In September 2022, the World Economic Forum (WEF) hosted the Global Shapers Annual Summit in Geneva, Switzerland, bringing together over 500+ young leaders from around the world to collaborate, learn, and drive positive change within their communities.

The event commenced with a special evening at the United Nations Headquarters in Geneva, where members of the Global Shapers Community joined the Young Global Leaders Community for an inspiring opening session. This gathering set the tone for three days of dialogue, connection, and action focused on shaping a more inclusive and sustainable future.

Among the global delegates, Nigeria was proudly represented by several outstanding members of the Global Shapers Community, reflecting the strength and diversity of leadership emerging from the country.

Shapers from Nigeria in attendance included Safiyyah Sanusi (Kano Hub), Kehinde Olaniyan (Ilorin Hub), Danladi Momodu (Benin Hub), Oyinkan Adebimpe (Ibadan Hub), Babajide Oluwase (Lagos Hub), Udeme Okono (Uyo Hub), Goodness Ogeyi (Calabar Hub), Hyeladzira Msheila (Abuja Hub), Joy Ajuluchukwu (Kano Hub), Chukwuemeka Orukwowu (Port Harcourt Hub).

April Amorighoye (Impact Council), and Fatimah Bamisedun (Regional Community Champion, Global Shapers Community Nigeria).

As the Global Shapers Community Champion for the 2022–2023 mandate, Fatimah Bamisedun was specially invited by the World Economic Forum to attend the summit and subsequent governance meetings on 5 September 2022. These sessions focused on strengthening support structures for Curators and planning for the year ahead.

After more than two years apart, the summit provided a valuable opportunity for Shapers to reconnect at the World Economic Forum headquarters, exchange innovative ideas, and strategize collective action for impact.

April Amorighoye as part of the governance council, facilitated a thought-provoking session on Impact. During the summit, essential support to Curators was provided, new ideas, skills, and tools for leading change in today’s global context were explored as well as discussions to influence the future direction of the Global Shapers Community.

Representatives from four of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones (approximately 67%) were present at the summit, showcasing broad national representation across the North West, North Central, South West, and South South regions.

Reflecting on this milestone, Fatimah Bamisedun noted:

“Nigeria is one of the countries that was most represented on the continent at the Summit. I am very proud of that. We had 67% regional presence, and we are looking to increase our footprint across the country. We definitely need more collaboration with the public and private sectors to unlock new ways of thinking to solve local challenges. We already have the global frameworks and network to facilitate the change we want to see. What we need now is solid investment and cross-collaboration as we look to scale our impact and build a more inclusive future for all.”

In addition to the main sessions, Fatimah Bamisedun also hosted the Nigerian delegation and regional peers to a Regional Dialogue and Dinner, an event sponsored by the World Economic Forum. The gathering provided a platform for reflection, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas on how hubs across the region can strengthen partnerships and accelerate community impact in the year ahead.

Across the six pillars of impact defined by the Global Shapers Community, Nigeria was commended for its remarkable work in digital inclusion, civic engagement, healthcare, and policy advocacy, demonstrating the nation’s strong leadership and commitment to advancing equitable and sustainable development.

Together, the Nigerian delegation exemplified the country’s dedication to collaboration, innovation, and youth-led impact through the Global Shapers platform.