Women should make personal time a priority, as it helps them recharge, boost productivity, and improve their mental well-being.
“Every woman needs her ‘HER’ moment so that she is whole and has better authority and ownership over her body, by making lifestyle modifications for better health and a better life.” This was the key message at the first-ever HERbernation conference, held in Lagos on Friday.
The event organised by Ozioma Ubabukoh, the Principal Consultant of Plexus was to bring women together in celebration of womanhood. Themed “Rise, Renew, Reignite.” It provided a space for women to connect, share meaningful conversations about the challenges they face, and learn valuable lessons from others with similar experiences.
”HERbernation is not just an event; it is a safe space where women can pause,
reflect and realign with their purpose,” Ubabukoh said in his opening remarks.
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There was conversation on mental health and the level of awareness surrounding it. “Our mental health plays a very important role in women achieving their highest selves,” said Ruth Ebe-Emordi, a medical doctor and mental health advocate. She shared her personal struggle with mental health challenges, debunking the fallacy that mental health issues equate to madness.
“It’s a lot deeper and wider than that. I struggled with depression through university and didn’t seek medical help at the time. I had a support system that helped me power through, but years later, I finally got medical assistance and someone to talk to. There are things that happen to us during our teenage years, and when we begin to experience manifestations or expressions of those experiences, it signals that something needs to be addressed. I decided to speak with a professional and receive treatment. If you understand there’s a problem, seek help. You have to be an advocate for yourself before you can advocate for someone else. Speak to the right people.”
She also acknowledged the growing attention being placed on mental health awareness and support.
Efe Obioma, a PR expert and author who turned her blog rants on social issues into a book, spoke about transforming grief into hope.
For Elizabeth King-Wali, CEO of 4Stone Capital, her journey from a decade of childlessness to becoming a mother of three in two years was an inspiring testament that delay is not denial. During her waiting period, she focused on career advancement and upskilling, which eventually paid off, thanks to her strong support system.
“Being a mother shouldn’t determine your worth,” she said. “For women who are waiting, they shouldn’t allow other aspects of their lives to suffer. They should carry on with life. As a woman, you have so much more to give. Focus on other things.”
On advancing career growth for women who have experienced setbacks, Ogechi Eleojo, a career and capacity development expert, advised against succumbing to imposter syndrome.
“Self-doubt has kept a lot of women down. Many battle with imposter syndrome, and because of that, they tend not to express themselves. Get a mentor, seek help, and refine your skills.”
The Herbanation conference was a powerful reminder of the importance of self-care, mental health advocacy, resilience, and continuous personal and professional growth for women.
