IWOC Marks 30 Years of Philanthropy with A Rousing Book Launch

Yinka Olatunbosun

In an atmosphere of warmth, gratitude and reflection, the International Women’s Organisation for Charity (IWOC) on Thursday, December 11, 2025, celebrated 30 years of philanthropic impact with the launch of its commemorative book, Threads of the Journey. The event, held at Black Diamond Hotel in Victoria Island, Lagos, drew an impressive gathering of distinguished guests, long-time partners and members united by a shared commitment to touching lives.

Guests from across the world including the Deputy Consul General of the German Consulate in Lagos, Gerald Wolf; Providus Bank’s ED/CEO, Mr. Adeoye Ojuroye; and members from Taiwan, Denmark, India and Switzerland who joined in celebrating three decades of giving through the organisation’s flagship charity programme, Small World.

The celebration opened with a stirring rendition of the national anthem by veteran singer and dancer Yinka Davis, setting the tone for an evening dedicated not only to charity, but to shared humanity.

Founded 30 years ago, IWOC has built a reputation for supporting vulnerable communities across Nigeria. Over the years, its members women from diverse cultures and nationalities have channelled their compassion into improving lives in education, healthcare and social welfare across 22 states in Nigeria.

It was revealed at the event that the organisation has raised more than N800 million since inception, supporting over 300 local charities. IWOC members personally visit beneficiary schools and charity homes to verify needs, disburse funds and monitor the execution of projects to ensure transparency and accountability.

In her welcome address, IWOC Chairlady for the 2025–2026 term, Mrs. Titiloye Ashamu, captured the spirit of the celebration.

“For three decades, IWOC has stood as a bridge — connecting countries, cultures and hearts,” she said. “Our members represent many nations, but our purpose is one: to give hope, dignity and opportunity to the lives we touch.”

Speaking on the newly launched coffee table book, Ashamu described it as “a celebration of countless women who serve quietly,” adding that it is also a tribute to selfless giving and a reminder that “when women work together, communities rise.”

This year’s theme, ‘Threads of Heritage,’ underscores IWOC’s identity as a “tapestry of global sisterhood, woven together by compassion and driven by impact.”

Ashamu also called on sponsors, partners and supporters to continue standing with the organisation, noting that many families and communities still depend on their work. She highlighted IWOC’s annual fundraising events — Small World and Smaller World — as key channels through which vital support reaches charities across Nigeria.

Beyond her role at IWOC, Ashamu brings a wealth of experience as Creative Executive Director at Ethnikologie and as the immediate past Chairperson of the British Women’s Group Lagos.

Taking the audience down memory lane, Olori Lutgarde Adekoya, IWOC trustee and long-standing member, shared a heartfelt account of her nearly three-decade journey in the organisation.

She recalled joining in 1996 through the Belgian Women’s Club and being immediately thrust into leadership roles that pushed her beyond her shyness.

“In 1999, I became the chairperson. We needed grounding as Small World, and in 2008, we became an NGO under the name International Women’s Organisation for Charity,” she said. “From Small World, we launched Smaller World in 2011, and we fed children.”

Adekoya explained that she consistently kept records of IWOC’s journey, which eventually inspired the creation of the book unveiled at the event. She described IWOC as more than an organisation, “a family where we share our love and dedication to help underprivileged people in Nigeria.”

She emphasized that every naira raised from ticket sales and book sales goes directly to charities, with running costs covered entirely by donors and sponsors.

“For as long as my life remains, I will remain part of this fantastic family,” she declared.

The evening’s programme also featured goodwill messages from Gerald Wolf, Mr. Adeoye Ojuroye and IWOC partners, followed by the official book presentation and cutting of the anniversary cake.

A powerful spoken-word performance titled ‘I Am a Woman on a Mission’ by Ella of SPAN brought the night to a memorable close, echoing the strength and purpose that have defined IWOC’s work over the years.

After 30 years, IWOC’s mission remains grounded in the belief that compassion knows no borders. With Threads of the Journey, the organisation has not only documented its past but also given a forecast for future impact.