Women of Purpose Summit 2026
A day of intergenerational conversation, cross-sector learning, future thinking and practical commitment for women using their leadership and influence to build what comes next.
Across Africa, women are leading institutions, allocating capital, developing talent, shaping policy and building enterprises.
Representation is a good starting point. But it is not the destination.
What becomes possible because women lead?On 9 October 2026, women across sectors and generations will gather Under the Baobab to examine what we have inherited, what remains unbuilt and what our leadership can now make possible.
Esther Mwaniki
Founder & CEO, Lapid Leaders Africa · Summit Host
With 20+ years of leadership experience across business, financial services and leadership development, including more than a decade building organisations and developing leaders across Africa.
Caroline Ndirangu
Group CFO & Head of Administration, Southbridge Group
With 20+ years of cross-sector experience, Caroline integrates governance, finance and culture to anchor institutions in integrity and resilience.
Mama Wahu Kaara
Educator and Global Campaigner for Justice
From shaping the World Social Forum to launching the Global Call to Action Against Poverty, Mama Wahu has spent decades amplifying African voices in global economic and governance debates.
Inherit
What have we inherited, and what must we build?
Build Self
What does the work require of us?
Build Institutions
What survives the leader?
Build Futures
What does our influence make possible?
Commit
What will become possible because we led?
From Representation to Opportunity
Meaningful Opportunities by 2036
The 1 Million Ambition is Under the Baobab’s long-term commitment to mobilise leaders and institutions to create one million meaningful opportunities for Africa’s next generation by 2036.
At Women of Purpose 2026, participants will begin translating influence into practical institutional commitments through the Next Gen Pledge.
Women of Purpose brings together women carrying responsibility across business, government, entrepreneurship, education, finance, technology, development and civil society.
The focus is beyond the woman’s title to her responsibility, influence and contribution.
Early-Bird Leadership Journey
Investment: KES 10,000
Available to the first 40 fully paid participants. Includes Summit participation and the five-session post-Summit Purpose Circle.
Standard Summit Pass
Investment: KES 15,000
Secure your place for the full-day Summit experience.
200 Places Available
Join women from across Africa and beyond for a day that will inspire, connect and commit us to building what’s next.
