Professionals urge women’s career growth, wellbeing

AT the maiden edition of HERbernation, a transformative gathering for women, experts have ignited thought-provoking discussions on matters affecting women’s career development, health, and advocacy.

With the theme ‘Rise. Renew. Reignite’, the event brought together notable speakers who shared personal stories on these topics. It successfully provided a space for reflection, renewal, and empowerment.

Leading female professionals and thought leaders gathered at the BWC Hotel, Victoria Island, on March 28 for the HERbernation Conference 2025, an event aimed at empowering women.

The conference, which attracted career professionals, entrepreneurs and change-makers, provided a platform for candid conversations on self-development, leadership, and financial empowerment. 

In his opening remarks, Ozioma Ubabukoh, Principal Consultant at Plexus, described HERbernation as a much-needed space for women to pause, reflect, and rediscover their purpose. He emphasised that the event was more than just a conference but an opportunity for women to break free from stagnation, renew their strength, and reignite their passion.

Ubabukoh, elaborated on the vision of HERbernation, which is fundamentally to offer the busy woman a moment to breathe.

“We live in a fast-paced world where women often juggle multiple roles, meet endless expectations, and sometimes forget to take a moment for themselves. But today is different; it is about you, your story, your growth, and your journey towards becoming the best version of yourself.”

Inspiring discussions followed on navigating imposter syndrome, breaking workplace barriers, women’s health, and personal reinvention.

The Dean of Purple Academy, Ogechi Eleojo, highlighted the importance of pausing amid challenges, aligning actions with values, and building strong support systems.

Asserting that timidity is not humility, she urged women to confidently communicate their work and value.

A medical doctor at the National Medical University of Kyiv, Ukraine, Ruth Ebe-Emordi, reinforced the need for self-advocacy, stating, “You have to be an advocate for yourself before you go ahead to advocate for others.”

She also stressed the importance of body awareness, encouraging women to monitor their health and seek medical attention when needed.

The Chief Executive Officer of 4Stone Capital, Elizabeth Kings-Wali, reminded women not to let waiting seasons define them, emphasising that “purpose is greater than temporary setbacks.”

In a powerful conversation about imposter syndrome, Eleojo advised women to track their achievements, saying, “Make a list of all the things you have done! Look at them every day and tell yourself, ‘I did this.’”

She also emphasised the importance of visibility, asserting that “visibility is not eye service; it is communicating your work so that it’s seen.”

The founder of Brand Spark and Udu Consult, Efe Obiomah, spoke about her upcoming book and underscored the importance of discovering one’s identity as a woman, beyond the pressures of marriage and societal expectations.

Throughout the event, speakers touched on vital issues, such as “Do not allow self-doubt to shut you up,” encouraging women to rise above societal pressures and internalised barriers. They also provided practical advice on breaking the silence about women’s health struggles and pushing for necessary change in the workplace.

HERbernation 2025 was a resounding success, leaving attendees inspired and motivated to continue advocating for themselves and others in every aspect of their lives.

It marks the beginning of an ongoing movement for women’s empowerment, self-advocacy, and personal growth.

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