Women: Shaping industries and economies worldwide
In the realm of business and creativity, women have emerged as essential pillars of strength and innovation, shaping industries and economies worldwide. Embracing the potential of Nigerian women in these fields is not merely a choice but a necessity for fostering robust economic growth and sustainable development.
Nigeria, a country teeming with talent and entrepreneurial spirit, stands to gain significantly from the active participation of women in business and creative endeavors. By tapping into the diverse perspectives, unique approaches, and unwavering determination that women bring to the table, Nigeria can unlock a wealth of untapped potential and drive forward its economy to new heights.
Encouraging Nigerian women to venture into business and creative fields is not just about gender equality; it is about harnessing the full spectrum of talent and skills available in the country. When women are empowered to lead, innovate, and create, the entire society benefits from their contributions, leading to a more inclusive and prosperous nation.
Looking at the inspiring examples set by women who have blazed trails in business and creativity serves as a testament to the impact that can be made. Individuals like Tara Fela Durotoye, Adaobi Osakwe and Yewende Akinse (nee Adebowale), have demonstrated exceptional leadership and creativity, inspiring countless others to follow in their footsteps.
- Tara Fela-Durotoye – Chief Executive Officer at House of Tara International
Tara Fela-Durotoye, a prominent figure in the Nigerian beauty industry and female entrepreneurship, has garnered recognition for her significant contributions and achievements over the years. Born in Nigeria, Tara’s journey to success is marked by her pioneering efforts in the professional makeup sector in the late 1990s. As the founder and current CEO of House of Tara International, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the beauty landscape in Nigeria and empowering aspiring entrepreneurs in the industry.
Tara’s impact extends beyond the beauty sector, as she is widely regarded as a role model for women in business and entrepreneurship. Through initiatives like the “Tara Beauty Entrepreneur” program, she has empowered thousands of individuals, particularly women, to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams and build sustainable businesses. Her emphasis on impact entrepreneurship and societal contributions has resonated with many, inspiring a new generation of entrepreneurs in Nigeria and West Africa.
In addition to her entrepreneurial endeavors, Tara has actively engaged in leadership development and educational opportunities to enhance her skills and knowledge. A distinguished alumna of institutions such as Lagos Business School, INSEAD Abu Dhabi, Yale University, Stanford SEED Transformation Programme, and Harvard Kennedy School, she has invested in her personal growth and leadership capabilities.
Tara’s influence transcends borders, as evidenced by her recognition on prestigious lists such as Forbes’ 20 Young Power Women in Africa and Africa’s Top 50 Most Powerful Women in 2020. Her inclusion alongside prominent figures like Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Chimamanda Adichie underscores her impact and influence on a continental scale.
Beyond her professional achievements, Tara is actively involved in various boards and organizations that focus on education, entrepreneurship, and women empowerment. Her roles on boards such as Bridge International Academies, So Fresh Neighborhood, and AWEC New York highlight her commitment to driving positive change and supporting initiatives that promote social and economic development.
As an associate member of Women in Management and Business (WIMBIZ) and a member of the France/Nigeria Investment Club, Tara’s engagement in networks that advocate for gender equality and international partnerships further demonstrates her dedication to fostering collaboration and advancing important causes.
Tara Fela-Durotoye’s journey from a pioneering makeup artist to a respected entrepreneur and advocate for female empowerment is a testament to her resilience, vision, and commitment to making a meaningful impact in her community and beyond. Her story serves as an inspiration to many aspiring entrepreneurs and women seeking to create positive change through business and leadership.
- Yewande Akinse (Adebowale) – Co-founder of Salubata technology
Yewande Akinse (Adebowale) a Nigerian poet and author known for her impactful works addressing social issues through poetry, has also made significant strides in the business world. As the Co-founder of Salubata, a shoe manufacturing company, Yewande has demonstrated her entrepreneurial acumen and leadership skills in the competitive industry.
Born on September 25, 1992, in Lagos, Nigeria, Yewande’s early years were shaped by a rich educational background that laid the foundation for her future endeavors. She attended St. Mary’s Private School and Holy Child College in Lagos, where she excelled academically and was recognized as the Best Graduating Student in 2008. Yewande went on to pursue her legal studies at the University of Lagos, obtaining her LL.B degree in 2013, followed by her B.L degree from the Nigerian Law School in 2014. She continued her academic journey by completing her LL.M degree at the University of Lagos in 2019.
Yewande’s passion for poetry and storytelling led her to establish herself as a gifted poet and author with over 110 published poems to her credit. Her works, including the collections “A Tale of being, of green and of ing..” (2019) and “Voices: A collection of poems that tell stories” (2016), showcase her ability to tackle a wide range of topics with honesty and authenticity. Through her writing, Yewande fearlessly delves into themes such as politics, mental health, trauma, and social issues, using her poetry as a platform for introspection and social commentary.
In addition to her accomplishments in the literary world, Yewande has also ventured into the business realm as the COO of Salubata, a shoe manufacturing company. In her role, she leverages her leadership skills and business acumen to drive the company’s operations and strategic initiatives. Yewande’s entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to innovation have contributed to the growth and success of Salubata in the competitive market.
Yewande’s achievements extend beyond her literary and business endeavors. Throughout her career, she has been recognized for her contributions to the arts and society. Some of her notable accolades include the Fidelity Bank Prize for Creative Writing in 2013, The Guardian Newspaper (TGN) Prize for Poetry in 2019, the Project Knucklehead Prize for Creative Rebellion in 2020, and the World Bank YouthActonEDU Spoken Word Prize in 2022. These awards highlight Yewande’s talent, creativity, and commitment to using her voice to effect change and challenge societal norms.
As a poet, author, entrepreneur, and advocate, Yewande Akinse’s journey is a testament to the power of creativity, resilience, and determination. Through her poetry, she sheds light on pressing social issues, while her role as the COO of Salubata showcases her ability to excel in the business world. With a diverse range of achievements and a deep commitment to making a positive impact, Yewande continues to inspire others through her words and actions.
3.Ada Osakwe -Managing Partner of Agrolay Ventures
In a career spanning over 20 years, Adaobi Osakwe has emerged as a prominent figure in the realms of entrepreneurship, investment, and sustainable development in Africa. With a diverse background that includes stints in investment banking, development finance, and private equity, Adaobi has cultivated a unique blend of experiences that have shaped her trajectory as a leader and advocate.
Adaobi’s journey into the world of finance began with roles in investment banking and development finance, where she honed her skills and expertise in navigating the complex landscape of financial markets. Her transition into private equity provided her with valuable insights into investment strategies and portfolio management, laying the foundation for her future endeavors.
A strong proponent of small business finance support, youth and women empowerment in business, and climate justice, Adaobi has dedicated her efforts to driving positive change in the food and agriculture sector. Recognizing the sector’s potential for job creation and its importance in supporting climate-vulnerable smallholder farmers, she has been at the forefront of initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable development in Africa.
Adaobi’s commitment to advancing sustainable development in Africa has not gone unnoticed. In 2021, she was honored with the prestigious title of Forbes Africa Business Woman of the Year, a testament to her leadership and contributions to the business landscape on the continent. Her accolades also include being named a Young Global Leader of the World Economic Forum and an Archbishop Tutu Leadership Fellow, underscoring her impact and influence on a global scale.
Educationally, Adaobi holds an MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management, an MSc in Economics and Finance from the University of Warwick, U.K., and a BSc in Economics with First Class honors from the University of Hull. Her academic achievements, coupled with her practical experiences, have equipped her with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of business, finance, and sustainable development in Africa.
Adaobi’s work exemplifies a commitment to driving positive change and creating opportunities for growth and development in Africa. Through her advocacy for sustainable practices, empowerment of marginalized groups, and dedication to advancing the food and agriculture sector, she continues to be a leading voice in shaping the future of business and development in the region.
As Africa continues to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by a rapidly evolving global landscape, Adaobi Osakwe stands as a beacon of inspiration and leadership, championing sustainable development and inclusive growth for the continent and its people. Her journey serves as a testament to the power of vision, dedication, and perseverance in driving lasting impact and change.
