United Bank for Africa Empowers Female Entrepreneurs Through Strategic Gen W Initiative and Leadership Development Forum

UBA hosts Gen W Business Series in Lagos, offering loans and professional resources to empower the next generation of African female business leaders.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 16, 2026, 4:51 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from THISDAY

The Evolution of Female Leadership in Africa

United Bank for Africa recently convened a gathering of high profile female executives and business owners at its headquarters in Marina, Lagos, for the latest installment of its Business Series. The hybrid event, titled "Gen W: The Evolved Woman," served as a central pillar of the bank’s International Women’s Month celebrations, reaching a global audience through digital transmission. According to Michelle Nwoga, UBA’s Group Head of Customer Experience, the contemporary female leader is defined by her willingness to volunteer, lead, and ensure her contributions are recognized within competitive industrial landscapes.

Shared Experiences in Entrepreneurial Growth

The forum facilitated a candid exchange of stories from prominent figures in the Nigerian business community, including ORÍKÌ Group founder Joycee Awosika and media personality Tomike Adeoye. Alongside Olufunke Davies and Ayo Mario-Ese, the panelists detailed the professional obstacles they navigated while establishing their respective brands in the media and retail sectors. These narratives emphasized the concept of evolution, illustrating how personal resilience and strategic adaptation are necessary components for African women seeking to create sustainable impact within their specific spheres of operation.

Strategic Framework of the Gen W Platform

A significant highlight of the session was the detailed introduction of Gen W, a lifestyle and business platform designed specifically for the modern woman. Alero Ladipo, the Group Head of Brand, Marketing, and Corporate Communications, described the initiative as a comprehensive hub for expert insights and practical resources. By connecting women who are actively growing careers or leading industries, the platform seeks to foster a community of mutual support that transcends traditional networking, providing a structured environment where established leaders can mentor emerging talent.