Every Step of My Journey Has Been Fueled by Desire to Amplify Voices of Marginalised Women

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Chinny Ononuju-McErnest's "passion for women's empowerment was ignited during my college years when I studied public policy," the founder and CEO of The Women International tells Time.

"This academic pursuit led me to delve deeply into issues surrounding women's rights, particularly violence against women in Nigeria."

Upon returning to Nigeria, she " encountered skepticism about the possibility of effecting change in a society where often face systemic barriers," Ononuju-McErnest says.

"However, rather than succumbing to doubt, I channeled my determination into actionable initiatives."

Ononuju-McErnest, who studied public policy at the University of Massachusetts, has since founded The Women International, "a social enterprise deeply committed to empowering women and girls," according to its website.

The group has reached more than 10,000 women through mental health awareness campaigns, provided counseling to 2,000 women, equipped 500 women with financial literacy and business skills, and empowered 50 women through its "Fund My Seed Capital" initiative, among other initiatives.

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