International Women’s Day has always stirred a deep reflection within me—a reminder of the countless ways women have shaped my life and the lives of so many others. In the quiet corners of our everyday existence, the influence of these remarkable souls unfolds in subtle yet
profound ways. There’s a Yoruba saying that’s ringing loud in my ears: “There are people who are like shoulders and don’t let your clothes fall.
” These are my shoulders.
I find myself recalling the gentle strength of my mother M. O. Lawal, whose nurturing presence laid the groundwork for all that followed. Her quiet sacrifices, the soft reassurance in times of doubt, and the enduring resilience she embodied are lessons that echo far beyond the boundaries of
childhood. They are the essence of support that continues to inspire every step I take.
As I ventured into the wider world, I discovered the transformative power of mentorship. In the relentless pace of professional life, a guiding hand emerged in the form of Konye Nwabogor, my editor,
whose wisdom was both a beacon and a steady force. Through her, I learned that the journey to growth is rarely solitary; it is enriched by the insights and encouragement of those who have travelled a similar path. Her guidance was a reminder that behind every accomplishment lies a
network of support, often unnoticed yet critical in shaping our destiny.
The influence of kindness and empathy is not confined to moments of overt guidance—it often resides in the quiet acts of care that we encounter daily. Mrs. Olabinjo is one of those women
whose compassion is evident in every small, meaningful gesture. There is an unspoken power in such kindness, a strength that quietly transforms lives. Like a soft light in the midst of darkness, her presence revealed that true power lies not in grand declarations but in consistent,
heartfelt actions.
In the realm of creativity and innovation, I found inspiration in the leadership of the women I work with—Tinu and Sola at 245 Creative, whose approach to business is a lesson in collaboration and shared ambition. Then there is Grace Ladoja, whose brilliance is nothing short of infectious. To witness her work is to witness the embodiment of excellence. Already accomplished—an MBE from the Queen of England for context—yet her hunger to do more, push further, and build something greater is relentless. It’s a privilege to learn from her, to be in
her orbit, and to be reminded every day that greatness is not a place you arrive at but a standard you continue to raise.
Something funny happened once, and all parties involved agreed—Jola Ayeye must really love me. It wasn’t even up for debate. She is always there, always present, like the big sister I never had. Always ready to show up whenever I tap on her, never making me feel like I’m asking for too much. Her kindness and beauty are unmatched, and in a world that can often feel isolating, knowing someone like her is in my corner is a gift I don’t take for granted.
And then there is FVO—a new presence in my life but already one that has left an imprint. Sometimes, the impact of a brief encounter can resonate with unexpected depth. A simple act of thoughtfulness—a gesture that might seem insignificant in isolation—can, in the right moment, speak volumes about the beauty of human connection. It is in these delicate exchanges that we witness the transformative power of empathy and the importance of cherishing every encounter
as a gift.
Beyond these personal and professional influences, I have been blessed with the steadfast support of friends who believe in me, even when I doubt myself. Adeola Akinloye, Ese Ambrose, Tolu Oloidi, and Khadijah Okoya are those friends who call my name in rooms I have yet to enter and who advocate for me in ways I sometimes don’t even realise. Their unwavering encouragement and shared dreams have opened countless doors, reminding me that true strength is found in community.
And then there are those who remind me daily of the power of simply showing up—Valerie and Leah Ettintinwo, Keziah Mallam—the ones who are there when I’m feeling down, who lift me up, who remind me that friendship is not just about presence but about intention. They rise with me, stand with me, and in their unwavering support, I find a foundation that steadies me when the world’s weight feels too much.
There are also the women who inspire me from afar—women like Sheri Mohammed, Ayo Amusan Elizabeth Sho, Funke Akindele and Mo Abudu. Women whose stories, work, and achievements remind me that the possibilities are endless, that there is still so much to build, to
create, to dream into reality.
Yet, even as I reflect on these diverse influences, I am struck by a profound and unsettling truth: while many of us share similar stories of support and resilience, women, as a collective, are among the most endangered in our society. Their intrinsic worth is too often overshadowed by a world that fails to fully recognise their contributions. Across the globe, countless women face challenges that diminish their voices and limit their opportunities. The very qualities that make
them indispensable—compassion, resilience, and the ability to nurture growth—are frequently met with indifference or exploitation.
This stark reality casts a shadow over all the love and support I have been fortunate to receive.
It compels me to acknowledge that while our personal stories of empowerment and connection are deeply moving, they also highlight a broader societal need. The value of women extends far
beyond their roles in our personal lives; it is a matter of collective survival and progress. Their strength, creativity, and unwavering spirit are the bedrock upon which communities are built, yet they remain vulnerable to forces that seek to diminish their impact.
As I continue on my journey, I carry with me a profound sense of gratitude for every woman who has silently and steadfastly influenced my life. Their collective presence is a powerful reminder
that support and strength are often found in the quiet, enduring acts of care. In celebrating their
contributions, I am reminded of the urgency to protect and uplift them—not just on a day marked for remembrance, but every single day. It is a call to honour their value, to fight for their rights, and to ensure that their stories, so often shared in hushed tones, are given the recognition they
deserve.
