The Lioness of Lisabi

Quote:
“If you can’t tell your story, someone else will tell it for you. Let us write it ourselves.”

Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti was more than a name; she was a revolutionary – a Nigerian educator, political organizer, and women’s rights advocate who identified herself as an African Socialist. At a time when women were often heard but rarely consulted, she transformed the Abeokuta Ladies’ Club from a social circle into a political powerhouse.

She believed that literacy was the ultimate tool for liberation. By organising adult education classes for market women, she didn’t just teach them to read; she taught them to advocate for themselves and laid important foundations for feminist education scholarship in Africa. Funmilayo established the Abeokuta Women’s Union and advocated for women’s rights, demanding better representation of women in local governing bodies and an end to unfair taxes on market women. When the colonial government imposed unfair taxes on women, Funmilayo led 10,000 voices in a protest that shook the foundations of the Alake’s palace. Her demand was simple yet radical: “No taxation without representation.”

As Ransome-Kuti’s political influence grew, she took part in the Nigerian independence movement, attending conferences and joining overseas delegations to discuss proposed national constitutions. She advocated for Nigerian women’s right to vote and became a noted member of international peace and women’s rights movements. She was a woman of “firsts” – first female student at her grammar school, first woman to drive a car in Nigeria, and a tireless traveler who crossed the Iron Curtain to advocate for global peace. Her life was a testament to the fact that one woman’s courage can change the legal and social fabric of a nation. One of her quotes states: ‘When we fight for ourselves, we fight for our families, our nation.’

Our Story: The Legacy of Empowerment
At Peramind, we believe that every woman carries a fragment of Funmilayo’s fire. Peramind “Our Story” initiative exists because we know that education is the bridge between a challenging present and a purposeful future.

• Just as Funmilayo fought for the recognition of women’s voices, ‘Our Story’ seeks to amplify them today through the Peramind Learning, Wellness and Education platform. We recognize that many women face “unspoken changes” in mental, emotional, and even financial aspects that can stall their progress.

Funmilayo raised her voice in her time. Today, the question is – who is rising in your circle?
“Her Story” gave us the blueprint. “Our Story” is how we build the future ahead of us.Join the Story – what legacy are you creating?

Are you an educator, mentor, or leader?
Share how you are creating space for women to learn, grow, and be heard.
Do you know a woman whose voice is transforming her community – quietly or boldly?
Nominate her. Let us recognize and amplify her story.
Have you experienced the power of education as a transformative force?
Tell us what changed for you.

Nominate a Voice for the next edition of ‘Our Story’ – Let’s amplify the story of those who have greatly impacted you.  Submit your Hero