UBA Urges Women To Take Charge, Build Communities At Business Series

Speakers at the latest edition of the UBA Business Series have called on women to take greater ownership of their personal and professional growth, stressing the importance of confidence, mentorship and community in shaping the next generation of female leaders.

The event, themed “Gen W: The Evolved Woman,” was organised by United Bank for Africa as part of activities marking International Women’s Day, bringing together women professionals, entrepreneurs and industry leaders to share experiences and inspire others.

Speaking during the opening remarks, Group Head, Customer Experience at UBA, Michelle Nwoga, said the modern woman must learn to step forward and seize opportunities rather than wait to be invited.

According to her, the narrative around women’s participation in leadership and public engagement is gradually changing, with more women now taking initiative and asserting themselves in different sectors.

“We shy away and wait to be invited, but that’s not what’s happening anymore. Women are now taking a stand and stepping up. They’re not waiting to be asked; they are volunteering and making themselves known,” she stated.

Also speaking, Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications at UBA, Alero Ladipo, stressed the importance of women supporting and uplifting one another through mentorship and storytelling.

Ladipo noted that every woman has a unique experience capable of influencing and inspiring others. “Every woman represented in this room today has a story that can contribute to another woman. Raising each other up is not that hard because you don’t necessarily have to be on top to tell a story that can change somebody’s life,” she said.

Drawing from her over two decades of experience working in a male-dominated environment, Ladipo said building strong support systems and communities remains critical for women navigating corporate careers.

She further challenged the traditional interpretation of the global theme “Give to Gain,” arguing that empowerment should focus on women positioning themselves as contributors rather than passive recipients. “The evolved woman takes her position so that she can give to others,” she said.

Alero noted that the bank created the platform to encourage women to share experiences, find mentors and contribute ideas that will strengthen networks across industries.

“This conversation is about community, storytelling and making sure people hear the fantastic stories of women. It also gives everyone the opportunity to find mentors, coaches and contribute their ideas,” she added.

The event featured a panel discussion with leading female professionals who shared their career journeys, challenges and lessons on leadership, resilience and self-confidence.

The UBA Business Series, a knowledge-sharing platform of the bank, continues to provide opportunities for thought leadership conversations aimed at empowering entrepreneurs, professionals and the broader business community.