The world flourishes when women lead. Their voices, ideas, and resilience shape industries, challenge outdated systems, and push society forward. Yet, despite their undeniable contributions, women in leadership still face structural barriers — ranging from access to funding to the glass ceiling that persists in boardrooms worldwide.

Globally, women make up 40% of the workforce but hold only 28% of managerial positions. Less than 11% of Fortune 500 CEOs are women, and the funding gap remains stark — female-led startups receive just 2% of venture capital funding despite generating more revenue per dollar invested. In Africa, where women are at the heart of entrepreneurship, these challenges are even more pronounced. However, history proves that where barriers exist, women break them.

This International Women’s Day, #AcceleratingYou, our special vendor spotlight, is not just a campaign; it is a movement. It is about acknowledging the women who have built empires from scratch, transformed industries, and redefined leadership. It is about celebrating the trailblazers who have turned adversity into opportunity, proving that leadership is not merely about gender — it is about vision, impact, and the courage to carve new paths.

At Chowdeck, we believe in action beyond recognition. We are proud to champion these women, providing them with data-driven insights, operational support, and the digital tools necessary to accelerate their success. Their stories deserve to be told — not just to celebrate their achievements but to inspire the next generation of women entrepreneurs and leaders.

Mrs Kehinde Yakubu A.K.A Iya Moria

Founder, Iya Moria

If you’ve ever set foot on the University of Lagos (UNILAG) campus, you’ve likely heard the name Iya Moria. More than a food vendor, she is a cultural icon — a provider of comfort, nostalgia, and community. For thousands of students, alumni, and faculty, her meals have been more than sustenance; they have been a taste of home.

Her story is one of audacity and adaptability. She started with a modest stall, selling snacks and later simple Indomie dishes. Then came a pivotal moment — one student, one suggestion: "Why don’t you start selling full meals?" That single idea sparked a transformation. Today, she is renowned for her unforgettable amala, gbegiri, and ewedu, served with well-seasoned orisirisi, delectable organ meats, that have earned her a legendary reputation.

This February marked her 13th year in business, a milestone that speaks volumes about her resilience and dedication. Her journey is a testament to how women in informal economies shape communities, drive employment, and sustain local growth. With the support of Chowdeck, she has expanded her reach, leveraging digital solutions to streamline her operations and enhance customer engagement.

Her journey is proof that passion, perseverance, and community support can turn a simple idea into a lasting legacy. Watch her story here:

Olamidun Ogundoyin

Founder, Sooyah Bistro

Olamidun Ogundoyin is a force! A woman who does not merely follow trends but creates them. As the founder of Sooyah Bistro, she has redefined one of Nigeria’s most beloved street foods, transforming suya from a night-time roadside delicacy into an upscale, gourmet experience.

Before Sooyah Bistro, she was a trailblazer in education, serving as the Country Director of Nexford University, where she played a critical role in making affordable, high-quality education accessible to thousands of Africans. Her ability to build and scale a brand, whether in education or food, stems from her deep understanding of strategy, consumer behaviour, and market innovation.

Her success with Sooyah Bistro is no accident. It is the result of careful research, impeccable execution, and an unrelenting commitment to quality. With Chowdeck’s data analytics and operational insights, she has been able to refine her logistics, expand customer engagement, and optimise her business model.

Her story is one of fearless ambition and a relentless drive to innovate. Watch her story here:

Lerato Makume

Marketing Director, Burger King Nigeria

Lerato Makume is a master storyteller — except her medium is not words but brands. With 15 years of experience in the beverage and liquor industry, she has played a crucial role in shaping global brands, including at Allied Food & Confectionary Services Limited, the master franchisee for Burger King and Kinglace Ice cream. She’s driving their market expansion across Africa.

Her expertise lies in understanding consumer psychology and leveraging trends to build unforgettable brand experiences. Having worked across Nigeria and South Africa, she is adept at navigating dynamic markets, crafting compelling value propositions, and executing high-impact marketing campaigns that drive growth.

Her ability to forge strategic relationships and seamlessly manage cross-functional teams makes her an indispensable leader in the industry. She thrives in fast-paced, ever-evolving environments — proof that the future of marketing belongs to those who understand both data and human connection. Watch her story here:

Tomilola Adekoya

Head of E-commerce, Eat N Go

Tomilola Adekoya is a digital innovator, strategist, and changemaker in the world of e-commerce. As the Head of E-Commerce at Eat N Go Africa, she leads the charge in transforming the online presence of globally recognised brands like Domino’s Pizza, Cold Stone Creamery, and Suya Brothers. Under her leadership, digital innovation is not just a buzzword — it is a tool for expansion, efficiency, and deeper customer engagement.

Armed with a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and a Master’s in Criminology from the University of Lagos, Tomilola brings a unique edge to business strategy. Her expertise in human behaviour enables her to anticipate customer needs, craft seamless digital experiences, and drive meaningful growth.

Despite her high-impact role, Tomilola remains deeply introspective. Writing is her sanctuary — a place where ideas take shape and reflections turn into insights. Her leadership is defined by a balance of precision and passion. While she thrives in data-driven decision-making, she also values the intangible — the art of understanding people, the power of storytelling, and the joy found in life’s simple pleasures. One of those? Cold Stone’s Chocolate Devotion — best enjoyed with extra brownies and Oreos. Watch her story here:

The Future is Now — And It Is Female

These women are not just business leaders. They are architects of the future, mentors, and visionaries who continue to push boundaries and redefine possibilities.

At Chowdeck, we are not just celebrating their success — we are investing in it. Through data-driven solutions, operational support, and expansion tools, we are committed to helping women-led businesses scale, compete, and thrive in an increasingly digital world.

As we mark International Women's Day, let’s not only honour these women but commit to actionable change — supporting, funding, and championing more women in leadership. Because when women accelerate, economies thrive. Communities prosper. The world moves forward.

The future is not just female. It is now, and it is #AcceleratingYou.

What’s Next?

Join the conversation. Share your stories. Support women-led businesses. Because when we accelerate together, we go further.

With love and power,

Denise Eseimokumoh for Team Chowdeck