Today’s spotlight honours visionary leadership and transformative impact, celebrating a pioneering media trailblazer, Toun Okewale Sonaiya, a global fund advancing women’s rights, United Nations Trust Fund to End Violence against Women and Margaret Bolaji-Adegbola, a young changemaker empowering girls across Nigeria.
Woman of Impact: Toun Okewale Sonaiya
“When women tell their own stories, they don’t just inform—they transform societies and challenge the narratives that have long excluded them.”
Toun Okewale Sonaiya has redefined the media landscape in Nigeria by centering women’s voices through innovation and purpose. In 2015, she launched WFM 91.7, the first women-focused radio station in the country and a pioneering platform in West Africa. As CEO, she has created a safe and empowering space where women’s issues—often overlooked—are discussed openly, from leadership and politics to health and economic empowerment. Her work challenges gender stereotypes in media while amplifying stories that inspire change. Beyond broadcasting, Toun’s vision has nurtured a new generation of women storytellers and advocates. By using media as a tool for inclusion and advocacy, she continues to shift narratives and ensure women are not just heard, but taken seriously.
Organization of Impact: United Nations Trust Fund to End Violence against Women
“Ending violence against women requires sustained investment, collective action, and an unwavering commitment to justice and equality.”
The United Nations Trust Fund to End Violence against Women plays a critical role in advancing global efforts to eliminate gender-based violence. As the only global, multilateral grant-making mechanism dedicated exclusively to this cause, UNTF supports grassroots and civil society organizations working directly with women and girls. Its interventions span prevention, survivor support, and strengthening legal and policy frameworks. Across Africa and beyond, UNTF-funded initiatives have empowered communities, improved access to justice, and shifted harmful social norms. By prioritizing locally driven solutions, the fund ensures that responses are context-specific and sustainable. Its work highlights the importance of long-term investment in women’s rights movements, reinforcing the message that ending violence is not only possible, but essential for achieving inclusive development and human dignity.
Young Woman of Impact: Margaret Bolaji-Adegbola
“Every girl, regardless of where she is born, deserves the opportunity, support, and confidence to achieve her fullest potential.”
Margaret Bolaji-Adegbola is a dynamic force in youth-led advocacy and girls’ empowerment in Nigeria. As the founder and Executive Director of the Stand With A Girl (SWAG) Initiative, she has dedicated over a decade to advancing social development and expanding opportunities for girls. Through SWAG, she leads programs focused on education, leadership, and life skills, equipping girls with the tools to thrive despite systemic barriers. Her work reaches underserved communities, where access to resources is limited, yet potential is immense. Margaret’s leadership reflects a deep commitment to equity and inclusion, ensuring no girl is left behind. By combining grassroots engagement with strategic advocacy, she continues to inspire a generation of confident, empowered girls ready to shape their futures and contribute meaningfully to society.
