By Francis Ajuonuma
Female entrepreneurs and innovation leaders have been urged to take deliberate steps to mentor other women, build communities, and expand their influence within the technology and innovation ecosystem.
The call was made on Thursday during a Female Founders’ Brunch organised by EandC Legal in Lagos as part of activities marking the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration.
The event, themed “Give to Gain: Building Community, Culture and Influence as a Woman Leader in Innovation Spaces,” brought together female founders, industry leaders and members of the diplomatic community to explore how women can strengthen leadership networks and support systems within the innovation ecosystem.
Held at the law firm’s headquarters in Dolphin Estate, Ikoyi, the gathering focused on how women can drive cultural change by actively supporting and mentoring others while building professional influence.
Speaking at the event, the host and Co-Founder at EandC Legal, Adebomi Adekeye, said initiatives like the Female Founders’ Brunch were designed to create spaces where women can learn from each other’s journeys, exchange ideas and develop networks that support growth.
She noted that International Women’s Day provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress made by women while also highlighting the need to create environments where women can connect, thrive and expand their influence.
“Initiatives like the Female Founders’ Brunch are designed to encourage women to learn from each other’s journeys, exchange ideas, and build meaningful relationships that can drive both personal and collective advancement,” she said.
Also speaking, the Regional Economic Representative of the French Department of Trade in Nigeria, Laura Marie, commended EandC Legal for promoting inclusivity and supporting Nigeria’s startup ecosystem, particularly female founders.
She highlighted the importance of international collaboration between the French and Nigerian innovation ecosystems and encouraged participants to explore opportunities for partnerships across both markets.
Speakers at the event stressed that the concept of “giving to gain” involves building a professional reputation that supports others and creates opportunities for upcoming women leaders.
During a fireside chat, General Manager at CafeOne, Kelechi Nwaozuzu, said that women leaders play a crucial role in promoting inclusive workplace cultures and ethical leadership within startups and technology companies.
She advised women professionals to keep an “I Did List,” a record of achievements and contributions, which helps them confidently present their value during performance evaluations and professional assessments.
Growth and Product Manager, Omolara Dada, also emphasised the importance of perception and visibility in leadership.
According to her, sharing one’s professional journey publicly can inspire young women and girls who aspire to build careers in innovation and technology.
“When you are building perception, you are creating a mentorship groundwork for young girls who aspire to follow that path,” she said.
Dada further noted that investors increasingly pay attention to founders’ digital presence, adding that a strong online footprint helps demonstrate credibility, vision and leadership capacity.
Participants at the interactive session stressed the need for intentional support among women, noting that mentorship, sponsorship and collaboration remain critical to strengthening women’s participation in innovation.
While some described “giving to gain” as supporting other women beyond public recognition, others described it as intentionally investing in others’ growth and success.
They also agreed that the concept includes investing in oneself by developing leadership capacity, visibility and influence needed to inspire others.
Participants called on organisations, ecosystem leaders and women themselves to create more spaces that encourage mentorship, collaboration and shared growth.
They stressed that collective support remains one of the most effective tools for advancing women in innovation and leadership.
