The Built for Her Foundation

was created with a vision of a Nigeria, an Africa, and ultimately a world where women and girls thrive because their needs are heard, understood, and designed for.

A group of women wearing colorful traditional African clothing and headwraps, smiling and talking at an outdoor market with umbrellas and other people in the background.
A young African girl is smiling and clapping her hands while other people look on, during a gathering or celebration.

Our Vision

We see health as the foundation of our vision.

A woman’s health shapes how she learns, works, cares, creates and leads. When women are healthy, families stabilise, communities strengthen, and economies grow.

I’ve spent the past decades trying to understand the barriers that keep women from stepping into their full power, and this much is clear: There is no path to equality in a world that neglects women’s health.
— Melinda French Gates

Our First Initiative:
The Built for Her National Medical Student Scholarship

The Built for Her National Medical Student Scholarship is the flagship initiative of the Built for Her Foundation. Developed in collaboration with the Nigerian Medical Students' Association (NiMSA), the scholarship supports and celebrates exceptional young women in medicine across Nigeria. This initiative reflects our commitment to closing the gender health gap by investing in the next generation of female clinicians, researchers, and health leaders.

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The scholarship supports 30 female medical students in their 400 Level who are enrolled in federal or state universities across Nigeria.

During our first round, over 100 applications were received between 21st March 2025 to 4th April 2025

Following a comprehensive review of academic transcripts, 30 scholarships were awarded - 5 students from each geopolitical zone.

Our Pillars for Change

Guided by McKinsey’s framework

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Studying Women

Supporting research that reflects women's realities and drivers of gender health equity—building evidence for change.

Counting Women

Improving data, measurement and visibility — ensuring women's realities are visible and drive decision-making at every level.

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Including Women

Ensuring women's representation in health decision-making at all levels— from clinic to policy.

Caring for Women

Strengthening access to high-quality, culturally relevant, gender-responsive care across Nigeria.

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Invest in Women

Channelling capital, opportunities and education toward women's health and leadership —building the next generation.

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