Empowering Women to Own Their Journeys
The 24th annual conference of the Women in Management, Business and Public Service took place in Lagos, where participants were encouraged to embrace their true selves and take ownership of their stories. The event kicked off with a powerful message from the conference chairperson, former Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, Justice Amina Augie (retd.). In her welcome speech, she urged the audience to see themselves as their sole competitors.
The conference, held under the theme “O.W.N – Own. Walk. Nurture,” serves as a platform for hundreds of women leaders, entrepreneurs, professionals, policymakers, and visionaries from across Africa and the globe. It aims to foster dialogue and collaboration among women who are shaping the future of business and public service.
Justice Augie shared a personal story that highlighted her journey of survival and conviction. She revealed that she had been diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease called temporal arteritis, which caused her immune system to attack her own blood vessels. Despite her health challenges, she chose to attend the conference because she wanted to own her story and inspire others.
“Each and every one of you, each and every human being — all you need to know: don’t start hating anybody, don’t start competing with anybody. You are your sole competitor,” she said. Her words resonated deeply with the audience, emphasizing that the true contest in life is not against others, but against one’s own fears, complacency, and excuses.
She explained that everyone has unique skills, gifts, and abilities, and it is essential to rise above the challenges one faces. “It is you telling yourself, ‘I was born with unique skills, gifts, and abilities. I have gone through my own challenges, and I must rise above them,’” she said.
Augie warned that envy and rivalry are cages that women often build for themselves. “If you are secure in yourself, you should be able to turn everybody on, knowing that your own unique story got you to where you are. If they went through yours, they may not survive it; if you went through theirs, you may not survive it either. There’s no way you can stay down while lifting others,” she said softly. The room responded with quiet nods and some tears, showing the emotional impact of her message.
Earlier, the WIMBIZ Board Chair, Bisi Adeyemi, delivered a welcome address that emphasized the importance of self-acceptance and authenticity. “It’s an invitation to each of us to enlist ourselves fully, to stand firmly in our truth and to pave the way for others. Each of us carries a powerful story, not because it’s perfect, but because it’s ours,” she said.
The conference provided a space for women to reflect on their journeys, celebrate their achievements, and support one another in their pursuits. It highlighted the importance of owning one’s story, walking with purpose, and nurturing the next generation of leaders.
Participants left the event with renewed motivation and a deeper understanding of the power of self-belief and resilience. The discussions and interactions throughout the conference underscored the significance of women standing together, lifting each other up, and embracing their unique paths.
As the conference concluded, it was clear that the message of empowerment and self-ownership would continue to resonate far beyond the event itself. The stories shared and the lessons learned will undoubtedly inspire many more women to take control of their lives and contribute meaningfully to their communities and industries.