Glowing Minds Initiatives’ Post

I had the incredible opportunity to serve as a panelist at the Future Focus Conference hosted at Nile University of Nigeria organized by Glowing Minds Initiatives in collaboration with #GirlsGetEqual - Plan International Nigeria. The conference brought together university students, professionals, and changemakers to explore critical topics shaping the future of work and gender equality. I was honored to join the second panel session, “Breaking Barriers: Strategies for Promoting Gender Equality in the Workplace and Enhancing Youth Employability.” Sharing insights from my journey—from starting as a volunteer to becoming the Chief Operating Officer at Data-Lead Africa - was both humbling and empowering. The session addressed key questions around the private sector's role in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and fostering youth employability. We discussed how intentional hiring, offering flexible policies for working mothers, and encouraging work-life balance makes an inclusive workplace even more effective. I highlighted the need for government incentives for DEI programs, opening of childcare centers around offices, and laws enforcing equal pay and workplace equity. Engaging with the students from Nile University was truly inspiring. Their enthusiasm, curiosity, and determination to create a more inclusive future left me optimistic about the next generation of leaders. A huge thank you to the organizers and fellow panelists Kehinde Awujoola, (S.A. Gender to the Minister of Youth) and Heritage Sanmi-Lawal (Founder, Her Dream Initiative ) for making the sessions thought-provoking and interesting. Special thanks to Faith Oritogun(Adaji) for having us on this platform. Events like these reaffirm the power of dialogue in driving meaningful change. Here’s to breaking barriers and shaping a brighter, more inclusive future! #FutureFocusConference #DiversityAndInclusion #YouthEmpowerment #PrivateSectorLeadership #DataLeadAfrica