WIMBIZ, Women in Management, Business and Public Service was founded in Nigeria in 2001. The non-profit and volunteer-based organization is focused on the development of women’s potential in the workplace and also helping women achieve their highest potential as experts in the aforementioned fields.
WIMBIZ organizes an annual conference, where professionals engage in conversations surrounding the further empowerment of women and has become the biggest gathering of like-minds ranging from women professionals, policy makers, thought leaders and experts in Nigeria, according to the Guardian Nigeria.
The two-day conference took place at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos on the 16th and 17th of November with the theme: ‘Leadership…Step Up and Stand Out’.
The former WIMBIZ Chairperson, Osayi Alile, spoke about the organization’s commitment to help in fostering unity among women and to lead to the maximization of their potential. “Our conference climaxes the strength of our commitment to empower women to work together and to accomplish great things. It equally serves as platform to gauge how the systematic pursuit of our vision continues to yield positive outcomes in ways that serve to reinforce our resolve.”
The conference featured debates, panels and speeches from various professionals and was host to great Nigerian and foreign personalities like Wendy Luhabe, Prof. Grace Alele Williams, Mfon Ekpo, Tolu Ogunlesi and Tara Durotoye.
Listed below are a few memorable quotes and highlights from the power packed event.
Successful handover of chairperson title
During this year’s conference, Osayi Alile handed over the title of Chairperson to Aishah Ahmad, who is currently the Head, Consumer Banking and Privilege at Diamond Bank as well as an occasional writer and public speaker.
Congratulations to @aishahmad on being appointed Chairperson of our Executive Council #WIMBIZAnnualConferencepic.twitter.com/iiHpG8TxGY
— WIMBIZ (@Wimbiz) November 17, 2015
Women need to be helpers
The idea that women can make it in the workplace and survive on their own without being helpful to one another or seeking help from one another was put to rest. Female professionals must be ready to receive as well as give out a helping hand. Also, there is no need for envy or the desire to pull another woman down because there is enough space for all at the top.
As women, we need to form rank and rise to protect other women, there is space for all of us at the top. #WimbizAnnualConference
— WIMBIZ (@Wimbiz) November 17, 2015
You attract what you are if you’re not a helper no one will help #Taradurotoye#WIMBIZAnnualConference@FirstBankngr@Sbiddy71@SadeAdebanjo
— Funmilayo Falo (@funmiflo) November 17, 2015
In the workplace, women need to allow their capacity speak for them
There may be more men in a particular workplace, but if women shift their focus from being ‘the only woman in the room’ to being the best contender, they will be judged on what they can do and nothing else. In order to stand out, women should set themselves on the path to personal development which would allow them own their spaces.
Blending in means your personality does not revolve around your gender but around your capability. @hadizabalausman @Wimbiz #WIMBIZ
— ‘Tale Alimi (@talealimi) November 17, 2015
@Wimbiz “Discover your space. Own your space. Make a difference in your space. Doing well by doing good”. Ibikun Awosika. #wimbiz #Knorr
— NsimAgnes (@NsimAgnes) November 17, 2015
“Your gender should not define you, your capacity should lead and define you”. #wimbizannualconference
— WIMBIZ (@Wimbiz) November 17, 2015
Economy of words is a skill everyone should learn
As a way of grooming great professionals in the workplace, the economy of words is a strong tactic to make things work. More words and less action only strengthens mediocrity, while the opposite gives way to a sure purpose for one’s career or vocation.
The economy of words, this is an important skill for everyone to learn. Don’t waste time over speaking/explaining @Wimbiz@Grooming4great
— Biola Alabi (@biolaa1) November 17, 2015
Women are powerful beyond measure
Women are the heart and soul of society and it is time for them to be aware of the level of power they can wield. This awareness also needs to be reflected in the manner professionals go about their jobs. Being aware of all the potential you carry within you, goes a long way to transform your thinking and actions within the work environment.
This world requires the nurturing of women for society to progress. #HenryNzekwu @Wimbiz #WIMBIZAnnualConference
— ‘Tale Alimi (@talealimi) November 17, 2015
@Wimbiz it’s a man’s world but it’s lost without a woman in it…. Henry Nzekwu
— chinekwu duru (@chinekwu) November 17, 2015