Amplifying Women's Influence, Impact and Income for Economic Growth.
For the first time ever, WEF is coming to West Africa. Join us in Lagos, Nigeria from 10-12 August 2023 of the 88th Edition of the Women Economic Forum (WEF). Attend in-Person or participate virtually.
Who We Are
With Over 80 Editions and a Powerful Network of 500,000+ Women Across 150 Countries...
Women Economic Forum (WEF)
Women Economic Forum (WEF) is an international platform enabling women and leaders from all walks of life worldwide to expand business opportunities and enhance personal influence through engagement across borders while being inspired by some of the world’s most successful entrepreneurs, policymakers, thought leaders, change agents and celebrities.
WEF curates conversations, connections, community and collaborations toward our greater influence and impact in relentless inspiration and initiatives. It conducts editions globally encouraging its sister platforms and networks to gather for peer exchange and networking enabling “Business Beyond Borders” in a spirit of support and sisterhood.
Learn more about WEF + other past editions at www.wef.org.in
About This Edition
All roads lead to Lagos, Nigeria for the 88th Edition of the Women Economic Forum.
What You Should Know...
The 88th Edition is in two parts, with a digital pre-event on March 8-10 and a never-seen-before VIP gathering in West Africa as Lagos, Nigeria sets the stage for the convergence and confluence of knowledge and inspiration from women leaders and men allies worldwide, strengthening our global connections and impact within and outside the region. August 10-12 will feature 3 days of cross-cultural engagement as we learn, share, grow and connect to our purpose.
Our Plenary and Parallel sessions will create synergies in all sectors, contributing to strengthening lines of action such as making environments conducive for economic and social impact, increasing the visibility of women leaders, and enabling dialogue that will inspire innovative practices that will have a positive effect on women's income and contributions to society.
Our Vision
What You Should Expect...
Three (3) Days of cross-cultural engagement to create a global circle for conversations, connections and celebration.
In celebration of International Women's Day 2023 and Women's Month, WEF West Africa is set to create an enabling environment for over 250+ Speakers across 3 days. The WEF-West Africa 2023 edition will include in-person discussions and digital sessions, networking, and collaborations to promote leadership around the world, encouraging women to grow their businesses, build successful careers and amplify their influence, impact & income.
WEF-West Africa will also celebrate and honour 100 Women on Thursday, 10 August 2023 at the Grand Luncheon in collaboration with G100 and award 88 leaders at the WEF Award Gala on Saturday, 12 August 2023.
The Conference Sessions
Join us on the Big Stage for our VIP In-Person Conference or via Screen for Digital Sessions at WEF West Africa 2023
Plenary Sessions
In-Person (August 10-12)
Join us in Lagos, Nigeria from 10-12 August 2023 for 3 days of Conversation, Connection and Celebration. Our VIP Galas + In-person conference will feature 18 VIP Plenary Sessions with over 200 Speakers.
Digital Sessions
Online (March 8-10)
Join us online from the comfort of your screen on 8-10 March 2023 for our Parallel Sessions featuring women leaders & change agents across multiple sectors for 3 days.
VIP Guests
Meet our Eminent Guests for WEF West Africa 2023
H.E Chief (Dr) Jewel Howard Taylor
Vice President, the Republic of Liberia
H.E Chief (Dr) Jewel Howard-Taylor is the Vice President of the Republic of Liberia and President of the Liberian Senate serving on several strategic committees. She is Liberia’s foremost advocate for increased and improved opportunities for women - a visible and very involved stateswoman; with a vision for affordable but quality education; a transparent justice system; an improved and accessible health system; women’s economic and political participation; and an accountable public service system – a critical voice on cross-cutting issues at many frontlines in the battle to reposition Liberia for vibrancy, productivity and democratic good governance. Chief Dr. Taylor currently serves in many capacities. As a result of her National impact, she is the recipient of many accolades, laurels and awards from Local, National and International Organizations, ranging from humanitarian awards to outstanding Leadership awards. She was often referred to as the “People’s Senator” and in confirmation of this title, Newsweek Magazine voted her the 2nd Most Powerful Female Politician in Liberia in 2011.
Dr. Neerja Birla
Founder & Chairperson, Aditya Birla Education Trust
Dr. Neerja Birla is the founder and chairperson of the Aditya Birla Education Trust (ABET), a passionate educationist and a mental health champion, who positively impacts the lives of people from all sections of society and brings about progressive change in the field of education and mental health. Under the ABET umbrella and Dr Birla’s dynamic leadership: her organisation, Mpower is a revolutionary movement that has brought about a paradigm shift in India’s attitude towards mental health by spreading awareness, alleviating stigma, and providing holistic and quality mental health care to individuals from all walks of life. Dr. Birla is the recipient of a multitude of Indian and international awards, including the Pride of India Honour at the Society Achievers Awards 2022 in the space of Social Impact, Education and Mental health, Changemaker of the Year Award - Women Achievers Awards (2022), Most Powerful Woman in Business Award - Business Today (2022), Social Impact Leader & Changemaker of the Year Award – Mahatma Award (2021), Most Powerful Women in Business Award – Fortune India (2021).
Audrey Mothupi
Chief Executive Officer, SystemLogic Group
Audrey Mothupi is the Chief Executive Officer of SystemicLogic Group based in South Africa – a global financial innovation, data, and technology company with a proven track record for delivering practical solutions to clients across a range of industries and geographies. She brings over 20 years of business experience with her extensive knowledge of African and global markets. She is also a Non-Executive Director on the boards of Pick ‘n Pay, Life Healthcare Group, Arden Capital and Altona Plc. She is the G100 Global Chair for AI/Data and Cybersecurity and sits on the board of the Nordic Female Business Angel Network (NFBAN). Audrey Mothupi is a Fellow of the Africa Leadership Initiative (ALI), a board member of the International Women’s Forum of South Africa (IWFSA), and a member of the International Women’s Forum (IWF). She has been named one of Africa’s 1,000 most powerful women and in 2018 was awarded the Continental Winner of the Pan African Awards for Africa’s Most Influential Women in Business and Government. and Female CEO of the Year Awards, Best Financial Innovation & Technology Disruptor, 2022.
H.E Laila Rahhal
Founder & President, Business Gate
H.E Laila Rahhal El Atfani, is a Goodwill Ambassador, President & Founder of Business Gate, UAE and the Global President of CEC-UK. Business Gate is one of the premier companies specializing in business studies, financial analysis, the evaluation of new and existing projects and the feasibility of business projects in the Gulf region. She leads Business Incubators for SMEs and is the President of Women And Youth Empowerment REFAI NGO, an International Diplomatic Relations for AACID and Head of the diplomacy & protocol WPC. Besides that, she is the President of International Affairs Anouar. She also sits as the Founder & President of the I AM AFRICA platform. A platform focused on the development of Africa as a Continent showcasing the opportunities available in the Continent. A prolific Speaker and Board Room genius, H.E Laila is also the Vice President of The Voice Magazine. Among many other responsibilities bestowed on her. She is also the Vice President & Founder of the renowned Youth Gate Organization in Cambodia focusing on Youth Development and inclusion in Leadership. She sits as a Board Member of numerous International Organizations and has won multiple accolades and awards.
Advisory Board
Meet the Influential Leaders on the Advisory board for WEF West Africa 2023
Dr. Harbeen Arora Rai
Founder & Global Chairperson, WEF
Dr. Harbeen Arora Rai is the Global Chairperson and Founder of the Women Economic Forum (WEF) and the world's largest international women's chamber, All Ladies League (ALL), SHEconomy, Women's India Chamber of Commerce and Industry (WICCI) and G100. She is a Thought Leader, Global Icon and Visionary for Women, an Entrepreneur, Philanthropist, Author, Humanitarian, Spiritual Seeker and Speaker, who manifests multifaceted leadership with strength & simplicity. Recognised and lauded for her work across India and Internationally.
H.E Violeta Bulc
FMR Deputy Minister of Slovenia
H.E Violeta Bulc is the Former Deputy Prime Minister of Slovenia and EU Commissioner for Transport. As Deputy Prime Minister of Slovenia, she held ministerial responsibility for the development, strategic projects and cohesion. As EU Commissioner, she placed priority on digitalization, decarbonization, innovation, people focus and global collaboration in transport. Excellency Bulc is an academic, author, innovator, systems architect and entrepreneur. She is the founder and advocate for the unique concept of Ecocivilisation.
Dr. Chantal Yelu Mulop
Special Adviser to President of DRC
Dr Chantal Yelu Mulop is the Special Advisor to the President of the Democratic Republic of Congo on Youth, Gender & Violence against Women. She is a leading activist, a recognized humanist and feminist, a fighter for social justice, economic and women’s rights, without forgetting of course a passion for the fight against all forms of injustice such as immigration reform, health care reform, reproductive rights, the natural environment, racial equality and workers’ rights. Having spent more time outside the country, in DR Congo (mainly in Canada and Belgium).
Dr. Bodil Valero
Co-Founder, AEPI
Dr Bodil Valero is a former Member of Swedish Parliament, and the European Parliament from 2014 until 2019. She is a member of the Green Party, part of the European Green Party. At the EU Parliament, she served as the green coordinator in the Security and Defence Committee, and was also responsible for migration and foreign affairs, and later of global justice issues such as climate, peace, aid, trade, arms exports and more. She is committed to finding open, decent and humane policies as solutions to issues of economic migration, human rights and rights of minorities.
Dr. Mar Introini
Political Analyst & Writer
Dr Mar Introini is a Barrister, Blogger and Political Analyst. An Italian citizen with a legal background as a former Public Attorney specialising in Minors Offenders with the position of National Secretary nominated by the Executive Board of the National Presidency. With a strong sense of the cross-cultural experience of living in different cities, such as Montevideo, London, Brussels, Geneva, Malaga, and Madrid, she brings an inclusive perspective around multiculturalism. She’s passionate about developing a reshaped model of globalization with a holistic approach.
Dr. Linda Pereira
Founder & CEO, CPL Events
Dr Linda Pereira is the Senior partner and President of the L&I Communications Group. She is also the CEO of CPL Events. She was considered one of Portugal’s five most influential people in the industry and has received various international awards as well as the medal of honour for responsible entrepreneurship for her commitment to promoting culture and heritage and for Social Responsibility initiatives. She has been an invited speaker in over 149 countries and is an expert in cross-cultural strategic communication and corporate diplomacy.
Dr. Yetty Ogunnubi
Chief Executive Officer, YD Limited
Dr. Yetty Oyinlola Ogunnubi, fondly called 'Yetty', is the CEO of YD Limited and the founder & lead publicist at The YD Company. With over 19 years of experience in the public relations (PR) and brand management space, she is a leading professional in the fashion, arts, and corporate affairs industries with experiences spanning PR, marketing, creative image branding, and project and event management. Over the years, Dr. Yetty has managed publicity projects for SMEs, corporate businesses, and governments, and has led fashion and corporate exhibitions, creative events, and press conferences, as well as promoted emerging and established brands.
Ebun Feludu
Founder, JAM The Coconut Food Company
Ebun Feludu is a Farmer, Agropreneur, Media Consultant, and Chairperson of ALL Nigeria, who began her foray into agriculture and agro-processing in 2014. Via her companies JAM The Coconut Food Company and iGrow Farms, Ebun farms and processes coconuts into a range of premium coconut food, personal care and lifestyle products sold across Nigeria and across the world. Her team is made up of majority women and together they are building Africa’s leading coconut processing company. Ebun also runs Plug Media and Resources - a boutique media agency that supports women with content and branding.
Dr. Beena Unnikrishnan
President, WICCI Arts Leadership Council
Dr Beena Unnikrishnan is a high-profile professional artist, artpreneur, filmmaker and serial entrepreneur in India. She is the CEO of Iris Green Films and serves as the National President of the Arts Leadership Council of the Women's Indian Chamber of Commerce & Industry (WICCI). Dr. Unninkrishnan brings extensive experience of 28 years of diversified multi-functional arts and industries. An ardent believer in economic empowerment and financial independence of all artists, craftspeople and rural artisans, her successful career is testimony to the synergies that can be unleashed between art and mart.
Dr. Chris Odey
Founder, African Leading Women Conference
Amb. (Dr) Chris Odey is the President & Founder of the Nigeria Goodwill Ambassador Awards Organisation, International Goodwill Ambassador Awards and African Leading Women Conference. He is a well-known Humanitarian, Philanthropist and He-for-She Champion, an Experienced Managing Director with a demonstrated history of working in the events services industry. He was recognized by World Humanity Commission with a Humanity Award during the HUMANITY AWARDS ---World Order of Nobles -Dignitaries & Philanthropists Awards--- [WONDPA 2019] held in the Federal Capital Territory.
Mr John Njamah
Founder, Colorbarmedia 707
John Njamah is a Nigerian Film Director, Actor, Writer, Founder and Creative Director of Colorbarmedia 707, who has carved a niche for himself for over 32 years in the Nigerian Creative Industry. He founded Colobarmedia, a media firm that advises and consults on media matters, helping to develop films, scripts and television ideas from inception to production. John Njamah is a member of the Director's Guild of Nigeria (DGN), Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) and Association of Movie Producers (AMP). He is also a member of the Nigeria Oscar Selection Committee (NOSC). He is the Founder and Director at The Actor's Resource Group.
Mr. Victor Nwokocha
CEO, Keystone Media & Entertainment
Mr Victor Nwokocha is CEO of Keystone Media & Entertainment, Editor-in-Chief of Ojemba Magazine - a Pan-African Publication fostering development, African treasures and promoting good governance. Furthermore, he used to be the editor of the African Heritage Times. He is a Member of the Board of Trustees, Nigerian Universities Theatre Arts Festival (NUTAF) and Member of the National Steering Committee, Cora-Arterial Network Nigeria. He was formerly the General Manager of the Audio-Visual Rights Society of Nigeria (AVRS) and Former Senior Manager, Projects at the Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON).
Organising Committee
Meet the Planning Team for WEF West Africa 2023
Dr. Alex Okoroji
President, WEF West Africa
Dr. Alex Okoroji is a Nigerian Actress, Multiple Award-Winning Media Personality, Creative Leader and Founder of The BRAG Media Company. She is a Performing, Visual and Literary Artiste - navigating the world of Art, Media and Entertainment for almost two decades. She has dedicated her career to multimedia content development across various applications from film to television, radio, stage, digital media and print.
Clara Rufai
Director of Program
Clara Rufai is an Award-winning Speaker, Writer, Podcaster, Author, Coach, Compliance Professional, Entrepreneur and Corporate Lawyer with a Master's Degree in Business Administration (MBA) and 3 decades of experience under her belt, mainly within the financial services sector. She is also a Book Consultant, Storyteller, Business Leader and Mentor with a network-marketing community of over 3000 partners.
Natalie Fort
Director of Media
Natalie Fort is a multiple award-winning Broadcast Journalist, News Anchor and Television Host based in Ghana, West Africa. She serves as a Patron of the Ghana Philanthropy Forum, a Board Member supporting Grants & Partnership with the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (Ghana), and an Advisory Board Member of the World Sustainability Organisation. Natalie’s success in media began with her work anchoring the weekday news.
Cresta Durojaiye
Director of Operations
Cresta Durojaiye, CPO® is a Certified Professional Organizer, and Africa's leading Productivity Expert, Author, Podcaster, Speaker and Life Strategist who teaches and empowers people with practical tools and strategies to live fuller and perform optimally. She is the host of the weekly podcast, Life Lessons w/ Cresta Durojaiye. She is the author of the book, MAD HOUSE, and serves as the Founding Chairperson of the Association of Productivity and Organizing Professionals in Nigeria (APON).
Adeola Kingsley James
Director of Production
Adeola Kingsley-James is a Television & Events Producer and Consultant, Content Creator, Head of Content at Arise Play, Bestselling Author, Coach, a Certified Hypnotherapist and a Rapid Transformational Therapist. Adeola has had a long career developing the multimedia industry, having worked in varying managerial capacities within the television industry for over 17 years, and behind the scenes on shows like Nigerian Idols, Big Brother Nigeria, The Apprentice Africa, Ebony Life Tv, Accelerate Tv etc.
Judith Nkwopara
Director of Welfare
Judith Nkwopara is the founder of Judy Women Empowerment and Development Initiative (JUWEDI,) a biochemist who has spent time studying African history through the lens of Economics with Wheeler institute for business and development in conjunction with London business school. She is the CEO of Green Age Lifestyle. Passionate about girls and women, Judith created a foundation that will empower millions of African women to maximize their full potential and grow confident.
Speakers & Awardees
Meet the Guest Speakers for WEF West Africa 2023
Aalia Lanius
President, UNSUGARCOATED Media
Aalia Lanius is an International Multiple Award Winning Novelist, Executive Producer, Publisher and host of the social-good talk show, UNSUGARCOATED with Aalia. As founder of UNSUGARCOATED™ Media, a 501(c)(3) media production enterprise, Lanius is creating social impact storytelling while building community, providing education, and ending isolation for trauma survivors. Lanius’s role extends to creative leadership in her approach to media, believing that artists are pioneers of the human mind with great potential and responsibility to positively influence society through proper representation.
SharRon Jamison
Founder, The Jamison Group
SharRon Jamison is an award-winning author, entrepreneur, speaker, visionary, and life strategist teaching principles of love and self-empowerment for over 35 years. Her career journey has taken her from owning a fitness studio to managing multi-million-dollar accounts for an international biotechnology firm. She most recently founded The Jamison Group, a personal development company specializing in personal transformation, racial healing, and spiritual renewal. Her programs are expertly crafted to help people shed “societal shoulds,” challenge cultural paradigms and disrupt systemic barriers.
Dr Kinga Mnich
Founder, Ziva Voices
Dr. Kinga Mnich is an award-winning international social psychologist, educator, and speaker. Specializing in emotions, positive psychology, bio-hacking, and gender. Her work solves the myths of emotions by breaking down the complexity of social & cultural concepts tied up inside them. Through her extraordinary research, she brings new ways of understanding how we can use emotions to be who we want to be, to create impact and to flourish in life and business. Social justice and gender equality have been at the forefront of her work - in social entrepreneurship for almost 20 years.
Naledi K. Khabo
CEO, Africa Tourism Association
Naledi K.Khabo is a global strategy leader with over 20 years of experience in Operations, Marketing & Technology. Having developed and implemented countless global multimedia brand initiatives. She is also CEO of the Africa Tourism Association (ATA) based in New York, a global trade organization promoting travel and tourism to Africa and strengthening intra-Africa partnerships. Recognized by Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Fast Company, and Mashable for developing innovative programs for DKNY; Awards and accolades include a Glossy Award, a Webby Award for Retail; and a Shorty Award.
Maria Fernanda
CEO & Founder, FarmX
Maria Fernanda Reyes is a third-generation farmer, as well as a Global regulatory and sustainability expert working closely with USDA, US Congress and the EU to introduce a Biostimulant legislation to help farmers produce more sustainably. In 2009, she returned to her farming roots co-founding a biological Agtech startup, Bioderpac-Agrinos. A HITEC100, Top 100 Women in AG. Maria launched a non-profit organization (AdoptaHero) to support medical front-line heroes. She was awarded National COVID 2020 Superhero award by WHO and Hispanic Star in Action by Stanford University and We are all Human Foundation.
Verlaine-Diane Soobroydoo
Founder, Zahara's Dream Inc
Verlaine-Diane Soobroydoo is an author, international strategist and public policy, and diplomacy professional. She currently serves as Gender and Development Consultant at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). She was Director for Leadership Engagement and Partnerships at WPL and previously served at the UN Women's Executive Office on Global and Africa Strategic Priorities. She was recognized in 2018 in the Top 100 list of Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD) in the Politics and Governance Category, and in 2019 in the Top 100 Influencers on Gender Equality and Diversity by Onalytica.
Tadzie Madzima
Founder, Ignite Youth Organization
Tadzie Madzima is an award-winning life coach and founder of IGNITE Youth, an organization in Zimbabwe that provides young people with career guidance and coaching. In 2018, she was selected as a Fellow of the Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders. In 2020, she was one of the honorees of JCI Zimbabwe Top Outstanding Young Persons. She also won the Youth Mentorship Award in Shield Foundation’s 2020 Zimbabwe Women of Excellence Awards and was featured as one of Zimbabwe’s 25 Influential women. She was also named one of the Young Iconic Pacesetters in Zimbabwe.
Luisa Bernhardt
Human Management Specialist
Luisa Bernhardt is a Business administrator with a Master's in Social Responsibility; Business and Economic Relations and Human Management. She is also Chief Happiness Officer, International Speaker, and has written articles for the Dinero Mujer Magazine and the Diario Libre newspaper on Human Management. Recognized as the #1 HR influencer in 2022 for Central America and the Caribbean. She is an advocate for Organizational Well-being, helping with better employee experience and capacity building through consultations, team training, and conferences. Her motto is "Creating incredible places to work".
Anne Ezeh
Communications Director, GE Africa
Anne Ezeh serves as the Communications Director for GE Africa and Chief Diversity Officer for GE Gas Power, Europe, the Middle East and Africa. In both roles, she leads the strategic communications and operations function, implementing initiatives to drive targeted business outcomes for internal and external audiences. With over 18 years of experience from her roles at GE, Schneider Electric, Agence France Presse, and the Consulate General of France, she has a track record of developing innovative strategies for performance, brand reputation, employee engagement and leadership communications.
Chinenye Onuorah
Director, Regalo Hope Foundation
Chinenye Onuorah is a youth empowerment advocate who drives change through education and technology. She is the Project Director at Regalo Hope Foundation where she promotes digital and vocational training by equipping young people with these skills for entrepreneurial pursuit and to help them survive/compete and stay relevant in the global marketplace. She works at the intersection of development, business and inclusion with experience in designing and implementing social impact programs and services targeted at promoting development.
Stella Damasus
Actress & Founder, Adiva Networks
Stella Damasus is a critically acclaimed Actor, Singer, Podcaster, Speaker, Acting coach, Publisher and Film Producer with over 20 years as an entertainer and over 100 films as an actor. She has won many awards globally like the Award for Best Actress at the Nigeria Entertainment Awards (2007) and Best Actress at the Golden Icons Academy Awards in Houston, Texas (2012) amongst others. Stella has been a strong voice for the education of women. She fights against injustice towards women and young girls. She is the Founder and CEO of ADIVA Networks.
Nonye Umahi
Managing Consultant, Cuanu Consult
Nonye Umahi is the Managing Consultant of Cuanu Consult Ltd; a firm for Training, Recruitment and Consultancy services. As an Entrepreneur, she has trained Medical Laboratory Scientists, SMEs, and Youth and Women groups on Entrepreneurial opportunities in the Medical Diagnostic Industry and the health sector. She consulted for the World Health Organization on the First National Essential Diagnostic List Development for Nigeria. She is a Cherie Blair Foundation Mentor Alumnus and one of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women.
Coralie Elsa Lolliot
Director, Women Working for Change (WFC)
Coralie Elsa Loliot is the Director of Women Working for Change - WFC, the leading network of top female business leaders in Africa (powered by Jeune Afrique Media Group). Since its creation in 2015, WFC has been a catalyst and trusted partner, in the lives of +4200 Top African businesswomen, Directors and CEOs. As a former Consultant at UNESCO, she facilitated the work of the UNESCO International Commission on the Futures of Education (presided over by the President of Ethiopia, H.E Ms. Sahle-Work Zewde).
Amb. Nneka Isaac Moses
Managing Director & Co-Founder, GOGE Africa
Amb. Nneka Isaac-Moses is a Destination Promoter and Co-founder of Goge Africa World Wide Limited. She is a renowned speaker, cultural curator, TV presenter, and award-winning documentary writer and content producer. She has a deep passion for promoting the beauty and potential of Africa to the world. With her husband Amb. Isaac Moses, co-founded the "Goge Africa" TV program in 1999, which has become a respected culture and tourism brand in Nigeria and Africa, with a combined viewership of over 40 million people globally.
Dr. Oladunni Owo
National President, Women in Energy Oil & Gas
Dr. Oladunni Owo is currently the National President of Women in Energy Oil and Gas (WEOG) Nigeria and a member of Global Women Network for Energy Transition (GWNET). She is a multi-award-winning author of the Blackgold Refinery Business Made Easy. Oladunni Owo is an international corporate speaker and trainer, a versatile business expert and a management consultant with over 2 decades of vast professional experience in the Energy, Oil and Gas industry spanning the upstream, midstream, downstream renewables and future energy.
Amanda Obidike
Founder, STEMi Makers of Africa
Amanda Obidike is an accomplished non-profit leader and Data Scientist with 11 years of experience in directing social enterprises, start-ups and complex organizations in Africa, Europe and MENA Nations. She is a member of the Chatham House, a Fellow at the British Academy of Management, an International Partner with the World Business Angel Investment Forum and serves as an Advisory Council member at WiSTEM. In 2022, she became a Techwomen Awardee, an initiative of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) and a Global 20 Goldman Sachs Fellowship Winner in 2021.
Fatoumatta Gaye
CEO, Top3 Solutions
Fatoumatta Gaye is an award-winning ambassador and diplomat, actively representing the interests of The Gambia. Her company, TOP3 SOLUTIONS, is an independent data-driven consultancy firm assisting public and private sectors to flourish in The Gambia and internationally; through sustainable solutions in investment, agriculture and energy sectors. She is also an active member of different global institutes around the world. In 2018, she founded a Lingerie brand providing plus-size women with affordable undergarments. In 2019, she founded the International Young Mothers Association (IYMA), encouraging innovation, entrepreneurship and leadership among young women.
Ifeoma Okafor
Founder, Ferrazo Resources
Ifeoma Okafor is a highly sought-after Transformational Coach, Author & Speaker. She is the Founder & CEO of Ferrazo Resources, a Professional Coaching & Consulting Company that works with individuals to maximize their potential. She is a member of the ForbesWomen Forum, Association of Business Women in Commerce & Industry (ABWCI) and Franco-Nigeria Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI). She was recently recognized as a Top 20 MSME Founder by MSME Africa. Ifeoma hosts a podcast, UNLEASH! With Ifeoma and is the author of several books and resources including a Tech Guide.
Tokunboh George Taylor
Managing Director, Hill+Knowlton Strategies Nigeria
Tokunboh George-Taylor is the pioneering Managing Director of Hill+Knowlton Strategies Nigeria, one of the world’s leading global communications companies. As MD of H+K, she is responsible for driving growth in Nigeria and providing strategic insight and counsel to clients. She is well-versed in the business operating landscape in Nigeria. Tokunboh has over 28 years of experience and her areas of specialization include Public Relations, Advocacy, Public Affairs, Community Relations, Marketing and Branding in the Telecoms, Information Technology, Finance, Education, Energy, and Oil & Gas sector.
Tania Castilho
Founder, InPassion Coaching
Tania Castilho (Author name: T. C. Aeelah), is the founder of InPassion Coaching - a Safe Space for the reunion of Human and Divine, through which she shares the Compassionate Breath and provides Isness Mentoring. She worked as an English teacher, Creative Director and head of Communications at a language school for 25 years, has a degree in Communication Sciences and is a postgraduate Health and Fitness expert. She is an award-winning International Inspirational Speaker and Author. She also enjoys developing Collaborative Educational Projects and Human Development Programmes, Educational Consulting and is an active Social Entrepreneur.
Precious Nyarambi
Founder & Director, Vessels of Virtue
Precious Nyarambi is a Social Entrepreneur, International Speaker, Coach, Mentor and Author. She founded Vessels of Virtue, an organization that holistically empowers and transforms youth and women, especially those from previously marginalized backgrounds. Precious was bestowed with the humanitarian engagement as a Special Representative to the Vice President of Southern Africa with a special focus on the implementation of the UN SDGs, and WHC Development Priorities and Global Goals. Vessels of Virtue has an academy for entrepreneurs and other projects under it. She is also the Managing Director for Elohay Cleaners & Prember Holdings.
Dr. V.V Manjula Kumari
CEO, Varanaa's Health Care Research
Dr. V.V. Manjula Kumari is an Award-winning, medical management professional offering 17+ years’ of extensive experience in leading the comprehensive provision of physiotherapy and healthcare services for optimal patient care. Fellow of Royal Society for Public Health, FRSPH, Medical Cosmetology FMC, IAP, ACHE, APTA, and WICCI. She is a solutions-oriented leader adept at creating awareness around physiotherapy and conservative management of obesity, acute therapy programs, and enhancing adaptations to healthy lifestyles. She is a Motivational speaker and educator leveraging vast expertise in human anatomy, and the internal body structures.
Dr. Himanshu D. Tiwari
CEO, 69 Fitness Street
Precious Nyarambi is a Social Entrepreneur, International Speaker, Coach, Mentor and Author. She founded Vessels of Virtue, an organization that holistically empowers and transforms youth and women, especially those from previously marginalized backgrounds. Precious was bestowed with the humanitarian engagement as a Special Representative to the Vice President of Southern Africa with a special focus on the implementation of the UN SDGs, and WHC Development Priorities and Global Goals. Vessels of Virtue has an academy for entrepreneurs and other projects under it. She is also the Managing Director for Elohay Cleaners & Prember Holdings.
Nenneh Freda Gomez
COO, Tressor Women Warriors
Nenneh Freda Gomez is the Chief Operating Officer of Tressor Women Warriors based in Gambia. She joined the advocacy for the employment and inclusion of women in leadership roles. She was the Group Head of Marketing responsible for Retail Banking, Commercial Banking, and Public Sector Banking Units and was also tasked with the responsibility of overseeing the Corporate Banking Unit at Skye Bank Gambia Ltd. She is regarded for her strong leadership, excellent communication skills, competence, attention to detail, dutiful respect for compliance in all regulated environments, as well as supervisory skills including administrative tasks.
Our Ambassadors
Meet our Ambassadors for WEF West Africa 2023
Affiong Ene Obong
Publisher, Yellow People Magazine
Affiong Ene-Obong is a lawyer, author and poet. She is the Publisher of Yellow People Magazine and CEO of Fifi's Fashion Fix. She is also a certified screenwriter and essayist. She is a member of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) Port Harcourt, Poets in Nigeria (PIN) and Federacion Internacional de Abogadas (FIDA) – International Federation of Women Lawyers, Nigeria.
Lydia Awowade
Creative Director, Ga Bíòkè
Lydia Awowade is Media Consultant & Creative Director at Ga Bíòkè who worked full-time as a broadcaster for 21 years before giving in to a childhood passion for creativity. She started Ga Bíòkè in 2019 and even though she is still a freelance voice artist, Ga Bíòkè has fast become her strongest mode of self and creative expression.
Efe Anaughe
Founder, Warien Rose Foundation
Efe Anaughe is CEO & Founder of Warien Rose Foundation Nigeria. She is a multiple award-winning Humanitarian, Speaker, Lawyer, Author, Business Woman, Conference-Convener, Columnist and Activist Against Gender-based Violence and Protection of the rights of the Girl-Child. Efe is also the Chair of the Anti-money Laundering and Counter-Financing of Terrorism Civil Societies Organisation.
Sarah Ibironke Omijie
Founder, SarahGold Events
Sarah Ibironke Omijie also known as SarahGold is a Creative; Broadcaster, Talk Show Host, Red Carpet Host, Digital Media Consultant and Event Professional. Sarah is the host and producer of The SarahGold Show, an international digital talk show that tells unique stories, celebrates and showcases outstanding entrepreneurs and personalities making a positive impact in society through their business, career and service to humanity. She is an advocate of women's empowerment and serves as the South West Zonal Team Lead, Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry (WCCI) and Head of Cluster, WCCI, ICT, Telecomms and Education in Nigeria.
Catherine Omondi
CEO & Founder, Flendale Group
Catherine Omondi is currently the Managing Director of Flendale Group [Africa and Middle East]. She is also the G100 Kenya Country Chair for Philanthropy, Business & Poverty Eradication and the Vice President of the Asian-Africa Chamber of Commerce & Industry Kenya Chapter. Catherine is an accomplished professional with over 13 years of experience in foreign trade facilitation, partnerships, policy analysis and investments. She has worked with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry and the Dept. of Employment, Education & Training in Australia amongst others.
Barbara Young-Utiaruk
Diplomat & Digital Entrepreneur
Barbara Young-Utiaruk is a career diplomat actively representing the interests and citizens of Nigeria. She is also a writer, speaker, founder, and women empowerment coach. Barbara is a passionate advocate for women's economic rights and for enhancing the participation of women in leadership roles. She co-founded Nigerian Women in Portugal, a community supporting members to develop skills for effective self-leadership. She has also been named a Global Community Champion for Women’s Economic Empowerment by UN Women EmpowerWomen.
Funmilola Eunice Ajayi
Head of Finance, Industrial Training Fund
Funmilola Eunice Ajayi is an accountant, banker, auditor, economist, business and financial management expert, civil servant, mother and humanitarian. She has twenty-one (21) years of vast experience in accounting and finance, marketing, economics, and auditing in the banking sector and civil service. She currently serves as Chief Accountant, Head of Finance at Industrial Training Fund, VI, Lagos.
Imani Dokubo
Writer, Poet & Magazine Editor
Imani Dokubo is a Writer, Poet, Author, Storyteller, Mindset Revamp Advocate, and Spoken Word Artist whose performance has graced the Port Harcourt Literary Society, Penspeak, and radio shows in Nigeria. Imani is the Editor of Christ A Poet Magazine, Author of Unboxing Your Mind, and Co-Author of the Global Anthology "40 Pearls Of Wisdom." She strongly believes that words are powerful.
Sharon Idahosa
Founder, Let's Talk Agriculture
Sharon Idahosa is a communication strategist and business development consultant dedicated to serving the agricultural sector. She is the founder & CEO of Let’s Talk Agriculture, a fast-growing agriculture public relations and communications company providing practical communication counsel to the agricultural sector. She is also the founder of Lifex Agriculture Initiative, a non-governmental organization.
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The Gallery
See photos from past global editions of WEF
VIP Gala
Join Us at the Red Carpet + Grand Luncheon (August 10) & WEF Awards Dinner (August 12)
