower African young researchers and of course to empower and encourage African women researchers through advancing their research capacity and promote their contribution to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics)”.

The winners of ‘Best African women Researchers Awards’ and ‘Best Young African Researcher Awards’ will be enrolled into research training at a premier research institute in India.

The MARS 2022 Award Winners are:

Winners of “MARS Best African Women Researchers Awards”

 

  • Gladys Kaba, Ghana

TOPIC: Diversity of Cervicovaginal Human Papillomavirus Genotypes and Naturally Occurring E6/E7 DNA Sequence Polymorphism: A Study Among Selected Women with Clinical Suspicion of Cancer of the Cervix or Diagnosed Cervix Cancer/Precancer Cases in Ghana

 

  • Amaya Jobin Habila, Nigeria

TOPIC: Evaluation Of The Immunoprotective Potential Of Trypanosoma Brucei Glycerol Kinase In Mice

 

  • Shingirai Chiwambutsa, South Africa

TOPIC: Effect of genetic polymorphism and co-medications on tamoxifen metabolising enzymes and plasma levels of endoxifen in black South African breast cancer patients

 

  • Ededia Firdawoke, Ethiopia

TOPIC: HPV in women with invasive cervical cancer lesion and cancer: the use

Through Merck Foundation African Research Summit – MARS Awards, we aim to empower African young researchers and of course to empower and encourage African women researchers

of urine as an adjunct specimen

 

Winners of “MARS Best Young African Researchers Awards”

  • Abu Bakarr Kamara, Sierra Leone

TOPIC: Safety and immunogenicity of an Ad26.ZEBOV booster dose among children previously vaccinated with the two-dose heterologous Ad26.ZEBOV and MVA-BN-Filo Ebola vaccine regimen

 

  • Fongang Che Landis, Cameroon

TOPIC: Effectiveness of Mhealth (Text Messages) in Enhancing Cervical Cancer Screening uptake among Women in the North-West Region of Cameroon

 

  • Eze Ajaegbu, Nigeria

TOPIC: Anticancer agents from Millettia aboensis root

 

Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit – MARS 2022 had a scientific support from African Union Scientific, Technical and Research Commission (AU-STRC), Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) Graduate School.

“I am also excited to announce the Call for Applications for our prestigious Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit (MARS) Awards 2023. ‘The Role of Scientific Research in Women Health and Infertility & Reproductive Health’ will be the key focus this year. Eventually, through these awards, Merck Foundation aims to empower Women Researchers and young African researchers to strengthen the important role research plays towards contributing to public health thus improving healthcare capacity with special focus on women health, infertility and reproductive health in Africa”, added Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej.

MARS 2023 of Merck Foundation will be in partnership with African Reproductive Care Society (ARCS), International Federation of Fertility Societies (IFFS), Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) and African Union Scientific Technical Research Commission.

MARS aims to contribute to building research capacity in the African research community.

Details for MARS AWARDS 2023

Abstracts are invited from final year African PhD students and young investigators involved in research related to either of the following topics:

1) Women Health

2) Infertility and Reproductive Health

The applicants should be primarily based at African Research Institutes and Universities.

Last Date of Submission:

Applications can be submitted till 31st July 2023

 

How to apply:

Applications and abstracts can be submitted via email to mars@merck-foundation.com along with CV (including Name, Gender, Country, University/Hospital Name, Email address, Mobile Number) and the abstract document as an attachment.

 

Other Details:

  • All Abstracts will be peer reviewed.
  • Research Awards will be dedicated for two categories of Best African Women Researchers and Best Young Africa Researchers
  • Winners will be eligible for Research Training in prestigious Research Institute in India.
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Award

Nigeria’s Bunmi Oke Joins Global Brand Leaders As Gerety Awards Jury

Nigeria’s Bunmi Oke, Chief Executive Officer/Lead Consultant of Ladybird Ltd will join other global brand leaders from Philips, Heineken and PepsiCo on next year’s Gerety awards jury.

She was the 17th (and 2nd Female) President of the Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN) and presently a Board/Council member of the association. She is also a Council member of WIMBIZ.

Oke before founding Ladybird was the pioneer Chief Operating Officer/Executive Director of one of the leading integrated marketing communications agencies in Nigeria – 141 Worldwide (now NITRO 121) (an international agency which is a member of the WPP group, the largest communications group in the world).

“We could not be prouder of the jury of personalities from around the world that will be choosing the 2023 winners” explained Co-Founder Lucía Ongay. “Next year we celebrate the 5th year of the Gerety Awards and just like in previous editions, our jury includes some of the advertising and marketing industries most respected and awarded leaders.”

The 2023 Grand jury includes:

  • Antoinette Beatson, VP ECD, BETC, Havas, FRANCE
  • Brogan Simpson, Global Communication Manager, Heineken, NETHERLANDS
  • Cristina Reina, EVP, Global Executive Creative Director, McCann New York, USA
  • Diana Ceausu Caverly, Global Chief Strategy Officer, MRM, USA
  • Gabrielle Fenton, Head of LATAM, VaynerMedia, MEXICO
  • Jo Wallace, Global Executive Creative Director, Media.Monks, UK
  • Joan Colletta, Senior Director, Global Brand Marketing, McDonalds, USA
  • Kinga Grzelewska, Managing Director & Creative Director, MullenLowe, POLAND
  • Maya Karanouh, CEO/Co-Founder, Tagbrands, LEBANON
  • Nicky Bullard, Group Chief Creative Officer, MullenLowe Group UK
  • Ghada Wali, Creative and Co-Founder, Wali Studio, EGYPT
  • Marcela Morales, Sr Brand & Digital Manager, Whirlpool, MEXICO
  • María Luján Donaire, Executive Creative Director, HOY, ARGENTINA
  • Masako Okamura, Creative Director; Dentsu Inc, JAPAN
  • Nancy Delhalle, Founder & Chief Marketing Officer, Serviceplan BELGIUM
  • Sann Sava, Chief Creative Officer, Publicis Montreal, CANADA
  • Sorada Sonprasit, CEO
  • Publicis Groupe THAILAND
  • Stephanie Nadi Olson, Founder and CEO, We Are Rosie, USA
  • Syeda Ayesha Ikram, Executive Creative Director, PAKISTAN
  • Vanessa Vankemmel Sebban, Head of Creative Works France Google, FRANCE
  • Nathalie Lam, Global Head of Sponsorship, Lead for Inclusion & Diversity Marketing Transformation, Philips Global, NETHERLANDS
  • Rana Hamarneh, Group Executive Director & Partner, AdPro, JORDAN
  • Tomoko Arikazawa, Managing Director, MSL Japan Publicis Groupe, JAPAN
  • Uma Rudd Chia, Executive Creative Director and Co-founder, KVUR, SINGAPORE
  • Zubeida Goolam, Founder and Creative Managing Partner, Valiant Agency, SOUTH AFRICA
  • Jennifersy Hu, Chief Creative Officer, Ogilvy, TAIWAN
  • Josefina Casellas, Executive Creative Director, RGA, ARGENTINA
  • Lone Tvedergaard Bach, Strategy Director and Partner, &Co, DENMARK
  • Natalie Wills, Brand VP, Booking.com, NETHERLANDS
  • Patricia Moura, Head of Content, GUT, BRAZIL
  • Begoña Aristy, VP & General Manager, Pepsico, MEXICO
  • Bunmi Oke, CEO/Lead Consultant, Ladybird Ltd, NIGERIA
  • Cassandra Zawadowski, Co-Chief Creative Officer, Wunderman Thompson, CANADA
  • Dana Koll, Owner and Founder, DIBOOR, ISRAEL
  • Jeannine Shao Collins, President, SeeHer, Association of National Advertisers, USA
  • Rina Marie Simon, Partner, GroupM INDONESIA
  • Stephanie Yung, Executive Creative Director, Zulu Alpha Kilo, CANADA
  • Carole Giroud, CEO, Serviceplan FRANCE
  • Hà Nguyễn Thị Hải, CEO, VMLY&R, VIETNAM
  • Helen Pak, Senior Vice President of Creative – Marketing, Design & Content, Disney, USA
  • Helga Sasdi, Co-Leader of Le Pont and Chief Executive Officer, Publicis Groupe HUNGARY
  • Mar Frutos, CCO, El Taier DDB, GUATEMALA
  • Merve Puhaloğlu Eraslanoğlu, Chief Everything Officer, TVekstra, TURKEY
  • Natalie Lam, CCO Asia, Pacific, Middle East & Africa, Publicis Groupe, HONG KONG
    • Rosalina Tornel, VP & General Manager Gamesa-Quaker-Sonric’s Mexico and Biscuits Latam, Pepsico, MEXICO

    Once again Gerety will be holding in-person jury sessions in 10 different cities; the locations and judges for the executive jury will be announced in the new year. Entries are judged on the originality of the creative ideas and the quality of their executions and all types of advertising campaigns can be entered.

    As well as defining the shortlist, the executive jury sessions each select the agency and production company of the year from their country. This is chosen from the entrants of the Portfolio Cut.

    The 2023 Gerety Awards will open for entries and announce the full jury in January, in the meantime entrants are invited to learn more about the Grand jury and download the 2023 entry kit at www.geretyawards.com

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