By Onyeka Ezike

The International Women’s Organisation for Charity (IWOC) marked its 30th anniversary with the launch of a book titled “Threads of the Journey”. The book records IWOC’s activities in Nigeria over three decades, the organisation’s impact stories, and its contributions to community development and nation-building. IWOC is known for producing the renowned Small World Event and for uniting women from diverse nationalities in Nigeria to support local charities in education, healthcare, and social welfare, raising funds for community projects. The event was recently held at the Black Diamond Hotel in Victoria Island, Lagos.

The event was attended by diplomats and high-profile dignitaries, including the Deputy Consul General of the German Consulate in Lagos, Mr. Gerald Wolf; representatives from Taiwan, Denmark, India, and Switzerland; veteran singer and dancer Yinka Davis; and the Executive Director/CEO of Providus Bank, Mr. Adeoye Ojuroye. They all joined in celebrating IWOC’s three decades of socioeconomic impact through the organisation’s flagship charity programme in Nigeria.

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

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

In her speech, the Chairlady of IWOC 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 its work. She highlighted IWOC’s annual fundraising events—Small World and Smaller World—as key channels through which vital support reaches charities across Nigeria.

Mrs. Titiloye Ashamu brings a wealth of experience as the Creative Executive Director at Ethnikologie. As the immediate past Chairperson of the British Women’s Group Lagos, she also shared insights from her journey with IWOC. Mrs. 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 programme also featured Mr. Adeoye Ojuroye and IWOC partners, followed by the official book presentation and a powerful spoken-word performance titled “I Am a Woman on a Mission” by Ella of SPAN.

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 charted a course for future impact.