Every year on March 8, the world celebrates International Women’s Day, recognising the remarkable achievements of women across business, leadership, philanthropy, and society. It is also a moment to reflect on how collective action and intentional investment in women can accelerate progress toward a more inclusive and prosperous future.
The 2026 theme, “Give to Gain,” captures a powerful idea: when women give their time, knowledge, leadership, and resources to uplift others, the benefits extend far beyond individuals. Families grow stronger, communities become more resilient, and entire economies gain the foundation for sustainable development.
Across Nigeria and around the world, women continue to demonstrate how generosity, leadership, and purpose-driven initiatives can transform lives. Through philanthropy, mentorship, advocacy, and enterprise, they are shaping opportunities that empower individuals and strengthen communities for generations to come.
Among the many remarkable women whose work reflects the spirit of “Give to Gain” are the following changemakers:
Folorunsho Alakija
A distinguished business leader and philanthropist, Folorunsho Alakija has long demonstrated that success in enterprise can be a powerful platform for social impact. Through the Rose of Sharon Foundation, she supports widows and orphans across Nigeria with scholarships, vocational training, and financial assistance that help women rebuild their lives with dignity and independence.
Her work focuses on long-term empowerment rather than temporary relief. By providing skills, resources, and educational opportunities for families, her initiatives have enabled many women to establish businesses, educate their children, and regain financial stability.
Toyin Saraki
A globally recognised advocate for maternal and child health, Toyin Saraki has placed women’s wellbeing at the centre of sustainable development. As founder of the Wellbeing Foundation Africa, she champions programmes that improve healthcare access for mothers and newborns.
Through partnerships with governments and healthcare institutions, the foundation delivers health education, supports midwives and nurses, and promotes safer pregnancy and childbirth practices. Her work highlights how investing in women’s health strengthens families and communities.
Mo Abudu
As founder of EbonyLife Media, Mo Abudu has transformed global perceptions of African storytelling. Through film, television, and media production, she has created platforms that amplify African voices and showcase the continent’s creativity to international audiences.
Beyond media, her Inspire Africa Foundation focuses on empowering young people, particularly girls, through mentorship and access to opportunities. By nurturing talent in the creative industries, she is opening doors for the next generation of African storytellers and leaders.
Ibukun Awosika
Ibukun Awosika is widely respected for her contributions to enterprise development and leadership mentorship. As founder of The Chair Centre Group and former Chairperson of First Bank of Nigeria, she has consistently advocated for ethical leadership and women’s advancement in business.
Through organisations such as WIMBIZ and the Afterschool Graduate Development Centre, she has mentored thousands of women and young professionals. Her commitment to leadership development continues to shape the next generation of entrepreneurs and business leaders.
Dolapo Kukoyi
With extensive experience in energy and infrastructure advisory, Dolapo Kukoyi has contributed to the development of major projects across Africa and emerging markets. Through her firm, Open Spaces and Bridges Advisory, she supports governments and institutions in structuring complex development initiatives.
Alongside her professional work, she actively mentors women in the legal profession through Women in the Profession. Her efforts help create pathways for female lawyers to advance into senior leadership and partnership roles.
Dr. Anino Emuwa
A leadership expert and founder of Avandis Consulting, Dr. Anino Emuwa is dedicated to advancing female leadership across Africa. Through the African Women CEO Network, she has built a platform where women executives can connect, share insights, and gain greater visibility.
By fostering collaboration and peer learning among women leaders, the network strengthens representation and influence for women in executive decision-making roles across industries.
Adeyinka Aderoju
Adeyinka Aderoju is addressing an often overlooked dimension of women’s health through Meno Haven, a platform dedicated to supporting women navigating perimenopause and menopause. Her work encourages open conversations while providing credible health information and wellness resources.
By creating supportive communities and raising awareness, she is helping women maintain wellbeing, confidence, and productivity during an important stage of life.
Sarah Essien
Sarah Essien is the founder of The Wellness Collective, a platform focused on helping women achieve sustainable health and lifestyle transformation. Drawing from her personal wellbeing journey, she has created a community that encourages healthier habits and long-term accountability.
Through structured programmes and community support, she empowers women to improve their physical and mental wellbeing while building confidence and resilience.
These women exemplify the spirit of “Give to Gain.” Their work shows that when individuals invest in people, knowledge, and opportunity, the impact extends far beyond immediate beneficiaries to shape stronger societies and more resilient economies.
At Fiduciary Services Limited, we believe impactful giving is most effective when it is intentional, well-structured, and sustainable. Through our philanthropy advisory and foundation management services, we support individuals and families in structuring their charitable initiatives, establishing foundations and trusts, and implementing governance frameworks that ensure their contributions create meaningful and lasting impact.
Because when generosity is thoughtfully structured, it becomes more than an act of giving—it becomes a legacy that endures for generations.
As part of our Wealth Preservation services, we have experienced advisors ready to assist you in developing an estate plan that protects, preserves, and sustains you and your family’s wealth for generations.
Get in touch with one of our professionals today by sending an email to contact@fiduciaryservicesltd.com.
