The 2026 Vital Voices Global Mentoring Walk, organised by Sheroes Rising for Development Initiative, was held in Kaduna on April 18, 2026, at Murtala Square.
The event brought together women leaders, professionals, and emerging changemakers for a guided mentorship walk focused on leadership development and networking.
The Global Mentoring Walk is an international initiative that uses structured walking conversations to connect experienced professionals with young leaders, creating an informal but impactful mentorship environment.
Building on the success of the 2025 Abuja edition, this year’s Kaduna event expanded its reach, strengthening mentorship ties and promoting women’s leadership across Northern Nigeria.
Held in commemoration of International Women’s Day 2026, the programme was organised in partnership with the Maryam Babangida Centre for Women Development, Kaduna State Media Corporation, and other stakeholders.
Participants included representatives of the Maryam Babangida Centre for Women Development, academics from Kaduna State University, UNICEF U-Mentors, and other professionals.
Founder of SR4DI, Hawwah A. Gambo, said the initiative goes beyond mentoring, describing it as a platform for building relationships and expanding leadership opportunities for women and young people.
She noted that the walk format encourages open, relaxed conversations that make mentorship more accessible and practical for emerging leaders.
Discussions at the event covered leadership, entrepreneurship, education, career growth, national security, and personal development.
Participants shared challenges of navigating male-dominated spaces, while mentors offered guidance on resilience, confidence-building, and strategic networking.
Stakeholders stressed that mentorship remains a critical tool for leadership development and national progress.
The involvement of institutions such as the Maryam Babangida Centre for Women Development and Kaduna State Media Corporation highlighted the importance of collaboration in advancing women’s empowerment and visibility.
Participants described the experience as impactful, noting improved confidence, stronger networks, and renewed motivation.
The organisers said the initiative continues to address mentorship gaps by creating direct access to leadership guidance, especially for young women.
The Kaduna edition reinforced the growing importance of mentorship-based programmes in expanding leadership opportunities across Northern Nigeria.
At the end of the walk, participants left with practical insights, new connections, and a clearer sense of direction for personal and professional growth.
The Global Mentoring Walk 2026 reaffirmed the role of mentorship in building inclusive leadership and empowering the next generation of leaders in Nigeria.
By Praise Azubuike, Abuja
