At Self Help Africa, we are proud to highlight the on-the-ground experts who drive our mission forward, delivering sustainable solutions across Africa. In this edition of our ‘Meet Our Experts’ series, we introduce Joy Aderele, the Country Director for Self Help Africa Nigeria.
“Helping people is at the heart of who I am,” Joy said when asked about her background in development work.
During her college years at Adekunle Ajasin University in Nigeria, Joy’s passion for development work began when she led an HIV outreach program. This grassroots effort, despite limited resources, ignited her dedication to community organizing and marked the beginning of her journey in international development.
With over two decades of experience, Joy has developed a deep commitment to empowering women and youth. Prior to Joy’s position at SHA, she worked at the World Bank as a Senior Technical Advisor. As the Country Director for Nigeria, Joy manages a seven-million-dollar portfolio that includes Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH), climate change initiatives, and enterprise development projects. These programs are designed with community input and aim to build local capacity while addressing urgent challenges like climate change and access to clean water. Joy’s leadership approach is inclusive, ensuring that solutions are tailored to the needs of the communities they serve.
One of the standout initiatives Joy oversees is the Women’s Business Centers (WBCs), which support women entrepreneurs through networking, skills training, and access to resources. Highlighted at the 2023 Change-Makers Gala in New York, the WBCs have helped more than 1,500 women gain business development skills, market opportunities, and digital tools. These centers provide a vital space for women to grow their confidence, access new resources, and collaborate with others, driving gender equality and economic empowerment in their communities.
“WBCs serve as catalysts for women to thrive and make a meaningful impact in their communities through entrepreneurial skills”
A key focus of the WBCs is the production of Tom Brown, a nutritious food supplement made from locally sourced ingredients like soya beans and millet. Over 400 women have been trained in producing Tom Brown, which is particularly beneficial for infants and breastfeeding mothers. By promoting the use of locally grown crops, the WBCs not only help combat malnutrition but also strengthen agricultural productivity, offering a sustainable solution for rural communities in Nigeria.
Looking ahead, Joy envisions expanding Self Help Africa’s reach across more Nigerian states, focusing on climate change, enterprise, and WASH. She also aims to empower more women to take on leadership roles in their communities, helping them build confidence and take on positions of influence. We are thrilled to announce that Joy will be the keynote speaker at this year’s Change-Makers Ball on November 1st, where she will share her inspiring journey and the vital work being done by Self Help Africa in Nigeria and beyond.