Ep 57. Thelma Ekiyor, Global CEO Women for Women International: Investing in the Power of Women

Thelma Ekiyor is an award-winning global leader in women’s economic empowerment, philanthropy, impact investing, and international development. She is currently the Global CEO of Women for Women International - the first African woman to hold the role. Since 1993, Women for Women International has invested in the power of women in conflict-affected countries, supporting survivors of war to rebuild their lives, find their voice, and drive change in their communities: thus creating a more equal, peaceful, and prosperous world. And yet, more than three decades on, women remain excluded from peace-keeping frameworks and post-conflict power structures. In today’s volatile geopolitical context, Thelma argues that excluding women from decision-making doesn’t just limit progress, it actively undermines peace, development, and economic growth. In this conversation, we explore women’s rights, the role of women as agents of change, and why engaging both governments and the private sector is critical to driving true ecosystem change. As a leader, Thelma underscores the importance of political intelligence alongside emotional intelligence, and the critical need to bring a business mindset to social sector work. Recorded March 2026. Groundbreakers: Network for Women CEOs https://www.charitygroundbreakers.org.uk/