Today’s spotlight celebrates Erelu Bisi Fayemi, Global Fund for Women, and Aya Chebbi—champions advancing women’s rights, justice, and inclusive leadership across Africa.
Woman of Impact: Erelu Bisi Fayemi — Nigeria
“Feminism is about justice, fairness and equality for all.” — Erelu Bisi Fayemi
Erelu Bisi Fayemi is a respected feminist leader, policy advocate, and writer whose work has significantly shaped gender equality movements in Africa. As co-founder of the African Women’s Development Fund, she helped establish one of the continent’s most influential funding institutions supporting women’s rights organisations. Throughout her career, Fayemi has championed women’s leadership, political participation, and economic empowerment. During her tenure as First Lady of Ekiti State, she implemented social programmes supporting vulnerable women and promoting social protection. Through advocacy, philanthropy, and thought leadership, Fayemi continues to inspire African women to challenge inequality and actively shape inclusive governance and social development across the continent.
Organisation of Impact: Global Fund for Women
“When women thrive, everyone thrives.” — Global Fund for Women
The Global Fund for Women is one of the world’s leading feminist foundations dedicated to advancing gender equality and women’s rights. The organisation supports grassroots movements, activists, and women-led organisations working to address discrimination, violence, and economic inequality.
Through grants, advocacy, and capacity-building programmes, the foundation empowers local leaders to drive sustainable social change within their communities. Its work spans key areas including women’s leadership, sexual and reproductive health rights, economic justice, and freedom from violence. Across Africa and other regions of the world, the Global Fund for Women has strengthened feminist movements and amplified the voices of women who are often excluded from decision-making processes.
Young Woman of Impact: Aya Chebbi — Africa
“Africa’s youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are the leaders of today.” — Aya Chebbi
Aya Chebbi is a dynamic youth leader and diplomat widely recognised for advancing youth and women’s leadership across Africa. She made history as the first African Union Youth Envoy, advocating for stronger youth participation in governance, peacebuilding, and development.
Through her advocacy and mentorship initiatives, Chebbi has worked to empower young Africans—especially women—to take active roles in shaping their communities. She has also founded platforms that support youth leadership and civic engagement across the continent. Her work continues to inspire a new generation of African changemakers committed to justice, inclusion, and democratic participation.
