The bustling town of Ikorodu played host to an extraordinary gathering of tech industry luminaries, visionaries, and up-and-coming professionals as it proudly hosted the inaugural Uzemi Leadership Summit 1.0 powered by the Uzemi Technology Empowerment Initiative.
Held at the Resource Center Ikorodu, this landmark summit left an indelible mark on the realm of women in technology leadership, marking a pivotal moment for aspiring female leaders and those actively nurturing the skills and capacities essential for leadership roles within the tech sector.
The Uzemi Leadership Summit 1.0 unveiled an impressive array of speakers and interactive sessions that held the attendees spellbound. The event commenced with an inspiring welcome address from Olatomiwa Williams, the Founder of UzemiAfrica, setting the stage for a day focused on empowerment and transformation she eloquently expressed, “The inaugural Uzemi Leadership Summit 1.0 has illuminated the path to change and empowerment in the tech sector. We envision a future where women take their place as a rising force in technology leadership. This event is just the beginning of our journey to manifest that future. With every summit, we draw nearer to breaking barriers, nurturing innovation, and empowering women in tech. Our commitment lies in fostering the leaders of tomorrow and bridging the gender gap in the tech industry.” She concluded her address by encouraging the audience to echo the essence of a Uzemi Woman: “Uzemi women, leading with Purpose, Passion, and Courage.”
Funke Opeke, Founder and CEO of MainOne, delivered a goodwill message, sharing her personal journey and highlighting the importance of resilience and diligence. She encouraged the audience by emphasizing the rewards of hard work and consistency.
The thought-provoking keynote address was delivered by Rachel Adeshina, the Chief Information Officer of First Bank on the theme “Women in Tech: A Rising Force.” Her message deeply resonated with the diverse audience, including students, entry-level associates, managers, and entrepreneurs. She astutely remarked, “Resilient and confident women in the tech world aren’t merely growing; they are an unstoppable force. When we shatter the barriers that hold us back, we illuminate the path for others to follow.”
A significant highlight was the master class panel session, skillfully moderated by Olaide Isijola, Senior Account Executive at Microsoft. The panel featured distinguished figures in tech leadership: Sandra Adebayo, social media/community Manager at Technext, Obi Asika, Otm Chairman and Ogo Maduewesi, CEO of Vitiligo Support and Awareness Foundation (VITSAF). These influential industry leaders shared invaluable insights and personal experiences on Leadership Development and Breaking Barriers, with an emphasis on building confidence and strategies for success.
The summit went even further by offering tailored breakout sessions to meet the diverse needs of attendees:
- Student-Level: “Building the Foundation for Tech Leadership,” facilitated by Micheal John, Senior Business Manager at Tech4Dev.
- Internship Level: “Building Technical Skills and Confidence,” led by Jacquelyn Ekwueme, Senior Programs Manager at Microsoft ADC.
- Managerial Level: “Leading with Impact,” guided by Azeez Omosun, Managing Consultant, Collavare Solutions.
- Entrepreneurial Level: “Navigating Tech Startups and Leadership,” expertly led by Adebola (Debo) Omololu, CEO/Co-Founder of GetFundedAfrica.
Audrey Odogwu, Philanthropies lead at Microsoft enlightened the audience about the skill development opportunities in the tech field offered by Microsoft Philanthropies, underscoring the event’s unwavering focus on empowerment and skill enhancement. Timothy Aluko, Programme & Grant Operations Manager at CcHub, introduced the audience to SAIL Innovation Lab, a technology hub located in Ikorodu established by SAIL Empowerment Foundation in partnership with CCHub to ensure the penetration of technology, reaching every corner and region, leaving no area untouched.
The Uzemi Leadership Summit 1.0 was not merely a memorable event; it was a call to action, a poignant reminder of the importance of giving back to our communities with intention. It provided a prime opportunity for networking, connecting with like-minded individuals who share a fervent passion for advancing in the tech sphere. This summit has ignited the flames of growth and empowerment, paving the way for a brighter and more inclusive future in tech leadership.
