WAYC honours Deborah Ijila with Nelson Mandela Leadership Award
The West Africa Youth Council (WAYC) has conferred the Nelson Mandela Leadership Award of Excellence and Integrity on Itunu Deborah Ijila, in recognition of her outstanding contributions to technology, software
The West Africa Youth Council (WAYC) has conferred the Nelson Mandela Leadership Award of Excellence and Integrity on Itunu Deborah Ijila, in recognition of her outstanding contributions to technology, software innovation, and youth development across West Africa.
The award, presented under the Presidency of the West Africa Youth Council, celebrates individuals whose leadership exemplifies integrity, excellence, and service, in line with the enduring values of the late global icon, Nelson Mandela.
According to the citation accompanying the honour, Ijila was recognised for her “great efforts as a prominent personality with distinction, an entrepreneur of note, and a leader with passion for youth development and social development.” She was also designated a West African Youth Role Model, reflecting her influence and impact among young people in the region.
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A technology professional and software developer with a strong focus on artificial intelligence, Ambassador Ijila has distinguished herself through purpose-driven leadership that bridges innovation with social impact. Through her work in AI and software development, including her involvement as AI Lead and Community Strategist with Solayo Africa, a health-tech initiative focused on improving maternal care across Africa, she has championed the use of intelligent systems to expand access to essential services. Solayo leverages digital tools and AI-driven support to improve maternal health outcomes, demonstrating the application of technology to critical social challenges.
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Beyond health technology, her work has consistently centred on empowering young people through digital skills, financial literacy, and access to technology-enabled opportunities, positioning her as a leading voice at the intersection of technology and youth advancement.
WAYC noted that the award underscores its commitment to celebrating Africans who deploy their expertise and platforms to drive sustainable development and inspire the next generation of leaders. The council described Ambassador Ijila as a symbol of integrity-led leadership, whose work continues to create pathways for youth participation in the digital economy.
Reacting to the recognition, Ambassador Ijila described the award as a call to deeper service, noting that leadership must be rooted in purpose, integrity, and a commitment to uplifting others, particularly young people navigating an increasingly technology-driven world.
The Nelson Mandela Leadership Award of Excellence and Integrity is one of WAYC’s highest distinctions, reserved for individuals whose professional and personal values align with the principles of ethical leadership, social responsibility, and transformational impact.
With this recognition, Ambassador Itunu Deborah Ijila joins a growing list of distinguished Africans whose work continues to shape a more inclusive, innovative, and youth-centred future for the region.
