Business executive, tech entrepreneur, and activist Damilola Odufuwa, a Yoruba woman, born in 1991 and reared in Lagos, Nigeria, has emerged as a prominent figure advocating for women rights across Africa. Odufuwa grew up in a society marked by a deeply ingrained male supremacist culture but she was born into a family that emphasized education and social justice. She has often cited her parents as major influences, instilling in her a strong sense of justice and the importance of community involvement.
In 2012, Damilola Odufuwa obtained a Bachelor of Science in Financial Economics from the University of Kent in Canterbury, England, and then she earned a Master of Science in International Finance and Economics in 2013 from the same university, which equipped her with critical skills applicable to her future roles in communications and media. Initially, Oduduwa’s career trajectory led her to co-found Wine &Whine, a platform aimed at providing a safe space for Nigerian women to share their experiences and challenges in a patriarchal society.
Despite her success, Odufuwa felt the lack of female representation in various fields, including politics and business, left a significant impact on her worldview. She recognized that women in Nigeria often faced systemic barriers to their empowerment and participation in leadership roles. For instance, women’s access to education has historically been limited, with statistics indicating lower enrollment rates for girls compared to boys in basic education. Oduduwa’s observations of these inequalities fueled her commitment to advocate for women’s rights and creating avenues for their empowerment. In response she organized workshops and seminars to enhance women’s understanding of their rights and equip them with the tools necessary for effective advocacy.
In 2020, Odufuwa became the co-founder of the Feminist Coalition to fight the discrimination Nigerian women face daily. She connected women and girls to resources that promote their rights and well-being, empowering them to take control of their lives. The organization has engaged in various initiatives to increase women’s representation in governance, address gender-based violence and promote women’s financial independence.
Damilola Odufuwa continues to be a beacon of hope for many aspiring activists in Nigeria, encouraging them to pursue their passions while advocating for change. Her journey exemplifies the power of individual action in the broader context of social justice and women’s rights.
