Across boardrooms, grassroots communities, and global institutions, women continue to shape systems that outlive their tenure and influence generations. Day 2 of our series highlights leaders and organizations whose service proves that when women give boldly of their expertise, energy, and conviction, societies gain equity, protection, and sustainable progress.
Woman of Impact: Amina J. Mohammed
As Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Amina J. Mohammed stands at the forefront of global sustainable development and gender equality advocacy. A former Nigerian Minister of Environment, she has consistently championed inclusive policies that prioritise women and vulnerable populations.
From shaping the Sustainable Development Goals to advancing climate justice and education reform, her career has been defined by institution-building and international collaboration. Her leadership reflects resilience, strategic foresight, and a deep commitment to equity on a global scale.
Aligned with the “Give to Gain” theme, her decades of service demonstrate how visionary leadership yields transformative impact. By investing her expertise in policy reform and multilateral partnerships, she has helped drive measurable progress in environmental sustainability, education access, and women’s empowerment — proving that purposeful service generates lasting gains.
Organization of Impact: ActionAid
For decades, ActionAid has worked alongside grassroots communities to advance women’s rights and social justice across Nigeria and Africa. With a strong focus on women-led movements, education, economic empowerment, and the fight against gender-based violence, the organisation prioritises local ownership and feminist leadership.
Through community-based programmes, policy advocacy, and emergency interventions, ActionAid invests directly in women and girls — particularly in marginalised and conflict-affected areas. Its support has strengthened women’s cooperatives, improved access to education, and amplified rural women’s voices in governance processes.
In line with the “Give to Gain” theme, ActionAid’s long-term investment in women’s agency has translated into tangible gains: increased school enrolment for girls, stronger protection frameworks, and expanded economic opportunities. By empowering women at the grassroots, the organization demonstrates how strategic giving builds resilient communities and sustainable development outcomes.
Young Woman of Impact: Fadekemi Akinfaderin-Agarau
Fadekemi Akinfaderin-Agarau was still a university student when she co-founded Education as a Vaccine (EVA) in 2000 alongside Damilola Adebiyi. Confronted with the urgency of the HIV/AIDS epidemic and the silence surrounding sexual health discussions in Nigeria, she chose action over apathy.
As EVA’s first Executive Director, she led youth-centred advocacy promoting sexuality education, reproductive health awareness, and life skills development. Her work challenged deep-rooted taboos and created safe spaces for young people to access accurate health information.
Her journey embodies “Give to Gain.” By giving her time, courage, and voice at a young age, she helped build a platform that has empowered thousands of adolescents to make informed decisions. Today, EVA remains a leading youth-focused organization, reflecting the enduring gains of her early vision and bold commitment.
Give leadership, gain systems.
Give advocacy, gain protection.
Give vision early, gain impact that endures.
