Award-winning media strategist, women’s advocate and Women of Rubies Founder Esther Ijewere has been named a Women of Inspiration® Global Ambassador by the Universal Womens Network™.
The appointment recognizes Ijewere’s continued commitment to amplifying women’s voices, celebrating women’s achievements and creating platforms that help women gain visibility, recognition and access to meaningful opportunities.
She joins a distinguished group of Women of Inspiration® Award recipients who have demonstrated purposeful leadership, championed other women and created lasting impact within their industries and communities.
Esther Ijewere Joins a Global Community of Women Leaders
The Women of Inspiration® Global Ambassadors represent nearly a decade of award recipients who have stepped forward to support the continued growth and vision of the Universal Womens Network™ and the Global Women of Inspiration® Summit.
Through their leadership, influence and professional networks, the ambassadors will continue to champion women, encourage meaningful connections and help create opportunities for women across industries and communities.
For Ijewere, the appointment represents an extension of the work she has led for more than a decade through media, strategic communications, advocacy and the Women of Rubies platform.
“I am deeply honoured to be named a Women of Inspiration® Global Ambassador. This appointment is more than a personal recognition; it is another opportunity to continue amplifying women’s voices, celebrating their achievements and helping more women access the visibility and opportunities they deserve,” said Esther Ijewere.
“My work has always been rooted in the belief that women deserve to be seen, heard, supported and recognized. I look forward to contributing my experience in media, storytelling, strategic communications and advocacy to this global community of women leaders.”
Recognizing Esther Ijewere’s Advocacy and Impact
Ijewere was previously named the 2023 Women of Inspiration® Advocate and Catalyst for Change Award recipient.
The award recognized her commitment to advancing women through media representation, editorial storytelling, advocacy, community building and strategic visibility.
Through Women of Rubies, Ijewere has created a platform that spotlights women across business, leadership, entrepreneurship, technology, social impact, career development and community service.
Since establishing Women of Rubies in 2015, she has continued to use storytelling and media as tools for representation, empowerment and opportunity creation.
Her work has also expanded beyond editorial features to include public relations, media strategy, visibility training, communications consulting and community-focused initiatives designed to help women communicate their value more effectively.
Building Visibility Through Women of Rubies
Women of Rubies was created to ensure that women’s stories, achievements and contributions receive the attention they deserve.
Through its editorial platform, Women of Rubies Academy, the Media Visibility Bootcamp, the Media Pitch Challenge and other initiatives, the organization provides women with practical tools to strengthen their voices, improve their public profiles and position themselves for greater opportunities.
The Media Visibility Bootcamp has empowered more than 600 participants across five cohorts and is currently preparing for its sixth edition.
The programme brings together media professionals, entrepreneurs, communications experts and women leaders to share practical strategies on storytelling, personal branding, public relations, digital visibility and thought leadership.
Ijewere believes that visibility should extend beyond simply being noticed online.
“Visibility is about ensuring that women’s work, perspectives and contributions are represented in the media, professional spaces and conversations shaping our communities and industries,” she said.
“When women learn how to communicate their value confidently, they are better positioned to attract opportunities, build meaningful relationships and influence the spaces they enter.”
Monica Kretschmer is the Founder and CEO of the Universal Womens Network™ and the visionary behind the Women of Inspiration® Awards
Monica Kretschmer Celebrates the Global Ambassadors
The Global Ambassador announcement was made by Monica Kretschmer, Founder and CEO of the Universal Womens Network™ and the visionary behind the Women of Inspiration® Awards.
In announcing the ambassadors, Kretschmer described them as women who consistently demonstrate leadership while creating opportunities for others.
“These women embody what it means to lead by example. They continue to champion women, build meaningful connections and help shape the vision,” Kretschmer said.
She thanked the ambassadors for supporting the Women of Inspiration® vision, encouraging other women and demonstrating the importance of embracing leadership, growth and visibility.
Meet the Women of Inspiration® Global Ambassadors
Esther Ijewere joins an accomplished group of award recipients selected as Women of Inspiration® Global Ambassadors.
The ambassadors include Donna Dahl, 2016 Lifetime Achievement Award recipient and Selection Committee Co-Chair;Yvonne E.L. Silver, 2018 Mentorship Award recipient and Global Ambassador Chair; Patricia Gagic, 2020 Lifetime Achievement Award recipient and Selection Committee Co-Chair; and Victoria Nguyen, ICD.D, 2021 Authentic Leader Award recipient.
The group also includes Shannon Smadella, MBA, 2022 NEST Award recipient; Chantal Brine, 2022 Mentorship Award recipient; Catherine R. Bell, 2023 Vision Builder Award recipient; Esther Ijewere, 2023 Advocate and Catalyst for Change Award recipient; Preethi Balasubramanian, 2024 Rising Leader Award recipient; and Laura McLand, 2025 Authentic Leader Award recipient.
Collectively, the ambassadors bring experience across media, entrepreneurship, corporate leadership, mentorship, advocacy, innovation, community development and organizational transformation.
Creating Opportunities for Other Women
One of the central messages of the Women of Inspiration® Global Ambassador initiative is that women do not always have to wait for opportunities to be presented to them.
They can create platforms, build relationships, communicate their achievements and open doors for themselves and others.
This message closely reflects Ijewere’s work through Women of Rubies.
Over the years, she has encouraged women to move beyond quietly doing good work and begin communicating their achievements with greater clarity and confidence.
She has also used her platform to spotlight women whose stories may otherwise be overlooked, including immigrant women, entrepreneurs, emerging leaders, professionals, advocates and women creating change outside traditional centres of influence.
“When women intentionally use their voices, networks and influence to support one another, we create possibilities that extend far beyond individual success,” Ijewere said.
“I am excited to build meaningful relationships with the other ambassadors and contribute to collaborations that create greater visibility and access for women across cultures, industries and communities.”
A New Chapter for Esther Ijewere
Being named a Women of Inspiration Global Ambassador marks another significant chapter in Esther Ijewere’s work as a media strategist and women’s advocate.
The appointment provides an opportunity to bring her experience in media, communications, storytelling and community building into a wider global network.
It also reinforces her commitment to helping women embrace their accomplishments, strengthen their credibility and confidently take their place in spaces where important decisions and opportunities are created.
As a Global Ambassador, Ijewere will continue supporting conversations and initiatives that promote women’s leadership, representation, recognition and professional advancement.
About Esther Ijewere
Esther Ijewere is a multi-award-winning Canada-based media strategist, speaker, author, columnist and women’s advocate. She is the Founder and CEO of Women of Rubies, a media and communications platform and boutique PR company dedicated to amplifying women’s voices and providing visibility solutions for entrepreneurs, professionals, leaders and organizations.
Ijewere is also a Guardian newspaper columnist and the convener of the Media Visibility Bootcamp. Through her work in media, storytelling, advocacy and strategic communications, she helps women communicate their value, build credible brands and gain recognition for their leadership and impact.
About Women of Rubies
Founded in 2015, Women of Rubies is a women’s media, communications and visibility platform committed to amplifying women’s voices globally.
Through editorial storytelling, public relations, media strategy, visibility training, Women of Rubies Academy, the Media Visibility Bootcamp, the Media Pitch Challenge and community initiatives, the organization helps women tell their stories, strengthen their public profiles and position themselves for greater opportunities.
Women of Rubies congratulates Esther Ijewere and the other Women of Inspiration® Global Ambassadors on this important recognition.
For generations, hair braiding has remained a highly skilled but largely manual process, one that can take several hours for clients and place significant physical strain on professional stylists.
Now, Yinka Ogunbiyi, a Harvard-trained engineer and entrepreneur, is preparing to introduce technology that could change how the braiding industry operates.
Her robotics startup, HaloBraid, has raised $7 million in seed funding to bring its automated braiding assistant to market. The funding round was led by Seven Seven Six, the venture capital firm founded by Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian, with participation from Bling Capital and AlleyCorp.
The company’s first product is expected to begin rolling out in selected salons in September 2026. Rather than replacing hairstylists, HaloBraid is designed to work alongside them by completing the repetitive portion of braids that professionals begin by hand.
Yinka Ogunbiyi is a Harvard graduate, engineer and entrepreneur building technology for the textured-hair industry.
Who Is Yinka Ogunbiyi?
Yinka Ogunbiyi is the founder and CEO of HaloBraid and a graduate of Harvard’s joint Master of Science and Master of Business Administration in Engineering Sciences programme.
She graduated from the programme in 2023 and has since continued developing HaloBraid through Harvard’s entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystem.
Her journey demonstrates the power of combining engineering knowledge, cultural understanding and lived experience to solve a problem that has often been overlooked by mainstream technology companies.
How Yinka Ogunbiyi Developed the HaloBraid Idea
The idea for HaloBraid began during the 2020 lockdown in the United Kingdom. Unable to visit a salon, Ogunbiyi attempted to braid her own hair. The process reportedly took four days and led her to consider why such a repetitive and time-consuming task had not benefited from greater technological innovation.
With a background in mechanical engineering, she began exploring whether part of the braiding process could be automated while preserving the creativity, expertise and personal care professional stylists provide.
What began as a personal frustration eventually developed into a robotics company that has created hundreds of prototypes while working with hairstylists to refine the product. HaloBraid’s development has been shaped by feedback from the professionals expected to use it.
How Does HaloBraid Work?
HaloBraid is best described as a robotic braiding assistant, rather than a machine that independently completes an entire hairstyle.
The hairstylist remains responsible for preparing and parting the hair, adding extensions and beginning each braid by hand. Once the stylist has completed the initial section, the braid is transferred to the HaloBraid device, which finishes the repetitive three-strand braiding process.
The device is designed to assist with styles such as box braids and knotless braids. It does not currently add extensions, create parts or complete intricate cornrow patterns.
HaloBraid’s official website describes the technology as a braid-assist device that can help professional stylists complete braids in approximately half the usual time.
HaloBraid Raises $7 Million in Seed Funding
The $7 million seed investment represents an important milestone for both HaloBraid and the broader beauty technology industry.
The funding will help the company continue developing its device, expand testing, prepare for manufacturing and introduce the technology to professional salons.
It also signals growing investor interest in technology created specifically for markets and communities that have historically received limited attention from major technology companies.
Before securing its latest investment, HaloBraid received support through Harvard’s entrepreneurship programmes. The company won the $75,000 grand prizeand crowd-favourite recognition at the 2023 Harvard Business School New Venture Competition. It later secured another $75,000 after winning the Alumni and Affiliates Open Track of Harvard’s 2025 President’s Innovation Challenge.
HaloBraid Is Designed to Support, Not Replace, Hairstylists
One concern that often accompanies the introduction of automation is whether technology will replace human workers. HaloBraid is being positioned differently.
Professional stylists will still make the creative and technical decisions involved in each hairstyle. They will prepare the client’s hair, create the parts, select the braid size, add extensions and begin every braid.
The device is intended to handle only the repetitive mechanical movement required to complete the length of the braid.
This distinction matters because hair braiding is more than a technical service. It is a skilled craft connected to culture, identity, creativity and relationships between stylists and their clients.
By reducing the most repetitive part of the process, HaloBraid could allow stylists to focus more on design, precision and the overall client experience.
Reducing the Physical Strain Experienced by Braiders
Professional braiding often requires stylists to repeat the same hand, wrist, shoulder and upper-body movements for several hours.
Over time, these repetitive movements can contribute to fatigue, discomfort and chronic pain. Harvard’s coverage of HaloBraid highlighted the company’s goal of reducing both braiding time and the physical demands experienced by professional stylists.
A tool that completes part of this repetitive work could make braiding more sustainable for professionals who serve several clients every week.
It could also help salons accommodate more appointments without requiring stylists to work longer hours or place additional pressure on their bodies.
What HaloBraid Could Mean for the Hair-Braiding Industry
The potential impact of HaloBraid goes beyond completing hairstyles more quickly.
For clients, shorter appointments could make protective hairstyles more convenient and accessible. People who previously needed to dedicate an entire day to getting their hair braided may be able to complete their appointments in significantly less time.
For stylists, faster appointments could create opportunities to serve additional clients and increase revenue while reducing physical strain.
The development also brings new attention to the economic significance of the textured-hair and professional-braiding industries sectors that have created businesses, careers and opportunities for generations of women.
Women of Rubies recently highlighted this entrepreneurial potential through the story ofMawusinu Jennifer Hodgson, who built Toronto’s first dedicated 24-hour braiding salon by responding to clients’ need for greater flexibility and convenience.
Both stories demonstrate that innovation does not always mean creating an entirely new industry. Sometimes, it means looking carefully at a familiar experience and discovering a better way to serve the people within it.
Yinka Ogunbiyi is reimagining the future of hair braiding through engineering, robotics and lived experience.
Innovation Inspired by Lived Experience
One of the most powerful aspects of Yinka Ogunbiyi’s story is that HaloBraid emerged from a problem she understood personally.
Her experience allowed her to recognize an opportunity that others may have overlooked. Her engineering background then gave her the foundation to begin creating a practical solution.
This is why representation remains essential in technology and entrepreneurship. When women from different cultures, communities and professional backgrounds participate in innovation, they bring new problems, perspectives and possibilities into the room. They do not simply join existing industries. They can also transform them.
HaloBraid is expected to begin appearing in selected salons in September 2026. According to Allure, thousands of stylists have already expressed interest in receiving or testing the device, particularly in major United States cities.
The salon rollout will provide an opportunity to see how the technology performs in everyday professional settings and how clients and stylists respond to it.
As the company grows, questions around accessibility, pricing, stylist training and the range of hairstyles the device can support will likely influence its long-term adoption.
For now, HaloBraid represents a bold step toward bringing robotics into an industry that has remained largely dependent on manual processes.
The Women of Rubies Takeaway
Yinka Ogunbiyi’s story reminds us that meaningful innovation often begins with paying attention. She experienced a challenge, questioned why it had remained unchanged and used her skills to begin building a solution.
Her journey also demonstrates why women need access to education, funding, networks, visibility and spaces where their ideas can be supported.
When women are empowered to develop solutions inspired by their own experiences, they can create products that improve lives, strengthen industries and open new economic opportunities. At Women of Rubies, we remain committed to amplifying women using leadership, innovation and entrepreneurship to transform their communities and industries.
Would you allow a robotic assistant to help your hairstylist complete your braids?
For many women, getting their hair braided often means rearranging work schedules, sacrificing weekends, or waiting weeks for an appointment. But for entrepreneur and healthcare professional Mawusinu Jennifer Hodgson, that challenge presented an opportunity to create something different.
As the Founder and CEO of Passionate Hands 24/7, Mawusinu has redefined convenience in the beauty industry by launching what is widely recognized as Toronto’s first dedicated round-the-clock braiding salon. Her innovative approach has not only attracted attention across the city but has also earned the salon viral recognition for its unique business model and commitment to meeting the needs of busy clients.
A Vision Born From Service
Mawusinu is no stranger to serving others. With over 11 years of experience in healthcare as a Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) and Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), she has built her career around compassion, care, and improving lives.
As the Founder of Passionate Care Nursing, a healthcare staffing and home care agency, she understands the importance of accessibility and responsive service. These same values became the foundation for her venture into the beauty industry.
Recognizing that many clients struggled to find flexible salon hours that fit their demanding schedules, she saw an opportunity to create a solution that prioritized convenience without compromising quality.
Mawusinu Jennifer Hodgson works with a client at Passionate Hands 24/7, the innovative salon helping redefine accessibility and convenience in Toronto’s beauty industry.
Introducing Toronto’s First Viral 24/7 Braiding Salon
Located in downtown Toronto at 66 Gerrard Street East, Passionate Hands 24/7 operates around the clock, making it one of the city’s most innovative beauty destinations. The salon welcomes walk-in clients daily and offers complimentary hair washing and blow-drying with services including knotless braids, crochet braids, box braids, and other protective styles.
The concept quickly gained attention because it solved a common challenge for busy professionals, shift workers, students, entrepreneurs, and parents who often struggle to find appointment times that fit their schedules. By remaining open 24 hours a day, the salon provides unmatched flexibility and convenience for clients across the Greater Toronto Area.
Visitors can book appointments, explore available services, and check availability through the salon’s website, making it easier than ever to access professional braiding services when they need them most.
Creating Opportunities Through Entrepreneurship
Beyond providing beauty services, Mawusinu has built Passionate Hands 24/7 as a platform for economic empowerment and professional growth.
The salon creates opportunities for talented braiders and beauty professionals to showcase their skills, build their careers, and earn income in a supportive environment. By expanding access to employment and flexible work opportunities, the business continues to contribute to the local economy while helping professionals thrive.
Her success demonstrates how entrepreneurship can be used not only to solve problems but also to create opportunities that positively impact communities.
Featured by Women of Rubies, Mawusinu Jennifer Hodgson is the founder of Passionate Hands 24/7, Toronto’s first viral 24-hour braiding salon.
Balancing Healthcare and Business Leadership
Managing successful businesses in both healthcare and beauty requires resilience, strategic thinking, and exceptional leadership.
For Mawusinu, the common thread between her ventures is service. Whether she is supporting healthcare clients through Passionate Care Nursing or welcoming salon clients at Passionate Hands 24/7, her mission remains focused on delivering exceptional experiences and meaningful results.
Her ability to successfully lead in two distinct industries highlights the power of purpose-driven entrepreneurship and the importance of staying connected to the needs of the people you serve.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Women Entrepreneurs
Mawusinu’s journey serves as a reminder that innovation often comes from identifying everyday challenges and finding creative waysto address them.
By combining compassion, leadership, and entrepreneurial vision, she has built businesses that serve communities, create jobs, and improve lives. Her story continues to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women looking to turn their ideas into impactful ventures.
As she continues to grow both Passionate Care Nursing and Passionate Hands 24/7, Mawusinu remains committed to her mission of leading with passion, serving with purpose, and creating opportunities that make a lasting impact.
Share Your Story With Women of Rubies
At Women of Rubies, we are committed to amplifying the voices of women entrepreneurs, professionals, leaders, changemakers, and organizations making an impact in their communities and industries.
Through media features, storytelling, visibility campaigns, press release distribution, and personal brand development, we help women increase their visibility and grow their influence.
Whether you are building a business, launching a new initiative, celebrating a milestone, or looking to share your story with a wider audience, we would love to hear from you.
In today’s competitive landscape, having a great business is no longer enough; your brand must be positioned strategically to attract visibility, credibility, and opportunities.
That is why Women of Rubies is hosting the Brand Audit Masterclass on April 11, 2026, at 12:00 PM EST, a transformational session designed to help entrepreneurs, founders, and professionals refine how they show up in the marketplace.
Whether you are building a personal brand, scaling a business, or seeking more visibility in your industry, this masterclass will provide practical insights to help you strengthen your positioning and align your brand for growth.
What is the Brand Audit Masterclass?
The Brand Audit Masterclass is a strategic training experience designed to help participants assess, refine, and optimize their brand presence for greater visibility and impact.
Attendees will learn how to:
Identify gaps in their current brand positioning
Refine their messaging and visual identity
Align their online presence with their goals
Improve brand visibility and discoverability
Position themselves for media, partnerships, and premium opportunities
Esther Ijewere will lead attendees through a strategic brand audit framework designed to strengthen visibility and positioning.
Esther Ijewere
Esther Ijewere is a media strategist, visibility consultant, and founder of Women of Rubies, an integrated media and visibility platform dedicated to amplifying women’s voices globally.
Through her work, Esther has helped founders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers strengthen their visibility, optimize their digital presence, and position their brands for media features, partnerships, and opportunities.
She is also a recipient of the 100 Black Women to Watch in Canada Award and is recognized for her expertise in storytelling, branding, and strategic visibility.
Featured Guest Speakers
Jessica Campbell joins the Brand Audit Masterclass to share insights on branding, visibility, and premium positioning.
Jessica Campbell
Jessica Campbellis an award-winning entrepreneur, educator, and creative director based in Los Angeles. As CEO of PO3 Agency, she leads innovative branding and marketing campaigns across the sports and entertainment industries, working with Grammy-winning artists, athletes, and global brands.
Jessica has produced high-impact campaigns for platforms including ESPN and UBS Financial, generating billions of impressions worldwide.
Professional photo of Dr. Oluwanifemi Fagbohun, founder of Montreal Vendors and business strategist, featured in the Brand Audit Masterclass.
Dr. Oluwanifemi Fagbohun
Dr. Oluwanifemi “Niffy” Fagbohun is a multi-award-winning entrepreneur, bestselling author, and founder of Montreal Vendors. Through her platform, she has empowered over 17,000 entrepreneurs by creating opportunities for visibility, inclusion, and growth. She is widely recognized for her work in business development, wellness, and women’s empowerment.
Hembadoon brings insight on multidimensional branding, reinvention, and authentic storytelling.
Hembadoon
Hembadoonis a Luxembourg-based multidisciplinary artist known for intentionally building a multidimensional brand and re-entering the music industry with clarity and purpose after years away. Her journey reflects the power of reinvention, intentional branding, and authentic visibility.
What to Expect During the Masterclass
The event will feature:
Expert Speaker Insights
A moderated guest speaker conversation on brand building, visibility, storytelling, and strategic positioning.
Practical Brand Audit Framework
A guided session helping participants evaluate their current brand and identify areas for improvement.
Real-World Visibility Strategies
Actionable strategies to increase discoverability, authority, and positioning.
Interactive Learning
Opportunities to reflect on your brand, ask questions, and apply insights in real time.
Who Should Attend?
This masterclass is ideal for:
Entrepreneurs and Founders
Coaches and Consultants
Creatives and Industry Experts
Professionals Building Personal Brands
Anyone Looking to Increase Visibility and Positioning
Why This Masterclass Matters
Strong branding is no longer optional. It is foundational. A well-positioned brand can:
Open doors to partnerships
Attract media opportunities
Increase trust and credibility
Drive premium sales and business growth
Differentiate you in crowded markets
Reserve Your Spot
If you are ready to strengthen your brand and position yourself strategically for greater visibility and opportunity, this masterclass is for you.
At Women of Rubies, we believe visibility should be intentional, not accidental. The Brand Audit Masterclass is more than a training session; it is an opportunity to refine your brand, sharpen your positioning, and elevate how you show up in the world. Your next level of visibility starts with your brand.
NASAastronaut Christina Koch is once again at the center of history, becoming the first woman to travel around the Moon as part of NASA’s Artemis program.
The Artemis II mission launched from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, carrying a four-person crew on a 10-day lunar fly-by covering approximately 685,000 miles. It marks the first human mission to orbit the Moon in more than 50 years.
The crew includes Koch, Victor Glover, Reid Wiseman, and Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen.
Artemis II Mission Overview
Artemis II is a critical test mission for NASA’s long-term goal of returning humans to the Moon and preparing for future deep space exploration.
The mission focuses on validating spacecraft systems, life support, and human performance in deep space conditions. The crew will travel aboard the Orion spacecraft on a lunar fly-by before returning to Earth.
Unlike previous missions, Artemis is designed to build long-term exploration capability rather than short-term lunar visits.
Christina Koch’s Path to Artemis II
Christina Koch’s selection for Artemis II is built on a strong foundation of experience and achievement.
She was first selected as a NASA astronaut in 2013 and quickly established herself as one of the most capable astronauts of her generation.
In 2019, she completed a record-breaking 328 consecutive days in space aboard the International Space Station during Expeditions 59, 60, and 61. This remains the longest single spaceflight by a woman.
During that mission, she also participated in the first all-female spacewalk alongside astronaut Jessica Meir and completed multiple additional spacewalks totaling over 42 hours.
Her scientific work included robotics operations on the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer, protein crystal experiments for pharmaceutical research, and testing 3D biological printing in microgravity.
Christina Koch Artemis II Moon Mission NASA Astronaut
Experience Beyond Spaceflight
Beyond her missions in orbit, Koch has held leadership roles within NASA, including serving as branch chief over the Assigned Crew Branch in the Astronaut Office.
She has also worked in technical integration roles at NASA’s Johnson Space Center.
Before becoming an astronaut, her engineering background included space science instrument development and fieldwork in extreme environments such as Antarctica and the Arctic. She also supported search and rescue and firefighting operations in Antarctica.
The Artemis II Crew
The Artemis II crew represents a new era of space exploration. Christina Koch, Victor Glover, Reid Wiseman, and Jeremy Hansen were selected for their operational expertise and experience in spaceflight.
Together, they are tasked with testing the systems and procedures that will support future lunar missions and long-duration exploration beyond Earth orbit.
Why This Mission Matters
Artemis II is the first crewed mission to travel beyond low Earth orbit since the Apollo era. It represents a major step toward establishing sustained human presence on the Moon and preparing for future missions to Mars.
The mission will help NASA understand how humans can live and work in deep space over extended periods.
Historic Achievement
With Artemis II, Christina Koch becomes the first woman to travel around the Moon, adding another milestone to an already groundbreaking career.
Her journey reflects the growing role of experienced astronauts in shaping the future of human space exploration.
From Earth orbit to lunar space, Christina Koch continues to play a defining role in space history. Alongside Victor Glover and the Artemis II crew, she is helping lead a mission that marks the beginning of a new era in exploration. The Moon is now a gateway to the future of human spaceflight.
In the global fight for gender equality, few voices carry the depth of experience, influence, and impact as Patricia Elias.
An international lawyer, former UN Women Senior Advisor, and globally recognized gender expert, Patricia Elias has spent her career advancing women’s participation, leadership, and protection through law, diplomacy, and advocacy.
Her work sits at the intersection of women’s rights, peacebuilding, and global policy, with a strong focus on the Women, Peace and Security agenda and ending violence against women and girls.
A Leader in Global Advocacy and Diplomacy
Patricia’s career reflects a rare combination of legal expertise and diplomatic influence. As the former Chief of Global Diplomatic Campaign at Every Woman, she represented the organization at the highest levels, engaging with:
World leaders
Governments
United Nations entities
and civil society organizations
Through her leadership, she successfully expanded support for global advocacy efforts from 4 to 18 countries, while growing a powerful coalition of over 4,000 NGOs and activists across 164 countries. Her work demonstrates that policy change is not just about conversation, it is about coalition, negotiation, and sustained action.
Driving the Women, Peace and Security Agenda
At the core of Patricia’s mission is a fundamental belief: Sustainable peace is impossible without the inclusion of women. Through her advocacy, she has consistently pushed for:
Women’s participation in decision-making
Gender-responsive governance
Protection of women and girls in conflict settings
Legal reforms that uphold justice and equality
Her work reinforces a global truth that empowering women is not just a social priority, but a strategic necessity for peace and development.
A Humanitarian at Heart
Beyond global policy and diplomacy, Patricia’s impact extends to grassroots humanitarian work.
She has:
Built an orphanage in Cameroon
Worked directly with street children in Gabon
These efforts reflect a leadership style grounded not only in influence but in compassion and direct community impact.
Global Recognition and Leadership
Patricia Elias’ contributions have earned her international recognition.
She was awarded the French Medal of Associative Commitment by the Mayor of Paris and Île-de-France, a testament to her dedication to social impact and advocacy.
She currently serves as the G100 Global Chair for Governments and Ministerial Advocacy, where she continues to influence policy, leadership, and global partnerships for women’s advancement.
The “No Peace Without Women” Movement
One of Patricia’s most powerful initiatives is the Global Petition: No Peace Without Women — a call to action for governments, institutions, and global leaders to prioritize women’s inclusion in peacebuilding and decision-making.
The petition emphasizes a simple but transformative truth:
From international law to grassroots advocacy, Patricia Elias represents a new model of leadership, one that bridges policy and people, diplomacy and action, global influence and local impact.
Her work continues to shape conversations, influence decisions, and build systems where women are not just included but empowered to lead.
In every community, every nation, and every global conversation, there can be no lasting peace without women.
In a world where women have historically battled for visibility, opportunity, and influence, Sabah Hussain stands as a testament to what is possible when purpose, strategy, and courage converge.
Sabah isn’t just a business leader; she is a visionary strategist, a community builder, and a champion for women’s economic empowerment. Her journey bridges entrepreneurship, neuroscience, leadership development, investment, and advocacy, all grounded in the belief that when women rise, communities, economies, and generations rise with them.
From Entrepreneur to Strategist
Sabah Hussain is a five‑time entrepreneur whose experience spans multiple industries and business cycles. She has been at the forefront of building, scaling, and restructuring ventures with a focus on measurable outcomes. But what sets her work apart is not just her experience; it’s her lens.
As a business neuroscience strategist, Sabah applies insights from human behaviour, decision‑making science, and cognitive resilience to help leaders and organisations perform at their best. Her work goes beyond traditional management consulting; it aligns human potential with business growth in ways that are strategic, sustainable, and transformative.
Her unique skill set has made her a sought‑after executive board advisor and angel investor, guiding startups and seasoned enterprises alike toward paths of growth, clarity, and impact.
Investing in People and Purpose
Sabah’s investment philosophy is rooted in more than financial returns. She believes in investing in human capital, in leaders, in founders, and in changemakers who are committed to impact.
Her portfolio includes startups and small businesses with potential for exponential growth, as well as businesses driven by purpose. Through her strategic support, founders gain not just capital, but clarity, confidence and community.
Founder of the Federation of Women Empowerment and Support
One of her most impactful contributions is the Federation of Women Empowerment and Support, an initiative dedicated to expanding access, visibility, and opportunity for women entrepreneurs and leaders.
Under Sabah’s leadership, the federation:
Creates mentorship and leadership development pathways
Builds networks that amplify women’s voices
Connects women with strategic partnerships and scalable opportunities
Provides platforms for women to be seen, heard, and valued
The federation operates with a clear ethos: empowerment is not a slogan, it is a structure for sustainable progress.
In line with this mission, Sabah has intentionally shaped programs that address real barriers women face:
• Lack of access to capital • Limited networks • Visibility gaps • Mentorship deserts • Opportunity exclusions
Her approach ensures that empowerment is not surface‑level, but rooted in actual, measurable outcomes.
Legacy in Motion
Sabah is not just building businesses; she is shaping ecosystems. From startup founders to corporate leaders, from emerging entrepreneurs to seasoned executives, her influence spans borders and sectors.
She is proof that leadership is not about positions held, but about impact created, and more importantly, she shows that when women are equipped, connected, and empowered, the possibilities are limitless.
ABCD Africa is proud to announce the release of the 4th edition of the 100 Most Impactful Voices List, released to mark 2026 International Women’s Day. This list recognises female changemakers, leaders, and community builders of African descent who leverage their voices and digital content as tools for impact.
We release this edition at a significant moment. The conversations shaping our world, around equality, technology, governance, and the future of the African continent, are being had right now, and the women on this list are at the centre of them. Africa is home to bold, visionary women who are not only shaping narratives but building the platforms, policies, and technologies that will define what comes next.
In this year’s edition, we celebrate 100 extraordinary women of African descent who use their influence to educate, advocate and inspire. Through their work across digital platforms, and through leadership, governance, policy, and published works, they are breaking barriers, amplifying marginalised voices, and leading movements that redefine the future.
“It is an honour to unveil the 4th edition of the ABCD Africa 100 Most Impactful Voices List and amplify the contribution of these remarkable women. In a world where the spaces for women’s voices are being contested, this list is a reminder of what is possible when African women are given their flowers. We hope it inspires more women to use their voices, create impactful content, and shape conversations that contribute to a more equitable and inclusive society,” says Joke Pearl Oyebamiji, Founder of ABCD Africa.
The selection process was rigorous and thorough, with nominations received from digital experts and the general public. Finalists were evaluated based on their creativity, impact, authenticity, and engagement. Visit voices.abcdafrica.co to view the full list
The Women of Rubies Media Pitch Challenge 2026 brought together visionary women founders ready to elevate their brands through clarity, confidence, and strategic storytelling.
While Dr. Omo Ogbamolaemerged after thoughtful deliberation, every finalist moved her brand forward. Each pitch reflected courage, innovation, and the power of intentional visibility.
Here are the remarkable women who took the stage.
Dr. Omo Ogbamola | Founder & CEO, Tripplemos Food Processing Company
Dr. Omo Ogbamola |Founder & CEO, Tripplemos Food Processing Company
Dr. Omo Ogbamola is a Nigerian-born Canadian entrepreneur building a nationally distributed food manufacturing brand producing authentic African spices locally in Canada. Tripplemos Foodproducts are available on Amazon Canada, Walmart Canada Marketplace, and over 20 retail stores, with expansion underway. Her pitch reflected strong operational structure, manufacturing growth potential, and a clear media positioning strategy.
Victoria Ekwenuke, Founder, FASS
Victoria Ekwenuke |Founder & CEO, FASS (For A Short Stay)
Victoriais a hospitality-tech entrepreneur reimagining airport lodging through luxury micro-suites for modern travellers. With over 15 years of global brand management experience at companies including Colgate-Palmolive, Unilever, eBay, and Meta, she brings corporate precision and inclusive innovation into the travel space. Her pitch demonstrated scale, strategy, and strong market positioning. Learn more about her work here
Life & Transformational Coach | Host, Stretch Street Podcast
Widely known as The Energetic EJ, Ejiro is a certified transformational coach dedicated to helping women rediscover abandoned dreams and step into renewed purpose. Her pitch centered on clarity of voice, measurable impact, and long-term community transformation through coaching and media. Learn more about her work here
Julieth Agbo |Founder, A-Aston Technologies & Data for Her
A digital and data inclusion advocate, Juliethequips women and young people with practical digital literacy skills for the future of work. Through her remote business support company and data initiative, she is closing access gaps and building sustainable systems. Her pitch highlighted impact-driven technology with strong scalability. Learn more about her work here
Oluwabunmi is a community builder and digital marketer empowering women and newcomers across Canada to build sustainable, profitable businesses. Through Canada CEOs, she creates visibility, collaboration, and business growth opportunities. Her pitch showcased community-driven entrepreneurship with measurable impact. Learn more abou her work here
Beyond the Pitch: A Room Full of Momentum
The Media Pitch Challenge was not just about winning. It was about positioning.
This is what happens when women are given both the platform and the preparation. At Women of Rubies, we believe visibility is not accidental — it is intentional, strategic, and transformative.
To our finalists: your courage to step forward has already created momentum. And this is only the beginning.
There’s something unmistakable about an artist who returns to their craft with clarity, conviction, and lived experience. Hembadoon is that artist.
Born in Nigeria and now based in Luxembourg, the Afro Fusion singer-songwriter has built a career that spans continents, industries, and creative expressions, from gospel stages and radio charts to theatre productions and international festivals.
But her story is not one of overnight success. It is one of evolution.
From Early Spotlight to Industry Powerhouse
Hembadoon’s musical roots run deep. She began in the gospel group Cyrus, later leading Sunrise Band, and earning national recognition when her single “Odo Aye” reached No. 1 on North Central Nigerian radio charts. The song was later featured in the BBC drama series Wetin Dey.
She went on to work behind the scenes in Nigeria’s entertainment industry, collaborating with record labels, supporting major artists, and serving as a media strategist and On-Air Personality. Her industry experience gave her rare insight into both the creative and commercial sides of music.
The Comeback: “LADY” and TIME Na NOW
After nearly a decade away from releasing her own music, Hembadoon made a defining return in 2020 with her breakout single “LADY.” The record marked not just a comeback, but a repositioning.
Her debut album, “TIME Na NOW,” crafted over five years, tells a story of rediscovery, resilience, and self-definition. It is a sonic blend of Afrobeat, Soul, and World Music, influenced by legends like Angelique Kidjo and Alicia Keys, yet distinctly her own.
The project captures a woman stepping fully into her voice without apology.
The Lady Force Band & A Growing European Presence
Now firmly rooted in Luxembourg, Hembadoon leads a 7-piece ensemble, The Lady Force Band, delivering high-energy live performances across major festivals and venues including MusiqCITÉ, Black History Month Luxembourg, and international women-focused music festivals in Ghana, Canada, and Cameroon.
Her live showcase series, LADY LIVE, is steadily becoming a recognizable brand, blending powerful vocals, cultural storytelling, and dynamic stage presence.
Beyond performance, she continues shaping culture through her radio shows AFRIKULTURE MIX and NUBIAN LOUNGE, celebrating African creativity and diaspora voices.
More Than Music
Hembadoon represents a new model of the independent African artist in Europe, creative, strategic, and culturally anchored. She is building not just a discography, but a movement.
Her journey reminds us of one powerful truth: Sometimes stepping away is what prepares you to return stronger. And for Hembadoon, the time truly is now.
