The 17th Global Exquisite Lady of the Year (ELOY) Awards delivered a powerful celebration of excellence on Saturday night, reinforcing its reputation as a leading platform spotlighting women who are shaping industries and driving social and economic transformation across Africa.
Held under the theme “The Year of the Confidently Audacious Woman,” the ceremony amplified stories of innovation, leadership, and visibility, honouring outstanding women from diverse sectors including entrepreneurship, media, agriculture, technology, wellness, finance, and the creative economy.
This year’s edition not only celebrated trailblazing women but also recognised influential male allies advancing gender equality. A major highlight of the evening was the presentation of the ELOY HE4SHE Award to Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, in recognition of his consistent advocacy for gender equity and his contributions to women-focused policies and initiatives.
The awards showcased a vibrant and diverse group of achievers. Victory Wilson was named ELOY Event Host of the Year for her exceptional stage presence and polished delivery, while Dr. Kate Isa received the ELOY Recognition Award for Science and Innovation for her leadership in laboratory innovation and science education. In agriculture, Adaora Akojuru of Beta Agric Ventures Limited and Affiong Williams of Reel Fruits were jointly honoured, highlighting the growing impact of female-led transformation in the sector.
Beyond headline categories, the ceremony celebrated excellence across journalism, technology, humanitarian leadership, creative arts, wellness, culinary arts, fashion, and media, reflecting the broad and multifaceted contributions of women across the continent.
Other award recipients include Candace Ebhomielen-Uaboi (Real Estate & Construction), Nkemdilim Begho (Technology), Ifeoma Okeke-Korieocha (Print Media Journalism), Sonia Uche (Creative Arts – Acting and YouTube Filmmaker), Koyinsola Vera-Cruz (Hair Business), Omawumi Ogbe (Public Relations), Ibukun Ajagbe (IBQuake) (Arts), Ngozi Adighotu (Culinary Arts), Chioma Fakorede (Wellness), and Esther Nwankwo (Baby Lawyer) (On-Air Personality).
Also recognised were Ojy Okpe (TV Personality), Wema Bank – SARA by Wema (Brand Supporting Women Empowerment), Mrs. Yewande Zaccheus (Fashion), Omoyemi Akerele (Visionary Leader Award), Elizabeth Elohor (Entrepreneurship), Dr. Ronke Adeniyi (Education), Tara Fela-Durotoye (Legacy Builder Award), and Ruth Kadiri (Recognition for Digital Film Innovation).
Founder of the ELOY Awards and CEO of Exquisite Magazine, Dr. Tewa Onasanya, reaffirmed the platform’s mission to elevate women’s visibility and influence.
“This year’s awards reaffirm our commitment to spotlight women who are breaking barriers, building legacies, and leading with courage. The 2025 nominees and winners remind us that women across Africa are unstoppable when given visibility and support,” she said.
Now in its 17th year, the Global ELOY Awards continues to strengthen its role as a continental catalyst for women’s empowerment, fostering networks that advance inclusion, leadership development, and economic growth across Africa.
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