Shannan Ighodaro (L) and Ambassador Nancy Q Sam (R)
Shannan Ighodaro, popularly known as Lady Ighodaro, a former City Councilwoman of Miami Gardens, Florida, USA, and founder of the global movement 100+ Women of Virtue International, has commended Ambassador Nancy Q. Sam for her outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to advancing women’s empowerment in Africa.
“Madam Sam, we met you a few months ago, and I have seen how the trajectory has changed—not just for myself, but for many women residents of Miami Gardens, Miramar, and beyond,” said Ighodaro.
“When we act locally and think globally, we empower our families, communities, and businesses.”
She highlighted joint efforts with Ambassador Sam to explore ways of expanding educational and entrepreneurial opportunities for Ghanaian women, particularly through access to online training and graduate programs.
“We discussed how Ghanaian women can enroll in online master’s and PhD programs. That is what the official launch of 100+ Women of Virtue represents—strategic partnerships across oceans to empower women globally,” she added.
Speaking at a high-level women’s summit organized by Women in Tourism Ghana in collaboration with 100+ Women of Virtue USA on June 24, 2025, Ighodaro praised Ambassador Sam for inspiring a transformation in women-led initiatives across the diaspora.
Ighodaro also announced that following the Ghana launch, chapters of the organization will be opened in Nigeria, Canada, and the Bahamas—emphasizing the international scope of the movement.
During the event, she presented an award to Ambassador Nancy Q. Sam, recognizing her pivotal role in promoting women’s empowerment in Ghana and across the ECOWAS region.
Ambassador Nancy Q. Sam, who also serves as the Tourism Ambassador for Miami, Florida, President of Women in Tourism Ghana, and Vice President of the ECOWAS Tourism Private Sector Confederation, remarked:
“These women are icons—trailblazers who have overcome significant odds to succeed in America.
“We are privileged to host them in Ghana, to learn from their resilience, and to be inspired by their journeys.”
She reflected on the historical significance of the moment, likening the visit to a symbolic return of the diaspora to the motherland.
“Our ancestors were taken through oceans into unknown lands, many choosing death over the fear of the unknown. Seeing our sisters return today is like a festival. They are back. They didn’t get stuck there. They have come with strength and wisdom to empower us.”
Stellamaris Akhwale, CEO of Qatar Airways, urged African women to recognize their potential and push through societal barriers.
“Women have the capabilities to thrive in all areas, but too often we struggle to find our voice in Africa. We must work harder to be recognized and valued.”
Dr. Guerda Williams, a mental health advocate from the U.S., emphasized the urgent need to prioritize mental wellness.
“Mental health is critical, yet too often overlooked. We must take it seriously—for ourselves, our families, and our communities.”
The summit, themed “Breaking Barriers, Building Business Opportunities in the Diaspora,” marked a significant step in connecting African and diaspora women to foster education, entrepreneurship, and empowerment.
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