How Amina Oyagbola is Shaping the Future of Women’s Leadership through WISCAR

WISCAR, Women in Successful Careers, has long been a trailblazer in women’s empowerment, offering mentorship and leadership development to career-driven women across Nigeria. Through its programs, WISCAR has not only championed gender equality but has also nurtured a growing network of professional women ready to lead in every sector. In this exclusive interview with Amina Oyagbola, Founder of WISCAR, Esther Oluku explores the organisation’s history, its commitment to resilience and diversity, and its upcoming Annual Mentoring and Leadership Conference, which continues to be a transformative event for both emerging and established leaders

The mentoring conference has become a significant event for professionals seeking guidance and growth. What makes this year’s edition stand out, and what can attendees expect regarding new insights and opportunities?

This year’s WISCAR Annual Conference stands out because it embodies the essence of resilience and inclusivity through the theme “Fuelling Resilience: Empowering Diversity for Economic Success.” With a focus on equipping women leaders to navigate Nigeria’s dynamic business landscape, the conference offers unparalleled opportunities to learn from industry leaders, including our keynote speaker, Funke Opeke, a renowned African tech powerhouse and telecommunications icon. Additionally, the unveiling of the WISCAR Mentoring Book is a highlight, sharing the transformative journey of our 16-year mentoring program and its contributions to gender equality and capacity-building. Attendees can expect thought-provoking discussions, networking opportunities, and actionable insights that inspire resilience, foster innovation, and empower diversity for sustainable economic growth.

What impact does this year’s conference theme, “FuellingResilience: Empowering Diversity for Economic Success,” have on WISCAR’s goals?

The theme encapsulates WISCAR’s unwavering commitment to building resilient leaders and promoting diversity as a driver of economic success. It aligns with our structured leadership and mentoring programs by reinforcing the value of resilience in overcoming challenges and leveraging diversity to fuel innovation and adaptability. Through this theme, we aim to empower women to become strategic leaders who contribute to Nigeria’s socio-economic transformation. It further highlights the importance of inclusivity in unleashing untapped talent, fostering economic stability, and ensuring that women play a pivotal role in driving national progress.

How does WISCAR’s mission contribute to economic growth and diversity in Nigeria?

WISCAR’s mission directly contributes to economic growth by enhancing the capacity and capabilities of women across Nigeria’s private, public, and entrepreneurial sectors. Equipping women leaders through our structured mentoring programs enables them to break barriers, lead effectively, and drive innovation within their organisations. Our focus on diversity ensures that varied perspectives, talents, and experiences are leveraged to create inclusive workplaces essential for economic progress. Moreover, WISCAR’s partnerships with organizations like UN Women Nigeria further strengthen initiatives that promote gender equality and sustainable development in the marketplace, workplace, and communities.

WISCAR has always been committed to empowering women and fostering diversity. How does this conference tie into your larger mission of advancing women’s careers and promoting inclusivity across sectors?

The conference is a cornerstone of WISCAR’s mission, providing a platform to amplify women’s voices and create pathways for their advancement. Through its focus on resilience and diversity, the conference aligns with our mentoring programs and advocacy efforts to prepare women for leadership roles. By showcasing best practices, honouring exemplary individuals, and discussing innovative strategies, the event reinforces our commitment to promoting inclusivity and ensuring that women are fully equipped to excel in their careers and contribute to national development across various sectors.

WISCAR annually honours distinguished individuals through its awards. What qualities or accomplishments does the organization prioritize when selecting honorees?

WISCAR celebrates individuals who exemplify excellence, resilience, and leadership, aligning with our mission to empower women and foster inclusivity. Honorees are typically trailblazers who have made significant contributions to their fields while advocating for diversity and gender equality. Their accomplishments inspire the next generation of leaders and reflect the transformative impact of resilience and innovation in driving societal progress. This is also a huge strategy for role modelling.

WISCAR is known for its inclusive approach. How do you ensure the organization remains relevant and accessible to women across different socio-economic backgrounds?

WISCAR’s inclusivity is rooted in our multi-tiered programs that cater to women at various stages of their professional journeys. We implement initiatives that address socio-economic disparities by collaborating with development partners like UN Women Nigeria and private-sector stakeholders on Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEPS). Our mentoring programs, community engagement, and advocacy efforts are designed to reach women across diverse backgrounds, providing them with the tools and resources they need to succeed. Additionally, initiatives like the Gender Responsive Procurement Project ensure that our interventions are impactful and inclusive through the private sector organization’s engagement with women-owned and women-led businesses.

The mentoring walk and conference are highlights of WISCAR’s calendar. How do these events embody the organization’s core values and goals?

This walk goes beyond symbolism, and it is a platform where mentees who have engaged with their mentors throughout the structured mentorship program come together for a meaningful, in-person connection. These interactions give mentees unique opportunities to deepen their insights, exchange ideas, and further build the critical networks necessary for their professional and personal growth. Likewise, mentors gain a deeper understanding of their mentees’ journeys, fostering mutual learning and strengthening the bonds of collaboration. For organizations participating in groups, it fosters team bonding and networking opportunities for organizations as the walk converges representatives from different sectors.

The dynamism of this year’s mentoring walk is tied to the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, which underscores our dedication to addressing systemic issues like GBV and promoting equity in workplaces, communities, and beyond. We aim to join the global communities in the fight against gender-based violence.

Conversely, the conference serves as a dynamic forum that convenes leaders, changemakers, and stakeholders from diverse fields to share strategies and insights aligned with WISCAR’s vision. With themes centered on resilience and diversity, it reinforces the organization’s commitment to empowering women as agents of change and key contributors to national progress. The conference also highlights WISCAR’s dedication to advocacy and capacity-building, providing attendees with tools, knowledge, and inspiration to drive societal transformation.

Together, the mentoring walk and conference inspire collective action, celebrate the transformative power of mentorship, and create pathways for a more inclusive and equitable society. These events encapsulate WISCAR’s mission to nurture capable, resilient, and empowered leaders who will shape a better future for all.

For aspiring leaders who may be attending the conference for the first time, what key takeaway do you hope they gain?

We hope that aspiring leaders leave the conference with a deeper understanding of the power of resilience and diversity in achieving personal and professional success. They will gain actionable insights from industry leaders, practical tools for navigating challenges, and the inspiration to lead inclusively. The event also underscores the importance of mentorship in fostering growth and underscores WISCAR’s commitment to building a robust pipeline of future leaders.

As we approach 2030, what role will WISCAR play in fostering a more inclusive society?

WISCAR will continue to champion gender advocacy and leadership development, aligning with global goals for inclusivity and sustainable development. By scaling up our mentoring programs, forging strategic partnerships, and implementing impactful initiatives like the Gender Responsive Procurement Project, we aim to drive systemic change. Our vision is to create a society where women are fully recognised as equal contributors to economic and social progress, ensuring a resilient and inclusive future for all.

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