The Organisation of Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD), University of Lagos (UNILAG) Branch, on Thursday, January 15, 2026, hosted a meet and greet for its members to mingle. It was a light-hearted event organised to begin the year refreshed, re-energised, and ready for the work ahead, while strengthening the bonds that make the Organisation more than just a professional body.
Welcoming members into the new year, the Coordinator, Professor Aderonke T. Samuel, expressed gratitude to God for His grace upon the women and the Organisation. She reaffirmed that OWSD remains committed to encouraging girls to embrace science and to supporting women as they grow, lead, and thrive within their various fields. As the year unfolds, she assured members of continued collaboration and responsiveness whenever called upon, appreciating the support the branch has enjoyed over the years and expressing hope that 2026 would be prosperous for every member.
The evening unfolded in a relaxed and cheerful atmosphere, anchored by the Deputy Coordinator, OWSD, UNILAG Branch, Professor Temitope Onuminya, whose engaging style set the tone for meaningful interaction. Through quizzes, trivia, and moments of light chatter, members learned more about the Organisation and about one another, bonding like a big, happy family. There was laughter, shared stories, and that familiar warmth that comes when professional colleagues connect on a more personal level.
A particularly memorable highlight was the “Four Corners” game, where members grouped themselves based on shared experiences and interests. What began as a simple interactive activity soon took on a deeper meaning. From one of the groups emerged a spontaneous but heartfelt idea to plan a trip to Ghana for members. In a beautiful show of unity, Professor Toyin Owoyemi was unanimously nominated to coordinate the proposed trip, turning a fun exercise into a sentimental outcome of collective enthusiasm and shared vision.
The networking session continued in creative fashion with a speed-networking segment. Members, popcorn in hand, rotated at intervals, meeting new partners and discovering things they did not previously know about one another. The exercise sparked fresh conversations, strengthened professional ties, and reinforced the sense of sisterhood that defines OWSD, UNILAG Branch.
Beyond the laughter and activities, the gathering served as a gentle reminder that OWSD-UNILAG is built on connection, support, and shared purpose. As members departed, there was a renewed sense of unity and anticipation for the year ahead, with hearts aligned not only in scientific pursuit but in friendship and shared aspiration.
Author: Nike Ogunshakin
Photographer: Islamiat Akanni
