Welcome, let’s build a generation of women who are more than what they appear; who are pillars of leadership, culture, and transformation.
As I reflect on the Face of Congeniality Nigeria journey, I am reminded of the powerful transformation that takes place when we step into our true purpose. The story of this platform is one of resilience, courage, and the pursuit of something greater than mere appearances or accolades. The journey that began in 2019 with uncertainty, fear, and many challenges has blossomed into a movement of empowerment, leadership, and divine purpose. This year, we take our mission further with the theme, HADASSAH – The Culture Of The Palace, drawn from the biblical story of Esther.
Like many, my early experiences in pursuit of purpose were filled with excitement and the allure of crowns, titles, and recognition. I had the privilege of winning multiple crowns, including National Pageants. But as thrilling as these victories were, I soon realized I needed more than rhinestones and sashes to define who I was. True crowns are made of discipline, determination, and courage, values that transcend the superficial and speak to our character, influence, and purpose.
With the birth of Face of Congeniality Nigeria, my goal shifted from pursuing titles to creating a platform that truly empowers young women. Our mission is clear: to nurture women who are confident, empowered, and equipped to lead in all areas of life; mentally, emotionally, socially, spiritually, and financially. We exist to shape leaders who will stand tall, not because of their outward appearance but because of their strength, wisdom, and integrity.
My journey to understanding leadership has revealed that it is not a title, power, or talent. Leadership is influence, the ability to inspire others to embrace values and perspectives without force. This realization began as a deeply personal one, shaped by the mentorship I’ve received and the experiences that have defined my path. I understand that true leadership starts with self-governance: embodying the actions, beliefs, and mindset you hope to inspire in others. Without personal discipline and a clear purpose, leadership falters.
Leadership is a journey of becoming, an ongoing evolution of learning and growing. It demands dedication to self-improvement and a commitment to positively impacting others’ lives. Just as a tree attracts people with its fruit, leaders inspire through their results, character, and authenticity. True leadership isn’t about maintaining followers but creating more leaders. This transformation ensures a leader’s influence extends far beyond their immediate sphere.
As the Founder and President of Face of Congeniality Nigeria (FOCN), I’ve channeled this understanding into professional and community roles. What began as a pageantry platform has transformed into a leadership academy that equips young women with skills in personal development, financial literacy, emotional intelligence, and decision-making. Recognizing the need for growth, I led a restructuring of FOCN creating a 12-week mentorship program emphasizing practical learning. Since then, over 200 participants have been empowered to launch successful ventures and impactful community projects.
This journey underscores the power of vision and dedication. What started as a small initiative became a movement for young female leaders. FOCN’s mission remains impact-driven, empowering women to lead and create meaningful change in their communities.
Get ready to experience the transformative Cohort Six of Face of Congeniality Nigeria (FOCN), where leadership meets character, and purpose finds its voice. This year, with the theme of HADASSAH, we aim to inspire our participants to embrace the deeper lessons of leadership, humility, and influence that Esther exemplified in her time. The palace is not just a symbol of wealth or status; it is a place where decisions are made, and destinies are shaped. In the same way, our participants are stepping into their own “palace”; the seat of their influence, where their character will be tested and where they will learn to lead with grace, wisdom, and honor.
Through this theme, we challenge our participants to look beyond the glam of the platform and to focus on their inner strength, character, and purpose. True leadership is not about the crown on your head but about the values you embody and the lives you impact. Esther’s story reminds us that every decision has consequences, and it is the choices we make in moments of pressure that define our legacy.
Mentorship has been a critical part of this process. It provides an unparalleled opportunity to learn from the wisdom and experience of others, without the pain and regret that often accompany trial and error.
Organized knowledge creates clarity and power, separating meaningful truths from irrelevant noise. This principle underpins the FOCN mentorship program, which provides an organized body of truth and superior knowledge for leadership, equipping participants with the tools to thrive and lead.
Mentorship accelerates progress, celebrates achievements, and creates leverage through endorsement. Your life advances at the speed of who mentors and endorses you, as credibility and reputation play pivotal roles in leadership. The FOCN platform not only equips participants with essential skills but also provides a network of credible mentors and supporters to amplify their influence and success.
As we embark on this transformative journey with the young women of Face of Congeniality Nigeria Cohort 6, it is about creating lasting change, the goal is to continue to empower young women to fearlessly pursue their dreams, and walk boldly into every room knowing that the table is already prepared for them.
With love and purpose,
Obianuju Princess Duru
President, Face of Congeniality Nigeria
