Welcoming a New Month and a New Week: Celebrating Women’s Power and Resilience

March is here, a month of celebration, reflection and empowerment. This month reminds us of the brilliance, resilience and power of women across industries, especially in business and film.

As we embrace this new week, we do so with purpose, recognising the contributions of women who continue to break barriers, redefine success and carve out spaces where their voices can be heard. From the boardrooms to the big screens, women are proving that they are not just participants in the world’s progress, they are leaders, innovators and game-changers.

The film industry, historically dominated by men, has witnessed a powerful shift as more Black women claim their space both in front of and behind the camera. However, the numbers reveal that there is still work to be done. Studies show that Black women make up less than 5% of directors and producers in Hollywood. Representation matters and the efforts of women like Ava DuVernay, Issa Rae and Viola Davis remind us that the narrative is changing but not fast enough.

Across Africa, Nollywood has become one of the most influential film industries in the world and women have been at the forefront of its success. Female powerhouses such as Genevieve Nnaji, Mo Abudu, Funke Akindele, Kemi Adetiba and Jade Osiberu have redefined African cinema, breaking barriers and pushing the industry to global recognition.

Despite these challenges, Black women in film tell powerful stories, shape culture and make history. Whether through acting, directing, writing or producing, they are bringing our stories to life, ensuring that the world sees the depth and diversity of Black experiences.

Beyond the film industry, women are reshaping business landscapes across the globe. Yet, only about 2% of venture capital funding goes to Black women entrepreneurs, a number that highlights the ongoing struggles for equity. Even so, women are not waiting for doors to open, they are building their own.

From tech innovators to beauty moguls, women like Oprah Winfrey, Rihanna and Bozoma Saint John remind us that success is not defined by permission but by determination. Women-owned businesses are growing at a rapid pace, contributing billions to the economy and creating opportunities for future generations.

Photo of Oprah Winfred

While society is just beginning to fully recognise the power of women in industries like film and business, history tells us that women have always led. From the queens and warriors of ancient Africa to the revolutionaries and changemakers of today, women have been architects of progress in every era.

This Women’s Month, let’s celebrate not just where we are but where we are going. Let’s uplift each other, support women-owned businesses, champion women in film, and continue pushing for greater representation.

Here’s to a new week, a new month, and the unstoppable power of women.