From Milestones to Memories: A May To Remember
Hello friends!
May was indeed a splendid month for us here at Leading Ladies Africa. We can’t get over the joy and excitement of all the achievements and milestones we celebrated together. Here’s a recap of the incredible moments and initiatives that made this month truly unforgettable.
This month, our commitment to empowering every African girl child was stronger than ever. We partnered with the Noella Foundation to host the Girls In Leadership Program 2024, which focused on mental health awareness, bullying, menstrual health hygiene, and public speaking. Through empowering debate sessions on topics such as “Why Lagos State is Ready for a Female Governor” and “Why the Government Should Provide Free Sanitary Products to Girls,” we engaged and inspired the next generation of African female leaders.
The Girls in Leadership Program (GILP) is a leadership development and mentoring program for girls from underrepresented and low income communities, aimed at equipping them with the skills they need to thrive as future leaders and change makers. This 2024 edition was made possible through the generous support of our incredible #LLA100Women2024, 40 Northern Women and The Noella Foundation.
This month, we shone a spotlight on 40 incredible women from Northern Nigeria, who are advancing leadership, and making outstanding impacts. From groundbreaking healthcare initiatives to revolutionary businesses, from powerful advocacy platforms to electrifying performances, Northern women are lighting up Nigeria, weaving threads of progress and empowerment across the social fabric. For so long, their stories have been whispered in hushed tones, their voices muffled by cultural barriers and stereotypes. Yet, despite this, their impact on their communities, in the nation and on the continent as a whole cannot be ignored. You can view the full list here.
It’s evident that this month has truly been profoundly inspiring and impactful. We continue to be amazed by the unwavering determination of African women, both on the continent and in the diaspora. The month of May was particularly exceptional in showcasing their remarkable achievements. Here are some incredible highlights that inspired us throughout the month:
Liz Grossman Kitoyi joins Prosper Africa As Senior Communications Advisor
Judith Suminwa Tuluka becomes the first female Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Congo
Stella Fubara appointed Managing Director of the Del-York Development Company
6 Times Melinda French Gates showed she’s the Gender Equality Champion.
Ohemaa Nyanin appointed General Manager Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), Golden State.
Marina Lamptey and Dr Evelyne Memphil graced the pages of this month's LLA Interviews, where these exceptional women from various sectors illuminated the spotlight with their tales of resilience, dedication, and the journey that led them to remarkable success.
For May's Career Quick Five, we featured Dere Akindoju, an outstanding fitness coach, whose career as a PeopleSoft consultant with a focus in analyzing and auditing payroll data at IBM is one to applaud. She is also the founder of #RunWithDere, and a Run ambassador with LuluLemon.
"Regardless of how you feel inside, always try to look like a winner. Even if you are behind, a sustained look of control and confidence can give you a mental edge that results in victory.
Till we chat again next time,
Team LLA ❤️