By Jennifer Dimonekene 
Mrs. Madiba embodies an unwavering force in service of others, a voice amplifying those of the marginalized, and a benevolent presence in the most pressing struggles of our time. Her commitment reflects an inseparable personal and professional mission, guided by a deep desire for justice and equity. She tirelessly advocates for homeless Black women, the protection of mothers and children, and the empowerment of young people, always placing humanity at the heart of her actions. Her work is driven by sincere empathy and a fierce determination to bring about positive and lasting change in society.
Recognized among the 100 most influential people of African descent, Mrs. Madiba sees this recognition not as an achievement but as further motivation. She acknowledges the impact of her commitment and the importance of pursuing her mission with even greater determination. This title has allowed her to expand her network, meet inspiring figures from the African diaspora and the continent, and open new avenues for collaboration. For her, being part of this community dedicated to Africa’s development is an additional driving force in strengthening global solidarity and celebrating the richness of African heritage.
Among her many projects, one particularly close to her heart is the acquisition of a shelter for pregnant homeless Black women in Canada. This initiative is especially dear to her as it addresses an urgent issue she has witnessed firsthand. She vividly recalls a mother who lost her twins in a shelter due to a lack of care—an unbearable scene that strengthened her resolve. Today, she works with dedicated partners like Gloria Luhaka and Victoria Olorode to provide these women with a safe space and tailored resources. Simultaneously, she continues her work with EQUAL CHANCE, supporting visible minorities who fled the war in Ukraine. Two years after the conflict, many still struggle to reintegrate into a society that has not always welcomed them. With her team, she ensures they receive tangible support and sustainable solutions.
Her advocacy for female leadership is based on an inclusive and transformative vision. She believes in leadership that opens doors, supports, and creates opportunities. Inspired by her father’s teachings, she knows that every space she inhabits can become a realm—a place for action and influence. She encourages young women not to wait for the perfect moment to act but to get involved now, using whatever resources they have, no matter how modest. Her message is clear: the world needs their voices and their commitment.
As a member of the African diaspora, Mrs. Madiba is convinced that it plays a crucial role in the continent’s development. Through investments, initiatives, and skills, members of the diaspora are change-makers, contributing to Africa’s sustainable transformation. She is delighted to see more and more Africans from the diaspora returning to the continent to invest and develop impactful projects. This dynamic, which combines economic and cultural elements, fosters a true African renaissance.
Her collaborations with international organizations such as UNICEF have reinforced her desire to make a profound impact on social causes. Working with these structures has given her a deeper understanding of persistent challenges and the ability to provide tailored solutions. These partnerships constantly remind her how essential collective action is in generating real and lasting change.
Fashion and cultural identity also play a significant role in her journey. Through her platform, Fathersland, she promotes sustainable fashion while supporting African artisans. For her, fashion is not merely an aesthetic phenomenon—it is a way to tell a story, claim an identity, and support high-impact social initiatives. Each piece sold finances educational actions and programs to combat menstrual poverty, reaffirming the importance of social commitment in every aspect of her work.
The media play a crucial role in highlighting committed figures. Mrs. Madiba has experienced this firsthand with prestigious platforms like Elle Magazine, which have given her increased visibility and the opportunity to reach a wider audience. In a world where information circulates at lightning speed, she believes it is essential to use these communication tools responsibly, to amplify worthy causes, and to raise awareness about critical issues.
crédit By Instagram @gwenmadiba
Her journey has not been without challenges. As a female leader, she has often faced situations where she had to prove herself far more than her male counterparts. She has experienced exclusion from certain professional circles and had to fight to have her ideas heard. However, rather than being discouraged, she has transformed these trials into opportunities for growth, strengthening her determination to create her own opportunities.
Looking ahead, Mrs. Madiba intends to continue her fight for the most vulnerable and to use every platform available to amplify their voices. She believes in the power of collective action and the impact of coordinated efforts. For her, every commitment and every voice matters. Her hope is that more people will realize their ability to make a difference and unite to build a fairer and more equitable world.
Discover Ms. Madiba’s interview
1. You are recognized as an influential and committed figure. How would you describe your personal and professional mission?
My personal mission is closely linked to my professional mission. It is to be of service to others, providing support where it is needed most. I use my platform to amplify marginalized voices and causes. Whether it’s helping homeless Black women, advocating for better maternal and child care, or empowering youth, my goal is to create positive and lasting change. I approach my work with empathy, integrity, and a commitment to equity and justice. This mission guides all the organizations and projects I participate in, ensuring that social causes always remain at the heart of my work. My goal is not only to uplift others, but also to empower them and create opportunities for those in need.
2. You have been ranked among the 100 most influential people of African descent. What does this recognition mean to you?
Being named one of the 100 most influential people of African descent is both humbling and motivating. It confirms that my work supporting marginalized communities is having a real impact. However, what means the most to me is that this recognition comes from my own community, from Africans and people of African descent, who understand the value of what we are building together. This distinction has allowed me to meet many remarkable figures from the diaspora and the African continent, whose work has inspired me for years. It has expanded my network and opened new opportunities for collaboration. Being part of a community committed to Africa’s development further motivates me to champion our collective growth, strengthen global solidarity, and celebrate the richness of our heritage.
3. You are involved in several humanitarian and philanthropic initiatives. What project is particularly close to your heart right now?
I’m currently working on acquiring a shelter for Black pregnant women experiencing homelessness in Canada. This project is deeply moving to me, as I’ve witnessed the difficulties these women face, particularly those living in shelters. One vivid memory is of a mother who tragically lost her twins in a shelter due to a lack of resources and care. The image of a child begging their mother to wake up after losing their brother or sister is something I will never forget. This experience inspired me to work alongside Gloria Luhaka, the mother in question, and Victoria Olorode, President of the Black Canadian Homeless Foundation, to bring this project to fruition.
Another project close to my heart is the one I’m working with EQUAL CHANCE, where we continue to help visible minorities who fled the war in Ukraine. Two years later, many of them are still struggling to stabilize. We’re actively working to meet their needs, whether it’s direct assistance, resettlement support, or long-term integration programs, so they can rebuild their lives with dignity.
4. What is your vision of female leadership, and what advice would you give to young women who want to get involved in social causes?
My vision of female leadership is inclusive, compassionate, and transformative. Being a leader doesn’t just mean being in a position of authority, but also knowing how to listen, support, and create opportunities for others, especially those who are marginalized. A true leader paves the way for others, challenges norms, and uses her platform to make a real difference. Leadership, for me, is about empowerment and collective action.
My father once told me, “Where you stand is your kingdom!” He taught me that we must embrace every step of our journey and learn to lead, regardless of our position or accomplishments.
To young women who want to get involved in social causes, I would say: Don’t wait for the perfect moment; start now. Choose a cause that resonates with you personally and your values. Don’t let uncertainty hold you back; use the resources you have. The world needs your voice, your passion, and your unique perspective.
5. As a member of the African diaspora, what impact do you think it has on the continent’s development?
The African diaspora plays a vital role in the continent‘s development. Many members of the diaspora invest in African businesses, agriculture, and social causes, fostering opportunities and the establishment of sustainable models. Beyond financial support, the diaspora also brings expertise, knowledge, and innovative ideas acquired abroad. It’s inspiring to see more and more people considering returning to Africa, not only to invest, but also to actively participate in change. The impact is both economic and cultural, and the diaspora serves as a bridge between Africa and the rest of the world, accelerating a true African renaissance.
6. You collaborate with international organizations like UNICEF. How do these partnerships influence your commitment?
Working with organizations like UNICEF has strengthened my commitment to social causes, particularly those affecting women and children. My mother instilled in me early on the importance of giving back, and these partnerships have given me a deeper understanding of the pressing issues that require our attention. These collaborations constantly remind me that collective action can generate real change. They also help me expand my impact, leveraging international expertise and networks to reach more people in need.
7. Fashion and cultural identity seem to play an important role in your journey. How do you connect them to your commitment as an activist?
Fashion is a powerful means of expression. With my platform Fathersland, I promote sustainable fashion while supporting African artisans who lack visibility. Through Fathersland, we tell a story of cultural pride and sustainability. For me, fashion isn’t just about trends; it’s a tool for empowerment, education, and social transformation. Every garment sold funds educational initiatives for young girls and helps fight period poverty.
8. You’ve been featured by prestigious media outlets like Elle Magazine. What role does the media play in promoting socially conscious figures?
Media is essential for amplifying the voices of socially conscious figures. It has the power to inform, inspire, and mobilize. In the age of social media, we can reach a global audience in an instant, but this also comes with a great deal of responsibility in how we use these platforms. Media, when used well, can spark real social change by raising awareness, educating, and mobilizing people around important causes.
9. What challenges have you faced as a female leader, and how did you overcome them?
Working in a male-dominated environment was a real challenge, especially early in my career. I often had to fight to be taken seriously and have my ideas recognized. I was ignored and even excluded from projects to which I contributed ideas and funding. But over time, I learned to assert myself and create my own opportunities.
10. What are your future projects, and how can our media outlet help you spread your message?
I want to continue giving a voice to marginalized communities through media and philanthropic initiatives. Your platform can help by highlighting these stories and inspiring collective action for lasting change.
crédit By Instagram @gwenmadiba
