In a bid to empower young women across Africa and the diaspora with the skills, confidence, and opportunities to lead transformational change, the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy (LJLA) partnered with Elevate Her UK, a UK-based non-profit organisation committed to supporting vulnerable girls and young women from disadvantaged backgrounds, to host the Diaspora Girls Connect Summit.

The summit which held at Wheatbaker hotel in Ikoyi Lagos, served as a platform for dialogue, learning, and mentorship, uniting young women leaders, change agents, and professionals within and beyond the African continent. 

Through a series of panel discussions, networking sessions and storytelling moments, participants explored critical themes around identity, purpose-driven leadership, diaspora engagement, and sustainable development.

Speaking on the collaboration, LJLA Executive Secretary, Mrs. Ayisat Agbaje-Okunade, described the programme as a powerful demonstration of the Academy’s commitment to building bridges of empowerment that transcend borders.

“At the heart of initiatives like the Diaspora Girls Connect Summit lies a shared purpose; to build bridges of empowerment, collaboration, and leadership that transcend borders. By equipping young women with the confidence, capacity, and connection they need to drive meaningful change, we are investing in a generation that will redefine leadership across Africa and beyond” she said.

Founded by Ebony King, Elevate Her UK is a registered charity in England and Wales dedicated to empowering teenage girls and young women through mentoring, life-skills development, and community-based initiatives. The organisation provides support, advice, and guidance to young women from disadvantaged backgrounds, helping them build resilience and unlock their leadership potential.

The partnership between LJLA and Elevate Her UK reinforces a shared mission to foster leadership, mentorship, and community development among girls and young women. It also aligns with the Academy’s broader vision of nurturing ethical, competent, and purpose-driven leaders equipped to contribute meaningfully to global development.