The 8th of March is recognised globally as the International Women’s Day, a day set aside for women to be celebrated, motivated, inspired and challenged to equip themselves and expand their scope of influence.

This year’s event is themed ”BE BOLD FOR CHANGE” and women across the world have set a time out to speak to themselves on the next giant stride in being women of excellence. In line with the theme, The International Women Society (IWS) organised a timeout for women in Lagos at the Sugarcane restaurant, Victoria-Island, lagos.

The speakers at the event included; Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi, { Founder, Abovewhispers.com}. Ndidi Nwuneli {Founder, LEAP Africa}, and Kemi ‘lala’ Akindoju { Actress}.  They spoke over an array of issues affecting women in various sectors, across ethnicities and  religious orientation, and they individually gave passionate presentations on the need to move women empowerment beyond the rhetoric. The event also boasted of high profile participants such Kate Henshaw, ufuoma McDermott, Adesuwa Oyenokwe, Sola Saloko, Eniola Ajayi, Bunmi Oriniowo, Gbemi Sasore and many others.

Erelu Bisi Adeleye- Fayemi, spoke about the need for women to stand up and do something for other women. In her words ‘Women who have been given an opportunity owe it to other women to provide a ladder up’. She informed that the cliche that ‘women are their worst enemies’ should be taken off women’s psyche as it further perpetuate patriarchy.

The second speaker, Ndidi Nwuneli focused her presentation on the importance of goal setting. She charged the participants to look beyond their present situation when setting goals. She also shared personal experiences of how she is a product of other women’s mentorship and sponsorship.

Actress and creative director, Lala Akindoju advised women to earn their space and not dwell on unfounded stereotypes and misconceptions.  she spoke to women about the need to make positive and measurable impact on other women and emphasized on the need for frank  inter-generational conversations among women.

There was an insightful Question and Answer session before the program was wrapped up with dancing, singing and one-one chit-chat in the spirit of celebrating women everywhere.

Happy International Women’s Day!