Where visionaries shape the future of women’s leadership

The theme of International Women’s Day 2025, “Accelerate Action”, is more than just a call to awareness – it’s a movement demanding urgent and collective efforts to break barriers and push gender equality forward. From the boardroom to the global stage, women are driving transformation, but systemic biases and barriers still stand in the way. 

At the FLAIR Summit, visionaries like Queen Atuwatse III and Her Excellency Olufolake Abdulrazaq will take centre stage, sharing real-world examples of how leaders can disrupt bias, drive change, and accelerate progress. 

Their insights will illuminate what’s truly at the heart of this movement – bold action, fearless leadership, and a future where gender equality is no longer a goal but a reality. Unstoppable women, unstoppable progress – are you ready to accelerate?

As the world celebrates International Women’s Day (IWD), we recognize the outstanding contributions of women who dedicate their lives to improving others. 

This year, we highlight two extraordinary leaders who embody the spirit of IWD: Her Excellency Dr. Olufolake Abdulrazaq, the First Lady of Kwara State, Nigeria, and Olori Atuwatse III, Queen Consort of the Warri Kingdom. Both will be among the distinguished attendees.

The FLAIR Summit: a platform for change

The FLAIR Summit is more than just a conference; it is a transformative movement. Bringing together Africa’s First Ladies and influential women leaders, this event fosters dialogue on social impact and resilience. 

Key focus areas include women’s empowerment, education, healthcare, and economic development, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union Agenda 2063.

Olori Atuwatse III: a visionary leader transforming communities

Olori Atuwatse III, the Queen Consort of the Warri Kingdom, is a champion of community development, gender equality, and youth empowerment. Her initiatives, led through the Royal Iwere Foundation (RIF), address education, economic empowerment, and healthcare.

Key Impact Areas:

Education: The Teacher’s Training Programme has enhanced the quality of education in the Warri Kingdom by equipping educators with advanced skills, benefiting thousands of students.

STEM Advocacy: The Captain Idahosa Wells Okunbo STEM and Innovation Lab provides training in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, creating opportunities for young girls to enter STEM fields.

Economic Empowerment: The Royal Iwere Foundation Skills Institute (RIFSI) has funded over 5,000 women-led small businesses, providing seed capital and financial literacy training.

Healthcare: The Love Garden project and Wuwu Ore initiative have offered medical services to over 10,000 women and children, improving healthcare access in rural areas.

Olori Atuwatse III’s work is a testament to the power of targeted community interventions that foster long-term development and economic sustainability.

Her Excellency Dr. Mrs. Olufolake Abdulrazaq: a beacon of hope for women and girls

Dr. Abdulrazaq is a diplomat, humanitarian, and advocate for gender equity. Through the Ajike People Support Center, she has launched programs to uplift marginalised communities, particularly women and youth.

Key achievements:

Skill Development: Over 17,000 women and youth have received vocational training in fashion design, baking, tailoring, and drone technology, increasing their employability and financial independence.

Healthcare Initiatives: Immunisation campaigns and health awareness programs have reached over 100,000 individuals, significantly reducing cases of tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and malaria in Kwara State.

Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Advocacy: As chair of the Kwara State Committee on GBV, Dr. Abdulrazaq has established Sexual Assault Referral Centers (SARCs), providing medical, legal, and psychological support to thousands of survivors.

A shared vision for women’s empowerment

Both leaders share a commitment to advancing SDG 3 (good health and well-being), SDG 4 (quality education), and SDG 5 (gender equality). Their efforts highlight the transformative power of female leadership in achieving sustainable development and fostering inclusive growth.

A call to action

To experience and hear more about project like these join us at The FLAIR Summit on 17 and 18 June 2025 at the Royal Leonardo Hotel, Tower Bridge, London – which presents a unique opportunity to amplify these stories and inspire collaborative solutions. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let us support the initiatives of these remarkable women. Their work underscores the undeniable impact of investing in women’s empowerment for a better future.

In the words of Olori Atuwatse III, “Seeming failure does not disqualify you. It is just an indication that you’re going in the wrong direction and that it’s time to learn something new.” Her resilience and determination exemplify the drive needed to create lasting change. n

Dr. Yvonne Thompson CBE is a renowned advocate for women’s empowerment and a leading voice in the global business community. She celebrates the achievements of women leaders such as Dr. Olufolake Abdulrazaq and Olori Atuwatse III, whose work is shaping Africa’s future. Join us at the FLAIR Summit 17/18th June 2025, recognising their contributions and supporting the empowerment of women and girls across the continent.

The First Ladies of Africa Impact & Resilience (FLAIR) Summit 2025 is set to take place on 17-18 June at the Royal Leonardo Hotel, Tower Bridge, London. 

For more information about the FLAIR Summit, please see our website:
www.flair-summit.com