So, how can you become an empathetic leader and reap the rewards? Here are 6 practical tips:

1. Become a master listener:

• Give your full attention: Put away distractions, make eye contact, and show genuine interest in what others have to say. Actively listen, not just wait for your turn to speak.
• Ask open-ended questions: Go beyond “yes” or “no” answers.Encourage people to share their thoughts, feelings, and concerns. Pay attention to their body language as much as their words.
• Practice active listening: Summarize what you’ve heard to ensure understanding and validate their experiences. Phrases like “So, it sounds like you’re saying…” or “I hear you feeling…” demonstrate empathy.

2. Show genuine care and concern:

• Get to know your team members:Take time to learn about their strengths, weaknesses, aspirations,and personal lives. This builds trust and allows you to tailor your approach to each individual.
• Celebrate successes and offer support during challenges: Be present for your team through thick and thin. Acknowledge their achievements, big and small, and offer support when they face difficulties. Remember, empathy involves both joy and sorrow.
• Go the extra mile: Small gestures of kindness like remembering birthdays,offering help with personal tasks, or simply asking “how are you doing?” can have a profound impact.

3. Create a safe space for open communication:

• Encourage honest feedback: Make it clear that you value feedback, even if it’s critical. Create an environment where people feel comfortable expressing their opinions without fear of judgment.
• Be open to different perspectives:Not everyone will see things the way you do. Embrace diversity of thought and actively listen to opposing viewpoints.
• Address conflict constructively:When disagreements arise, focus on finding solutions together rather than assigning blame. Use empathy to understand the other person’s perspective and find common ground.

4. Lead by example:

• Demonstrate empathy in your own actions: Be mindful of your body language, tone of voice, and the impact your words have on others.
• Practice transparency and vulnerability: Share your own challenges and setbacks. This humanizes you and makes it easier for others to connect with you on an emotional level.
• Show appreciation and recognition:Publicly acknowledge the contributions of your team members.This fosters a sense of belonging and motivates them to go the extra mile.

5. Invest in learning and development:

• Expand your understanding of emotional intelligence: Read books,attend workshops, or seek coaching to refine your empathy skills.
• Encourage your team to do the same: Provide resources and opportunities for your team members to develop their own emotional intelligence. This creates a more empathetic and understanding workplace culture.

6. Measure and track your progress:

• Seek feedback from your team: Ask them how you can be more empathetic and supportive.
• Monitor team performance and engagement: Look for data that suggests improved communication,collaboration, and morale.

Remember, cultivating empathy takes time and effort. But the rewards are worth it. By leading with empathy, you’ll build stronger relationships, inspire your team, and create a more positive and productive workplace for everyone.

1. Jollof Rice (West Africa)

This legendary dish sparks friendly rivalries across West African nations, each claiming their version as the best. A fragrant medley of rice, tomatoes, onions, and spices, Jollof transcends borders and brings communities together for celebrations and everyday meals.

2. Ethiopian Injera and Wat (East Africa)

Injera, a spongy sourdough flatbread, acts as both plate and utensil for Ethiopia’s vibrant Wats. These stews, brimming with lentils, chickpeas, or vegetables simmered in aromatic spices, offer a delicious and nutritious vegetarian feast.

3. Nyama Choma (East Africa)

This Swahili term translates to “grilled meat,” and Nyama Choma does not disappoint. Tender skewers of beef, lamb, or goat are char-grilled to perfection, often marinated in simple spices and served with Kachumbari, a refreshing tomato and onion salad.

4. Okra Stew (West Africa)

This versatile vegetable takes center stage in a variety of West African stews. In Ghana, “Okra soup” combines the slimy goodness of okra with tomatoes, onions, and spices, while Sierra Leone’s “Egusi soup” adds protein with ground melon seeds.

5. Bobotie (South Africa)

This Cape Malay classic embodies the cultural fusion of South Africa. Spiced minced meat is baked in a creamy custard base, topped with fragrant apricot jam, creating a sweet and savory symphony of flavors.

6. Fufu and Groundnut Soup (West Africa)

This hearty combination is a staple in many West African countries. Fufu, a starchy cassava or yam dumpling, is dipped into a rich peanut soup simmered with vegetables and spices, offering a comforting and flavorful meal.

7. Couscous (North Africa)

Tiny steamed semolina pearls form the base of this versatile dish. Moroccan lamb couscous with vegetables and raisins, or Tunisian couscous with fish and harissa, are just a few tempting variations showcasing the North African culinary tapestry.

8. Kitfo (East Africa)

This Ethiopian dish caters to the adventurous palate. Finely chopped raw beef, seasoned with spices and herbs, is served fresh with melted butter and injera, offering a unique and flavorful experience.

9. Moin-Moin (West Africa)

Steamed bean pudding doesn’t sound exciting, but this West African treat will surprise you. Mashed beans blended with spices and onions are steamed in leaves or bowls, creating a hearty and protein-rich snack or side dish.

10. Malaza (East Africa)

This fermented banana dessert from Uganda is a sweet and tangy treat. Mashing and fermenting ripe bananas creates a pudding-like dessert, often served with coconut milk or peanuts, offering a unique and local dessert experience.

This list is just a glimpse into the vast and vibrant culinary world of Africa. Each region, each country, even each village holds its own hidden gems waiting to be discovered. So, be adventurous, ask locals, and be open to new experiences. Remember, the best meals are often shared with loved ones, creating memories that linger long after the last bite. Bon appétit!

1. Early Marriage:

Despite legal efforts to curb the practice, child marriage remains prevalent in some regions. Robbed of education and childhood, girls face increased risks of health complications, poverty, and domestic violence. Data from UNICEF shows that Sub-Saharan Africa has the highest prevalence of child marriage, with 40% of girls married before the age of 18.

2. Female Genital Mutilation (FGM):

Rooted in traditional beliefs, FGM involves the partial or total removal of female genitalia. The procedure, often performed without consent or proper medical care, inflicts physical and psychological trauma, impacting sexual health, childbirth, and emotional well-being. The World Health Organization estimates that 200 million girls and women globally have undergone FGM, with high prevalence in some African countries.

3. Gender-Based Violence:

In many communities, traditional norms that condone male dominance and female subordination contribute to a culture of silence around gender-based violence. Girls and women face physical, sexual, and emotional abuse at home, in schools, and within the wider community. UN Women reports that one in three women worldwide have experienced physical or sexual violence, with higher rates in certain African regions.

4. Educational Barriers:

Despite significant progress in recent years, girls in many parts of Africa still face unequal access to education. Cultural biases that prioritize boys’ education, early marriage, and household chores can contribute to high dropout rates for girls. UNESCO data shows that 20% of girls in Sub-Saharan Africa are out of school compared to 14% of boys.

5. Limited Economic Opportunities:

Traditional structures often deny girls ownership of land, inheritance rights, and access to financial resources. This limits their economic independence and perpetuates a cycle of poverty, making them vulnerable to exploitation and forced labor. According to the World Bank, women in Sub-Saharan Africa own only 1% of the land, despite playing a crucial role in agricultural production.

6. Purity Shaming:

Restrictive cultural norms surrounding sexuality can shame girls for natural bodily functions, expression, and desire. This can lead to social isolation, anxiety, and negative mental health outcomes. A 2020 study by Plan International found that 56% of girls in low- and middle-income countries felt restricted in their ability to talk about their bodies and sexuality.

7. Negative Rituals and Beliefs:

In some traditional practices, girls are associated with bad luck, illness, or misfortunes. This can lead to discriminatory rituals, isolation, and even abandonment. Such harmful beliefs hinder girls’ self-esteem and integration within their communities.

8. Preference for Sons:

The social and economic advantages historically associated with having sons can lead to a deep-seated preference for male offspring. This can manifest in neglect, discrimination, and even female infanticide. UNFPA data shows that the global sex ratio at birth has become increasingly skewed towards males, indicating a worrying trend against girls.

Addressing these harmful practices requires a multi-pronged approach:

• Education and awareness: Open dialogues within families and communities are crucial to challenge harmful norms and promote gender equality.
• Legislation and enforcement: Laws against child marriage, FGM, and gender-based violence need strong enforcement mechanisms.
• Empowerment initiatives:Investments in girls’ education,economic opportunities, and healthcare are essential for their self-determination and success.
• Shifting social narratives: Promoting positive role models and stories of empowered African girls can change perceptions and inspire cultural transformation.

Breaking the silence and addressing these deeply ingrained cultural stigmas and taboos is crucial for ensuring a future where every African girl has the opportunity to reach her full potential. By empowering girls, we empower entire communities and pave the way for a more just and equitable future for all.

Defying economic barriers and family opposition to secure her midwifery license, Eva considers this as more than just a job, it’s her purpose.

Eva doesn’t just deliver babies, she fights for them. She uses radio to address misconceptions in Uganda about healthcare, highlighting the risks of home births and promoting hospital deliveries due to the higher risks of fatal infection and bleeding. In 2023, she established a newborn clinic in Nakaseke, improving the safety of childbirth at the hospital and increasing the number of families served.

“Patients, colleagues, and supervisors call Nangalo a voice for the voiceless: for mothers who hadn’t felt seen or heard by the country’s healthcare system, babies whose deaths were preventable, and healthcare workers without the resources or know-how to advocate for themselves. Her work as a midwife is lifesaving—and her work as a mentor to other midwives is responsible for saving many thousands more.”

— Bill Gates

But her biggest impact might be on other midwives. She travels for hours, on her own dime, to teach them lifesaving skills and empower them to save mothers and babies.

In April 2023, Eva was recognized as a hero in her field by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, a testament to her determination and work of 23 years to end maternal mortality.

In an interview with SheCentre, Eva shed light on the challenges midwives face in Uganda, from dealing with electricity blackouts during deliveries to the lack of ambulances, forcing them to use motorcycles to transport newborns to nearby hospitals. She also mentioned how she keeps her hair short to save money, redirecting those funds to help patients in need. Through a farming business and the unwavering support of her husband, Eva strives to make a lasting impact.

“I’ve wanted my hair to be like other women. But then I think of the one dollar saving a mother’s life”

Today, Nangalo’s a legend. Mothers, babies, and midwives across Uganda, Africa, and even the world know her name. From defying odds to becoming a global hero, her story is one of pure passion and impact.

1. For Project Management:

• Trello: Picture a whiteboard for the digital age. Trello’s intuitive kanban boards let you visualize tasks, track progress in real-time, and collaborate seamlessly with your team. Whether you’re juggling small sprints or epic projects, Trello keeps things organized and efficient.
• Asana: This clean-cut app helps you prioritize tasks, set deadlines, and communicate effectively with colleagues. Think of it as a personal command center for your projects,ensuring nothing falls through the cracks and teamwork flows smoothly.

2. For Time Tracking:

• RescueTime: Ever wonder where your workday vanished? RescueTime subtly monitors your computer activity, revealing how you actually spend your time. Gain valuable insights into your productivity patterns, identify time drains, and reclaim control of your work hours.
• Focus Keeper: Based on the Pomodoro Technique, this app breaks down your work into focused intervals followed by short breaks. By structuring your day in timed bursts,you optimize concentration, reduce burnout, and tackle tasks with laser focus.

3. For Better Communication:

• Slack: This ubiquitous platform has revolutionized team communication.With channels, direct messages, and file sharing, it keeps you connected with colleagues in real-time,regardless of location. Brainstorm ideas, share updates, and keep projects moving forward, all within a dynamic digital hub.
• Zoom: Video conferencing has become essential in the remote work era. Zoom allows you to conduct seamless meetings, presentations,and even webinars, fostering virtual connections and collaboration even when miles apart.

4. For Continous Learning:

• LinkedIn Learning: Upgrade your skillset with access to a vast library of online courses across diverse fields.Whether you want to master new software or stay ahead of industry trends, LinkedIn Learning provides bite-sized lessons and industry-recognized certificates to bolster your professional toolkit.
• Masterclass: Learn from the crème de la crème with online video lessons featuring industry icons. Gain invaluable insights and inspiration from renowned experts in your field,whether it’s writing with Margaret Atwood or cooking with Massimo Bottura.

5. For Data Visualization:

• Tableau: This powerful tool transforms complex data into stunning visuals, making insights easily digestible and impactful.Create interactive dashboards and reports to impress clients and colleagues, communicate clearly, and translate data into actionable strategies.
• Google Data Studio: This free platform allows you to create customized reports and visualizations from various data sources like spreadsheets. Analyze information effectively, generate compelling charts and graphs, and tell data-driven stories with ease.

Beyond the Tools:

Remember, technology is a powerful tool, but it’s not a magic solution. To truly unlock its potential, you need to:

• Use them consistently: Make these tools a natural part of your workflow,not just occasional guests.
• Plan strategically: Integrate them into your existing processes and tailor them to your specific needs.
• Embrace continuous learning: Never stop exploring new features,attending workshops, and upskilling yourself.

By actively leveraging these digital tools and fostering a growth mindset, you can supercharge your productivity, enhance your skills, and catapult your career to new heights. Rmbracing these tools and a commitment to continuous learning can unlock your full potential and make you a force to be reckoned with in the ever-evolving professional landscape. Remember, technology is your ally, not your enemy. Use it wisely, and watch your career soar!

Meet esteemed event planner Feyikemi Kukoyi, renowned for curating unforgettable experiences, who is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated Bond with Me 007; Lagos Royale Edition. After eight successful years in the United States of America, Feyikemi is bringing this extraordinary event to her home country, Nigeria, for its maiden edition. 

The Convener Feyikemi says, “Bringing Bond With Me 007 to Nigeria has always been a dream of mine and I’m happy it’s finally becoming a reality. I want Nigerians to enjoy Valentine’s Day in a way that hasn’t been explored here before. We call it the 007 style and I look forward to sharing that experience with all attendees”.

In this inspiring Lady Boss Conversation with her she takes us through her journey, experiences, importance of collaboration in the event industry and how she balances both work and personal life.

Can you share a bit about your journey in the event planning industry and how you got started almost two decades ago?

Absolutely! I’d love to share a bit of my journey. My name is Feyikemi Kukoyi, often called F. T. K. – the initials of my husband and me, Feyikemi Tosin-Kokoyi. About 17 years ago, pregnant and planning my daughter’s one-year-old birthday party, I realized my passion for event planning. From childhood in Nigeria to organizing a princess-themed birthday, my love for meticulous event details was ingrained.

Fast forward to a 3-day destination 40th birthday in Florida, featuring luxurious themes and stunning moments for 60 guests. Inspired, we founded FTK Konnect Events almost 20 years ago. It all started with my husband suggesting FTK Concept on Facebook, and it stuck. That’s a glimpse into how the journey began.

As an international wedding and event planner, what inspired you to specialize in this niche, and to start Bond With Me?

Yes, as an international wedding and event planner, what inspired me to specialize in the Bond With Me 007 niche? I noticed a gap in the market for a special Valentine’s Day event. Living in the States, I observed the early marketing for Valentine’s, and the events I attended fell short. So, in 2015, after a vivid dream, I felt compelled to create a luxurious, high-end Valentine’s event.

The first two years were held in Washington, D.C., featuring scavenger hunts, a casino Royale vibe, burlesque performances, and live music. Attendees from various states embraced the concept, showcasing the demand for a unique, high-quality Valentine’s Day experience. Now, eight years later, Bond With Me 007 remains our flagship event, growing stronger each year.

Event planning often involves handling unexpected challenges. Can you share a memorable experience where you had to overcome a major obstacle and how it contributed to your growth as a professional?

Oh yes, event planning has its different levels of expected challenges, and I guess that’s what makes us professionals. I’ve been doing this professionally for 17 years and anticipated, knowing that there would be multiple layers and different tiers of challenges, both expected and unexpected. Conquering these challenges is part of why you need a professional event planner, regardless of the scale of the event, whether small, medium-sized, or large.

A memorable experience occurred not too long ago, just last year in 2023. We planned a wedding at a Jewish venue, which brought unique challenges such as food restrictions and limitations on vendors. Cooking on-site was not allowed, making the venue a blank canvas. Every vendor, from tables and chairs to utensils and chafing dishes, had to be coordinated by my team. Two weeks before the event, a major vendor unexpectedly pulled out, providing utensils, plates, chafing dishes, and warmers. This was a multicultural wedding with the bride’s family from the Caribbean and the groom’s family from Nigerian.

Despite the challenges, we secured a refund and swiftly booked a new vendor, interviewing multiple options within a short timeframe. It wasn’t an easy process, but our experience and professionalism allowed us to overcome these unexpected challenges. Calming the couple down and assuring them that the issue would be resolved was crucial. Without a planner, this situation could have been overwhelming for the couple, and the last-minute changes incurred additional expenses.

This experience contributed to our growth and emphasized the importance of having options and being prepared for unforeseen circumstances. We learned valuable lessons, and each day, we continue to grow through new experiences in the world of event planning.

With your international experience, how do you navigate cultural differences when planning Bond With Me? Any memorable anecdotes or lessons learned?

Okay, as an intentional wedding and event planner, I honestly greatly pride ourselves in that we’ve been able to navigate different cultural differences. Not just at Bond with Me 007, but even at weddings and events with diversified guests. We’ve done many multicultural biracial weddings, such as Caucasian and Nigerian, Caucasian and Jamaican, Cameroonian-Nigerian, Senegalese-Nigerian, Ghanaian-Nigerian, and even Haitian-Nigerian, Haitian-Jamaican, among others.

One of the things I pride myself heavily with our branding and marketing is that we absolutely embrace and love diversity. With Bond with Me 007, in the years we’ve put up this event every single year in a row, the very first year was beautiful, almost feeling like an international football event with attendees from different backgrounds – Asians, Caucasians, African Americans, and mostly Nigerian. It was such a beautiful, well-balanced event, providing international validation and kick-starting Bond with Me 007 on a great note.

Since then, we’ve maintained the diversity, making it not just a very Nigerian and cultural event but a beautifully diversified one. It has become a well-balanced event where people come to network, meet new people, and mingle. We pride ourselves in being able to continue to grow with cultural differences and host beautiful, diversified events at Bond with Me 007.

Collaboration and networking are crucial in the event planning industry. How do you build and maintain strong relationships with clients, vendors, and other industry professionals?

Collaboration and networking are crucial in our industry, and it’s something I take pride in. Over the past 17 years, we’ve developed long-lasting relationships with both clients and vendors, relying on these connections for successful event planning. We have repeat clients for weddings, birthdays, and various events, and we value the longevity of these relationships.

FTK Konnect Events embraces and welcomes networking and relationship-building. We understand the dynamics of working with both new and established brands, appreciating the mutual support and partnership in the industry. Currently, we continue to collaborate with vendors and clients we’ve worked with over the years, and we are open to connecting with new partners in the field.

Balancing work and personal life is often a challenge for entrepreneurs. How do you manage your time effectively and maintain a healthy work-life balance?

 This is a common question I receive, even from clients. I’ve been planning weddings and events for 17 years. Around year 8 or 9, I started exploring the possibility of going into event planning full time. Prior to that, I worked in corporate America as a financial consultant. Eventually, by year 9, I transitioned into event planning full time. It’s been a blessing to turn my passion into a profession, allowing for a mostly flexible schedule. As an entrepreneur, mom, and wife, having my own schedule enables me to live a well-balanced life. Starting as an event planner at an early age and navigating through different life stages, including having teenagers, has made life easier. Despite occasional challenges, I’m thankful for the support of friends, family, and my husband, allowing us to balance responsibilities effectively. I feel blessed and thankful to do this full time, creating my own schedule and maintaining a well-balanced life.

Looking ahead, what excites you the most about the future of the Bond With Me event and Specifically it success in Lagos, Nigeria. 

I’m thrilled about Bond with Me 007! As a flagship event for FTK Konnect Events, it consistently exceeds expectations each year. Despite being a seasoned event planner, I still treat it like my baby, striving for perfection.

The future of Bond with Me 007 is international, and we’re excited to bring it to Lagos. There’s a significant buzz with potential partners and sponsors expressing interest. I look forward to expanding its reach to South Africa, Dubai, and other countries where we’ve previously executed events. The goal is to create a luxurious and beautiful experience, mirroring Bond’s global ventures. The future of Bond with Me 007 is poised to shine bright in different countries.

Lastly, what message or piece of advice would you like to share with fellow Lady Bosses who are pursuing their entrepreneurial dreams in various industries?

Here’s advice for fellow lady bosses pursuing entrepreneurial dreams: Don’t quit at the first step; success is a continuous journey. Challenge yourself, move forward, and take each step towards success. Fight through fears and resist the urge to quit. Push consistently, taking baby steps into giant strides. Don’t let the layman’s mindset take over; keep striving. It’s not easy, but every day, forge ahead. Believe that God will turn your baby steps into giant leaps. Good luck, lady bosses – you can do it, and I believe in you.

However, communication gaps between different age groups can sometimes hinder the sharing of wisdom and experiences, limiting their collective potential. Intergenerational dialogue, therefore, becomes crucial in bridging these gaps and fostering stronger connections.

Challenges and Opportunities:

• Rapid Societal Change: Africa is experiencing rapid economic, social,and technological advancements.The pace of change can create a disconnect between older generations who grew up in different realities and younger women navigating these new landscapes.
• Traditional vs. Modern Values: While respecting traditions is important,clinging to outdated norms can limit opportunities for young women.Dialogue enables both groups to understand and navigate the balance between preserving valuable cultural practices and embracing positive shifts in gender roles and aspirations.
• Generational Stereotypes: Negative stereotypes about each other can foster misunderstanding and limit cooperation. Open communication is key to debunking these stereotypes and recognizing the shared values and goals of all African women.

Benefits of Intergenerational Dialogue:

Sharing Knowledge and Experience: Older women can offer valuable insights on navigating life’s challenges, while younger women can share fresh perspectives and technological skills. This cross-pollination of wisdom can empower both groups.

Building Stronger Communities: Increased understanding and communication promote empathy and support between generations,leading to more cohesive and resilient communities.

Addressing Challenges Collectively: Open dialogue helps identify and address issues like gender inequality,economic hardship, and access to education and healthcare, effectively leveraging the strengths of all age groups. Research by UN Women suggests that engaging older women in policymaking and community development can significantly improve social and economic outcomes for all generations.

Bridging the Gap:

• Formalized Programs: Initiatives like mentorship programs, community gatherings, and intergenerational workshops can create structured spaces for dialogue and knowledge sharing.
• Family Conversations: Encouraging open communication within families between mothers, daughters,grandmothers, and aunts can foster understanding and bridge generational divides.
• Digital Platforms: Technology can be harnessed to connect women across geographical distances and facilitate dialogue through online forums,webinars, and virtual events.

Beyond Dialogue:

Joint Action: Intergenerational dialogue should not end with mere understanding. It should inspire collective action to address shared challenges and create positive change for future generations. A 2020 study by the African Union found that only 23% of African women held leadership positions in business and government. Intergenerational dialogue can help address this underrepresentation by fostering mentorship and knowledge sharing.

Celebrating and Learning from Traditions: Honoring cultural heritage while acknowledging the need for adaptation creates a dynamic environment where history informs the present and paves the way for a better future.

By fostering meaningful intergenerational dialogue, African women can bridge the gap between different age groups, harness the collective wisdom and experiences of all generations, and build stronger, more resilient communities for themselves and future generations.

1. Derartu Tulu

She is the first Ethiopian woman and the first African woman to win an Olympic gold medal, which she won in the 10,000 m event at the 1992 Barcelona Olympic Games. She won the 10,000 m Olympic gold for the second time (the only woman to have done this in the history of the event).

She is remembered for her speed and her 60.3 second-last lap at the end of the 10,000 m at the Sydney Olympics was a sprint of note. She has been the president of the Ethiopian Athletics Federation (EAF) since 14 November 2018.

2. Christine Ijeoma Ohuruogu

She is a British former track and field athlete who specialised in the 400 metres, the event for which she is an Olympic, World and Commonwealth champion. She has also won six World championship medals in the women’s 4 × 400 m relay as part of the Great Britain and Northern Ireland team and bronze Olympic medals with the women’s 4 × 400 m relay at the 2008 Beijing Games and the 2016 Rio Games, her final Olympics.

With 9 championships, she shares with Merlene Ottey and Usain Bolt the record for medalling in most successive global championships – 9 – between the 2005 World Championships in Athletics and the 2016 Summer Olympics.

3. Feryal Abdelaziz

She is an Egyptian karateka and the first female Egyptian to have won a gold medal at the Olympic Games. She achieved this when she won the Women’s Karate Kumite +61kg Gold Medal Bout at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics on August 7, 2021. It was Egypt’s first Olympic gold medal since 2004. Abdelaziz previously represented Egypt in the African Games 2019, held in Rabat, Morocco, and won the silver medal in the Female Kumite -68kg category.

4. Letesenbet Gidey

Letesenbet Gidey is an Ethiopian long-distance runner who holds the current world records in 10,000m, 5000m and half marathon competitions. Moreover, she also holds the world best in the 15 km road race. Her half-marathon record of 1:02:52 achieved in Valencia 2021 surpassed the previous mark by more than a minute, making Letesenbet the first debutant to achieve a world record in the event. She also became the first female to break the half marathon time barriers of 64 and 63 minutes as well as the 15 km under 45 minutes.

5. Chioma Ajunwa-Opara

She is a Nigerian former track and field athlete and football player, notable for becoming the first Nigerian to win gold at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, and the first black African woman to win an Olympic gold medal in a field event. Chioma remains the only woman to compete at both the FIFA Women’s World Cup as a footballer and the Olympics as a track and field athlete. Chioma has often spoken out against the discrimination female athletes face in compensation, especially when compared to their male counterparts.

6. Peruth Chemutai

Peruth Chemutai is the first Ugandan woman to win an Olympic gold medal in any sport. At the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, she competed in the 3000 m steeplechase, finishing with a time of 9:01.45, a national record, and win the gold medal.

Peruth started running in 2013 at the age of 14, after visiting the District Athletics Championships in Bukwo as a casual spectator. She won a noteworthy silver medal in the 3000m steeplechase at the 2018 World Junior Championships, which were held in mid-July. She established a national record a week later at the Monaco diamond league with a time of 9:07.94.

Expressing her joy, Brunson remarked, “I love making Abbott Elementary so much, and I am thrilled to live my dream and perform comedy. I say it every time, but I just love comedy so much that I am ecstatic to receive this recognition.”

This marks Brunson’s first acting Emmy, as she is also the creator and writer of Abbott Elementary, a series about the lives of devoted teachers in a Philadelphia public school. While she secured her first Emmy last year for best writing in a comedy series, she also earned a nomination for best actress (won by Jean Smart for “Hacks”).

At the 2023 Emmys, Brunson also made history as the first Black woman ever nominated for comedy series, lead actress, and writing in the same year, representing the first season of Abbott Elementary. Her triumph in writing made her the second Black woman to win after Lena Waithe for Master of None. Notably, her co-star, Sheryl Lee Ralph, became the second Black woman to win supporting comedy actress for Abbott’s first season since Jackée Harry from 227 in 1987.

Brunson now joins the ranks of the few Black women nominated in the lead comedy actress category since its inception in 1966, standing alongside Diahann Carroll (“Julia”), Sanford, Nell Carter (“Gimme a Break!”), Phylicia Rashad (“The Cosby Show”), Tracee Ellis Ross (“Black-ish”), and Issa Rae (“Insecure”).

She beat out some big names like Sheryl Lee Ralph and Hannah Waddingham to grab the Emmy gold. The win is extra special because it’s just the third time ever a Black woman has won in this category! Ayo looked amazing in her Louis Vuitton dress, even borrowing Carson Daly’s purse for a quick second on stage.

Her acceptance speech was super cute – she thanked her parents and even joked about how her immigrant parents probably didn’t expect her to become a star comedian.

But Ayo isn’t just about the acting – she’s also a fashion queen! She rocked a red Prada gown at the Globes, a sharp white suit at Critics Choice, and then wowed everyone in that dreamy Louis Vuitton at the Emmys. With her Irish flair and killer style, she’s turning heads on every red carpet.

So, let’s give it up for Ayo Edebiri! She’s winning awards, slaying style, and making us all laugh along the way. Keep an eye on her, because she’s just getting started!