Yetunde Ajanaku 
Kemi Ajumobi is a seasoned journalist, women’s advocate, and founder of Inspiring Woman Africa (IWA), a platform dedicated to amplifying the voices and achievements of African women. In this interview with YETUNDE AJANAKU, she reflects on the consistency that has sustained the IWA Conference for 14 years and her bold vision for a future where African women lead without barriers.
Women’s representation in the media has grown, but challenges remain. How can media houses better portray and empower African women?
Media houses can empower women by the stories they tell. Truthful, unbiased stories that also highlight women’s experiences and achievements. Beyond telling truthful and unbiased stories about women, media houses must also create inclusive newsrooms, so women aren’t only subject matters, but are also shaping narratives as editors, producers, and decision-makers.
What kind of future do you envision for African women in leadership, media, and business?
A future where their truth is upheld, their voices are not silenced, and they are recognised for their qualifications, not pity. A future where their results speak for themselves, their capabilities are respected, and they live out their dreams, contributing positively to their families, communities, nations, and the world.
You’ve spent nearly two decades shaping stories that inspire and empower. What first sparked your passion for women’s development and advocacy?
My mother. I watched her pour her heart into her work and knew I also had to be hardworking and results-driven. Over the years, through interviewing women, hearing their stories, and learning from their experiences, I understood the importance of consistently being at the forefront, sharing their stories, promoting their work, and inspiring others.
Many know you for your media excellence, but who is Kemi Ajumobi behind the spotlight—the woman, the dreamer, and the believer?
I am a woman fulfilling God’s purpose, focused, results-driven, and passionate about all I do.
The IWA Conference has run for 14 years, a major feat. What has kept it relevant and impactful across generations of women?
The power of consistency. It is essential to keep moving forward. If you are graced to do something, consistency must be your standard. Through thick and thin, I counted year after year, even while maintaining my official work. Nothing suffered for the other. People read my articles and also attended the conference. Even amidst obstacles, consistency remains key.
What are some of the most powerful stories or moments that have come out of the IWA platform over the years?
There are so many to mention, but I can confidently say that the lives of countless women have been impacted. Some have taken up initiatives they never thought possible, acting even in fear, yet results followed. When fear announces its presence, you must respond with faith.
How do you balance the media, mentoring, and event sides of IWA while keeping the vision consistent?
I do my best to maintain balance. I love what I do, so I give each area the attention it deserves. I also make it a point to disconnect from anything or anyone that threatens my mental health or focus, no matter what it is or who they are. A distracted vision is a recipe for destruction. My eyes are focused on my assignment.
You’ve worked at the intersection of journalism, advocacy, and social impact. What’s your biggest lesson from your years in the media industry?
Everything you do in this space carries your name. Do it well, and it enhances your reputation; do it poorly, and it follows you. You must choose how you want your name to be seen, remembered, and referenced. The ball is in your court.
What role do you think storytelling plays in driving real social change, especially around women’s issues?
Storytelling is crucial. When done well, it paints a vivid picture of reality and draws readers to the facts without losing the essence of the message.
You wear several hats, as counselor, poet, public speaker, Publisher/Editor-In-Chief and convener. How do you keep your purpose centered amid so many roles?
Without sounding cliché, GOD. By my own strength, I cannot prevail. God gives me grace for all I do, and that is where I draw my strength and ensure my purpose is centered. Secondly, almost everything I do is interconnected, and this contributes to an effective purpose fulfillment backed by results.
As someone who has built a strong personal brand rooted in service, what would you say is your personal philosophy on leadership?
Leadership goes beyond the office; it’s about your assignment. Anyone can be a CEO, but not everyone can lead. Leadership isn’t about age, wisdom may come with age but leadership demands more. It is about foresight, empathy, humility, and the ability to recognise that others may know what you do not know, without feeling threatened by their growth. Leadership is key to the growth of any company or nation. This is why our 14th edition of Inspiring Woman Africa Series is themed: “Leadership Redefined: Charting New Paths to Excellence.”
Strong leadership trickles down, aligning everyone in a family, organisation, or nation. You’ve inspired countless women, but who inspires you?
I am inspired by women making a positive impact globally. My mother was my first inspiration, showing the importance of hard work. My mentor, Pastor Shally Williams, has greatly influenced me, as did Pastor Bimbo Odukoya. I admire Mrs. Ibukun Awosika for her depth. Beyond them, I am inspired by women everywhere creating meaningful change.
If you were to speak directly to a young woman reading this interview, what would you tell her about finding her voice and walking in purpose?
You were created for a reason, never allow anything or anyone to derail you. Focus must be your watchword. Everything you desire to achieve is within your reach, but its realisation rests in your hands.
Find what makes you happy, nurture it, develop it, and be patient. You will see results and be glad you never stopped believing. The only person who can truly stop you is you.