ABIDJAN — As the Africa CEO Forum takes center stage this year, a quiet yet impactful gathering is making waves, extending far beyond the elegant venue of La Résidence. HER Circle, the debut salon-style event heralding The HERitage Collective, signifies the start of a pan-African initiative dedicated to bridging the gap between ambition and opportunity for emerging African women leaders.
The concept is both simple and powerful: While women across the continent and diaspora are already making bold strides, the systems designed to fast-track their leadership often remain fragmented and difficult to access. HER Circle offers a deliberate alternative—an environment where strategy and sisterhood collide, where visibility is a form of currency, and where connections lay the foundation for capital.
Fatima Soleiman, co-convener of The HERitage Collective and a leading figure in Rwanda’s real estate and construction sectors, explained: “In a world where women still lack representation in the spaces that shape economies and policies, HER Circle is a disruption — a space that not only invites women to the table but asks what happens when they design the table themselves.”
This event will bring together an exceptional blend of decision-makers, bridge-builders, and culture-shapers—both women and men—for candid conversations sparked by research-driven discussions on power, representation, and equitable access to resources. No panels, no podiums—just honest dialogue and forward-thinking collaboration.
“HER Circle is more than just an event,” said Sally Nnamani, social entrepreneur and co-convener of The HERitage Collective. “It’s a launchpad.”
These words underscore a crucial point: African women don’t need to be fixed; they need access.
Thanks to a coalition of visionary sponsors and ecosystem partners, this access is becoming a reality. The Conduit Group Africa, a capital and infrastructure firm focused on social equity, has stepped up as a primary sponsor.
“HER Circle is more than just a gathering,” said Rebecca King, Co-Founder and COO of Conduit Group Africa. “It’s a catalyst for connection, confidence, and collective growth. When women have access to opportunities, resources, and one another, they don’t just lead—they transform industries, communities, and the continent.”
Joining the effort is Moneda Invest Africa, dedicated to turning African resources into wealth.
“Moneda Invest Africa understands that the future of Africa is shaped by the leaders we cultivate today,” stated Ejike Egbuagu, Group Chief Executive. “This partnership with The HERitage Collective is a commitment to amplifying the voices of Africa’s next generation of female leaders. HER Circle is not just an event we sponsor; it’s an investment in the power, potential, and progress of African women poised to drive transformation. We’re proud to support those breaking barriers and creating opportunities for a bright African future.”
Strategic partners like BGR, founded by Habibah A. Waziri, are equally dedicated to reshaping Africa’s leadership pipeline.
“HERitage is exactly the platform Africa needs,” noted Waziri. “It’s not just about adding women to the room—it’s about giving them the tools and networks to own it.”
N’Gage Africa, led by visual storyteller Huguette Umutoni, views HERitage as a pivotal shift in narrative:
“The way the world sees Africa—and how Africans see themselves—begins with representation. Our partnership enables us to use media not just to tell stories, but to change mindsets and shape futures.”
For Samantha Card, founder of Success Beyond Game Day in Miami, the mission aligns perfectly with her values:
“The HERitage mission echoes everything I stand for—amplifying the voices of high-performing women and creating purposeful pathways to leadership. This isn’t about performative allyship; it’s about preparing women to lead at scale.”
Additional partners such as ESpartners, Terra Tara Group, 7 Generation Africa, and JSquare Consulting Services bring essential expertise in ecosystem design, generational change, strategic capacity, and inclusive capital to the table.
As Africa’s business landscape enters a critical week, one thing is clear: HER Circle is more than just an event—it’s a rising force, grounded in the belief that accelerating African women into leadership roles is key to the continent’s future.
