From Purpose to Impact: Lessons from Olori Atuwatse III at WIMBIZ 2025

At the 24th WIMBIZ Annual Conference, one moment stood out — the insightful, deeply grounding speech delivered by Olori Atuwatse III, Queen Consort of the Warri Kingdom. Her message was a powerful reminder that purpose, courage, and intentional impact are three pillars every woman must build on, no matter her background or stage in life.

For us at SkillHer, her words felt especially timely. Our work is rooted in helping African women elevate their skills, broaden their opportunities, and lead fuller, thriving lives. Olori’s message spoke directly to the heart of that mission.

1. Purpose Is the Starting Point

Olori began by reflecting on the importance of understanding one’s purpose — not as a grand achievement, but as a steady light that guides our choices. She shared moments of uncertainty and the internal questions that many women quietly navigate.

Her central point was clear: purpose isn’t found in a title; it’s discovered in alignment.

At SkillHer, we see this daily. When women find clarity on “why” they want to grow, transformation follows.

Takeaway for our community:
Pause this week and write down three core things you believe you are here to do. Purpose grows when named.

2. Authenticity Requires Courage

One of the most resonant parts of her speech was her openness about self-doubt. She described the silent battles women often fight — wondering if they’re enough, capable enough, or deserving enough.

Her message? Be courageous enough to be yourself. Even when your voice shakes.

Authenticity is strength, not vulnerability. It is what allows women to show up fully.

At SkillHer, this mirrors our ethos: you don’t need to have it all figured out before you take a step. You only need the willingness to grow.

Try this:
Identify one area where you’ve been holding back — a skill, a conversation, a project — and take one brave action this week.

3. Use Your Space, Voice, and Position for Good

Olori challenged women to rethink how they use their influence. Influence isn’t only leadership in a boardroom — it’s the ability to shape your family, your workplace, your classroom, or your community.

Her words echoed a truth: every woman carries the power to shift her environment.

This aligns with SkillHer’s model of empowerment — equipping women with the tools, confidence, and support to turn their spaces into platforms for impact.

Your challenge:
Identify one sphere you influence (home, school, business, social circle). Think of one way you can positively impact it in the next 30 days.

4. Building the Future of Africa Requires Vision

Olori ended with a call to action to young women: step into the future with intention. Africa’s progress will be shaped by the skills, courage, and leadership of its women.

This is where SkillHer continues to invest — creating pathways for personal advancement, professional relevance, and societal contribution.

We believe, as she does, that the future belongs to women who decide to build it.

Olori Atuwatse III’s message at WIMBIZ was more than a speech — it was a reminder.
A reminder that purpose is personal, authenticity is powerful, and impact is intentional.

To every woman in the SkillHer community and beyond:
Your voice matters. Your growth matters. Your impact matters.

Keep rising. Keep building. Keep becoming.