AXA Mansard Investment has launched a speed-mentoring programme designed to boost financial literacy and investment knowledge among young professional women in Nigeria, giving them direct access to experienced female leaders across different industries.
The initiative, introduced under the company’s International Women’s Day campaign themed “Acting for Her Progress,” brings together accomplished women who are committing at least two hours each to mentor and guide participants seeking to grow their finances and make smarter investment decisions.
The programme features a strong lineup of mentors, including Omolara Ismail, executive director, Lagos & South at Jaiz Bank; Ifedayo Durosimi Etti, founder of Herconomy; Bolu Essien, filmmaker and corporate marketing professional; Fiona Uwagwu, head of Social and Content at Ogilvy UK; and Omowunmi Mabel Adewusi, general counsel and HR director at AXA Mansard. Others include Oluwaseyi Layade, COO of Leo Burnett Lagos; Ngozi Ola Israel, chief financial officer at AXA Mansard; Jumoke Odunlami, chief distribution officer; Adebola Surakat, chief marketing officer; and Abisola Nwoboshi, head of Life Business.
Speaking on the programme, the CEO of AXA Mansard Investment, Deji Tunde-Anjous, said the initiative is part of the company’s broader effort to close the financial knowledge gap among women and promote inclusive growth.
“The need to empower and strengthen the financial base of women is something we take very seriously. We understand that women are multipliers and the more investment we make in them, the better the society becomes,” he said.
He noted that financial illiteracy remains a major barrier to economic development, especially for women, adding that targeted mentorship can help address this challenge more effectively.
“Financial illiteracy is a fundamental gap in the development trajectory of the society. But when you empower women, we can close that gap faster,” Tunde-Anjous stated.
He also explained that the programme was intentionally designed to simplify investment concepts and remove the fear often associated with financial risks by connecting participants with women who have practical experience.
“We wanted to demystify the myths around investment and risks, and we thought the best way to do that is to provide direct access to other women who have walked the terrain. We are excited and encouraged by the response so far. The slots filled up faster than we imagined,” he added.
On her part, Adebola Surakat, chief marketing officer of AXA Mansard Plc, emphasised the importance of mentorship in helping women build confidence and take control of their financial future.
“At AXA Mansard, we believe financial empowerment is one of the most powerful ways to unlock opportunities for women. Mentorship plays a critical role in that journey, allowing women to learn directly from those who have successfully built, grown, and protected wealth,” she said.
She added that the programme is not just about knowledge sharing, but about creating real pathways for women to take bold financial steps.
“Through our Acting for Her Progress initiative, we are creating a platform where experienced women can give their time, insights, and encouragement so that others gain the clarity, confidence, and support needed to take bold steps in their financial and professional journeys.”
