How Women Can Give To Gain, By IFAIMA President
The President of International Federation of Aeronautical Information Management Associations (IFAIMA), who happens to be the first woman and first black person to hold the position, Mrs. Olufunmilayo Adeyemi has offered an advice on how to “Give to Gain,” which is the theme of the International Women’s Day 2026 celebration.
Speaking at the NAAPE event organized by NAAPE Women Commission in Lagos over the weekend to mark the International Women’s Day, Adeyemi said: “I would like to put my finger on just one word – INVEST. Women, it is time to invest in yourself. Invest time, money, and effort. Plan for it! Invest in knowing yourself. Invest in those dreams that you’ve packed aside. Invest in what makes you happy. Invest in rest. Invest in that vacation or staycation. Invest in that coaching course. Invest in that professional course.
That is how we give; and that is how we gain. I can tell you for free that investing in yourself is not an easy road to walk, but I promise you that it is worth the effort.”
She said this year’s theme, “Give to Gain, speaks to the heart of what makes our community strong. When we share our knowledge, support one another, and open doors for those coming behind us. We don’t lose anything. We grow. We gain stronger teams, safer skies, and a more inclusive industry where everyone can thrive.
There’s a common saying which states and I quote – ‘You cannot give what you do not have’. That statement resonates now more than ever.”
Adeyemi further said women have been known to sacrifice a lot for family, for the society, for their spouses and for their children. “Women have and are still letting go of their dreams and in the process tend to forget who they are and the dreams that were incubated as kids. I give thumps up to the organizers for bringing the personal development and emotional intelligence topics to this conference. They are very apt for this season.”
“To the women of NAAPE and other professions represented here today, your courage inspires the next generation. To the men who stand with us: your allyship strengthens our collective progress; and to all of us, let us keep lifting one another, because when we rise together, we rise higher.”
