Empowering Women, Shaping Future Leaders

Despite significant contributions to their communities and families, systemic barriers limit their impact. In honouring our commitment to raising women to lead grassroot impact.

The She Stands Leadership Academy (SSLA) is dedicated to addressing these disparities by nurturing female leaders aged 12-35 from rural and underserved communities to drive meaningful change.

Our comprehensive approach includes the SSLA, the She Stands Ambassadors Program (STAMP), and the She Stands Conference (STC), each building on the success of the previous phase to create a powerful platform for women’s leadership and development.

She Stands Leadership Academy (SSLA)

The SSLA provides a structured curriculum for young girls…

Join SSLA

The SSLA provides a structured curriculum designed to empower young girls through workshops and mentorship. By offering lifelong support and access to development opportunities and resources, SSLA lays the foundation for future female leaders. We identify young women in rural communities with potentials to lead and nuture them to build leadership skills, they engage with high-impact females and build a robust network that supports their growth and aspirations.

She Stands Ambassadors Program (STAMP)

STAMP is a dynamic year-long program that transitions from the initial academy phase. It is divided into three key stages:

Selection and Boot Camp: High-potential females passionate about social innovation or entrepreneurship are selected through an application process. They participate in a week-long boot camp where they learn from accomplished women and refine their ideas.
Mentorship and Ambassadorship: Following the boot camp, the participants enter a mentorship phase, where they receive ongoing support to develop their projects. A pitch competition identifies 10 standout ideas, with these founders becoming She Stands Ambassadors, receiving further technical assistance to implement their initiatives.

Graduation and Awards: At the end of the fellowship year, all beneficiaries are honored at the annual She Stands Conference (STC), celebrating their achievements and awarding recognition to the most impactful projects.

She Stands Conference (STC)

The STC culminates the journey from the academy through the ambassadorship program, offering a vibrant platform for young girls to engage with inspiring female leaders. The conference has evolved significantly over the years:

2016: Launched with 300 participants, the first STC introduced young girls to the concept of female leadership and provided initial inspiration through impactful stories.
2017: With 550 participants, the conference expanded its reach, featuring a broader range of speakers and interactive sessions, deepening the participants’ engagement and motivation.
2018: The 650 attendees experienced a more immersive event with diverse workshops and sessions, further enhancing their learning and aspirations.
2019: STC reached 1,000 participants, with the support and representation of UN Women Nigeria’s Country Director, showcasing a wide array of high-impact speakers who shared their transformative experiences, significantly boosting the attendees’ ambition and drive.
2021-2023: Adapting to new realities, STC engaged 1,500 participants through school club and mentorship programs, blending virtual and in-person interactions to provide continuous support and inspiration.

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Benefits of the program...

The She Stands Leadership Academy, Ambassadors Program, and Conference create a seamless journey of empowerment for young women. From foundational training and mentorship to inspiring conferences and community-building, this holistic approach ensures that women are equipped to lead, innovate, and drive positive change. By fostering an environment of continuous learning and support, we are committed to shaping a generation of female leaders who will make a profound impact in their communities and beyond.