Project Catalyst is more than a mentorship program — it’s a movement to build feminist power, solidarity, and leadership among young women who will no longer be silent in the face of sexual violence. We are raising a generation that will transform campuses, communities, and ultimately, Nigeria,” says Yeye Bunmi Dipo-Salami, Executive Director, Baobab for Women’s Human Rights
By Mariya Shuaibu Suleiman
Baobab for Women’s Human Rights has launched Project Catalyst, a 12-week feminist mentorship and leadership accelerator aimed at strengthening the capacity of young women across Nigerian tertiary institutions.
The virtual program, which runs from October 2 to December 18, 2025, is organised with funding support from the African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF). It marks a new phase in Baobab’s commitment to feminist leadership development and advocacy against gender-based violence.
Project CATALYST: A Feminist Leadership Accelerator — a 12-week virtual mentorship and coaching journey, is designed to inspire, equip, and strengthen young feminist leaders. The program is not just about learning; it is about building power, solidarity, and strategic action to end sexual violence in Nigeria. Together, participants will explore feminist leadership, sharpen advocacy skills, and walk a journey of transformation with the guidance of seasoned mentors.
Speaking at the virtual launch and onboarding session, Baobab’s Executive Director, Yeye Bunmi Dipo-Salami, said the program was designed to build on the achievements of the organisation’s Sexual Violence Response and Leadership Academy (SVRLA) and provide advanced mentorship opportunities for outstanding alumni.
“This program is a continuation of our work to equip young women with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to lead advocacy against sexual and gender-based violence,” Mrs. Dipo-Salami said. “Through Project Catalyst, we are broadening their capacities and exposing them to the next level of feminist leadership.”
From SVRLA to Project Catalyst
Mrs. Dipo-Salami recalled that Baobab first conceptualized the SVRLA in 2021, shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic, in response to the surge in cases of sexual and gender-based violence across Nigeria.
“We developed the SVRLA to help young women recognize what constitutes sexual abuse and harassment, support one another, and become advocates for ending violence against women and girls,” she explained.
Since then, Baobab has successfully completed five cohorts of the SVRLA program, with the sixth cohort commencing this year. Initially structured as a 12-week training, the program has since evolved into a more flexible eight-week model while maintaining its core feminist values and learning objectives.
Meet the Mentors and Mentees
The Project Catalyst mentorship pairing brings together 12 exceptional young women and three seasoned feminist leaders who will guide them through an intensive 12-week journey of learning, networking, and leadership development.
The mentors are Amb. Dr. Chikas Kumle, Dr. Ejiro Joyce Otive-Igbuzor and Barr. Omowumi Ogunrotimi.
The mentees include:
Chimdindu Nwagbologu, Success Jimoh-Esu, Joy Oluwatoyin Aworeni, Dolapo Adeniji, Owiye Chisom Martha, Christiana Aderele, Sadiqudeen Naimoni, Oyinkansola Ogunsopo, Favour Ifeoluwa Thomas, Obokobia Rukayat, Yetunde Makama, and Kehinde Abolayan, selected across Nigeria.
Mrs. Dipo-Salami said the mentors were carefully selected women who have distinguished themselves in their respective fields and are passionate about supporting the next generation of feminist leaders.
“Many of our young women have just left home for the first time and lack the guidance or support to navigate university life safely. This mentorship bridges that gap,” she said. “Many of us, including myself, have experienced sexual harassment. It is unacceptable, and we must all work together to end it.”
Mutual Growth and Feminist Solidarity
She described the mentorship as a mutually beneficial and enriching experience for both mentors and mentees, adding that it will help strengthen feminist solidarity and expand the professional networks of all participants.
“Project Catalyst represents the next phase of our leadership journey, one that connects, empowers, and inspires a new generation of feminist leaders who will transform their communities and beyond,” she concluded.
For over two decades, Baobab for Women’s Human Rights has championed women’s empowerment, human rights, and gender equality in Nigeria through advocacy, research, and leadership programs.