Wfwi Appoints Thelma as New CEO

Women for Women International has announced the appointment of Thelma Ekiyor as its new Global Chief Executive Officer.

Ekiyor, a seasoned leader in international development and women’s empowerment, brings over 25 years of experience in philanthropy, social entrepreneurship, and cross-sector collaboration.

In a statement, WfWI Board Chair Nunu Ntshingila commended the appointment, noting, “Among a shortlist of outstanding candidates, Thelma Ekiyor’s expertise, passion, and leadership stood out. Her unwavering commitment to empowering women and helping them transform their lives and communities was evident.”

Ekiyor succeeds Marie Clarke, who served as Acting CEO for nine months, steering the organisation through a period of transition. Her appointment comes amid significant global shifts in the development sector, with expectations that her extensive background working with governments, civil society, the private sector, and impact investors will strengthen WfWI’s mission and broaden its global impact.

“Her leadership will be instrumental as Women for Women International embarks on its next phase,” Ntshingila added.

Throughout her career, Ekiyor has held several pioneering positions. She has chaired the Nigeria Office for Philanthropy and Impact Investing, co-founded Afrigrants—Nigeria’s largest women-led accelerator for micro-businesses—and contributed to the TY Danjuma Foundation and the West African Civil Society Institute in Ghana.

She has also served on the International Advisory Board of the Global Centre on Responsibility to Protect and co-founded Women in Philanthropy & Impact, a global network promoting African women in leadership.

Expressing her excitement about the new role, Ekiyor said, “I am deeply passionate about investing in women and creating opportunities that advance social good. Women for Women International’s mission to empower women survivors of conflict and women-led enterprises aligns closely with my values. I look forward to contributing to a future where every woman realises her power and potential.”