In celebration of International Women’s Day 2024, the Hon. Okey Joe Foundation hosted a powerful event on Saturday, March 9, 2024, with the theme “Count Her In: Providing Equitable Opportunities for Women and Girls to Grow to Their Full Potential and Fortify Their Ability to Lead, Learn, and Earn.” The event focused on empowering women and girls, ensuring they have access to opportunities that enable them to thrive in education, leadership, and economic independence.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of cash grants and laptops to female students, a demonstration of the foundation’s commitment to supporting the next generation of female leaders and entrepreneurs.

A Star-Studded Gathering of Advocates for Women’s Empowerment

The International Women’s Day program brought together an esteemed lineup of advocates for women’s rights and empowerment. Special Guest of Honor, Aisha Yesufu, renowned activist and champion of women’s rights, delivered an inspiring address that encouraged women to challenge societal barriers and embrace their leadership potential.

Chairperson Hajiya Laylah Ali Othman also graced the occasion, adding her voice to the call for gender equity, while the Keynote Speaker, Mrs. Toluwani Kennedy-Jinadu, delivered a thought-provoking keynote speech on the importance of providing equitable opportunities for women and girls. She emphasized that creating pathways for women to succeed in education, leadership, and entrepreneurship is essential for building stronger communities and a more inclusive society.

In her keynote address, Mrs. Kennedy-Jinadu remarked: “When we count women in, we strengthen our society. Women’s leadership, economic participation, and educational achievements are the pillars of progress that drive sustainable development. We must ensure that no girl is left behind.”

Empowering the Next Generation of Female Leaders

During the event, the Hon. Okey Joe Foundation made a significant impact by awarding cash grants of ₦600,000 and laptops to female students, a testament to the foundation’s ongoing commitment to empowering young women. These grants are aimed at supporting their education and personal development, providing them with the tools to excel academically and professionally.

Hon. Prince Okey-Joe Jesse Onuakalusi, founder of the foundation, expressed his pride in the initiative, stating: “Investing in women and girls is not just a social responsibility; it is an investment in our collective future. By giving them the resources they need to learn, lead, and earn, we are paving the way for a generation of women who will transform their communities and the nation.”

A Focus on Equitable Opportunities for Women and Girls

The theme of the event, “Count Her In,” underscores the importance of ensuring that women and girls are fully included in every aspect of society. From leadership roles to access to quality education and economic opportunities, the Hon. Okey Joe Foundation is committed to creating an environment where women can reach their full potential.

The foundation’s International Women’s Day program highlighted several key areas of focus, including:

• Educational Support: Ensuring girls have access to quality education and the tools they need to succeed.
• Leadership Development: Equipping women with the skills to take on leadership roles in their communities and beyond.
• Economic Empowerment: Providing women with resources and opportunities to become financially independent through grants and entrepreneurial support.

A Call to Action for Greater Gender Equity

As the event concluded, attendees were encouraged to continue advocating for gender equity in their communities and to support initiatives that empower women and girls. The Hon. Okey Joe Foundation’s International Women’s Day celebration was a reminder of the power of women’s voices and the importance of ensuring that all women have the opportunity to lead, learn, and earn without limitations.

The foundation, known for its consistent efforts to uplift vulnerable groups, reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the cause of gender equity, with plans to continue supporting women through education, leadership training, and economic empowerment initiatives.

Looking Ahead

As the Hon. Okey Joe Foundation continues its mission to empower women and girls, it remains dedicated to creating a more inclusive and equitable society. The success of the International Women’s Day program is a reflection of the foundation’s core values and its belief in the transformative power of providing women with the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.

Through initiatives like cash grants, educational support, and leadership training, the foundation is not just counting women in—it is placing them at the forefront of progress and development in Nigeria.