Lola Owolabi, a globally recognized transformational leader, executive coach, and empowerment advocate, has been nominated for the prestigious Social Entrepreneur of the Year award at Influencer Magazine Awards 2025. This nomination honors her remarkable contributions to leadership development, entrepreneurship, and community empowerment, celebrating her profound impact on individuals and organizations worldwide.

With over 16 years of experience, Lola has dedicated her career to breaking barriers and unlocking human potential. As the Founder and Director of Proudtobeme, she has led initiatives that provide young people and women with the leadership, entrepreneurial, and professional skills needed to thrive. Through projects like the Ebony Business Network, Women of Destiny, and Make That Move Coaching Services, she has uplifted countless individuals, fostering confidence, self-esteem, and career advancement.

Lola’s influence extends far beyond business. She is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA) and the Institute of Leadership and Management (FInstLM), an esteemed Coach in Residence at York St John University, and a trusted advisor to high-profile organizations supporting women’s leadership and entrepreneurship. Her visionary leadership in the creative industry through The Wearable Art Collective has also provided African designers with global exposure at renowned events such as London Fashion Week and New York Fashion Week.

Her work in empowering women is further exemplified through the Empower Tours Project—transformational coaching and wellness retreats held in destinations like Morocco, Greece, Thailand, and Jamaica. These retreats equip participants with essential life and leadership skills, reinforcing her commitment to holistic empowerment.

A celebrated author of If She Can, So Can You, Lola’s words have inspired many to embrace resilience and self-belief. As a dynamic international speaker, she continues to captivate audiences with her philosophies: “If She Can, So Can You” and “Think it, See it, Live it”—messages that have encouraged thousands to transform adversity into opportunity.

Lola’s achievements have been widely recognized, earning her accolades such as the Global Recognition Awards (2024), the Chrislit Book Awards (2024), and the British Citizens Award. Her governance roles as a Local Parish Councillor in Burnham and Chairman of the Criminal and Family Courts of the Thames Valley Area further underscore her dedication to justice and equity.

Her nomination for Social Entrepreneur of the Year at IMA 2025 is a testament to her tireless efforts in fostering positive change and empowering underrepresented communities. Through her leadership, creativity, and innovation, Lola Owolabi continues to inspire and transform lives on a global scale. Congratulations, Lola, on this outstanding nomination! Your unwavering commitment to empowerment and social impact is truly commendable. Best wishes for the finale—your work is an inspiration to many!