In the dynamic landscape of African media and women’s advocacy, few voices resonate with the consistent grace and profound impact of Kemi Ajumobi. For nearly two decades, she has not merely reported on stories; she has meticulously woven a tapestry of empowerment, using journalism, dialogue, and the arts to elevate and connect women across the continent and beyond.
As the Founder and Group Chief Executive of the Inspiring Woman Africa (IWA) Group, Ajumobi is the visionary force behind one of Nigeria’s most anticipated annual gatherings: the IWA Conference. Now in its fourteenth year, this signature event has become a cornerstone of the professional calendar, a distinguished forum where accomplished women converge to share experiences, forge powerful networks, and ignite the inspiration that fuels further achievement.
Her leadership extends to the printed page as the Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of IWA Magazine, a publication dedicated to chronicling the narratives of women who are shaping industries and communities. However, her esteemed reputation is built upon a formidable foundation in journalism. With a celebrated eighteen-year tenure at BusinessDay Media Ltd, Ajumobi honed her craft as a multi-award-winning journalist. She pioneered the publication’s ‘Women’s Hub Magazine’ and lent her insightful voice as a longstanding columnist, establishing herself as a critical thinker on issues pertaining to women in business and society.
Yet, to define her solely by her titles would be to overlook the profound passion that animates her work. Ajumobi’s advocacy is deeply personal, driven by an unwavering commitment to health awareness, youth empowerment, and social advancement. This commitment has transcended medium and continent. Her resonant voice has graced the airwaves on radio programmes such as Inspiring Woman with Kemi, and she has skilfully moderated discussions on prestigious international stages, including the African Diaspora Heritage Month Celebration at the United States Congress in Washington, D.C.
A true champion for the marginalised, her creative pursuits are equally purpose-driven. In 2013, she produced and directed her first documentary, ‘Why HIV/AIDS Cannot Be Ignored’, a poignant exploration of the lives of those affected by the virus. She also lent her presence to ‘DRY’, a powerful film by award-winning actress Stephanie Linus, which brought the critical issues of underage marriage and vesico vaginal fistula (VVF) to a global audience.
Perhaps one of her most compelling ventures is #THEEXCLUSIVEWITHKEMI, an interview series where she engages with leading figures in a remarkably intimate manner, drawing out profoundly personal and exclusive stories that reveal the person behind the persona.
Ajumobi’s creative spirit is multifaceted, flowing effortlessly into music ministry, public speaking, and poetry. Her single, ‘It Is You’, available on all major digital platforms, is a testament to her artistic depth.
Her immense contribution has been met with well-deserved recognition. She is the recipient of the G.A.M.E. Award for women’ development, NHEA’s Healthcare Media Excellence Award, and the Smart Stewards Award for Excellence in Media. Most recently, she was named one of the 25 Most Powerful Women in Journalism in Nigeria by Women In Journalism Africa and listed among the 50 Most Influential African Women by Leading Ladies Africa in 2024.
An ALI Fellow and a ForbesBLK member, Kemi Ajumobi embodies a rare synthesis of poise, intellect, and heartfelt advocacy. She is not just telling stories; she is architecting a legacy of inspiration, one that continues to empower a generation of women to find their voice and own their narrative.
