Today, as we commemorate World Intellectual Property Day on 26 April 2023, with its theme Women and IP: Accelerating Innovation and Creativity, few individuals embody this celebration more than the legal business executive Stephanie Modilim, who stands at the pinnacle of the legal tech advisory landscape.
A Trailblazing Pioneer Revolutionising Fintech
Stephanie Modilim has reached the pinnacle of the technology industry through unparalleled expertise and visionary leadership. After graduating with the highest distinction in Law of Jurisprudence from the University of Lagos, Modilim transformed from a promising talent into an industry leader due to her outstanding impact in the fintech sector.
As the Legal Counsel for Risk & Compliance at Chipper Cash, Africa’s celebrated fintech unicorn, Modilim has masterfully orchestrated the regulatory strategy that has enabled the company’s extraordinary expansion across continents. Her innovative frameworks for intellectual property protection have become industry benchmarks, while her sophisticated approaches to data privacy compliance have influenced regulatory practices globally.
Transforming the Global IP Landscape
Modilim’s expertise in converting complex regulatory challenges into strategic advantages demonstrates that she did not merely join the fintech revolution—she began architecting its future. Her work at Chipper Cash was not just about maintaining compliance; it was about protecting innovation and ensuring business expansion. Stephanie played a pivotal role in securing the company’s proprietary financial technologies from infringement while helping the firm expand across borders and navigate the evolving regulatory landscape of digital finance.
Her impact extends well beyond corporate achievements. In her advisory roles at the Intellectual Property Institute Nigeria, Modilim has successfully advocated for meaningful legislative improvements, establishing new pathways for tech startups to secure and monetise their intellectual property assets.
A Legacy of Women’s Innovation on World IP Day
As we celebrate World IP Day and its focus on women’s contributions to innovation, Modilim’s influence in the industry represents not just a personal achievement but a significant milestone for women in IP law globally.
With her groundbreaking contributions to fintech regulation, her influential policy work, and her commitment to empowering the next generation of IP innovators, Stephanie Modilim is not just at the forefront of her field—she is redefining its boundaries. She truly embodies this year’s theme, celebrating the can-do spirit of women shaping the IP sector worldwide.