Zuriel Oduwole: The girl changing the world headlines Sterling’s Leadership Forum

In a world often content with waiting for change, Zuriel Oduwole is the girl who decided to make it happen. At an age when most kids are still figuring out who they want to be, Zuriel was already sitting across from heads of state, camera rolling, asking the kinds of questions that make world leaders sit up straighter. By ten, she was featured in Forbes. At twelve, ELLE Magazine named her one of the “33 Women Who Changed the World.” And in 2017, then-U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry called her “the world’s most powerful girl” for her fearless campaign against child marriage and her unwavering fight to get more girls in school. Today, at just 22, Zuriel Oduwole is Nigeria’s youngest-ever nominee for the Nobel Peace Prize. She’s addressed over 51,000 young people in 19 countries, spoken at global summits like COP23 in Bonn, and brought fresh urgency to the link between climate change and education. A filmmaker. An advocate. A disruptor. A storyteller. And now, she’s about to bring that unstoppable energy to the Sterling Leadership Series (SLS). Sterling Leadership Series: Fearless Voices, Bold Futures On March 14th, at the Alliance Française de Lagos / Mike Adenuga Centre, Zuriel will headline the much-anticipated Sterling Leadership Series under the theme, “The Audacity to Do: A Fearless Generation.” As one of Nigeria’s most influential platform for thought leadership, SLS isn’t just another speaker series, it’s a movement. It’s where ideas take root, where action begins, and where Nigeria’s brightest minds gather to reimagine tomorrow. This special Women’s Month edition of SLS emphasizes Sterling Bank’s commitment to championing female leadership, education, and empowerment. Through initiatives that nurture entrepreneurs, invest in communities, and create pathways for future leaders, Sterling has positioned itself as a catalyst for change. And there’s no better example of that bold vision than Zuriel herself. What to Expect Moderated by the dynamic Sheila Ojei, this hybrid event promises more than inspiration. Expect actionable insights on leadership, strategies to empower Nigeria’s youth, and networking with a community of changemakers. Whether you join in-person or online, you’ll leave with a challenge: to be fearless, to do more, and to lead with purpose. Spots for the physical event are limited. Registration is open now at sterling.ng/sls. The future doesn’t wait, and neither should you. About Sterling Bank Sterling Bank is a visionary force for Nigeria’s future, leading bold initiatives that drive economic growth and social impact. From supporting businesses to empowering communities, Sterling Bank’s commitment to thought leadership and innovation continues to shape a new, fearless generation of Nigerian leaders. _—_ #FeatureBySterlingBank