Give to Gain: How women build power through generosity

Progress for women has been built deliberately, often quietly, through women who chose to give their time, access, knowledge, sponsorship and opportunity - before they were certain of the return. The theme for International Women’s Day 2026, Give to Gain, reminds us that advancement is rarely a solo achievement. It is the outcome of women investing in one another long before the spotlight arrives.

For over two decades, WIMBIZ has created the structure that makes that investment possible. Since 2001, the organisation has inspired more than 344,000 women and built a network of over 3,350 leaders across business, management, and public service. Through mentorship platforms, capacity-building programmes, and a powerful conference community, WIMBIZ has proven that when women give strategically, they strengthen institutions, industries, and influence.

To mark International Women’s Day 2026, we spotlight three WIMBIZ members whose careers reflect this principle in action. They are lived experiences of leadership shaped by contribution.

As you read their stories, consider this: where are you positioned to give, and what might grow because you did?

At Zest, we work closely with entrepreneurs, operators, and decision-makers who understand that growth is built through networks, access, and people willing to open doors. That is why Give to Gain resonates. In business, the leaders who invest in others often build the strongest institutions.

This partnership with WIMBIZ is about visibility, inspiration, and action. By spotlighting women who lead through contribution, we hope to challenge more leaders to mentor intentionally, share access generously, and build systems that outlast them.

Founder, Fullcircle Geriatrics

Gbeminiyi Laolu-Adewale is the Founder of Fullcircle Geriatrics, leading efforts to strengthen eldercare systems and expand structured support for ageing populations. Her work blends healthcare delivery with advocacy and long-term community impact, positioning her as a leader committed to building institutions that serve beyond immediate outcomes.

The 2026 International Women’s Day theme, "Give to Gain," highlights the transformative power of reciprocity, collaboration, and sustainable success. This campaign marks a significant shift in how we approach the subject of gender equality, moving the conversation from abstract ideals toward more realistic and actionable principles. It compels us to return to the foundational tenets of humanity: kindness, equity, reciprocity and community.

We are reminded that collective progress is fueled by individual contribution. As individuals, particularly as women, when we embrace the "Give to Gain" philosophy and truly give of our time, mentorship, and resources, we create a ripple effect. When extrapolated on a global scale, this mindset does not just change lives, it builds a better, more progressive and more equitable world for everyone.

Head of External Affairs, Media and Partnerships
Reckitt Sub-Saharan Africa

Cassandra Uzo-Ogbugh leads External Affairs, Media and Partnerships at Reckitt Sub-Saharan Africa, where she shapes strategic engagement across markets, institutions, and communities. Her leadership sits at the intersection of corporate responsibility, public narrative, and long-term institutional impact, grounded in stewardship and principled influence.

Give to Gain is a leadership principle grounded in both faith and responsibility. It reflects the belief that when we give our time, expertise, or influence, we create value that extends far beyond immediate outcomes. In giving, we do not diminish ourselves; we expand our impact.

In my professional journey, I have seen that sustainable success is built not only on performance but on contribution. When we mentor intentionally, advocate for inclusion, and create access for others, we strengthen institutions and build more resilient communities. From a faith perspective, giving teaches us that stewardship matters, that what we have been entrusted with is meant to serve a greater purpose.

On International Women’s Day, Give to Gain reminds me that leadership is not about position alone; it is about service. As women, when we support one another, share knowledge generously, and lead with integrity, we multiply opportunity.

Giving builds trust. Giving builds legacy. Giving builds nations. This is a lasting impact.

Director & Founder
MomaHill Montessori Schools & RhudysPlace Interior Designs Limited

Ochuko Prudence Daniels is an education entrepreneur and business leader committed to shaping independent thinkers and confident decision-makers. Through Montessori education and enterprise development, she builds systems that equip children, women, and entrepreneurs with structure, clarity, and ownership of their growth.

To me, Give to Gain is a way of life, not a strategy. I have learned that the most meaningful growth does not come from what we accumulate, but from what we contribute.

Whether mentoring women, training entrepreneurs, or shaping young minds through Montessori education, I see giving as investing in people and myself in ways that outlast the moment. In the classroom, I focus on independence, responsibility, and emotional awareness, equipping children with skills that go beyond academics.

In my work with women and entrepreneurs, my role shifts from educator to enabler, providing strategy, insight, and structured support that empowers them to make informed decisions and take ownership of their progress.

For me, giving is not about inspiration alone. It is about creating systems, sharing knowledge, and expanding access so others can move forward with clarity and confidence.

Giving has never left me empty. It has expanded my perspective, strengthened my purpose, deepened my fulfilment, and enriched me. Service, kindness, and warmth are not weaknesses; they are transformative leadership tools.

International Women’s Day 2026 reminds me that when women uplift one another, we create lasting impact. What we give becomes the legacy we leave.

Across healthcare, corporate leadership, education, and enterprise, a clear pattern emerges. Giving is not random kindness. It is stewardship. It is the conscious decision to use influence, expertise, and access to strengthen someone else’s position.

Each of these leaders speaks about mentorship that builds capacity. Education that builds independence. Advocacy that builds institutions. This is not about symbolic support. It is about creating structures that allow others to move forward with confidence and competence.

When women give strategically, the impact compounds. Individuals grow. Organisations stabilise. Industries shift. The ripple effect is real, and it is measurable in stronger networks, broader access, and leadership that outlasts titles.

Giving, done well, is how power expands.

International Women’s Day should not end with applause. It should begin with action.

Mentor one woman this year.
Sponsor access where it is missing.
Open one door that once felt closed to you.
Share knowledge intentionally and without fear of competition.

We appreciate the continued leadership of WIMBIZ in building platforms where women rise by lifting others. As the 2026 conference season approaches, the call is clear: give with intention, lead with courage, and build systems that make progress sustainable.