Event:Shine Her Light Campaign 2026

Overview

In celebration of International Women’s Day, Open Foundation West Africa (OFWA) proudly presents the third edition of the Shine Her Light Campaign, running from 4th March to 31st March 2026 on the theme Celebrating African Women In Governance. This campaign reflects OFWA’s continued commitment to advancing gender equity in open knowledge by empowering women contributors to document, amplify, and preserve the stories and achievements of notable African women.

Despite women’s significant contributions across culture, leadership, science, and community development, their stories remain underrepresented in digital knowledge spaces. Shine Her Light responds to this gap by equipping women with the skills, confidence, and supportive community needed to contribute meaningfully to Wikipedia and its sister projects. Through collaborative learning, mentorship, and community engagement, the campaign ensures that African women’s voices are visible, valued, and permanently recorded for future generations.

Shine Her Light – Anniversary Edition

As part of the 10th Anniversary Celebration of Open Foundation West Africa (OFWA), the Shine Her Light – Anniversary Edition will be held on 27th March as a special closing activity of the celebration.

This All-Female Brunch & Mentorship Session is designed to celebrate women’s contributions while creating a safe and inspiring space for connection, reflection, and learning. The session will bring together women leaders, mentors, professionals, and community members for meaningful conversations and shared experiences.

Mentorship discussions will focus on key areas including career development, leadership, finance, personal growth, relationships, and life aspirations. The activity also serves as a platform to recognize women’s impact in society and encourage continued participation in open knowledge, digital inclusion, and community leadership.

The Shine Her Light – Anniversary Edition marks a reflective and forward-looking moment, closing the anniversary celebration with purpose, inspiration, and renewed commitment to women’s empowerment.

Top African Women Leaders

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf
Former President of Liberia • First female elected head of state in Africa
Phumzile Mlambo‑Ngcuka
Former Executive Director, UN Women • South African gender equality advocate
Nkosazana Dlamini‑Zuma
Former Chairperson, African Union Commission • Influential political leader
Ngozi Okonjo‑Iweala
Director‑General, World Trade Organization • Renowned economist
Hanna Serwaa Tetteh
Ghanaian diplomat & international public servant