Sexual violence remains a global crisis, with harrowing statistics highlighting the urgent need for leadership, advocacy, and gender-inclusive solutions. According to international reports, one in three women experiences sexual violence during her lifetime, a sad reality demanding collective action. In the face of this challenge, Heritage Sanmi-Lawal is making remarkable strides as a Gender and International Development Consultant and staunch advocate for women’s rights and gender equality.
Sanmi-Lawal is the founder and Executive Director of “Her Dream Initiative.” This organisation is dedicated to breaking the silence around sexual abuse, offering survivors safe spaces, and providing tools to help women achieve their full potential. Heritage is spearheading transformative efforts to combat gender-based violence and empower women and girls across Nigeria and Africa.
Her journey as an advocate began with a deep-seated passion for justice and equity. As a Gender and International Development Consultant, she witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of sexual violence on women and girls and believes that every woman has the right to live free from fear and violence. Her work is helping women to dream big and also breaking the culture of silence that surrounds sexual abuse. It also creates safe spaces where survivors can share their stories without judgment.
Sanmi-Lawal impact’s Africa
Heritage Sanmi-Lawal has led Her Dream Initiative to achieve significant strides in advancing gender equality and combating sexual violence. Through workshops, podcasts, and community engagements, she consistently educates individuals on the importance of consent, the impact of sexual violence, and the need for gender equality. The platform has reached out to an audience of over 2500 women and girls across 14 countries through written articles and advocacy campaigns.
One of the most significant barriers to addressing sexual violence is the culture of silence that often surrounds it. Many survivors fear judgment, blame, or retaliation, which usually leads to underreporting and enables impunity for perpetrators. Heritage’s work challenges these norms by normalising conversations about sexual violence and encouraging survivors to speak out. She provides confidentiality for them to share their experiences without a feeling of fear, guilt, shame, and stigma and access resources for emotional and psychological healing.
Through her leadership, Her Dream Initiative advocates for survivor-centered approaches to justice and accountability. This includes community education programs that address harmful norms, raise awareness about sexual violence, and promote gender-inclusive practices.
Heritage Sanmi-Lawal envisions a world where women and girls can live without the shadow of sexual violence. Her leadership is rooted in empathy, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to justice.
