Tonlagha to share resilience, philanthropy journey at Africa Women Summit UK 2026

 Humanitarian, philanthropist and corporate leader, Mrs Esther Ojochide Tonlagha, will share her journey of resilience, empowerment and community transformation as a panelist at the Africa Women Summit UK 2026, where she will also receive an award for her contributions to humanity.

 Mrs Tonlagha will participate in Panel 4, titled “Shared Experiences: Real Journeys, Real Lessons,” alongside accomplished women from diverse backgrounds. The session will explore personal struggles, setbacks, starting over, support systems and lessons learned from difficult seasons.

 Her participation will provide an opportunity to reflect on the experiences that have shaped her more than two decades of humanitarian service and her commitment to empowering women, youth and vulnerable communities.

 Speaking recently at the graduation of 41 beneficiaries of the Batch C Skill Acquisition Programme of the Esther Matthew Tonlagha Foundation (EMT Foundation) in Effurun, Delta state, Mrs Tonlagha said empowerment must go beyond training and certificates to create genuine pathways to economic independence.

 “This is not just a celebration of completion, but  recognition of courage, growth and transformation,” she told the beneficiaries.

 She challenged them to protect and grow the opportunities they had received, saying, “This is a seed. Do not sell it. Even if you start small, grow it. Your dreams are valid and achievable.”

 At the graduation, she announced a N1 million grant for each of the 41 graduates, alongside starter packs and equipment to help them establish businesses.