In line with its mission of engendering financial independence and educational opportunities amongst women, widows and orphans through schemes and programmes that assure greater self-esteem and ease of socio-economic integration, the Rose of Sharon Foundation (RoSF) has empowered scores of widows and market women in the Ikorodu area of Lagos State to commemorate International Women’s Day.
The faith-based non-governmental organisation, founded by Apostle Mrs. Folorunso Alakija, hosted an outreach and sensitisation event themed “Count Her In: Widows’ Rights are Women’s Rights and Women’s Rights are Human Rights.” Women market leaders, the Iyaloja of Sabo-Ikorodu and Iyalode of Igbogbo-Ikorodu, led widows, market women, and numerous community members to the event.
Addressing the significance of the event, Mrs. Oloruntosin Taiwo, National Coordinator of the Rose of Sharon Foundation, emphasised the importance of women supporting and looking out for each other. “It is time for women to rise because we can accomplish everything, we set our minds to. Let us collectively promote positive visibility for women and celebrate each other’s achievements. If we do not celebrate ourselves, no one will.”
The Iyaloja of Sabo-Ikorodu, Alhaja Mutiat Abeni, affirmed the need for women to assume critical roles in society’s decision-making. “Men have dominated decision-making for so long; it is time for women to take a stand”, she said.
The Foundation delivered a heart-rendering message of empowerment and inclusion through inspiring stories of resilience, practical skills training, and community engagement initiatives. The highlight of the occasion culminated in beneficiary testimonials from several women who shared personal stories of empowerment through the Foundation, recounting how they acquired new skills, secured employment, and gained support for their children’s education.
With a track record of directly impacting the lives of more than 4,262 widows and indirectly benefiting over 20,000 family members across Nigeria’s six geo-political zones, the impact of the Rose of Sharon Foundation is profound and far-reaching.
For nearly two decades of exemplary service to the community, the Rose of Sharon Foundation has exemplified love and compassion, long-term commitment, respect for individuals, partnership, teamwork, integrity, and accountability. These were the values that the Foundation sought to impart throughout the outreach and sensitisation event.
Rose of Sharon Foundation remains dedicated to enabling financial stability and empowerment for all widows and orphans. Through strategic partnerships, the Foundation aims to expand its reach and impact, driving positive change, providing a sustainable income-generating skill for widows and women who are breadwinners of their families and making a meaningful difference in the lives of widows and orphans.
