CBW-AFRICA SUMMIT

About usAbout CBW-AFRICA

Summary

Commonwealth
Business Women Africa (CBW-Africa)

CBW – Africa is dedicated to empowering women across Africa by providing them with the tools and resources they need to achieve success in every aspect of their lives. We believe that women have unique talents and perspectives that can drive innovation and create positive change in their communities.

We believe that when women are empowered, they are capable of achieving amazing things and making a positive impact on their communities.

We offer leadership training, mentorship programs, networking events, and educational workshops on a wide range of topics, including career development, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and personal growth.

We believe that every woman has the potential to be a leader in her own right, and we are committed to helping them realise their full potential. We work with women from all walks of life, regardless of their age, race, or socioeconomic status.

CBW – Africa is run by a team of passionate and dedicated individuals who are committed to making a difference in the lives of women around the world. We believe in fostering a supportive and collaborative environment that encourages women to connect, learn, and grow.

THE MEANING

OUR PURPLE AND GOLD LOGO

The colors purple and gold on the logo of Commonwealth Business Women Africa (CBW Africa) symbolize the unwavering strength, resilience, and empowerment of women across the African continent.

Purple, the color of royalty and ambition, embodies the regal presence and unyielding determination of women entrepreneurs within CBW Africa. It signifies the noble leadership, innovative spirit, and creative brilliance that define the women of the network.

Gold, the color of prosperity and success, radiates the richness of achievements, the brilliance of ideas, and the golden opportunities seized by the women of CBW Africa. It represents the wealth of knowledge, the abundance of skills, and the prestige of leadership that propel women to excel and thrive in the world of business.

Together, the regal purple and radiant gold on the logo of CBW Africa stand as a testament to the indomitable strength, the boundless potential, and the extraordinary impact of women in business. They symbolize the power, the passion, and the purpose that drive women entrepreneurs to break barriers, shatter ceilings, and shape a future where their voices are heard, their talents are celebrated, and their contributions are valued.

In the vibrant hues of purple and gold, the women of CBW Africa find unity, inspiration, and empowerment to rise, to lead, and to conquer new frontiers with courage, grace, and unshakeable resolve. Their strength knows no bounds, their spirit knows no limits, and their influence knows no end. They are the architects of change, the champions of progress, and the embodiment of empowerment in a world where their skills are their strength, their heritage is their bond, and their impact is immeasurable.

OUR NAME

Commonwealth Business Women Africa (CBW-Africa)

The name Commonwealth Business Women Africa (CBW Africa) stands as a beacon of pride, power, culture, education, empowerment, diversity, and inspiration, reflecting a legacy of excellence, resilience, and unity among Pan-African women entrepreneurs across the diverse tapestry of the African continent.

Proudly rooted in the shared heritage of the Commonwealth, a diverse community of nations bound by history, values, and a commitment to collaboration, CBW Africa embodies the strength and spirit of women who dare to dream, to lead, and to succeed in the dynamic world of business. Our name symbolizes the richness of our cultural tapestry, the depth of our knowledge, and the vibrancy of our entrepreneurial spirit that transcends borders, celebrates diversity, and fosters unity.

Power radiates through the core of Commonwealth Business Women Africa, empowering women to shatter glass ceilings, break barriers, and carve their path to success with unwavering determination and resilience. We stand as a testament to the transformative power of education, knowledge, and lifelong learning, equipping women with the tools, skills, and confidence to navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and thrive in a competitive business environment.

Eloquence flows through the essence of our name, reflecting the eloquent voices, visionary ideas, and powerful narratives of women who dare to challenge the status quo, disrupt norms, and redefine the boundaries of possibility. We are a symphony of diverse talents, perspectives, and experiences harmonizing to create a chorus of empowerment, inspiration, and innovation that resonates across the African continent and beyond.

Inspiration springs forth from the heart of Commonwealth Business Women Africa, igniting a spark of hope, ambition, and courage in every woman who dares to dream big, to aspire for greatness, and to make a lasting impact on society. Our name embodies the collective strength, resilience, and determination of Pan-African women who stand united in their pursuit of excellence, leadership, and empowerment, inspiring generations to come and shaping a future where women's voices are heard, valued, and celebrated.

In essence, Commonwealth Business Women Africa (CBW Africa) is more than a name – it is a powerful declaration of pride, cultural richness, educational excellence, diversity, empowerment, inspiration, and unity that defines the essence of women's entrepreneurship in Africa. We cut across the African continent, inclusive of all Pan-African women, standing tall, standing strong, and standing together, forging a path of progress, prosperity, and empowerment for women across the Commonwealth, Africa, and the world.

image

Our Mission

Uniting, educating, and inspiring African women in
leadership and entrepreneurship

Our Vision

Envision a tempest of change, a whirlwind of empowerment, and a storm of progress - this is the vision that propels us forward. The CBW Africa Summit is not just a gathering; it is a thunderous declaration of our unwavering resolve to shatter glass ceilings, dismantle stereotypes, and bulldoze through obstacles that hinder the advancement of women. Our vision is audacious, our goals ambitious, and our spirits unbreakable. We march forth with the battle cry of Ubuntu ringing in our ears, a call to unity, solidarity, and collective action that propels us towards a future where women are not just participants but architects of their destinies.

Our Goal

To raise awareness about Women’s Entrepreneurship and acknowledge the importance of women, by scaling up access to financial products and services, building capacity, expanding networks, offering mentors, providing opportunities to link with domestic and global markets, and strengthening the voice of women in leading to a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem.

WHY DO THE WOMEN WEAR THE SASH?

The colors purple and gold on the logo of Commonwealth Business Women Africa (CBW Africa) symbolize the unwavering strength, resilience, and empowerment of women across the African continent.

Purple, the color of royalty and ambition, embodies the regal presence and unyielding determination of women entrepreneurs within CBW Africa. It signifies the noble leadership, innovative spirit, and creative brilliance that define the women of the network.

Gold, the color of prosperity and success, radiates the richness of achievements, the brilliance of ideas, and the golden opportunities seized by the women of CBW Africa. It represents the wealth of knowledge, the abundance of skills, and the prestige of leadership that propel women to excel and thrive in the world of business.

Together, the regal purple and radiant gold on the logo of CBW Africa stand as a testament to the indomitable strength, the boundless potential, and the extraordinary impact of women in business. They symbolize the power, the passion, and the purpose that drive women entrepreneurs to break barriers, shatter ceilings, and shape a future where their voices are heard, their talents are celebrated, and their contributions are valued.

In the vibrant hues of purple and gold, the women of CBW Africa find unity, inspiration, and empowerment to rise, to lead, and to conquer new frontiers with courage, grace, and unshakeable resolve. Their strength knows no bounds, their spirit knows no limits, and their influence knows no end. They are the architects of change, the champions of progress, and the embodiment of empowerment in a world where their skills are their strength, their heritage is their bond, and their impact is immeasurable.

What is the Symbol
of the Sash

The symbol of our Commonwealth Business Women Africa (CBW Africa) sash, worn proudly by our members at various events and gatherings, embodies a powerful representation of unity, empowerment, and solidarity among women entrepreneurs across the African continent. Adorned with our organization's logo in regal purple and radiant gold, our CBW Africa sash serves as a visual testament to our shared values, aspirations, and unwavering commitment to advancing women's entrepreneurship and leadership within the business community.

Our CBW Africa sash symbolizes:

  1. Unity: It signifies our collective unity and sisterhood, highlighting our shared strength, resilience, and mutual support in our entrepreneurial pursuits.
  2. Empowerment: By donning the CBW Africa sash, we exude a palpable sense of empowerment, confidence, and pride, showcasing our determination to thrive in the business realm and create a positive impact in society.
  3. Brand Representation: The sash with our CBW Africa logo enhances our brand recognition, visibility, and acts as a distinct identifier that reflects our organization's mission, values, and influential presence in the business landscape.
  4. Networking and Engagement: Our CBW Africa sash serves as a catalyst for networking and engagement at events, encouraging connections, collaborations, and opportunities for growth and development among our members, partners, and stakeholders.
  5. Advocacy and Representation: It symbolizes our unwavering advocacy for gender equality, the empowerment of women in business, and the promotion of inclusive economic growth across Africa. The sash represents our steadfast commitment to driving positive change and building a supportive network for women entrepreneurs.

In essence, the symbol of our CBW Africa sash encapsulates the essence of unity, empowerment, and advocacy that defines our organization and its members. It reflects our shared vision of advancing women's entrepreneurship, leadership, and economic empowerment, not only in Africa but also on a global scale.

DO YOU HAVE
TO BE AFRICAN TO JOIN
CBW-AFRICA?

No, you do not have to be African to be a part of Commonwealth Business Women Africa (CBW Africa). CBW Africa welcomes members from diverse backgrounds and nationalities, fostering a collaborative environment where individuals from various regions and cultures come together to leverage their unique strengths, skills, and experiences for mutual growth and success.

Collaboration lies at the heart of CBW Africa, emphasizing the importance of working together, sharing knowledge, and supporting one another in achieving common goals. By embracing diversity and inclusivity, CBW Africa creates a vibrant ecosystem where members can tap into a wide range of perspectives, expertise, and opportunities to enhance their careers, expand their networks, and unlock new pathways for personal and professional development.

 

Our commitment
as CBW-AFRICA

The organization's commitment to diversity enables members to access a wealth of resources, mentorship, and skill-sharing opportunities that transcend geographical boundaries and cultural differences. This diversity of strengths within CBW Africa empowers individuals to broaden their horizons, explore new possibilities, and collaborate with like-minded professionals who bring a multitude of talents and perspectives to the table.

By embracing diversity and welcoming individuals from all walks of life, CBW Africa cultivates a dynamic and inclusive community where every member has the chance to thrive, grow, and contribute to the collective success of the organization. Whether you are an entrepreneur, a business leader, a professional, or an aspiring individual looking to connect with a supportive network of like-minded individuals, CBW Africa invites you to join us on a journey of collaboration, empowerment, and endless possibilities.

Organogram
Our President

Mrs Ngozi Oyewole

Ngozi Oyewole is an eminent figure in the realms of entrepreneurship, advocacy, and leadership, renowned for her unwavering dedication to empowering women and fostering positive transformation across Africa. With a distinguished career spanning over two decades, she has solidified her position as a trailblazer and visionary in various sectors, including business, mentorship, and philanthropy.

As the esteemed Founder and President of Commonwealth Business Women Africa and President of Womanprenuer Africa, Ngozi Oyewole occupies a pivotal role in driving impactful change and championing the advancement of women in leadership and entrepreneurship. Her leadership extends to key positions in prestigious organizations such as the Association of Business Women in Commerce and Industry, Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA), and the Lagos Chamber of Commerce (LCCI), where her influence and expertise shape strategic initiatives and advocacy efforts at a national and global level.

Read more
Introducting

Our Senior Leadership Team

Introducing

Our Board Members

Mrs. Nana Wanjau

Vice President

Mrs. Nana Wanjau

Vice President
Nana Wanjau, is the 2022 Woman With a Mission Recognition and Achievement Award winner. She is the Global Women in Leadership Awards 2022 winner, She is East Africa Woman Leadership Award 2019 winner. She is the 8th of All African Business Leaders Award (AABLA) winner, she is the Philanthropist of the year EA Award winner and she is the Harmony Institute Philanthropy Award winner. Nana is an impact Pan African Leader. Nana is the Administrative Director for Eastern, Central & Southern African Regions for Commonwealth Women Network (CWN); a Commonwealth Accredited Organisation. She is the Vice President of Commonwealth Business Women – Africa, an affiliate of CWN. The Pan African Chamber of Commerce recently appointed Nana Wanjau to head the Chief Gender Office for Africa. Her role will involve mainstreaming gender in the Pan African Chamber of Commerce programs and operations. She is instrumental in the establishment of the Women Entrepreneurship Centres across Africa. Nana is passionate about women empowerment through social and economic advancement; She is the Founder of PowerWoman International; they build homes for Ostracized Widows: No woman should lose her dignity nor rights because she lost her husband. Widows are supported through four pillars; Shelter, Counselling, Economic Empowerment and Education for children. Nana sits on numerous board, including the Advisory Board of the Centre for Research on African Digital Policies and Innovations (CRADPI); headquarters in Pretoria, South Africa. Nana is a long term mentor in the Global Give Back Circle mentoring the next leaders from the Mastercard Foundation Programs. Nana Wanjau is the Past President of the Rotary Club of Nairobi East. @ She is an Alumni of the Strathmore Business School and Lagos Business School. @ She is a graduate of the Harvard Business School Executive Education Program: Harvard Leadership Principles/Strategy Execution and Entrepreneurship in Emerging Economies with a focus on Africa. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nana-wanjau-a-pan-african-leader-99a26037/recent-activity/all/

Geoffrey Doyle

Board member

Geoffrey Doyle

Board member

Dr. Sulochana Segera

Board member

Dr. Sulochana Segera

Board member
Dr. Sulochana Segera stands as one of Sri Lanka's distinguished social entrepreneurs, seasoned trainers, and motivational speakers, boasting an impressive 26-year track record. As the Chairperson of the globally recognized Women in Management (WIM), she oversees a diverse portfolio of initiatives under its umbrella brand. Notable projects include the 'Top50 Professional Career Woman Awards,' 'New Generation Awards,' 'Top10 Diversity Champions Awards,' 'WIM Free Kitchen,' and the impactful 'WIM Single Mother,' reshaping societal attitudes by acknowledging, celebrating, and inspiring individuals across genders, ages, and professions. On 27th November 2023 in a momentous ceremony hosted at the House of Commons in the United Kingdom, Dr. Sulochana Segera, Chairperson of Women in Management, was honoured with a prestigious award for her exceptional leadership and steadfast commitment to advancing global equality and empowerment for women and young people. Recognizing her remarkable contributions, Fatima Patel, Editor-in-Chief of The Asian Standard Newspaper (UK), and MP Imran Hussain jointly celebrated Dr. Segera's accomplishments, marking a significant milestone in her illustrious career. Her tireless efforts to create opportunities and empower women and young people have not only garnered international recognition but have also earned admiration from individuals across the globe. Renowned in corporate circles as a dedicated trainer for multinational corporations, Dr. Segera exhibits a fervent commitment to uplifting both rural and urban living standards, focusing on education and skill development. Her personal journey is intricately linked to the evolution of WIM from a female empowerment initiative to a global force for change. In the MSME and SME sector, Dr. Segera plays a pivotal role as a mentor, counselor, and goodwill investor. Her hands-on approach involves traversing rural areas, identifying hidden talents, and encouraging boards to adopt more inclusive leadership structures. Recent accolades include Dr. Segera's appointment to the Advisory Committee of the Global Equality Standard developed by GEA in the United Kingdom. She also spearheaded the Sri Lankan project for Her Majesty the Queen's seventy years of service and leadership, collaborating with the British Council to establish a network of 100 young women leaders.

Hajia Bola Idayat Muse

Country Head - Nigeria

Hajia Bola Idayat Muse

Country Head - Nigeria
Hajia Bola Muse, Nigeria’s frontline freight forwarding Amazon and President of Bomarah Group and Founder of Bomarah Foundation is set to commemorate the 2023 International Women’s Day with the Women Enterpreneur & Professionals Development Network (WEDPN) in collaboration with her foundation; Bomarah Foundation and ECOWAS Federation of Business Women and Enterpreneurs (FEBWE) Nigerian chapter.

Dr Anire Okogun

Board member, Committee member

Dr Anire Okogun

Board member, Committee member
Dr Okogun is passionate about women and youth Empowerment and has taken her advocacy to several countries championing the rights of women and the girl child.

Dorothy Liech

Head, Fundraising & Partnerships

Dorothy Liech

Head, Fundraising & Partnerships

Head of Fundraising & Partnerships

Dottie is a highly accomplished professional with a diverse range of  experience and expertise. As the Africa Regional Director and Head of Communication at the Nordic Global Investment Foundation, she is crucial in promoting the African development agenda. Dorothy’s extensive career spans over a decade, during which she has  gained a deep understanding of political economics and entrepreneurship.  She has been instrumental in the successful transition of Kenya’s  Devolution system of county governments and has developed a wealth of  global engagements. With her expertise in trade-related issues, she is a  force to be reckoned with in the international business   In addition to her professional pursuits, Dorothy is a visionary entrepreneur  passionate about empowering women and youth. She is the founder of  Dowan International Foundation, which focuses on women and youth  entrepreneurial education in Africa. She also runs Premier Plan Agency, an  award-winning consultancy specializing in travel logistics, resource  mobilization, and PR. Furthermore, she leads Fashion with a Purpose, a CSR arm that fundraises for education, medical camps, and other charitable  causes through fashion events. Dorothy’s dedication and drive have earned her numerous accolades and  recognition. She is a recipient of the prestigious Presidential or Duke of  Edinburgh’s International Award in Kenya and has been awarded the Most Impactful Female Entrepreneur Award by Women in Business Kenya. She  is also a current nominee for the African Humanitarian Ambassador of the  Year Award.
Introducting

Our Committee Members

Dr. Nicoleta Acatrinei

CBW Africa Committee member

Dr. Nicoleta Acatrinei

CBW Africa Committee member
Dr. Nicoleta Acatrinei, scientist and entrepreneur in sustainable development and finance. Princeton University alumni, Founder of Swiss Expertise Management and Impact Investing Metrics, Dr. Acatrinei has pioneered research on sustainable economic models by challenging the standard assumptions of homo oecomicus theories. She has recently developed an entrepreneurial activity of certifications, auditing, consulting and training based on last academic research in the field of sustainable business and impact measurements.

Pauline Warui

Head of Trade

Pauline Warui

Head of Trade
Pauline Warui is the founder of East Africa Customer Care Centre Ltd a company she founded in January 2016 to improve the training and execution of customer experience in businesses. She has been instrumental in shaping commercial and customer experience teams in Kenyan Companies through leadership, training and consultancy. She is a renowned business leader with over 20 years’ experience, in the leading Telecommunications organizations; the Oil and Insurance sector. She has worked with Capital Pagers, Kencell Telecommunications and Chevron Global at Senior and Executive levels. She also worked at Safaricom as Director, Customer Care where she played a critical role in setting-up Safaricom’s contact centre; the biggest of its kind in East and Central Africa. She is also Country Head of Commonwealth Business Women in Kenya having served as Vice Chair previously.. She is also a director at Kline Insurance Agency where she is in charge of the commercial portfolio and board member of Muruguru Girls Secondary School, a school in the rural county of Nyeri in Kenya.

Dr Anire Okogun

Board member, Committee member

Dr Anire Okogun

Board member, Committee member
Dr Okogun is passionate about women and youth Empowerment and has taken her advocacy to several countries championing the rights of women and the girl child.

Dorothy Liech

Head, Fundraising & Partnerships

Dorothy Liech

Head, Fundraising & Partnerships

Head of Fundraising & Partnerships

Dottie is a highly accomplished professional with a diverse range of  experience and expertise. As the Africa Regional Director and Head of Communication at the Nordic Global Investment Foundation, she is crucial in promoting the African development agenda. Dorothy’s extensive career spans over a decade, during which she has  gained a deep understanding of political economics and entrepreneurship.  She has been instrumental in the successful transition of Kenya’s  Devolution system of county governments and has developed a wealth of  global engagements. With her expertise in trade-related issues, she is a  force to be reckoned with in the international business   In addition to her professional pursuits, Dorothy is a visionary entrepreneur  passionate about empowering women and youth. She is the founder of  Dowan International Foundation, which focuses on women and youth  entrepreneurial education in Africa. She also runs Premier Plan Agency, an  award-winning consultancy specializing in travel logistics, resource  mobilization, and PR. Furthermore, she leads Fashion with a Purpose, a CSR arm that fundraises for education, medical camps, and other charitable  causes through fashion events. Dorothy’s dedication and drive have earned her numerous accolades and  recognition. She is a recipient of the prestigious Presidential or Duke of  Edinburgh’s International Award in Kenya and has been awarded the Most Impactful Female Entrepreneur Award by Women in Business Kenya. She  is also a current nominee for the African Humanitarian Ambassador of the  Year Award.
Sponsored By

Our Partners & Sponsors

Become Sponsor image