Lola Owolabi has officially been named the ‘Social Entrepreneur of the Year’ at the Influencer Magazine Awards 2025, a powerful recognition of her unwavering dedication to empowerment, leadership, and transformative social impact.

As the founder of Proudtobeme, Lola has championed initiatives that equip women and youth with the tools to lead, grow, and succeed—breaking barriers and building bridges through education, entrepreneurship, and mentorship. Her impact-driven projects, including the Ebony Business Network, Women of Destiny, and Make That Move Coaching Services, have helped cultivate confidence, purpose, and independence in countless lives across the globe.

A respected thought leader and changemaker, Lola holds fellowships with the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA) and the Institute of Leadership and Management (FInstLM). Her work as Coach in Residence at York St John University and her advisory roles in leadership-focused organizations reflect her commitment to cultivating a better, more inclusive world.

Lola’s creative vision shines through The Wearable Art Collective, where she provides global platforms for African designers at fashion showcases like London Fashion Week and New York Fashion Week. And through her signature Empower Tours Project, she leads transformational retreats in Morocco, Greece, Thailand, and Jamaica, nurturing wellness and leadership in breathtaking, healing settings.

She’s also the acclaimed author of If She Can, So Can You, and a magnetic international speaker known for her rallying calls: “Think it, See it, Live it” and “If She Can, So Can You.”

Her past accolades include the Global Recognition Awards 2024, Chrislit Book Awards, and the British Citizens Award. As a Local Parish Councillor in Burnham and Chair of the Criminal and Family Courts in the Thames Valley Area, Lola exemplifies service, leadership, and heart.

This win at IMA 2025 affirms what so many already know—Lola Owolabi is a powerhouse of positive change. Congratulations, Lola, on this well-deserved honor. Your journey continues to uplift, transform, and empower lives around the world.