Effective Leadership, Communication & GBV Prevention; highlights from an insight packed SAW session

One thing we love about our SAW sessions; whether physical or virtual is how they always bring fresh energy and practical tools. Our session with Mrs. Funke Femi-Ojo Falade: a passionate public health practitioner and advocate for women’s issues was no different. Together, we explored how leadership and communication can be powerful tools in preventing gender-based violence (GBV).



Mrs. Falade reminded us that leadership goes beyond titles; it’s about inspiring change. From everyday women driving community initiatives to icons like Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, history shows women have always shaped society. Yet Nigerian women remain underrepresented in leadership and politics, despite unlimited potential.


Communication as a Superpower

We also leaned into communication as a superpower. Skills like active listening, using “I statements,” being assertive without aggression, and paying attention to non-verbal cues can strengthen influence and shift outcomes. In GBV contexts especially, they can mean the difference between being silenced and being heard.

Facing the GBV Crisis Head-On

The urgency is clear, with femicides rising 240% in early 2025 alone. The insight-packed session however, showed how women’s collective leadership can drive real change. Through self-reflection, discussions, and role-plays, participants practiced moving from awareness to action.

While cultural resistance, stigma, and weak institutional support remain barriers, the way forward is clear: build women’s confidence, strengthen mentorship, push for policy reforms like 35% minimum female representation, and engage communities to challenge harmful norms.

As Mrs. Falade put it, leadership and communication are more than personal skills; they’re collective tools for survival and progress. At SkillHer, we’ll keep creating spaces where women can learn, practice, and rise into that power together. Grateful to our partners like dRPC and our facilitators for joining us on this impact journey. More highlights on previous sessions here

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