AFRICAN WOMEN'S LOBBY - AWL

25/05/2026

HAPPY AFRICA DAY TO ALL OUR AFRICAN BROTHERS AND SISTERS!

HAPPY AFRICA DAY TO ALL OUR AFRICAN BROTHERS AND SISTERS!

63 years ago, our forefathers gathered right here in Addis Ababa and dared to dream of a free, united Africa, and that dream still burns bright.

Today, as the proud home of the African Union, Ethiopia stands shoulder to shoulder with every African nation in that same spirit of unity.The work is far from over. Let us move from words to action, from promises to progress.

Africa's greatest resource has always been her people, and together, WE RISE!

19/05/2026

BREAKING: Prominent Lawyer Nyadol Nyuon Bany Announces Plans to Renounce Australian Citizenship Following Racism Allegations

East Africa – 19 May 2026

Award-winning lawyer and human rights advocate Nyadol Nyuon Bany has announced plans to renounce her Australian citizenship following allegations of racism and mistreatment linked to her former work with Victoria University and WorkSafe Victoria.

Nyuon, who was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in 2022 for her service to human rights and refugee women, confirmed that she has formally begun the process of returning the honour. Reports indicate that the controversy is connected to the management of the WorkWell Respect Network, an approximately AUD $800,000 Victorian government-funded workplace safety project.

In a public statement, Nyuon expressed gratitude to Australia while describing what she called deeply harmful experiences during her time working on the project.

“I am so grateful to this country. I think Australia has amazing people and amazing possibilities. I am, and will always be, indebted to it,” she wrote.

However, she added:

“Knowing what I was put through by Victoria University and WorkSafe Victoria and the others who got involved, there is no looking away. These institutions do not represent the whole of this country. They are, however, a good enough example of what it can mean to be here, especially when you are a Black woman.”

Nyuon further stated that she intends to leave Australia after securing citizenship documentation from another country.

“The next steps are to renounce my Australian citizenship and then to leave. This process requires I obtain evidence of citizenship of another country. I have been working on it. There is no hurry. All of this will take time. I hope to use that time to say my proper goodbyes, and to mourn.”

The lawyer, who arrived in Australia as a refugee from South Sudan, East Africa and later became one of the country’s most recognised advocates for refugees and multicultural communities, has previously accused both institutions of racism, professional isolation, and psychological harm connected to the WorkWell Respect Network project.

19/05/2026

BREAKING: Togo has announced VISA-FREE ENTRY for ALL African travellers effective IMMEDIATELY!

18/05/2026

DIASPORA AS AFRICA'S TRUE GOLD:

Dr. Arikana Chihombori-Quao, former African Union Representative to the United States and founder of Bell Family Medical Centers, describes the African Diaspora as Africa’s “true gold” — a powerful reflection on the value of skills, knowledge, networks, and global influence within the Diaspora.

10/05/2026

Congratulations to Rebecca Joshua Okwaci on winning the prestigious “Voice of the People” Award.

This achievement is not only a recognition of Rebecca’s outstanding work, but also a celebration of the collective strength and voice of women advancing leadership, governance, and transformative change across Africa. Rebecca continues to embody integrity, courage, and an unwavering commitment to amplifying the voices that matter most.

As one of the pioneering women involved in the registration and establishment of the African Women’s Lobby Chapter in South Sudan for East Africa, Rebecca has demonstrated visionary leadership and dedication to women’s empowerment and civic participation.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who voted, shared, encouraged, and stood in support throughout this journey. Your solidarity and belief made this moment possible.

This award represents a journey that began in Rebecca’s journey marked by resilience, determination, service, and purpose. Through every challenge and milestone, the mission has remained the same: to put people first and to create pathways and opportunities where none previously existed.

Practical leadership remains the greatest lesson, and this recognition is a reminder that meaningful change is built through action, trust, and community. This privilege is deeply appreciated and never taken for granted.

To the Voice of the Revolution — this is only the beginning. Many more milestones are yet to come.

25/03/2026

African Woman's Lobby proudly calls on all partners, allies, and supporters across the continent and diaspora to stand behind our distinguished member, Rebecca Joshua, who has been nominated for the prestigious Voice of the People 2026 (Africa) at the Thamani Africa Awards.

This nomination is not just a recognition of Rebecca’s work—it is a recognition of the collective voice of women advancing leadership, governance, and transformative change across Africa. Rebecca represents integrity, courage, and unwavering commitment to amplifying the voices that matter most.

We urge you to take immediate action:
Visit www.thamaniafricaawards.com and cast your vote for Rebecca.

Every vote is a statement. Every vote strengthens the movement. Every vote brings us closer to celebrating a leader who embodies the power and purpose of African women.

Let us mobilize with intention. Let us vote with conviction. Let us win together.

08/03/2026

Great job, ACCN! The African Chamber of Commerce Nordics - ACCN- Leadership Institute

08/03/2026

8 March 2026 – International Women’s Day: Celebrating Women Who Inspire

🇳🇴 Norway and 🇸🇸 South Sudan:
Today, we — the African Women’s Lobby, in cooperation with the African Chamber of Commerce Nordics — proudly honor Grace Jacob Bullen, a South Sudanese-Norwegian freestyle wrestler and inspiring role model.
Born February 7, 1997, Grace Jacob Bullen’s family fled conflicts in South Sudan and settled in Norway as refugees. Growing up in Fredrikstad, she discovered wrestling at a young age, training at Fredrikstad Bryteklubb Atlas and quickly showing exceptional talent.
Competing in the 57–62 kg weight classes, Grace has risen to become one of Europe’s top wrestlers and a world-class athlete. Her journey as a refugee and athlete has shaped her resilience, determination, and commitment to excellence, making her a powerful role model for young people everywhere.
Today, we celebrate Grace Jacob Bullen for her courage, perseverance, and inspiration both on and off the wrestling mat. 💛

🇫🇮 Finland and 🇸🇸 South Sudan:
Awak Kuier — a South Sudanese-Finnish basketball superstar and international role model.
Born August 19, 2001, in Cairo, Egypt, Awak Kuier’s family fled South Sudan, eventually settling in Finland. She was drafted No. 2 overall in the WNBA and has competed in top European leagues, while also leading Finland’s national team.
Her journey from refugee to global athlete exemplifies resilience, skill, and leadership, inspiring young people across sports and borders.
Today, we celebrate Awak Kuier for her excellence, perseverance, and the inspiration she brings to athletes and communities worldwide. 💛

🇫🇮 Finland and 🇪🇹 Ethiopia:
Bella Forsgrén — the first Black woman elected to the Finnish Parliament.
Born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Bella Forsgrén was adopted to Finland at age three. Growing up in multicultural environments shaped her dedication to equality, environmental justice, youth empowerment, and inclusion. Since 2019, she has represented the Green League in the Eduskunta, advocating for diversity, climate action, and multicultural representation.
Today, we celebrate Bella Forsgrén for her trailblazing leadership, advocacy, and commitment to creating an inclusive and sustainable future. 💛

🇫🇮 Finland and 🇳🇬 Nigeria:
Minna Salami — a Finnish-Nigerian journalist, writer, and founder of MsAfropolitan.
Minna Salami is a global thought leader on feminism, identity, and social justice. Through her work, she provides a platform for African and diaspora perspectives, exploring culture, politics, and empowerment across continents. Her insights and advocacy have established her as one of Finland’s most influential voices in cultural and feminist discourse.
Today, we celebrate Minna Salami for her vision, leadership, and dedication to amplifying marginalized voices and advancing gender equality worldwide. 💛

08/03/2026

8 March 2026 – International Women’s Day: Celebrating Women Who Inspire

🇸🇪 Sweden and 🇬🇲 Gambia
Today, we — the African Women’s Lobby, in cooperation with the African Chamber of Commerce Nordics — proudly honor Seinabo Sey, a Swedish-Gambian singer, songwriter, and cultural icon. Seinabo’s music fuses soul, pop, R&B, and electronic soundscapes, creating songs that celebrate personal growth, vulnerability, and female empowerment.
From her international breakthrough with Younger in 2013 to her multi-platinum albums Pretend (2015), I’m a Dream (2018), and her recent releases The One After Me (2023) and Välkommen hem (2026), Seinabo has captivated audiences worldwide with her emotional depth and authenticity. She has performed for global audiences, including the Nobel Banquet and Barack Obama, inspiring fans with her artistry and voice.
A powerful political voice as a Black woman in Sweden, Seinabo Sey continues to use her platform to uplift others, celebrate diversity, and promote female empowerment. Today, we honor her resilience, creativity, and leadership — shining examples of what it means to inspire change. 💛

🇳🇴 Norway and 🇳🇬 Nigeria
Frida Orupabo — an acclaimed visual artist of Norwegian-Nigerian descent.
Frida Orupabo’s work critically explores race, identity, and historical narratives. Her socially engaged and thought-provoking art has been exhibited in Oslo, Stockholm, and internationally. In 2023, she was shortlisted for the Deutsche Börse Photography Prize, earning widespread recognition for her powerful visual storytelling.
Today, we celebrate Frida Orupabo for her creativity, courage, and commitment to using art to challenge perspectives and inspire dialogue. 💛

🇳🇴 Norway and 🇺🇬 Uganda
Asta Busingye Lydersen — a Norwegian-Ugandan journalist, singer, and actress embodying Afro-Norwegian creativity.
Asta Busingye Lydersen is celebrated for her artistic versatility, cultural engagement, and contributions to Norway’s creative and media landscape. Through her work, she amplifies diverse voices and showcases the richness of Afro-Norwegian cultural expression.
Today, we celebrate Asta Busingye Lydersen for her creativity, leadership, and dedication to inspiring and empowering communities through art and media. 💛

07/03/2026

8 March 2026 – International Women’s Day: Celebrating Women Who Inspire:

🇸🇪 Sweden and 🇪🇷 Eritrea
Today, the African Women’s Lobby, in cooperation with the African Chamber of Commerce Nordics, proudly honors Selam Fessahaye — a Swedish-Eritrean fashion designer, stylist, and costume creator known for her bold, theatrical designs and commitment to inclusive representation.
Born in Uppsala, Sweden, Selam first made her mark in the fashion world as a stylist for artists such as Seinabo Sey, Sabina Ddumba, and Mapei. In 2018, she debuted her own designs at Stockholm Fashion Week, quickly gaining recognition for her visionary style.
Her creations are known for dramatic silhouettes, vibrant colors, tulle, sequins, and asymmetrical tailoring. Selam’s designs have been worn by global stars including Beyoncé and Rita Ora, as well as by members of Swedish royalty at the Nobel Banquet.
Recognized with awards such as ELLE’s Eye-Catcher of the Year, Selam Fessahaye continues to merge fashion with powerful cultural storytelling — using design as a platform for creativity, identity, and empowerment.
Today, we celebrate her innovation, courage, and influence as a creative leader inspiring the next generation of women. 💛

🇳🇴 Norway and 🇸🇴 Somalia:
Today, we — the African Women’s Lobby, in cooperation with the African Chamber of Commerce Nordics — proudly honor Rawdah Mohamed — a Somali-Norwegian model, influencer, and fashion activist.
Rawdah Mohamed is known for campaign, advocating for Muslim women’s rights, representation, and inclusion. She has appeared in major fashion publications and currently serves as editor for Vogue Scandinavia, using her platform to amplify diverse voices in fashion and media.
Today, we celebrate Rawdah Mohamed for her courage, advocacy, and commitment to creating a more inclusive fashion industry. 💛

🇮🇪 Ireland and 🇳🇬 Nigeria
Today, we — the African Women’s Lobby, in cooperation with the African Chamber of Commerce Nordics — proudly honor Pamela Uba — the first Black Miss Ireland.
Born in South Africa with Nigerian roots, Pamela Uba represented Ireland at Miss World 2022, inspiring young immigrant women and advocating for diversity, inclusion, and empowerment. She is also a scientist, combining intelligence and creativity with grace and visibility.
Pamela’s groundbreaking achievement as the first Black woman to win Miss Ireland has paved the way for greater representation and opportunity for women of color across Ireland and beyond.

🇩🇰 Denmark and 🇪🇹 Ethiopia:
Today, the African Women’s Lobby, in cooperation with the African Chamber of Commerce Nordics, proudly honors Etiyé Dimma Poulsen — an internationally acclaimed sculptor celebrated for her expressive ceramics that blend African heritage with modern design.
Born in Ethiopia and based in Denmark, Etiyé Dimma Poulsen has exhibited her work across Europe, Africa, and the Americas. Her sculptures are recognized for their emotional depth, technical mastery, and cultural resonance, earning her international acclaim and inclusion in major collections worldwide.
Through her art, Poulsen bridges tradition and contemporary expression, creating works that inspire, connect, and celebrate African heritage on a global stage.
Today, we honor her creativity, vision, and the transformative power of her artistry. 💛

🇳🇴 Norway and 🇰🇪 Kenya:
Today, we — the African Women’s Lobby, in cooperation with the African Chamber of Commerce Nordics — proudly honor Stella Mwangi — a Kenyan-Norwegian singer, songwriter, and Eurovision star.
Stella Nyambura Mwangi represented Norway at Eurovision 2011 and has since built a music career that blends African heritage with Norwegian pop culture. Her songs have been featured in films, television, and cultural projects, making her a bridge between Norwegian and global African music influences.
Today, we celebrate Stella Mwangi for her artistry, cultural impact, and dedication to sharing diverse musical voices with the world. 💛