Tirelessly championing the rights of women, girls, and the African spirit of Ubuntu, with over 30 years of experience in global health and development, Lola has devoted her life to fostering resilient, accountable, rights-based healthcare services and systems that cater to the most vulnerable populations. As the President of CHESTRAD Global, an African-led social enterprise, Lola is at the forefront of shaping global health and development debates with a profound commitment to inclusivity, authenticity, and data-driven decision-making.
Lola Dare’s journey is as diverse and rich as the African continent she calls home. A community physician and epidemiologist by training, she’s not limited by conventional labels. She’s a global health practitioner, development consultant, social entrepreneur, and an irrepressible health advocate. Her impressive academic background includes a Master’s degree in Epidemiology with a bias in statistics from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, as well as certificates in Population and Development and International Health from the Harvard School of Public Health in the United States.
As a graduate of the College of Medicine at the University of Ibadan in Nigeria, Lola’s roots in Africa run deep. Her involvement with the West African Postgraduate Medical College and the Nigerian National Postgraduate Medical College further cemented her dedication to the region’s healthcare.
Her work extends beyond medical practice into international spheres. She is a Fellow of the Faculty of Public Health in the United Kingdom, showcasing her commitment to global health. Her certificate in Advanced Management from INSEAD highlights her dedication to driving change, not just within health systems but also in the broader landscape of development.
At the helm of CHESTRAD Global, Lola Dare has the power to influence change on a global scale. Her organization deploys data and evidence to amplify the voices of women, children, and young people in global health and development debates. Their work focuses on creating country-specific contexts and supporting independent voices, all while championing the African spirit of Ubuntu.
Lola Dare’s commitment to the African spirit of Ubuntu is more than just a concept; it’s a way of life. UbuntuPlus, a movement she champions, exemplifies this commitment. Ubuntu represents a philosophy that emphasizes interconnectedness and collective well-being. Lola passionately believes that it’s crucial to incorporate Ubuntu, alongside other elements of African heritage and culture, into interventions for women’s leadership development, gender equity, youth inclusion, and diversity.
UbuntuPlus sets out to co-create initiatives that empower and uplift, encompassing coaching, mentoring, leadership development, and community actions. The movement’s focus is not just on surviving, but thriving and excelling. Lola Dare’s vision comes to life in grassroots interactions, engagement with culture and enterprise, and a co-creation summit that brings together stakeholders from various sectors. This three-day mission in Nigeria in November 2023 is an opportunity for individuals, organizations, and leaders to make a lasting impact. It aims to address the devastating impact of current global challenges, most notably the COVID-19 pandemic, and create better access for women and young people to productive resources.
To join the mission in Nigeria from November 1st to 4th, 2023, register at this link. Your involvement could be the spark that ignites positive change and empowers those who need it the most.
In the words of Lola Dare, “Our main outcomes are to coach, mentor, support, give back, and establish purposeful women’s leadership based on the best of our heritage and culture.” The UbuntuPlus mission offers you the opportunity to be part of this transformative journey towards a more inclusive and equitable world.
