MEET THE PROJECTHER 1.0 LEAD

After weeks of learning, reflection, and growth, one woman now begins the next phase of her journey. Selected as the Project 1.0 Lead, she’s preparing to bring her idea to life — one rooted in purpose and community. Before it begins, let’s get to know the voice behind the vision.

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Theresa Oluyinka-Thomas is a dedicated skincare expert with a decade of experience in personalised consultations and product recommendations. Her strong research and customer service skills are coupled with a deep passion for the skincare needs of women of colour, empowering them to embrace their natural beauty while staying informed on global trends.

Based in Abeokuta South, Ogun State, Theresa is actively addressing Nigeria’s skin bleaching crisis through her Breaking the Bleaching Cycle project. Targeting teenagers and pregnant or nursing mothers, this initiative provides vital education on healthy skincare, the dangers of harmful bleaching agents, and the celebration of melanin. It is delivered in schools and healthcare settings, with expert collaboration and communication in local languages.

Committed to fostering self-acceptance and healthy skin habits, Theresa’s work aims to reduce the detrimental health consequences of skin bleaching, contributing to healthier and more confident communities.

From Uncertainty to Leadership: My ProjectHer Journey

Looking back at the decision to apply for the ProjectHer 1.0 Programme by HerLead Network, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude and a quiet thrill at the unexpected journey I embarked upon. Initially, uncertainty clouded my thoughts, with a hesitant whisper questioning my readiness and expectations. Yet something compelled me forward, a flicker of hope that blossomed into genuine excitement upon my acceptance.

The subsequent five weeks unfolded as a truly impactful and transformative experience. Being in a cohort with such an amazing and driven group of women was an immense privilege. Each individual brought a unique vision and a powerful commitment to projects designed to uplift and improve our communities. The energy and shared passion within the cohort were truly inspiring, creating a supportive and collaborative environment that encouraged growth.

The training sessions themselves were nothing short of exceptional, guided by the wisdom and experience of remarkable women leaders. Each week brought invaluable insights and practical skills. We explored the complexities of overcoming communication barriers within the diverse African context, equipping us with strategies for effective and inclusive engagement. The sessions on problem-solving and navigating challenges provided a strong foundation for addressing the inevitable hurdles of project execution.

In addition, the programme offered unique perspectives on exploring specific career paths. The insights shared on working in healthcare and education broadened my understanding of potential avenues for impact. The foundational training in project execution gave us essential tools and methodologies to turn our visions into tangible outcomes.

The emphasis on building confidence as a woman leader within the African context resonated deeply. The case study on breaking barriers in tech offered a powerful example of the resilience and creativity of women in traditionally male-dominated fields. Overall, the core theme of becoming a transformational woman leader served as a guiding principle, encouraging us to embrace our potential and lead with purpose and conviction.

Being selected as the ProjectHer Lead is an incredible honour. This journey, from initial uncertainty to stepping into a leadership role, is a testament to the power of embracing growth opportunities and stepping outside one’s comfort zone. ProjectHer has equipped me with invaluable skills and knowledge, while also connecting me with a network of extraordinary women who are committed to meaningful change.

I am truly grateful for this experience and excited to begin this new chapter. I feel empowered to lead an impactful short-term project and to contribute to the positive transformation of our society. This is only the beginning, and I look forward to seeing the impact we will create together as ProjectHer Lead and the wider HerLead Network Women Empowerment.

Changing the Narrative: A Future Rooted in Confidence and Care

As I look ahead to the next phase of the Breaking the Bleaching Cycle project, my hopes are rooted in creating lasting and meaningful change. I envision a significant increase in knowledge and awareness about the harmful effects of skin bleaching, particularly among teenagers and mothers. I hope to see a measurable rise in self-acceptance, with more individuals embracing and feeling positively about their natural skin tone. A key goal is a noticeable reduction in the use of bleaching products, especially within the most vulnerable groups. I also aim to promote the adoption of healthier skincare habits, ensuring participants are equipped with safe, effective routines.

Empowerment is central to this vision, and confidence and a strong sense of well-being rooted in natural beauty should be the norm, not the exception. I hope to see consistent involvement from trained healthcare professionals, integrating education on safe skincare practices into their everyday interactions. Community dialogue is another vital element, and I look forward to increased conversations and awareness around the dangers of bleaching. Early signs of shifting attitudes, where natural skin is celebrated, would mark a powerful cultural change.

To ensure this impact is long-term, building sustainable partnerships with like-minded organisations and stakeholders is essential. Ultimately, I aspire to witness the beginning of a real break in the intergenerational cycle of bleaching, contributing to a future where bleaching-related health issues are significantly reduced. Above all, my hope is for a confident, empowered community that wholeheartedly values and celebrates natural beauty.