Nollywood actress Monalisa Chinyere Chinda has challenged the misconception that women in powerful positions achieve success by “sleeping their way” to the top. Speaking at the Young African Women Congress (YAWC) Network event in Abuja, Nigeria, Monalisa addressed the damaging stereotypes surrounding women’s success in the workplace.

She emphasized that genuine success is achieved through hard work, dedication, and respect. “People believe a woman has to compromise her integrity to rise in her career, but that’s a myth,” she stated. “This belief discredits the talent, hard work, and commitment women bring to their roles, making it seem as if our achievements are undeserved.”

Monalisa also shared her own journey, describing her transition from acting to launching Mona Lisa magazine, encouraging women to continuously learn and improve themselves, even in unfamiliar fields. “As women, we don’t need shortcuts or to follow someone else’s rules. We must create our own path. When faced with new roles, let’s learn, develop our skills, and grow,” she urged.

Crediting her own success to discipline, persistence, and a clear sense of purpose, Monalisa encouraged young women to dream big and push forward despite obstacles.

The YAWC Network, a community of young African women focused on empowerment and leadership, held this year’s event from October 27 to 31, 2024, under the theme “Enhancing Women’s Economic Empowerment through Innovation and Technology.” Through advocacy, training, and grassroots mobilization, YAWC aims to foster leadership and development among women on the continent and in the diaspora.