Gender inclusion: Women unite for inclusivity, advocacy in Kwara
KEHINDE AKINPELU, ILORIN,
Over 100 women, in Ilorin, Kwara state capital have gathered for a pioneering public speaking and leadership training event, titled, “She Speaks, She Leads”, designed to empower women by honing their communication and leadership skills.
Speaking during the one-day event programme in Ilorin, the convener of the programme, Mrs. Olarewaju Blessing, she said that the primary goal was to foster inclusivity and encourage women to advocate not only for themselves but also for those who may not have a voice in the room.
“We are not here to compete with the men, but to collaborate. We are here to work hand in hand with them to produce favourable outcomes”, she said.
Mrs. Olarewaju, who is also the president of Blessing Helps Empowerment Initiative, described the meeting as a revolutionary programme designed to build confident women leaders
through public speaking and leadership development.
“This initiative was born from the belief that when women speak, they shape their destiny and transform communities.
“Our goal is simple: To equip women with practical skills, boldness and clarity needed to lead —whether in politics, business, career, media or their communities.
“When women rise, everyone wins. We cannot afford to sit back any longer.
Leadership is not a title — it is impact. Public speaking is not performance — it is power. To every woman here today: Speak like your future depends on it. Lead like generations are watching. Because they are. And in just a moment, we’ll see a beautiful live representation of that truth. Silence is not humility — it is missed opportunity. Remember this in all you do”, she said.
One of the speakers at the event, a human rights activist, Mr. Muhammad Ataba, emphasized the importance of women’s autonomy in leadership and personal choices.
“There should never be an argument about whether a woman should lead or compete for a position—her life is hers, and she doesn’t owe anyone an explanation”, he said.
Addressing societal pressures, Ataba noted that many women remain in difficult marriages out of fear of public judgment. “Most women stay in a marriage because of what society will say”, he stated.
In her speech at the event, the state commissioner for Business and Innovation, Hon. Damilola Yusuf Adelodun, shared her entrepreneurial journey, highlighting both her successes and setbacks.
“My advice to women out there is to stay humble, never let anyone take you for granted, and remember, hard work isn’t unique to you. So, aim to stand out and make a meaningful difference”, she said.
Also, a seasoned public speaker and broadcast journalist, Miss Akorede Dadzie, emphasized that public speaking is a powerful leadership tool for both career and business growth.
“Public speaking isn’t just about talking, it’s about leading with your voice. It creates influence, builds your network, and breaks barriers”, she said.
The programme that featured interactive workshops, panel discussions, keynote talks from leaders across government, business and the creative industries, was supported by the Office of the First Lady, Kwara State, Ambassador Mrs. Olufolake Abdulrazaq, and her pet project, Ajike People Support Centre, Royal Heritage Health Foundation, Leah Foundation, B.billionsz Global Enterprises, Ojoma heart of gold humanitarian foundation, Ilorin Innovation Hub, among others grace the events.
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