The Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art (YSMA), Pan-Atlantic University has reaffirmed its commitment to using art education as a catalyst for empowerment and social development with the successful hosting of the “Leadership Orientation Programme: Cultural Inclusion through the Arts” for rural women. The one-day program, held on March 6, 2025, brought together thirty-one community leaders from Itamapako, Ogun State, offering them a transformative experience in cultural awareness, visual literacy, artistic expression, and leadership.
The initiative was in line with the International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025 theme, Accelerate Action, and addressed core priorities of the global IWD movement including: expanding women’s access to quality education and training; promoting the creative talent of women; and advancing women’s leadership, service and impact. The museum partnered with the Educational Co-operation Society (ECS) and Zabalketa NGO, two organizations committed to social transformation through education and international cooperation.
Speaking on the significance of the program, the Museum Director, Jess Castellote remarked: “At YSMA, we believe that art is a powerful tool for social change. By empowering these women leaders through cultural inclusion, we are not only enriching their lives but also strengthening the fabric of our communities.”
Reflecting on the role of education in women’s empowerment, the Project Manager of ECS, Wilfred Dieke said: “Our collaboration with YSMA and Zabalketa in this program underscores our commitment to education and character formation. Women’s leadership is strengthened when they have access to knowledge and creative resources. We are proud to support initiatives that provide women with the skills and confidence to lead and inspire others.”
The Technical Coordinator for International Cooperation Projects at Zabalketa, Susana Mateo praised the program’s impact in her remarks: “This initiative demonstrates how right to culture and education is a strategic tool for empowering women, and advancing gender equality and social progress. It is very important for us and our sponsor, the Basque Government, because we are contributing to a more inclusive and equitable society.”
This initiative reinforces YSMA’s commitment to social inclusion and sustainable development through the arts, further integrating its mission of service, education, and impact within local and global conversations. By aligning with international efforts to accelerate progress for women, YSMA continues to set the standard for how art institutions can drive meaningful change beyond their gallery walls.
About Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art
The Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art (YSMA) at Pan-Atlantic University is Nigeria’s leading art institution, committed to service and impact through the preservation and showcase of the rich artistic heritage of Nigeria. With an extensive collection of artworks spanning centuries, YSMA offers a diverse range of exhibitions, educational programs, and activities designed to create immersive experiences for visitors and to enrich the cultural landscape of the nation. To learn more about the YSMA and its initiatives, visit www.museum.pau.edu.ng.
