A MESSAGE FROM THE FOUNDER
Every movement for change is shaped by those who dare to stand against injustice. The 2025 #VAVWomen List is a tribute to 25 extraordinary women who are not just raising their voices but using their influence, leadership, and advocacy to challenge gender-based violence (GBV) and build a more just and equitable society.
Through their work in activism, policy-making, education, healthcare, media, law, and community engagement, these women have become forces of change, reshaping narratives, providing support for survivors, and holding systems accountable. Each of them represents the resilience, courage, and vision needed to create a world where every woman and girl is safe, heard, and empowered.
This is a space to honor and amplify their impact.
Here, you’ll find their stories, advocacy journeys, and digital footprints, offering a deeper insight into the work they do and the communities they serve. These women are not just voices against violence; they are the architects of a future free from oppression and harm.
I invite you to explore, learn, and engage with their work. May their stories inspire action, fuel conversations, and mobilize more voices to join the fight against gender-based violence.
With gratitude,
Bidemi Adedire
Founder, The Smile Outreach
Meet the VAVWOMEN2025
Eniola Edun-Ogunlana
Founder Edun Muinat Eniola (EME) Foundation
Eniola has dedicated her life to serving marginalized populations and underserved communities, tirelessly working to bridge gaps in health, education, and gender equality.
Olaniran Morenikejimi Olawale
Founder at the Centre for Teens Health and Development
As the founder and Project Lead of the Centre for Teens Health and Development, Morenikejimi has spearheaded initiatives that promote personal development, education, and sexual and reproductive health.
Gladys Emmanuel
Project Lead at Tabitha Empowerment Centre
With a solid academic foundation, including a law degree from the University of Jos, certification from the Nigerian Law School in Kano, and a postgraduate degree in Human Rights Law from Cardiff University, Wales, she combines expertise and passion to advocate for vulnerable populations.
Lois Tofunmi Amele
Executive Director, the Good Tides Philippian Mission Foundation
Lois Tofunmi Amele is a passionate and tireless advocate for gender equality, child protection, and the eradication of harmful cultural practices. Her journey into advocacy began during her time as a teacher at Saint Philip's Academy, Mararaba, Nasarawa State, where she established the Good News Club—now known as the Good Tides Philippian Mission Foundation.
Dinatu Dama Maji
Civic Engagement , Gender and Inclusion Expert
With over 14 years of dedicated service in the development space, Dinatu stands as a symbol of hope for women, youth, and communities across Africa. A Civic Engagement Expert, Gender and Inclusion Specialist, and Health Literacy Practitioner, she has devoted her career to advocating for gender equality and ending gender-based violence (GBV)
Ruhamah Ifere
Founder, Trully Verify Africa
Ruhamah Ifere stands as a beacon of hope and change in the fight against sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV). As a Gender Equality Activist and Community Peacebuilder, her work has inspired thousands of young people to speak up against violence, fostering a culture of empathy and accountability.
Oluwatoyin Olabisi Oloruntola-Taiwo
Founder, the Women & Girls Capabilities & Empowerment
As a Development Practitioner, her work focuses on combating Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), including Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), Child Marriage, and other forms of abuse prohibited by the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act (2015) and the Child Rights Act (2003)
Otaria Benjamin
Broadcast Journalist
Through interactive sessions, real-life case studies, and expert-led discussions, Otaria has helped shape youth-led movements dedicated to sustainable change. Her ability to design and implement advocacy programs ensures that young people are equipped to navigate challenges and lead healthier, more informed lives.
Festus Abigail
Founder, FAB Treasure Foundation
Ruhamah Ifere stands as a beacon of hope and change in the fight against sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV). As a Gender Equality Activist and Community Peacebuilder, her work has inspired thousands of young people to speak up against violence, fostering a culture of empathy and accountability.
Princess Ekwi - Ajide
Founder, Balm for the Bruised Foundation
With over 13 years of experience as a multimedia journalist, the Abuja Bureau Chief at ABSTV has dedicated her career to shining a light on issues related to health, development, politics, corruption, and governance. Her passion, however, lies in promoting human rights and advocating for the end of violence against women—particularly widows, young girls, and children.
Goodness James
Goodness Gbemi James is a dedicated advocate committed to ending violence against women, particularly Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). Her work combines grassroots engagement with strategic media campaigns to raise awareness and drive action.
Funbi Akintade
Mental Health Advocate
As a dynamic social entrepreneur and pioneering advocate, she has dedicated her career to reducing stigma, raising awareness, and improving access to quality care across the continent. Her unwavering commitment has not only touched countless lives but has also earned her a well-deserved reputation as a trailblazer in the field of mental health.
Alu Azege
Executive Director, Media Health and Rights Initiative of Nigeria
With expertise in radio and multimedia, she has dedicated her career to amplifying voices and advocating for human rights, particularly for women and youth. Her journey began as a youth corps member with Connecting Futures, a British Council program promoting mutual understanding and respect.
Tawakalit Kareem
Gender and Human Right Expert
Tawakalit Kareem is a dedicated advocate for gender equality, fighting against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) and promoting Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR). Her impactful work spans both local communities and international platforms, fostering awareness and change.
Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin
President, Women Arise for Change Initiative
Dr. Josephine “Joe” Obiajulu Okei-Odumakin, a fearless activist whose voice has resonated across the nation and beyond. As the president of “Women Arise for Change Initiative” and the “Campaign for Democracy,” her unwavering commitment to justice and equality has paved the way for a more inclusive society.
Nafisat Atiku Adejuwon
Executive Director, NAF Foundation for Young Women
Her mission is clear: to transform young women from vulnerable demographics into confident leaders. Through her work, she equips them with the tools and knowledge they need to break barriers and lead change across sectors.
Raquel Kashim Daniel
Social Entrepreneur/ Impact Strategist
Through her organization, Beyond the Classroom Foundation, she has mobilized more than 5,000 volunteers to implement impactful projects aimed at alleviating poverty and ensuring access to education. Her unwavering commitment to creating a better future for underserved communities has positioned her as a leading voice in the fight against violence and inequality.
Sophia Toyin Arowosegbe
Social Entrepreneur/ Impact Strategist
A legal advocate, gender rights champion, and social impact leader, she currently serves in the Office of the Vice President at ECOWAS, where she bridges policy work with grassroots activism. As the Executive Director of the Sophia Nadia Foundation, Sophia has spearheaded initiatives that have impacted over 7,000 individuals, focusing on women’s empowerment and the fight against violence in all its forms.
Priscilla Usiobaifo
Executive Director, BraveHeart Initiative
As the Founder and Executive Director of BraveHeart Initiative for Youth & Women (BHI), a feminist organization dedicated to advancing young people’s SRHR and women’s rights, Priscilla has spent over 14 years advocating for systemic change. Her unwavering commitment to addressing social injustices, particularly rape, has positioned her as one of the most consistent and clear voices on the issue in Nigeria.
Heritage Sanmi Lawal
Founder, Her Dream Initiative
Heritage Sanmi Lawal stands as a beacon of hope in the fight against gender-based violence and the empowerment of girls in Nigeria. As the Founder of Her Dream Initiative, she has dedicated her life to advocating for women's rights and ensuring that girls receive the education and support they deserve.
Dorkong Rimdan
Founder, FemPawa
Using her platform as a radio host, she raises awareness about the dangers of poor menstrual hygiene while urging the government and stakeholders to subsidize sanitary kits for girls and women. Through her radio programs, she challenges societal stigmas surrounding menstruation, ensuring that young girls are informed, confident, and empowered to manage their menstrual health.
Ayobamikale Borisade
Executive Director, Girls Pride Initiatives for Sustainable Development
As the Executive Director of The Girls Pride Initiatives for Sustainable Development, her unwavering commitment to gender equity, menstrual health, and youth empowerment has transformed countless lives. Through education, advocacy, and community engagement, Ayobamikale continues to dismantle societal barriers, promoting confidence and self-assurance among teenagers and young women.
Elizabeth Talatu Williams
Executive Director of the Sustainable Impact and Development Initiative
With over a decade of experience, Elizabeth has dedicated her career to advancing Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), combating Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), and empowering youth through education and advocacy. Her commitment to these causes has earned her national and global recognition, cementing her status as a leading voice against violence and inequality.
Dr. Princess Olufemi-Kayode
Founder, Media Concern Initiative
With a wealth of experience in gender equality and social inclusion (GESI), Dr. Olufemi-Kayode has dedicated her life to addressing sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) and supporting survivors. Her work is rooted in a passion for strengthening systems that respond to and prevent SGBV, ensuring that survivors receive the care and justice they deserve.
Omowumi Ogunrotimi
Executive Director, Gender Mobile
With over a decade of strategic leadership experience, Ogunrotimi has dedicated her career to dismantling societal structures that enable GBV, particularly within educational environments. Her commitment lies in ensuring that schools and universities become safe, equitable spaces where women and girls can thrive without fear of violence or discrimination.