By Bababunmi Agbebi
March is a special time around the world as we celebrate International Women’s Day, a moment to honor the achievements of women and reflect on how far we have come and how far we still need to go. In vibrant communities like Ikeja, the capital of Lagos State, women continue to shape businesses, families, and society. This year, the theme of empowerment can take on a powerful local meaning: giving to gain.
Giving is often seen as sacrifice, but in reality, it can be one of the most rewarding investments a woman can make in herself and her community. When women support other women through mentorship, resources, or opportunities the entire community grows stronger.
Women in Ikeja are entrepreneurs, professionals, students, and leaders. Many are building small businesses, raising families, and contributing to the local economy. When women choose to give, whether through knowledge, time, or support they create a ripple effect.
The truth is simple: when one woman rises, she often pulls others up with her.
Ways Women in Ikeja Can Give to Gain
1. Mentor Younger Women
Many young women in Ikeja are searching for guidance in education, careers, and business. Experienced women can make a difference by mentoring students, interns, or young entrepreneurs. A single conversation about career direction, financial discipline, or personal development can change someone’s future.
Mentorship not only benefits the mentee; it also strengthens leadership skills and builds lasting professional relationships for the mentor.
2. Support Women-Owned Businesses
One practical way to give is by intentionally supporting businesses owned by women. Whether it is buying from a local fashion designer, patronizing a woman-owned food vendor, or promoting a female entrepreneur online, small actions can significantly impact someone’s livelihood.
When women invest in each other’s businesses, they create stronger economic networks within Ikeja.
3. Volunteer for Community Development
Giving back to the community can take many forms, supporting girls’ education, volunteering at community programs, or organizing empowerment events for women and young girls.
Women in Ikeja can collaborate to host small events that inspire confidence, teach life skills, and encourage ambition among young girls.
5. Build Strong Support Circles
One of the greatest challenges many women face is trying to do everything alone. Building supportive circles whether professional networks, business groups, or friendship communities help women share experiences, opportunities, and encouragement.
These networks often lead to partnerships, collaborations, and business opportunities.
The Gain Behind the Giving
Giving does not diminish a woman; it multiplies her influence.
Women who give often gain:
- Stronger professional networks
- Greater community respect
- Personal fulfilment and confidence
- Business opportunities and collaborations
- A lasting legacy of impact
A Call to Action for Women in Ikeja
This March, as we celebrate women globally, let us also celebrate the strength and resilience of women in Ikeja. Let this month be more than a celebration,it should be a commitment.
A commitment to support.
A commitment to mentor.
A commitment to give.
Because when women give intentionally, they do not lose, they grow, they connect, and they gain.
And when women in Ikeja rise together, the entire community rises with them.
