As the world celebrates International Women’s Day and its call for greater gender equality, the Media Independent Practitioners Association of Nigeria (MIPAN) has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering an inclusive industry where women thrive. Staying true to its mission of nurturing the next generation of female practitioners, the association organized a Mini-Retreat for Women in Marketing, Media, and Communications at Sheba Centre, Ikeja, Lagos.
The retreat brought together women from diverse organizations across the marketing communications industry for a day filled with inspiration, learning, and empowerment. A key highlight was an in-depth investment session led by a seasoned expert, equipping attendees with financial literacy skills and insights into making smart investment decision, an essential pillar of financial independence.
The event also featured a powerful panel discussion led by the association’s Vice President, Mrs. Brenda Nwagwu, alongside some of the most distinguished female leaders in the industry, including:
Chisom Bikawei – Head of Digital Media, All Seasons Zenith
Adenike Ajani – Associate Director, Investments, Algorithm Media Limited
Opeyemi Anipole – Managing Director, Feuille Blanche
Tracy Afuwape – Chief Strategy Director, PHD Media Nigeria
Olufunke Fajusigbe – President, Auxilia Group
Uju Ogu- Director at En-gauge
Maureen Ngwu- Managing Director at Media Seal
Funmi Ogbolu– HR lead at Media Seal
These accomplished women shared invaluable insights on career growth, navigating workplace challenges, and achieving the delicate balance between professional success and family life.
It was a conversation that resonated deeply, proving that success is not just about climbing the ladder but also about ensuring the ladder leans against the right wall.
Beyond the intellectual exchanges, the retreat fostered a space for personal transformation. A session on personal branding reinforced the importance of self-definition in a competitive industry, while mentorship pairings created bridges between emerging and established professionals. In a fitting close, a mindfulness and yoga session served as a powerful reminder that in the pursuit of excellence, prioritizing oneself is not selfish. It is necessary.
MIPAN’s commitment to gender inclusivity is not just rhetoric; it is reflected in its deliberate efforts to equip women with the tools to thrive in a dynamic industry without sacrificing their personal aspirations. As International Women’s Day amplifies the call to inspire inclusion, initiatives like these remind us that true empowerment comes from creating spaces where women can excel, without having to choose between success and self.
