Empowering African women through leadership training

Sr. Francis Ngozi Uti at the Nairobi Workshop 2025

Seventy-four women from 20 African countries came together online on November 20 and 25, 2025, for two inspiring leadership seminars organized by WUCWO–WWO: “Women’s Leadership Driving Social Transformation” and “Empowering Leadership Through Communication and Influence.”

The participants—leaders of Catholic lay women’s organizations and members of religious congregations—brought with them extensive experience from their organizations within the World Women’s Observatory network, where they work tirelessly for the empowerment of women, especially the most vulnerable. This time, the goal was to further strengthen their leadership by learning from the wisdom and experience of Sr. Francis Ngozi Uti, a Handmaid of the Holy Child Jesus in Abuja (Nigeria) and founder of the Centre for Women Studies and Intervention, widely recognized for her lifelong commitment to advancing gender equality across Africa.

A message that resonated powerfully throughout the sessions was the idea that leadership is both a personal journey and a relational practice. When women grow in communication, influence, self-awareness, and collaboration—and when they understand their historical role as leaders—they become transformative agents in their organizations and communities.

The seminars highlighted that true leadership means inspiring and guiding others toward a shared vision. It is grounded in clear communication, emotional intelligence, integrity, and strong relationships. Leaders do more than manage—they motivate, build trust, and spark meaningful change.

Participants worked with practical tools: communicating with clarity, listening actively, using storytelling to inspire, and influencing ethically by building credibility and nurturing meaningful alliances. Together, they reflected on the remarkable progress of African women in leadership, while also acknowledging the challenges that remain.

Ultimately, these seminars were far more than training sessions—they became a space of empowerment, connection, and renewed purpose. The 74 women who gathered left with strengthened skills and a shared determination to lead change, uplift their communities, and accompany other women in their own journeys of growth.

Together, we continue to grow as women of faith—sowers of hope, defenders of life, and builders of peace. Guided by the Spirit and united in sisterhood, we return to our communities with renewed strength, trusting that every step we take in leadership becomes a seed of transformation in God’s hands.