DARE. DREAM & DO!
By May Ikeora
On November 7, 2024, over two thousand African women leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals gathered at Eko Hotels & Suites in Lagos for the 23rd Annual Conference of Women in Management, Business, and Public Service (WIMBIZ). Themed “Dream. Dare. Do.,” the two-day event encouraged attendees to pursue their ambitions with courage and resilience, addressing the challenges facing Nigerian women today.
In his keynote address, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo underscored the pivotal role of women leaders in addressing Nigeria’s socioeconomic issues, especially in underserved areas like Northern Nigeria. “Your collective voice and actions hold the potential to change lives,” Osinbajo stated, urging attendees to use their influence to drive meaningful social change. His call resonated with the conference’s theme, emphasizing the power of collective action in overcoming gender and economic barriers.
Omowumi Akingbohungbe, Executive Director of WIMBIZ, echoed this sentiment in an interview with Women Radio 91.7, highlighting the importance of collaboration across industries. “The best way to achieve this is through seeing those who have succeeded share their stories and mentor others”, she added, encouraging women to strategize, build supportive networks, urging women to define success on their own terms.
The WIMBIZ 23rd Annual Conference inspired participants to approach their goals with renewed courage and resilience, fostering an environment of mentorship and collaboration that aims to drive lasting change in women’s leadership and inclusion across Africa.