We are bursting with pride and joy to share some monumental news! Our visionary Founder and Executive Director, Oreoluwa Lesi, has been officially recognized as the Inspirational Woman of the Year at the 26th National Women’s Conference organized by the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO).
This year’s conference theme, “Anchored in Purpose: Be the Blueprint,” couldn’t be a more fitting description of Oreoluwa’s life work and enduring legacy. For over two decades, she has faithfully served as the ultimate blueprint for women and girls in technology, steering transformative initiatives across Nigeria and beyond!
Why She Was Awarded: A Legacy of Digital Inclusion & Empowerment
The plaque presented to Mrs. Oreoluwa Lesi highlights the exact impact that earned her this prestigious recognition:
“In recognition of your exceptional use of technology to promote digital inclusion, gender equality, and economic empowerment in Lagos State through Women’s Technology Empowerment Centre (W.TEC).”
This accolade directly reflects her tireless commitment to leveraging tech as a tool for sustainable development, ensuring that women and girls are not just participants in the digital economy, but active leaders and innovators.
A Capstone to a Phenomenal Year
This prestigious award adds another dazzling feather to her cap in what has been a truly phenomenal year of accolades. To be celebrated on the renowned COWLSO platform—a gathering dedicated to honoring women who drive high-impact social change—is a testament to her unrelenting commitment to bridging the digital gender divide.
From building digital literacy and coding camps for young girls to training female entrepreneurs and driving inclusive tech access, Oreoluwa continues to pave a clearer path for the next generation.
Awards She Received in 2026:
- Inspirational Woman of the Year – Issued by Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO) -· October 2026
- Women in Tech for Social Impact Award – Issued by Social Impact Tech Awards -· July 2026
- (Digital Inclusion & Accessibility Award awarded to W.TEC) – Issued by Social Impact Tech Awards -· July 2026
- Tech Safety Queen Award – Issued by 2026 Nigeria Safety & Security Awards and Lecture -· April 2026
Pioneering Gender Equality in Tech
With over 20 years of professional experience as a STEM & Gender Specialist, UK-trained economist, and information technology expert, Oreoluwa’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary:
- Academic Excellence: Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Essex University (UK), Master’s degree in Analysis, Design, and Management of Information Systems from the London School of Economics & Political Science (LSE), and a Certificate in Applied Sciences from Harvard University’s Extension School.
- Impactful Leadership: Founder and Executive Director of the Women’s Technology Empowerment Centre (W.TEC), an organization that has empowered thousands of young women to become technology creators, innovators, and leaders.
- Global Recognition: An Ashoka Fellow, Vital Voices Lead Fellow, Women Leaders for the World Fellow, and recipient of the internationally recognized Anita Borg Change Agent Award.
About W.TEC
In 2008, Oreoluwa Lesi founded the Women’s Technology Empowerment Centre (W.TEC) with a visionary goal: to bridge the gender digital divide and unleash the full potential of Nigerian women and girls through technology. Over the past nearly two decades, W.TEC has transformed into a powerhouse of tech inclusion, directly impacting over 60,000 women and girls across Nigeria with life-changing STEM education, digital literacy, and hands-on skill development. From pioneering residential tech camps to targeted digital safety and coding initiatives, the organization has consistently broken down systemic barriers, equipping young women with the confidence and technical expertise needed to thrive in a digital economy. Today, W.TEC stands as a cornerstone of social impact in West Africa, actively building a vibrant, resilient new generation of female STEM leaders, innovators, and creators who are driving Nigeria’s technological future forward.
Thank You for Being the Blueprint!
Oreoluwa’s vision has shown us that when women are given access to technology, mentorship, and opportunity, the possibilities for societal transformation are boundless.
On behalf of the entire W.TEC team, our board, alumni, partners, and community, we say a big Congratulations, Oreoluwa Lesi! Thank you for consistently leading with excellence, being our compass, and serving as an inspiration to thousands of young women across the globe.