African Wonder Women Organisation CIC (AWWOrgCIC), an advocacy initiative that supports widows, the bereaved and those who have experienced or are going through trauma is set to host the inaugural edition of her annual emotional wellness convention. This convention shall be physical and themed: “Break th e Stigma 2024: A Conclave for Compassionate Change”

‘Widowhood’ is a club no woman subscribed to and according to the United Nations, widows are referred to as ‘The Forgotten Community’. However, AWWOrgCIC has been remembering, supporting and celebrating this phenomenal group of women and other bereaved people with virtual emotional wellness seminars since we launched in 2021. Due to popular demand, African Wonder Women Organisation CIC started hosting her Face2Face ‘EVERY EMOTION IS VALID’ (EEIV) Convention in Milton Keynes. The convention is set to host over 100 attendees.

Adopting a mental wellness, culture and creativity approach, the convention will be seeking unconventional ways to address societal issues, help attendees detox, network, embrace the culture and build meaningful relationships at her first ever in-person convention. Attendees will also leave refreshed and with renewed hope for a brighter future.

This convention will be packed with lots of fun, mentally stimulating and engaging activities including; a Keynote speech, Guest speeches, Panel Discussions, Workshops, Guest Performances, Fashion Show, Exhibition, Raffle Draw, Music, Entertainment and Networking.

As October is also ‘Black History Month’, we shall be celebrating ‘Blackness’ and incorporating cultural and creative entertainment.

We are excited and look forward to welcoming you on the day.

With our ‘EVERY EMOTION IS VALID’ Convention, African Wonder Women Organisation CIC is empowering the forgotten community of widows, women and young girls, and are hoping to make the convention affordable to a wide community of attendees. As such, there is a call out for sponsors, exhibitors, volunteers and media partners with a shared vision of supporting our purpose and ensuring the event achieves its aim.

MEET OUR CONVENER

Princess Folaji Fasanya-Omoyeni is a distinguished STEM professional, serial entrepreneur, and a transformation and confidence coach with a multifaceted career.
As the CEO of BISFOM TECH Services Ltd, a UK-based digital technology company, Princess Folaji excels in guiding organisations through the complexities of modern business with automation, new technologies, and organisational transformation. She founded the Digital Explorers Café, a platform that empowers women and individuals over 40 with digital skills. Princess Folaji’s extensive background in IT consulting spans various sectors, including education, security, manufacturing and many more.
Princess Folaji is the founder and convener of the African Wonder Women Organisation CIC (AWWOrgCIC), a UK-based not-for-profit organisation supporting the bereaved, traumatised and oppressed especially African widows, women and young girls. Additionally, Princess Folaji is the founder and chairperson of Ladies Mingle, a Business, Career and Leadership Development Networking group for women.
A champion of African cultural heritage, Princess Folaji is also the CEO of FFOLAJI LONDON, a luxury, multi-award-winning African-inspired fashion brand. She is an active member of Black Creatives MK and passionately promotes African art, culture and creativity.
Princess Folaji is a qualified coach and mentor. Her leadership and service have earned her over 20 awards and recognitions for her impact, dedication, and community service. As a widow and mother to two young men, Princess Folaji embodies resilience, dedication and a commitment to making a difference.

MEET OUR GRAND PATRON & SPEACIAL GUEST OF HONOUR

Chief (Mrs.) Nike Monica Okundaye popularly known and called “MAMA NIKE” by her numerous fans, is a multi talented, award winning artist and social entrepreneur. She is a painter, a textile artist, weaver, and embroiderer. As a social entrepreneur and a philanthropist, she is well known for championing the cause of the neglected Nigerian rural women using art as a tool to self emancipation. Nike Centre for Art and Culture, in Osogbo has trained over 3000 young Nigerians (mainly violated and abused young women) who have gone on to earn decent living through art. Amongst her numerous awards is the 2006 “Ordine Della Stella Della Solidarieta Italiana” one of the highest Italian national awards of merit given by the government of the Republic of Italy in appreciation of her efforts in using art to address and solve the problems of Nigerian sex workers in Italy. Chief (Mrs.) Nike Monica Okundaye is happily married with children.

OUR KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

Dr T. Ayodele Ajayi

Dr T. Ayodele Ajayi is an NHS Consultant Psychiatrist, and a Fellow of the Royal College of Psychiatrists. He is an engaging and passionate International speaker on his subject. Dr Ajayi is the Founder of Tripart Care Emotional Well-being Hub, and runs the Tripart Care Mind Gym courses. Dr. Ajayi has been featured in national public mental health media campaigns and multiple BBC interviews on mental health in Black and church communities.

Wale Idris Ajibade, Ph.D.

Wale Idris Ajibade (Wale Idris) is an economist, a professor of Sociology at Essex College and the founder and executive director of African Views (AV), a nonprofit organization in consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council. The African Views Organization focuses on society’s wellbeing by promoting cultural sustainability and cultural harmony through scientific and social research, community assessment, resource mapping, and project development. He is the architect of the AV framework for Sustainable Development Goals, or SDGs, including the African Cultural Exchange (ACE) programs, a new concept for connecting classrooms of children in Africa with children on other continents. He developed and produced programs such as African Health Dialogues (AHD), advocating the establishment of the African Center for Disease Control. He designed the global outreach for Youth Initiatives, Sustainable Development Goals, Green Africa, Culture Diplomats, New Deals, the Anti Violence Against Women Act (AVAWA), the Spirit of Peace and Prosperity, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), and African Views Television (AVTV). He advocated for African and Caribbean summits and visa-free travel with a path to citizenship for the African Diaspora as part of the reconciliation. He is the progenitor of the African Royal Kingdom (ARK) and the Royal Institute of Global African Cultures and Traditions for the Royal African Kingdoms. Dr. Wale Idris Ajibade is a distinguished professor of international law and order. He has a chieftaincy title, Nana Ankobiahene, from the Dwenase traditional district of Ghana. He speaks English, German, and Yoruba. He is the author of The Long Struggle for Gender Harmony in Afghanistan first and second editions (https://bit.ly/afghanipeace ), 100 Peaceful Solutions for the Advancement of Women across Cultures, and his upcoming book is ‘A Warm and Peaceful Home: The Evolution of Nigeria.

OUR GUEST SPEAKERS

Dr. Monica Simisola Alabi

Dr. Monica Simisola Alabi MBBS MRCGP MSc Health Policy & Leadership DRCOG DFSRH Pg Cer Med Ed Dr. Simi is a seasoned clinician, healthcare strategist, entrepreneur, and speaker who is a bridge between medical practice, wellness, and healthcare systems. Graduating from the University of Lagos, Nigeria, Dr. Simi earned her CCT in General Practice in the United Kingdom. Her pursuit of excellence led her to further studies at institutions such as the University of Bedfordshire, Imperial College London, and Oxford University. Throughout her illustrious career, Dr. Simi has held pivotal roles, such as Advisor to the Secretary of State for Health, Clinical Lead for Population Health in the BLMK Integrated Care System, Primary Care Network Director and multiple Clinical Director roles. Additionally, she served as the Deputy Chair for a health commissioning body. She has led regional reviews of health systems and spearheaded award-winning projects showcased nationally, including the paediatric urgent care pathways, cluster working, population health heart failure project and more. With a passion for education, Dr. Simi has dedicated years to mentoring future primary care specialists under Health Education England. She is often requested to teach future GPs on various topics, including health policy and clinical medicine. She also teaches on the Health Policy and Leadership Masters Programme at Imperial College London. Having been a longstanding partner in a UK practice, Dr Simi transitioned to leading her own company, built on three pillars: Patients, Policy, and Products. She has a boutique clinical practice, advises on policy, and has a range of vitamins and other products. Dr Simi served on the board selection advisory committee with the Lagos State Ministry for Health. Dr Simi believes in total health and wellness, not just disease management. She advises Bluecrest Wellness, a leading UK wellness company. She also runs a not-for-profit, Beyond Wealth, dedicated to helping black students secure admission to Russell Group Universities. She has written a book which provides a background to the ‘why’ behind the organisation. Dr Simi has won various awards, including the Advancing Health in the Community, Advancing Health in Media, Powerhouse Global Award, and many more.

Akello Oliech

Akello Oliech is a Counsellor at Salama. Counselling Salama in Swahili is an all-encompassing word that means safe, peace and wellness. I am a registered counsellor with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I have a BA (Hons) in Counselling. I offer counselling services to adults 18 years and over.

Jeanette Skipsey

Dilys Sillah

Dilys Sillah is the bestselling author of the book, ‘Not This Widow’, a story of resilience and defiance in the face of profound grief. She is also the author of ‘Predator or Prince – How To Find The Man Of Your Dreams, Not Your Nightmares’. She is a qualified and accredited transformational life coach, women and children’s advocate, a public and TEDx speaker, events MC, patron and minister at New Glory Ministry in London. Dilys is also the host of ‘Speak With Dilys’ a show aired via Facebook and the Founder of ‘Not This Widow Foundation’.

Tolulope Olajide

Tolu is a dedicated father of two and a seasoned Continuous Improvement Professional. After a profound personal loss in 2020, when he became a widower and a sole caregiver, Tolu used his expertise in transforming processes and optimising operations to establish Balanced Wheel, a bereavement support charity inspired by his late wife, Chidinma. Balanced Wheel, embodying the idea of life as a journey, has reached out to over 5000 bereaved individuals, guiding them through the complexities of grief and helping them adjust to life after loss. The charity’s support groups and social media platforms have been instrumental in fostering understanding and providing much-needed support. Tolu’s own journey through grief has enriched his empathetic leadership style, with a keen emphasis on mental and emotional wellbeing alongside productivity. His operational excellence has driven change within his charity, enabling a swift and efficient response to those needing bereavement support.

Anne Ogunlesi

I wear several hats and I’m passionate about them all. I am a teacher, writer, and therapeutic counsellor. A humanitarian, worshipper, mother, firm supporter of friends, an advocate against domestic violence and a defender of children and vulnerable people. Most recently, I became an author of my book: 33 And Still Standing.

MEET OUR EVENT COORDINATORS

Milton Keynes is about to experience another explosion of seasoned speakers and participants bringing a wealth of experience and insights, and enriching our convention with deep knowledge and proven expertise with which to #BreakTheStigma.

We’re also showcasing fashion at its finest and celebrating Black History Month with the 2nd AFRICAN FASHION RUNWAY and creativity showcase!

Ejiro Osakede, popularly known as The Energetic EJ—is a passionate Life and transformational Coach, Podcaster, and exceptional Event Host on a mission to empower women aged 40 and above to turn abandoned dreams into achievements through effective coaching, helping them activate their voices for impact leading to a more fulfilling life. She’s the host of Stretch Street Podcast and a seasoned event host/moderator for virtual and physical events. She’s authored three books and received several recognitions and awards.

A highly experienced and professional event host with extensive background in hosting both social and corporate events, such as business exhibitions, product launches, community programs, and award ceremonies. A certified life coach with expertise in Life Transitions, Funmi has been privileged to speak at a number of community and high-profile events and her mission is to shatter negative mindset, build resilience and guide women (and men) through the process of navigating the journey from setback to a powerful comeback. Funmi, who is also a qualified learning disability nurse and mental health practitioner, is an advocate for persons with learning disability and a mental health first aider. Funmi is the author of the book; Adversity to Adventure: How to connect the dots when the unexpected happens which is available to buy on Amazon.

Priscilla Nwikpo is an award-winning broadcaster, with a wealth of experience as a TV anchor as well as a political commentator. She is an engaging moderator of high profiled political and business conversations often attended by captains of industry and political leaders from across the world. She is also an advocate of women’s issues. Priscilla holds a certificate for Executive leadership from Oxford University.

Duchess Iphie is a qualified psychosexual therapist with a focus on Relationships, Sex and Intimacy. She is the founder of Duchess Secrets™️, The Intimacy Cards and The Intimacy Guide. She has written for The Daily Mail, Metro, Cosmopolitan and been a guest on the Cosmopolitan podcast. She is a mum of two children and believes intimacy is the overarching key to a great relationship (romantic or platonic).

Olatokunbo Mojisola Sonowo (HND, MA, MCIPD) is the CEO and Founder of Suscito Limited, founded in 2019/2020 out of “Sessions with Toks” with the objective to coach, equip and empower applicants from the black and Ethnic Minority Community into employment and career paths. An Accounting and Finance graduate, Olatokunbo holds a post graduate degree in Management studies, and an MA in Human Resource Management. Passionate about recruitment and helping others, she has 13 years’ experience as a Resourcing and Recruitment lead, working for the CPS and the Department for Transport. She holds membership status at the Chartered Institute of Professional Development. Since 2019, Olatokunbo has successfully equipped, coached and empowered 97% of referred applicants into new roles, providing expert guidance and support through each stage of the recruitment process. Olatokunbo has delivered numerous webinars, coaching and awareness sessions and worked in collaboration and partnership with other organisations on the recruitment process. In 2023, she received two awards, the “Influential Role Model & Mentors Award 2023” and the “Entrepreneurial Woman of the Year Award” as part of International Women’s Day activities.

Ronke Adebajo is a qualified NLP (neuro-linguistic programming) Coach and Trainee Therapist. She has a background in IT Consultancy and Training with over 20 years’ experience. Ronke is the founder/host of Story Before Glory, a faith-based media platform where guests share extraordinary stories that enable healing, build faith, and encourage godly values. This has been aired on SKY TV & other African Nations. This and her passion to help people attain wholeness & healing lead her to seeking qualifications as a Coach and Therapist. She now runs HOLNES, a Transformative Coaching & Counselling Skills organisation where Ronke uses Integrative NLP Coaching and Counselling Skills to help her clients journey into WHOLENESS as they become better versions of themselves. Ronke is passionate about young adults and has actively mentored & given pastoral care for over 10 years. She uses her flagship ‘Mentoring Programme’ and ‘Inside Out with Holnes’ seminars (a monthly virtual Community talk series) to help both young adults and adults gain clarity and realign their desires for an impactful and holistic living. Her desire is for people to heal from soul hurts and live a purposeful & fulfilling life. Ronke Adebajo is a happily married with 2 blessed children.


23 years working within this sector, specialising in Mental Health. Working in partnership with local authorities and our Trusts/ Clinical Commissioning Groups which has been achieved through a series of steps of faith, experience and knowledge acquisition. Over the last 15 years, I have overseen the management of high-end mental health Care Quality Commissioners (CQC), Supported Housing services and Advocacy Services in a range of geographical boroughs including Camden, Islington, Westminster, Tower Hamlets, Newham, Lewisham, Greenwich, Ealing, Hackney and Crowthorne. I am embarking on a new journey, as I am in my 3rd year of a BSc (Hons) in Health & Social Care. As well as making new career choices particularly in the area of setting up my own company. Delving into performing arts and entertainment as a singer/ songwriter, aspiring actress, MC and event Host as well as developing and delivering bespoke Mental Health Awareness Training/Workshops. Having mentored and coached many to reach their professional/career ambitions, I endeavour to continue to be an Inspirational Speaker.

Buki Sobodu is honoured to be back supporting Princess Folaji on yet another powerful convention. Born to Nigerian and Caribbean parents, Buki is passionate about helping others realise their potential and uses her life experiences to support women in her network. As a Financial and Business Development coach, she helps her clients to work to achieving their vision, minimising any limiting beliefs by engaging, educating and empowering them to dare to dream big. Buki also offers complimentary mentoring services to vulnerable women. Buki is a proud mom to one, aunt to many, and adopted sister to hundreds more. A keen believer of all work and no play makes Jane a dull girl; Buki enjoys writing, cooking, socialising and travelling.

MEET OUR GUEST PERFORMERS

 

 

MEET OUR FASHION SHOW HOST

MEET SHOWCASING FASHION BRANDS

Day 1 – Virtual Seminar Only – £10

Day 2 – Fashion Show, Creativity Showcase & Networking Only – £15

Days 1/2&3 – Access All Days: Conference, Workshop, 3-Course Gala Dinner, Fashion Show, Creativity Showcase & Networking – £45

Day 3 – Continuation of Arts, Culture & Creativity Exhibition – FREE to All Ticket Holders

All tickets available on Eventbrite at “EVERY EMOTION IS VALID” – REGISTER HERE!!

By registering and participating in this event, you agree to be photographed and recorded for post-event marketing and promotions.