In a move that signals a paradigm shift in leadership philosophy across the continent, The Executive Woman Summit (TEWS) is set to convene in Lagos on October 8, 2025, challenging the outdated notion that women must conform to traditional models to succeed. This full-day event, titled “Leading from Within: An Authentic Approach to Leadership,” is a deliberate fusion of high-level strategy and personal conviction, aimed at ensuring Africa’s top female talent not only rises but remains at the highest echelons of power. Limited tickets are available at bolamatelokoh.com/tews.
Convened by legal expert and executive coach, Bola Matel-Okoh, The Executive Woman Summit directly addresses a critical paradox: While women are making monumental strides in the workplace, systemic barriers persist. Data shows that in Nigeria’s financial sector, women occupy 47% of entry-level roles but only 28% reach the C-suite, highlighting a significant “burnout” problem as women climb the ladder.
Authenticity: A Hard Strategy, Not a Soft Skill
“Africa cannot afford leadership that burns bright and burns out,” states Convener Bola Matel-Okoh. “Our task is to design systems where executive women not only rise but remain at the highest levels of leadership. Authenticity is not a soft skill. It is a hard strategy.“
Matel-Okoh, who has mentored over 250 women through BMO Advisory and the Women’s Lifestyle Hub, views the summit as a platform to scale this impact. She asserts that when women lead from within, they align resilience with results, driving sustainable institutional impact.
The Powerhouse Speaker Lineup
The summit’s promise of deep strategic insight is matched by an unparalleled roster of leaders. Headlining the fireside chats are two iconic figures who embody authentic resilience:
- Her Excellency, Mrs. Dolapo Osinbajo (Former Second Lady of Nigeria)
- Mrs. Ibukun Awosika (Founder of The Chair Centre Group and First Female Chairman of FirstBank Nigeria)
They are joined by an influential lineup spanning critical sectors, confirming the event’s high caliber:
- Yemisi Edun (Managing Director, FCMB)
- Joke Bakare (Founder & MD, MedPlus Pharmacy)
- Osayi Alile (CEO, ACT Foundation)
- Folasade Femi-Lawal (Country Manager, West Africa at Mastercard)
- Yewande Zaccheaus (Founder & Chairperson, Eventful Ltd)
The day itself is designed to be as dynamic as its attendees, blending strategic panels with joy and balance, featuring candid fireside chats, sharp keynotes, a power lunch, and networking sessions.
Offering both in-person and virtual passes, The Executive Woman Summit is a truly pan-African movement, ensuring every woman from across the globe has a seat at the table to connect and thrive without losing her core identity.
Secure your place at bolamatelokoh.com/tews.