Purple Ball 2024

  By Ruth Ajawu Strong Enough Girls Empowerment Initiative (SEGEI) collaborated with GLAMODI Women and Girls Development Initiative to host its ninth annual Purple Ball to celebrate women’s empowerment, inclusion, and leadership commemorating the 2024 International Women’s Day. Shades of Us, Stand With A Girl (SWAG) Initiative, Girls Education Access Initiative (GEAI), Gender Mobile, and Active Voices were proud partners of this event and attendees converged to champion the advancement and rights of women. The event featured the red carpet to celebrate women’s fashion and beauty. It also featured speeches and stories resonating with the themes of empowerment and inclusion. Stephanie Apel, the host, articulated the vision behind the Purple Ball. She emphasized the event’s mission of providing a platform for women to flourish and succeed, while also inspiring inclusion across all facets of society. Kemi Gbadamosi-Braimah, the Founder of Girls Education Access Initiative (GEAI), in her keynote address, articulated the significance of investing in women and debunked myths surrounding female empowerment, affirming that women belong everywhere and are pivotal in driving societal progress. Maureen Torkula, a Programs Officer at Stand With A Girl (SWAG) Initiative, shared insights into the experiences of women with disabilities, highlighting the importance of breaking down barriers and fostering inclusivity. Our Founder, Ramatu Ada Ochekliye, spoke about mentorship and advocacy for the next generation of women. She emphasized the importance of nurturing and guiding young women to realize their full potential while advocating for systemic changes to ensure gender equality and inclusion in all spheres of society. Toingrick Byanyiko, the Founder of Elevation Crafts, conveyed a commitment to providing equal opportunities for women, emphasizing the importance of supporting women’s career advancement irrespective of societal expectations. Confidence Ezeala, an Assistant Program Manager at Gender Mobile,  sheds light on the prevalent issue of sexual harassment and the imperative of implementing policies to safeguard women’s rights, emphasizing the role of mentorship in empowering women to navigate such challenges and inspire inclusion. Margaret Bolaji Adegbola, the Founder of SWAG Initiative, delivered her impactful address which underscored the significance of empowering girls and women in marginalized communities, advocating for inclusive programming and partnerships to uplift women globally and inspire inclusion at all levels. The audience was urged to promote inclusivity and mentorship actively, fostering a culture of support and empowerment among women. Attendees were reminded of the collective responsibility to ensure the presence and participation of women in all spheres of society, inspiring inclusion in every aspect of life. The Purple Ball concluded with a jubilant celebration, where attendees danced together, embodying the collective determination to strive for gender equality and inspire inclusion. Here is our collection of pictures from the ball.