Women for Women International (WfWI) has announced the appointment of Thelma Ekiyor as its new Global Chief Executive Officer, marking a significant leadership transition for the global non-profit organization.
Ekiyor, a seasoned leader in international development, philanthropy, and women’s empowerment, brings over 25 years of experience spanning social entrepreneurship, cross-sector collaboration, and impact investing.
In a statement, Nunu Ntshingila, Chair of WfWI’s Board, commended Ekiyor’s appointment, describing her as an exceptional leader with a deep passion for advancing women’s rights.
“Among a pool of outstanding candidates, Thelma Ekiyor’s experience, talent, and leadership stood out.
Her unwavering commitment to empowering women and helping them transform their lives and communities is inspiring,” Ntshingila said.
Ekiyor succeeds Marie Clarke, who served as acting CEO for nine months, providing steady leadership during a period of organizational transition.
The appointment comes at a pivotal time for the global development sector, which continues to navigate shifting priorities and challenges.
WfWI expressed optimism that Ekiyor’s broad experience—working across governments, civil society, the private sector, and philanthropy—will drive the organization’s next phase of growth, strengthen its global programs, and expand its support for women survivors of conflict and women-led enterprises.
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“Her leadership will be invaluable as Women for Women International enters its next chapter,” Ntshingila added.
Throughout her career, Ekiyor has held trailblazing roles in multiple organizations. She has served as Chairperson of the Nigeria Office for Philanthropy and Impact Investing, co-founded Afrigrants, Nigeria’s largest all-women accelerator supporting micro-businesses, and contributed to initiatives at both the TY Danjuma Foundation and the West African Civil Society Institute (WACSI) in Ghana.
She has also been a member of the International Advisory Board of the Global Centre on Responsibility to Protect and co-founded Women in Philanthropy & Impact, a global network that champions African women leaders in the social impact space.
Expressing her enthusiasm for the new role, Ekiyor said:
“I am passionate about investing in women and creating opportunities that advance social good. Women for Women International’s mission—to support women survivors of war and empower women-led enterprises—is deeply personal to me. I look forward to working with the team to ensure every woman realises her power and reaches her full potential.”
With this appointment, WfWI positions itself to deepen its global impact, continuing its long-standing mission to equip women in conflict-affected regions with the skills, resources, and confidence needed to rebuild their lives and communities.
