Omolara Olukotun, EWIC advance women’s leadership, skills development, community support in UK

A United Kingdom-based Nigerian professional, Omolara Olukotun, has continued to strengthen opportunities for women and young Nigerians through the Exclusive Women of Influence Circle (EWIC), an international organisation promoting leadership development, skills acquisition, mentorship and community empowerment.

Operating across several cities in the United Kingdom, EWIC has built a dynamic network dedicated to equipping women with practical skills, leadership capacity and professional guidance while providing support to vulnerable families through community-focused initiatives.

This year marks a significant milestone for the organisation, as EWIC received five prestigious awards recognising its excellence in community empowerment, women’s leadership advancement, international collaboration, youth development and social impact. These awards highlight EWIC’s expanding influence across diverse empowerment pathways, including Hairdressing, Fashion, Beadmaking, Shoe and Bag Making, Barbing, Mentoring, Soap Making, Wig Making, Mechanic Skills, AI Animation, IT Skills, Public Speaking, Aso Oke Making, Nail Technology, Makeup Artistry, Photo Shoot Pop‑Ups and Adire Making.

In addition to its skills programmes, EWIC is launching a groundbreaking initiative: a Radio Safe Haven Series, a dedicated platform where women can safely share their stories, experiences, challenges and victories. The series aims to amplify unheard voices, promote healing, encourage dialogue and strengthen community solidarity across the UK and beyond.

Over the years, Olukotun has championed programmes aimed at strengthening professional competencies, entrepreneurship and employability, helping participants access mentoring opportunities, leadership training and international networks. According to the organisation, its initiatives have also supported talented Nigerians seeking global career opportunities, with several participants each year progressing through recognised international talent pathways.

Speaking on the organisation’s mission, Olukotun said sustainable national development begins with investing in people and creating opportunities that enable individuals to realise their full potential. She noted that many talented individuals possess the ability to excel but often require mentorship, exposure and practical training to compete effectively in an increasingly globalised economy.

EWIC combines leadership development with social responsibility by supporting women and vulnerable families through wellbeing programmes, food assistance, hygiene packs, crisis support and educational initiatives designed to strengthen communities while preserving dignity.

Beyond its community outreach, the organisation has embraced digital platforms to expand access to leadership discussions, mentoring programmes and educational resources, enabling participants from different countries to exchange ideas, develop professionally and build lasting collaborative relationships.

EWIC currently operates community hubs in London, Borehamwood, Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Bristol, Liverpool and Newcastle, providing accessible locations where women can participate in leadership programmes, skills development workshops and networking activities.

Olukotun emphasised that collaboration remains central to the organisation’s philosophy, adding that creating supportive professional networks encourages innovation, confidence and long-term personal development. She explained that EWIC’s vision extends beyond immediate achievements by fostering intergenerational impact through education, mentorship and community engagement that benefits women, families and future generations.

As global conversations around women’s leadership, skills development and economic participation continue to grow, initiatives such as EWIC are contributing to broader efforts aimed at expanding opportunities, strengthening communities and preparing more women and young professionals to participate meaningfully in national and international development.