Erelu Bisi-Adeleye-Fayemi - Women of Rubies

Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi is a distinguished feminist activist, gender and development specialist, policy advocate, and social sector expert. With decades of experience and numerous accolades to her name, she has been a formidable force in advancing women’s rights and social justice across Africa and beyond. Her journey from academia to global advocacy showcases her relentless dedication to gender equality and empowerment. Erelu Fayemi’s contributions have spanned across various sectors, from grassroots activism to high-level policy advocacy, making her a beacon of hope and a role model for countless women.

Academic Background and Professional Training

HE Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi holds a BA (1984) and MA (1988) in History from the University of Ife, Nigeria (now Obafemi Awolowo University). She also earned an MA in Gender and Society (1992) from Middlesex University, UK, and received a PhD (Honoris Causa) in Sociology from the Tai Solarin University of Education (2014).

Leadership in Women’s Development

From 1991-2001, Erelu Fayemi served as the Director of Akina Mama wa Afrika (AMwA), an international development organization for African women. During her tenure, she established the African Women’s Leadership Institute (AWLI), which has produced over 6,000 women leaders across Africa. She is also the co-founder of the African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF), the first Africa-wide grant-making foundation for women’s organizations, and served as the first Executive Director from 2001-2010.

Founding the African Women’s Development Fund

Erelu Fayemi co-founded the African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF) and served as its first CEO from 2001-2010. Under her leadership, AWDF supported thousands of women’s rights organizations in 42 African countries with millions of dollars in grants.

Current Roles and Initiatives

Currently, Erelu Fayemi is the CEO of Above Whispers Media Group, specializing in leadership development for women. She also runs an online community called Abovewhispers.com, where she lends her voice to issues affecting women and encourages them to rise above whispers, using their voices, resources, and positions where it matters. Recently, she established ‘The Wrapper Network’, an online mentoring and support program for young women. She served as a UN Women Nigeria Senior Advisor (2017-2018) and is a Visiting Senior Research Fellow at the Africa Leadership Center, King’s College, London.

Legislative Contributions in Ekiti State

When her husband, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, took office as Governor of Ekiti State from 2010 to 2014, Erelu Fayemi became actively involved in policy advocacy, grassroots empowerment, and social inclusion programs. She led campaigns to enact several critical laws, including the Gender-Based Violence Prohibition Law (2011, revised in 2019), the Equal Opportunities Bill (2013), the HIV Anti-Stigma Bill (2014), the Treatment, Care and Protection Bill for Sexually Abused Minors (2020), the Ekiti State Mental Health Law (2021), and the Ekiti State Gender Composition Law (2022). She chaired the Ekiti State GBV Management Committee and the Ekiti State AIDS Control Agency (2018 – 2022) and led the Nigeria Governors Wives Forum (NGWF) from 2020 to 2022.

Literary Contributions

Erelu Fayemi is the author of several influential works, including ‘Speaking for Myself: Perspectives on Social, Political and Feminist Activism in Africa’ (2013), ‘Speaking above a Whisper’ (2013), an autobiography, ‘Loud Whispers’ (2017), and ‘Where is your Wrapper?’ (2020). She also co-edited ‘Voice, Power and Soul’ with Jessica Horn (2008), a compilation of images and stories of African Feminists. Her books “Tray of Locust Beans” and “Demand and Supply” delve into socio-political and cultural themes, advocating for gender equality and empowerment.

The Wrapper Network: Empowering Women During the COVID-19 Pandemic

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Erelu Bisi Fayemi initiated the “A Wrapper for Women Initiative,” providing hope and support to over 60,000 households in Ekiti. Inspired by a story of solidarity, this initiative symbolizes unity, protection, and care, encouraging women to support each other.

Encouragement to Young Women

Erelu encourages young women to be actively involved in politics and community affairs. She emphasizes the importance of persistence, self-awareness, and courage, urging women to raise their voices and demand action against issues like sexual violence.

Final Thoughts

Erelu Bisi Fayemi’s journey is a testament to resilience, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to gender equality. Her work continues to inspire and empower women globally, reminding us all of the power of solidarity and the importance of using our voices for change. Through her vast and varied efforts, Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi continues to champion gender equality, advocate for social justice, and empower women across Africa and beyond.

In a remarkable act of generosity, Erelu Bisi-Adeleye Fayemi, the former First Lady of Ekiti State, has donated N1 million to Women of Rubies through her Wrapper Network Initiative of Above Whispers Foundation. This generous donation is aimed at providing support and relief to Nigerian women facing challenges, as well as commemorating the 60th birthday of Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi on June 11th. It is one of the many initiatives organized by The Wrapper Network.

The Wrapper Network, which was established in October 2019, was inspired by a thought-provoking question posed by Her Excellency during a women’s conference. Erelu Bisi Fayemi emphasized the symbolic value of wrappers, representing solidarity, unity, love, protection, and care. She urged women to extend their support and compassion by providing metaphorical “wrappers” to those in need.

Speaking on her motivation behind the Wrapper Network, Erelu Bisi Fayemi expressed, “A lot of women need help with modest contributions that could make all the difference. That is why I decided to start The Wrapper Network, for women who need a wrapper and for women who are prepared to give wrappers to other sisters. I hope that the sisters who will benefit can go on to bless other sisters with a wrapper when things are good for them.”

Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi: Championing Feminist Activism and Women’s Empowerment

In the realm of feminist activism and women’s empowerment, one name stands out as a true trailblazer: Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi. With a remarkable portfolio encompassing various fields, Erelu Bisi has made a significant impact as a Gender and Development Specialist, Feminist Activist, Policy Advocate, Social Sector expert, and Writer. Her work has not only transformed the lives of countless women but has also shaped the landscape of gender equality in Nigeria and beyond.

Erelu Bisi’s academic journey laid a strong foundation for her future endeavors. She obtained her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in History from the University of Ife, Nigeria (now Obafemi Awolowo University). Furthering her education, she pursued a Master’s degree in Gender and Society from Middlesex University in the United Kingdom. Her dedication to knowledge led her to earn a prestigious Honorary Doctorate in Sociology from the Tai Solarin University of Education.

During her tenure as the Director of Akina Mama wa Afrika (AMwA), an international development organization for African women, Erelu Bisi showcased her visionary leadership. It was under her guidance that the African Women’s Leadership Institute (AWLI) was established. AWLI has since trained and connected over 6,000 young African women, empowering them to become leaders in their respective fields.

Erelu Bisi’s commitment to women’s rights and empowerment led her to co-found the African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF), the first Africa-wide grant-making foundation for women’s organizations. As the CEO of AWDF from 2001 to

Disbursement and Impact

The Women of Rubies team will disburse the funds via our Facebook page, ensuring that the donation reaches those who are most vulnerable and in need. This empowering initiative aims to provide a “Wrapper” of hope to women, offering support, encouragement, and assistance to those facing difficult circumstances.

Expressing Gratitude

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi for her kind gesture and commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of women. Her generosity and dedication to uplifting others exemplify her role as a mentor, encourager, and advocate for women’s empowerment.

A Celebration of a Remarkable Woman

As we celebrate Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi’s 60th birthday, we honor her as a woman of substance, purpose, and unwavering determination. She embodies the essence of Above Whispers, standing as an enigma of hope and inspiration to countless women. Through her Wrapper Network Initiative and continuous efforts, she continues to leave an indelible mark in the lives of women.

Her donation to the Women of Rubies through the Wrapper Network Initiative serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the power of women supporting women.

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