A Special International Women’s Day Conversation with Dr. Ayo Shonde
President, Committed Family Business Fellowship (CFBF) and Kingdom Heirs Fellowship Ministries Incorporated (KHF)
March 8, 2026
Every year on March 8, the world marks International Women’s Day as a moment to recognize the contributions, resilience, and influence of women in society. It is a day that invites reflection on the vital roles women play within families, institutions, and communities. In commemoration of this year’s celebration, we spoke with Dr. Ayo Shonde, President of the Committed Family Business Fellowship and Kingdom Heirs Fellowship Ministries Incorporated, about the importance of celebrating women and the role they play in building strong families and stable societies.
Interviewer: International Women’s Day is widely celebrated across the world. From your perspective, why is this day important?
Dr. Ayo Shonde: International Women’s Day provides an opportunity for society to intentionally recognize and appreciate the immense contributions of women. In many ways, women shape the social and moral fabric of communities through their influence within families, educational institutions, and professional environments. Their presence and efforts often sustain the structures that hold societies together. Celebrating women therefore goes beyond recognition; it is also a reminder that the progress of society is closely linked to how well women are supported and valued.
Interviewer: Your work focuses strongly on family systems and family values. How would you describe the role of women in building strong families?
Dr. Ayo Shonde: The family is the most fundamental institution in any society, and women play a central role in maintaining its stability and continuity. In many homes, women serve as the emotional and moral anchors of the family. Through nurturing, guidance, and everyday interactions, they shape the character and values of the next generation. The lessons children learn within the family environment often determine how they relate to others and how they contribute to society later in life. In this sense, the influence of women within the family extends far beyond the household, because the values nurtured in families ultimately shape communities and nations.
Interviewer: What message would you like to share with women as the world celebrates International Women’s Day?
Dr. Ayo Shonde: My message to women is one of encouragement and recognition. Every woman carries within her the ability to nurture growth, inspire change, and contribute meaningfully to society. Women should continue to recognize their value and invest in their personal and intellectual development. Education, self-awareness, and purposeful engagement with society allow women to expand their influence and make lasting contributions. It is also important for women to support and encourage one another, because collective progress often grows out of mutual support and collaboration.
Interviewer: In your opinion, what role should society play in supporting women?
Dr. Ayo Shonde: Society must create environments where women are respected and given opportunities to grow and contribute. This includes access to education, leadership opportunities, and social systems that acknowledge the capabilities and dignity of women. When women are supported, the benefits extend to the entire community. Families become stronger, institutions become more balanced, and societies become more stable. Supporting women should therefore be seen not only as a social responsibility but also as an investment in the well-being of society.
Interviewer: How are the Committed Family Business Fellowship and Kingdom Heirs Fellowship Ministries contributing to this vision?
Dr. Ayo Shonde: Through our programs and initiatives, we focus on strengthening family structures and promoting values that sustain healthy relationships within the home and within society. We emphasize responsible leadership within families and encourage both men and women to understand the importance of their roles in building stable homes. Our work highlights the belief that strong societies are built on strong families, and that strengthening family values is essential to addressing many of the challenges societies face today.
Interviewer: As we conclude, what would be your final reflection as the world celebrates women today?
Dr. Ayo Shonde: International Women’s Day reminds us that the contributions of women are essential to the progress and stability of society. From nurturing families to shaping institutions and communities, women continue to influence the direction of our world in profound ways. This day provides an opportunity to celebrate their resilience, dedication, and impact. It also encourages us to continue building societies where women are valued, supported, and empowered to contribute fully to the development of families and communities.
Kingdom Heirs Fellowship Ministries Incorporated joins the global community in celebrating women everywhere for their enduring influence and invaluable contributions to families, communities, and the future of society.