Esther Ijewere

In Interviews&profile October 9, 2023 By Esther Ijewere

The Future-Forward Female™ 25 Under 25 Awards: Impacting The Next Generation

Founded in 2021 by Transformational Catalyst, Coach and Public Policy Adviser, Debola Deji-Kurunmi, the Future-Forward Female™ Movement was established as a global conscious collective for the advancement of visionary women of African descent, who transform the world, through the power of compelling vision, legacy leadership and collaboration.

At the heart of the Movement’s vision is a belief that women who break barriers and lead boldly are instrumental in shaping and delivering Africa’s prosperous future.

Driven by this vision, in April 2023, the movement ignited its manifesto to catalyze, connect and celebrate Future-Forward Females™ (16-24 years old) who model true leadership in solving humanity’s toughest challenges and elevating our collective prosperity. It was in line with this mission that the movement launched the Future-Forward Female™ 25 Under 25 Awards. This was a quest to spotlight and recognize 25 extraordinary young African female leaders who are breaking barriers, leading boldly, creating change, redefining narratives and transforming society for good.

On September 30th, 2023 at the Muson Centre in Lagos Nigeria, these 25 exceptional young female leaders who emerged as our finalists alongside other nominees will be celebrated and honored for their outstanding impact and contributions towards shaping Africa’s future. The Awards Gala which kicks off at 7PM will be an exclusive evening of high significance amidst heartfelt inspiration, elegant experiences, fine dining, a truly memorable Awards Ceremony and the Release of Future-Forward Female™ Folio 2.0.

The Matriarch of the Evening and Keynote Speaker at the Awards is Mrs Adenike Ogunlesi – Foremost Fashion Retail Mogul, Industrial Garment Manufacturing Pioneer in Africa and Founder, Ruff ‘N’ Tumble Kids. In addition, her Royal Highness, Olori Atuwase III – Queen Consort of the Warri Kingdom, Visionary Leader and Lawyer will be the Royal Guest of the evening and Distinguished Speaker at the Awards. Visionary and Convener of the Awards, Debola Deji-Kurunmi when speaking about the Gala stated that, “This Awards Gala has been specially curated to provide amazing opportunities for young female leaders to connect with other amazing leaders as well as inspiring voices and role models.”

The Future-Forward Female™ 25 Under 25 Awardees also model the Movement’s strongest values of personal transformation, visionary leadership, ethical excellence, and outstanding impact across 7 Distinct Dimensions namely – Visionary Leader, Impact Maker, Transformational Voice, Culture Ambassador, Disability Champion, Queen of Enterprise, and Partner in Purpose.

An expert Jury deployed a rigorous, criteria-based system which was a thorough and objective process to ultimately select our final Future-Forward Female™ 25 Under 25 Awardees who are mentioned below.

Awardees in the Visionary Leader category are:

Abiola Adebiyi- Founder, Elevate Development Foundation

Gloria O. Akanni- Founder of the Global Eagle’s Digital Academy (GEDA) & The Eagle’s Foundation

Peace Umanah- Public Health Practitioner & Director at IYAFP

Krimkat Dalang – Best-selling author, Podcast host, Ministry gift

Awardees in the Impact Maker Category are:

Grace Amuzie- Founder, Isrina Schools

Ude Ugo Anna- Creative Director of Book O’Clock & Team Lead of The Book Drive Bayelsa

Janet Isesele- Executive director, Build A Child Initiative

Funmilayo Oyekanmi – Social Entrepreneur and Impact Consultant

Awardees in the Transformational Voice category are:

Haoma Worgwu – Marketing Insider at Linkedin

Oluwaseyi Moejoh- Environmentalist -Executive Director U-recycle Initiative Africa

Deborah Ijeoma – Idea Launch Strategist

Modupe Laja- Community Development Enthusiast

Awardees in the Culture Ambassador category are:

Rhoda Aguonigho- Founder/ Executive Director Lhaude Africa

Doyinmola Paul-Oyewusi- Creative Director, DHONEY Adire and Crafts

Favour Chioma Godwill- Development Professional

Awardees in the Queen of Enterprise category are:

Aderinsola Esther Omirin – CEO of Solasoles, Lead Coach at Startupspaceng, Founder of The Radiant Tribe

Ibukun Akinkuotu – Founder, Stylecentric | Brand Influencer & Lifestyle Creator

Naomi Bominuru- Entrepreneur, Home Fragrance Expert and Coach

Awardees in the Disability Champion category are:

Oluwadamilola Precious Oyewumi- Executive Director of The Victor’s Talk Africa & Sickle Cell Advocate

Anifat Sadu- Author and Disability Rights Advocate

Agnes Atinsola- President of Precious Seeds Foundation & Disabilities Studies Champion

Awardees in the Partner in Purpose category are:

Alexandra Ighodaro – Data Engineer & Career Coach

Esther Kolade – Sustainability Advocate & Award-Winning President of Rotaract Club of Medilag Golden 2022-2023 Rotary Year

Similoluwa Sowunmi – Software Engineer | Product Manager | Certified Scrum Master

Precious Damilola Babatunde – Nutritionist

Through these awards and other projects, the Future Forward Female Movement seeks to advance the goals of the United Nations’ International Decade for People of African Descent (2015-2024), which aims to celebrate the significant contributions of Africans, who transform the world, through the power of compelling vision, legacy leadership, and collaboration.

According to Debola Deji-Kurunmi, “The Future-Forward Female™ is the aspiring young girl, the emerging woman, and the accomplished matriarch who carries a vision for our shared future. She hopes and dares to dream, against all odds as she fights for the oppressed, speaks up for what is right, nurtures the next generation, and creates solutions for our world today.”

For more information on the Future-Forward Female™ 25 Under 25 Awards Gala and the 2023 Awardees, visit our website and follow the Future-Forward Female™ Movement via social media here – @futureforwardfemale_ for more updates.

Website – https://www.futureforwardfemale.com/gala/

Social Media:

@futureforwardfemale_
@immerseinnercircle
@deboladejikurunmi

In Interviews&profile September 26, 2023 By Esther Ijewere

Her Summit 2023: A Catalyst for Women’s Progress and Transformation

Her Network’s highly anticipated second annual Her Summit, which took place on Saturday, September 16, 2023, in Lagos, Nigeria, was undeniably a resounding success. The event, meticulously crafted to inspire and empower progressive women, provided an immersive experience brimming with transformative insights and empowering messages.

In her welcome address, Nkem Onwudiwe, the founder of Her Network and convener, Her Summit, expressed her excitement for the event, stating, “The energy and enthusiasm at Her Summit 2023 are truly electrifying. This is a day of empowerment, connection, and transformation for every woman in attendance. The interactions among women today will shape the future. I guarantee that no one will leave this summit the same way they came; it’s a life-changing experience.” She emphasized the significance of self-improvement and seizing opportunities whenever and wherever they arise.

The summit’s keynote speaker, Betty Irabor, the founder of Genevieve Magazine, Africa’s leading lifestyle publication, and an accomplished author and executive leader with extensive experience and accomplishments in publishing, entrepreneurship, public speaking, and advocacy for mental health and wellness, delivered an inspiring speech. She challenged attendees to break free from their comfort zones and pursue their dreams with unwavering courage and determination. She imparted, “Extend grace to yourself and remember to live, love, laugh, dance, give, show kindness, make time for self-care, and steer clear of toxicity. To move Her Forward, you must first move yourself.”

The summit featured a stellar lineup of speakers like Stephanie Busari, Senior Editor of CNN Africa; Tinuade Sanda, Managing Director/CEO of Eko Electricity Distribution Company; Oluwatosin Olaseinde, Founder/CEO Money Africa & Ladda Invest; Dr Tewa Onasanya, Founder Exquisite Magazine, Ibijioke Faborode, Founder/CEO Elect Her; Debbie Larry-Izamoje, Chief Operating Officer at Brila Media, Derin Adefulu, Executive Head of Governance at Old Mutual Nigeria; Yolanda Okereke, Fashion Entrepreneur, Motunde Ibironke, Head of Partnerships and Projects at Bella Naija, Onyekachi Eke, Director for Global Markets, West Africa at IE University, Spain; Mayokun Owolabi, Regional Operations & Partnerships Manager West Africa, Flutterwave; Victoria Ajayi, Deputy Chief Financial Officer at TVC Communications; Sandra Tuboereni, Creative Director of TUBO; Ireayomide Oladunjoye, Managing Director and CEO of Endeavor in Nigeria; Oluwatosin Olaseinde, Founder/CEO, Money Africa & Ladda Invest; Queen Murielle, CEO and founder of Raising The Standard International; Chinonso Arubayi, Actor/Filmmaker and Founder of Lookartme and Alvena Ode, Head of Brand and Marketing Communications at FibreOne who shared their wisdom, experiences, and motivational messages in line with the theme of the summit, “Moving Her Forward” leaving attendees inspired and ready to take charge of their lives. Her Summit was hosted by award-winning MC, actress, and model, Mojibade Sosanya.

Each session during the summit was distinctive, covering a wide array of topics including digital transformation, monetization and investment, career development, leadership, artificial intelligence, sports, and politics. A recurring theme emphasized by the speakers was the paramount importance of bolstering self-confidence, expressing oneself assertively, nurturing self-awareness, approaching one’s aspirations with deliberate intention, and persisting resolutely even when faced with outcomes that may not align with the initial goals, but instead, to keep moving forward.

Her Summit 2023 received support from various sponsors and partners including Flutterwave, a supporter of entrepreneurs, Elect Her, IE University, and Heirs General Insurance. Attendees also received professional headshots for personal branding, along with goodies from Estee Lauder, Milani Cosmetics Nigeria, Jack Daniels, and Olores while Nestle Pure Life Nigeria kept the attendees refreshed.

In Career Gems September 26, 2023 By Esther Ijewere

Chiney Ogwumike Joins President Biden’s African Diplomacy Council

Chiney Ogwumike, a name synonymous with passion and purpose, is making waves in her mission to strengthen ties between the United States and Africa. Born from a deep-rooted connection to her Nigerian heritage, Chiney is now a member of the groundbreaking President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement, a momentous announcement by the White House that holds immense promise.

In a recent phone interview with The Associated Press, Chiney expressed her profound sense of calling, saying, “Best way to describe it, it feels like it’s a calling of a lifetime.” Her enthusiasm is infectious, and it’s evident that this endeavor is deeply authentic to her core values and aspirations. She sees it as an opportunity for exponential impact—a calling that transcends a mere appointment.

A 31-year-old Stanford graduate and WNBA player, Chiney Ogwumike has a history of advocating for African women’s rights. Her journey began in 2014 when she, alongside her sister Nneka, initiated a UNICEF fundraiser in response to the kidnapping of Nigerian girls by Boko Haram. This heartfelt endeavor aimed to create opportunities for children and young people who share her background, enabling them to transform their lives as she did.

Chiney’s life story reflects the convergence of Nigerian determination and boundless American opportunities, an inspiring narrative she intends to share widely. She views her role on the advisory council as a pathway for youth to empower themselves, bridging the gap between continents and cultures.

The council, announced by Vice President Kamala Harris during the 2022 U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit, boasts distinguished leadership, with Rev. Dr. Silvester Beaman of the African Methodist Episcopal Church as the chairperson. Among its members is Oscar-winning actress Viola Davis, and notably, Chiney Ogwumike stands as the youngest female representative on the council.

Their mission is clear: to provide invaluable guidance for reinforcing cultural, social, political, and economic ties between the U.S. and Africa. They aim to promote trade, investment, and educational exchanges that will benefit both regions. Chiney’s background as an NBA analyst for ESPN and her compelling advocacy make her a vital contributor to this important work.

Ghiney Ogwunike

Chiney’s path to this impactful role took a fortuitous turn when she spoke at the UN General Assembly last year. There, she shared her thoughts on the transformative power of sports and its potential to shape a better world. Fueled by her passion, she submitted her resume for the council and awaited the outcome with bated breath.

Chiney Ogwumike’s journey from the WNBA courts to the White House advisory council exemplifies the profound impact one individual can make when driven by a heartfelt commitment to a cause. Her story reminds us that heritage, determination, and opportunity are powerful forces for change, and they can unite continents in the pursuit of a brighter future.

In Career Gems September 19, 2023 By Esther Ijewere

Ehi Agbonlahor: Redefining Career Success Through AI Innovation

Meet Ehi Agbonlahor, an inspiring social innovator with a deep-seated passion for addressing life’s challenges to enhance individual and community well-being. In this blog post, we’ll dive into Ehi’s remarkable journey, her educational achievements, and her mission to decentralize access to opportunities for career growth and success.

Ehi’s Path to Innovation

Ehi Agbonlahor’s journey into the world of innovation and design thinking has been nothing short of extraordinary. She participated in the IBM Design Thinking Lab, an experience that honed her problem-solving skills and fueled her curiosity to explore innovative solutions. As a semi-finalist in the 2019 Amazon-sponsored Kellogg Design Challenge, Ehi showcased her ability to think creatively and propose practical solutions to complex problems.

Over the past decade, Ehi has successfully spearheaded design-led projects in diverse industries, including financial services, agribusiness, and eCommerce. Her ability to bridge the gap between creativity and practicality has made her a valuable asset in the world of social innovation.

A Wealth of Knowledge and Expertise

Ehi Agbonlahor’s educational background reflects her commitment to continuous learning and personal growth. She holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in agriculture, providing her with a solid foundation in critical thinking and problem-solving. However, Ehi’s academic journey didn’t stop there. She earned an MBA from the prestigious Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto, Canada.

During her time at Rotman, Ehi co-founded Rotman Students Against Anti-Black Racism (Rotman SABR), demonstrating her dedication to addressing critical social issues. Additionally, she played a pivotal role in establishing two scholarships aimed at supporting black students at the university, leaving a lasting impact on future generations.

Empowering Career Growth with Anutio

Today, Ehi Agbonlahor is the Founder and CEO of Anutio, a visionary platform with a mission to decentralize access to career growth opportunities. Anutio leverages the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to empower individuals from all backgrounds, providing them with the tools needed to discover their strengths, build fulfilling careers, and pursue their passions.

Ehi’s innovative approach to career development and her commitment to inclusivity are at the core of Anutio’s mission. She believes that everyone should have the opportunity to make a living doing what they love, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Conclusion

Ehi Agbonlahor’s journey as a social innovator and her dedication to driving positive change in the world is truly inspiring. Her educational achievements, combined with her hands-on experience in diverse industries, have equipped her with the knowledge and skills needed to tackle complex challenges.

Through her leadership at Anutio, Ehi continues to make a significant impact by empowering individuals to unlock their full potential and pursue meaningful careers. Her commitment to inclusivity and innovation serves as a beacon of hope for those striving to achieve their dreams.

In Inspiration September 18, 2023 By Esther Ijewere

Shuwanza Goff: Making History As White House’s First Chief Emissary To Capitol Hill

In a significant milestone, President Joe Biden has appointed Shuwanza Goff as the new Director of Legislative Affairs, making her the first Black woman to serve as the White House’s chief emissary to Capitol Hill. Learn more about this historic appointment.

Breaking the Glass Ceiling

Shuwanza Goff, a veteran congressional aide with an impressive track record, has shattered yet another glass ceiling in her remarkable career. President Biden’s decision to name her as the Director of Legislative Affairs marks a historic moment, solidifying her position as a trailblazer and a trusted leader.

A Proven Leader

Before this groundbreaking appointment, Shuwanza Goff served as the White House’s Deputy Director of Legislative Affairs and House Liaison. Her extensive experience and bipartisan appeal have made her a respected figure on both sides of the aisle. Her close partnerships with congressional leaders, coupled with her deep understanding of the legislative process, make her an ideal choice for this role.

From Capitol Hill to the White House

Shuwanza Goff’s journey to this historic role began with her service as a senior aide and floor director to Maryland Democratic leader Rep. Steny Hoyer. During her tenure on Capitol Hill, she played a pivotal role in advancing critical legislation, including COVID-19 relief, climate initiatives, tax reforms, and the confirmation of Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson.

A Bright Future Ahead

As the new Director of Legislative Affairs, Goff faces significant challenges, from managing relations with House Republicans to addressing important policy matters. However, her reputation as a skilled policy professional with deep institutional knowledge equips her to excel in this role. Both Democrats and Republicans have expressed confidence in her ability to navigate the complex political landscape.

Congratulations, Shuwanza Goff

Shuwanza Goff’s historic appointment is a testament to her dedication, leadership, and commitment to public service. Her achievements open doors for future generations and emphasize the importance of diverse voices in positions of power. We congratulate Shuwanza Goff on this remarkable accomplishment and look forward to her continued contributions to our nation.

In Career Gems September 18, 2023 By Esther Ijewere

Kitty Black Perkins: The Creative Force Behind The Iconic Black Barbie

In the dazzling world of Barbie, where dreams come to life, it’s essential to remember the brilliant mind behind the creation of the first Black Barbie doll. Louvenia “Kitty” Black Perkins, a native of Spartanburg, South Carolina, was a fashion enthusiast who stumbled into an extraordinary career as a toy designer.

A Unique Journey to Barbie Stardom

Kitty Black Perkins embarked on her journey into the world of toy design after landing an interview with the renowned toy company, Mattel, at the age of 28. She was handed a Barbie doll from Toys R Us and tasked with transforming it into a fashion icon. What she returned with was nothing short of remarkable – a hand-sewn floral jumpsuit with tiered legs, puff sleeves, and a matching wide-brimmed hat. Impressed by her creativity, Mattel hired her as a fashion designer for Barbie dolls.

A Historic Moment: The Birth of the First Black Barbie

In a time when Barbie dolls primarily featured thin, white figures, Kitty Black Perkins pushed boundaries. In 1979, as the principal designer for Barbie, she created the first-ever Black Barbie. This iconic doll was dressed in a stunning red bodysuit with a wrap disco-style skirt, a modern necklace, and hoop earrings. It marked a historic moment and was just the beginning of her incredible contributions to the Barbie legacy.

Kitty’s Creative Impact

Kitty drew inspiration from magazines, fashion shows, and personal experiences, crafting over 100 designs annually as chief designer for Barbie. From the Astronaut Barbie in 1985 to the groundbreaking Brandy Barbie Dolls in the late ’90s, she continued to redefine Barbie’s image. Her designs resonated with girls of all backgrounds, revolutionizing the way Black girls saw themselves.

Awards and Honors

Kitty Black Perkins received numerous awards and accolades, including induction into the Black Hall of Fame in 2001. Her impact on Barbie culture and representation is undeniable.

A Lasting Legacy

Today, Kitty Black Perkins’ influence lives on through countless Black Barbie dolls, paying homage to real-life trailblazers. These dolls celebrate the achievements of inspirational figures like Flo-Jo, Maya Angelou, Madam C.J. Walker, Yara Shahidi, and Naomi Osaka.

Continuing the Conversation

Kitty Black Perkins’ legacy extends beyond toys. Her pioneering work laid the foundation for discussions about representation and diversity in the industry. As the new Barbie film embraces diversity, creatives and artists are empowering young Black girls to embrace their unique identities.

A Message of Inclusivity

The film’s message echoes Kitty’s praxis of inclusivity, featuring a diverse array of Barbies, including star Issa Rae. It reinforces the idea that Barbie can be anyone, regardless of body type, age, or gender.

Mattel’s Commitment to Diversity

Mattel has embraced diversity for over four decades, thanks to visionaries like Kitty Black Perkins. As we celebrate Barbie’s magic and evolution, we must never forget the contributions of Black history makers like her. Because of Kitty Black Perkins, we can all dream and play without boundaries.

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In Career Gems September 18, 2023 By Esther Ijewere

Ava DuVernay Makes History As First African American Woman To Compete At Venice Film Festival with ‘Origin’

Ava DuVernay, the celebrated filmmaker behind works like “Selma” and “When They See Us,” continues to make waves in the world of cinema. Her latest project, “Origin,” has not only generated immense buzz but has also marked a historic moment in film history. DuVernay’s presence at the Venice Film Festival shattered a long-standing barrier, making her the first African-American woman to have a film compete in the festival’s 80-year history, as reported by NBC News.

In a press conference held during the festival, DuVernay addressed the challenges that Black filmmakers often face when trying to enter their projects into prestigious film festivals. She shed light on the discouragement they encounter, being told that international audiences don’t care about their stories or films.

“For Black filmmakers, we’re told that people who love films in other parts of the world don’t care about our stories and don’t care about our films. This is something that we are often told: you cannot play international film festivals, no one will come,” DuVernay said candidly. “People will not come to the press conferences, people won’t come to the P&I screenings. They will not be interested in selling tickets. You might not even get into this festival, don’t apply.”

DuVernay went on to emphasize the significance of her groundbreaking achievement, saying, “I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been told, ‘Don’t apply to Venice, you won’t get in. It won’t happen.’ And this year, something happened that hadn’t happened in eight decades before an African American woman in competition. So now that’s a door open that I trust and hope the festival will keep open.”

The Venice Film Festival represents a historic milestone for DuVernay and paves the way for greater representation and recognition of Black voices in cinema on an international stage.

DuVernay’s commitment to her craft and her dedication to authentic storytelling were further emphasized during the press conference. She discussed her decision to keep “Origin” as an independent production after it initially began in the studio system.

“I don’t feel like we would have had the cast that we had if it had remained in the studio system,” DuVernay explained. “The studio system is a place where I worked and made projects that I’m proud of, but there is really an aspect of control over who plays what. And there is an idea about who makes money, attracts attention, and sometimes that sits at odds with who might be the best person for the part. Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor was the best person for this part.”

Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor’s casting in “Origin” exemplifies DuVernay’s commitment to ensuring that the right talent is chosen for the roles, irrespective of industry norms.

The independent film production and distribution company Neon acquired the worldwide rights to “Origin” on September 5, further solidifying the film’s journey to reach a global audience.

In addition to her groundbreaking film achievements, DuVernay has been making strides in diversifying the entertainment industry’s workforce. She recently announced a partnership between her ARRAY Crew database for film crew workers and the Impact professional network, creating the largest hiring network in the entertainment industry. This initiative seeks to foster greater inclusivity behind the scenes, ensuring that the industry reflects the diverse voices and talents it represents on screen.

Ava DuVernay’s journey continues to inspire and pave the way for greater representation and inclusivity in the world of cinema, making her a true trailblazer and visionary in the field. As she continues to break barriers, her impact on the film industry and society as a whole is undeniable.

In Interviews&profile September 18, 2023 By Esther Ijewere

Kimberly Jolasun: The Founder Who Helped Black Moms Raise $1 Million for Their Babies’ Needs

Kimberly Jolasun, the exceptional inventor of Villie.com, is celebrating the platform’s outstanding accomplishment in assisting numerous Black mothers all across the United States establish online fundraisers to support their baby’s needs in an era where connectivity is crucial. With a total fundraising effort of more than $1 million so far, Villie has proven itself as a pioneering destination for expectant and new parents.

A Digital Village for Moms Across the Country

Headquartered in Atlanta, Villie.com is redefining the way expecting and new parents connect, raise funds, receive gifts, and unite their village in the digital era. The platform is dedicated to simplifying the process of receiving support and offers a range of tools designed to empower parents to effortlessly engage their community. It creates personalized websites where the shared journey of parenthood is not only embraced but celebrated.

Kimberly Jolasun, the driving force behind Villie.com, shares her vision: “We believe that no parent should have to navigate parenthood alone, and our mission at Villie.com is to empower every family to get support from their village with ease.”

Supporting Black Moms in a Critical Time

The United States is witnessing a concerning rise in maternal mortality rates, particularly among Black women. The disparity is alarming, with Black women experiencing a maternal mortality rate more than double the national average and nearly three times higher than that of white women, irrespective of income.

Villie.com is on a mission to bridge this gap by bringing communities together and providing unwavering support to mothers throughout their pregnancy, birth, and beyond. With over $1 million raised for Black moms, Villie continues to expand its reach as word spreads about its vital mission. The platform recognizes that every mom’s definition of support is unique and continually develops features and functions to cater to these diverse needs.

Cultural Inspiration and Community Values

Villie.com draws inspiration from the rich tapestry of West African traditions, where community support is a cornerstone of the parenting experience. Kimberly Jolasun’s personal experiences have driven her to develop a platform that embodies the support families provide to new parents.

Kimberly emphasizes, “Villie is here to bridge the geographical gaps, reconnecting families and friends in an immersive digital village where each shared moment becomes a cherished memory.”

Parenting in the Digital Age

As a tech startup, Villie.com has garnered support from venture capital investors like Fearless Fund, XRC Ventures, and TxO by a16z. This support is especially crucial, given the challenges faced by women of color in accessing venture capital funding. Villie’s team is a diverse mix of ethnicities, including mothers and fathers of young children under five, who deeply understand the issues that need addressing.

The platform seamlessly combines tradition with technology, even incorporating the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance the user experience. Kimberly notes, “It’s pretty incredible to see that for most parents, our tools are their first experience with AI.” Villie offers an empowering experience that enables parents to cultivate a supportive village during the most significant chapters of their lives.

Join the Village at Villie.com

For those interested in joining this digital village of support and empowerment, visit Villie.com to discover more about the platform and sign up. Villie.com is not just revolutionizing the way Black moms connect and receive support; it’s rewriting the narrative of community, care, and connection in the digital age.

In self development September 8, 2023 By Esther Ijewere

Unveiling the Literary Champions: Winners of the 2023 Chinaza Favour and Worital Writing Contest

Worital is thrilled to announce the winners for the 2023 Chinaza Favour and Worital writing contest. This year, we received an overwhelming number of entries for each of the three genres— Fiction, Nonfiction and Poetry— and we are delighted to announce the winners who are carting off the prize.

The Chinaza Favour and Worital Writing Contest which opened for submissions on the 17th to the 24th of July 2023, is aimed at celebrating literature from diverse backgrounds and giving a voice to African literature in particular. The winning submissions which captured the hearts of the judges and stood out amongst others will be receiving various distinguished prizes while the best 20 entries from each category will be published in an anthology by Worital titled ‘The Phoenix Chronicles’. Chinaza Favour and Worital extend a loud congratulations to all those who participated in this year’s event and urge them to continue trying and winning, not just for the contest’s sake, but in their everyday writings.

The Winners’ announcement will take place on the 10th of September, 2023. The venue is THE CHINAZA FAVOUR TV on YouTube and WORITAL Youtube. Time: 3PM W.A.T. We invite everyone to join us as we celebrate the incredible art of writing. Proudly sponsored by Sabistation Bookplaze Cerca Africa Fuel my Hustle TR Leadership Hub Women of Rubies The Chinaza Favour Writing Challenge… Celebrating Your Literary Genius.

In Career Gems September 7, 2023 By Esther Ijewere

Hon. Justice Mabel Segun Bello, Linus Okorie MFR, Beauty Tukura, Other Distinguished Guests To Grace Fun, Food & Prayers With Gusi Tobby

The highly anticipated event known as “Fun, Food & Prayers with Gusi Tobby” (#FFP) is set to take place in Lagos, Nigeria, this September. This transformative platform has garnered a reputation for inspiring kingdom creatives, entrepreneurs, and professionals by providing practical life principles for navigating sustainable relationships, careers, spiritual growth, and wholesome living.

The Lagos edition of #FFP will be held at the prestigious Lagos Marriott Hotel, promising an engaging lineup of discussions and activities centered around various aspects of life, including marriage, work, singlehood, and spiritual growth. The event will feature prominent voices and role models from professional, social, and Christian spheres.

Some of the distinguished guests confirmed to attend include:

Dr. Tochukwu Macfoy, known as Dr. Foy
Dr. Linus Okorie
Hon. Mabel Justice Segun Bello
Beauty Tukura
Moromoluwatiketike Abolaji
Michelle Tobi-Adesanya
Beauty Etsanyi Tukura
Seunbabara Babajide
Omi, The Richer Woman
Temi Olukunle
Stephen Fii

“Fun, Food & Prayers” is a kingdom-focused community platform convened by Gusi Tobby Lordwilliams, dedicated to creating a balanced approach to living a fulfilling earthly life while maintaining spiritual relevance and consciousness.

Gusi Tobby, the organizer of the event, expressed her excitement about the upcoming gathering, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome our esteemed guests to this year’s #FFP event in Lagos. It promises to be a transformative experience that will empower attendees with valuable insights into various aspects of their lives.”

Gusi Tobby is a dynamic and visionary leader known for his transformative impact in the fields of spirituality, personal development, and community engagement. With a deep commitment to empowering individuals and fostering spiritual growth, Gusi has dedicated her life to creating positive change in the lives of people from diverse backgrounds.

As the founder of the “Fun, Food & Prayers” platform, Gusi Tobby has created a unique space where individuals can come together to experience inspiration, connection, and personal growth. Her events and gatherings are known for their soul-enriching atmosphere, where participants are encouraged to explore their spiritual journeys while enjoying delicious cuisine and engaging in meaningful conversations.

Gusi Tobby’s work extends beyond events; she is a mentor, speaker, and thought leader who has touched the lives of many. Her passion for building strong communities and helping individuals lead fulfilling lives is evident in all that she does.

Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this enriching event that combines wisdom, fellowship, and inspiration. For more information and updates, follow @gusitobby on Instagram