Entrepreneur leads transformative masterclass at global retreat

Renowned Nigerian beauty entrepreneur and founder of Chiniella Beauty and Varda Beauty, Chineye Otabil, delivered a highly engaging masterclass at the 2025 Aegis Global Women’s Retreat at The Tawny, United Kingdom.

A statement by Chiniella Beauty and Varda Beauty said the Aegis Global Women’s Retreat was a transformative annual gathering designed to empower women to lead, serve, and thrive at senior levels. The event convenes visionary women across sectors for boardroom readiness training, leadership and governance workshops, cultural immersion sessions, diplomatic engagements, and global networking opportunities.

Addressing a diverse audience of women leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, and changemakers, Otabil shared practical insights on sustainable skincare routines for busy professionals, fast and functional makeup techniques suitable for both the boardroom and evening engagements, and product recommendations tailored to different skin types.

During her session, Otabil emphasised that presence is an essential leadership tool. According to her, skincare and makeup, when done with intention, are not simply aesthetic practices but strategic elements of personal positioning.

“Presence is not just about what you say in the room; it’s also about how you show up in the room,” she said.

She further added, “When you invest a few minutes each day to care for your skin, highlight your features, and step into your day with confidence, you are reinforcing your leadership.”

For more than a decade, Otabil has worked with senior executives, creatives, and public figures, helping them enhance their confidence and present their best selves professionally.

Her masterclass at Aegis highlighted not only her technical skill but also her growing influence in shaping conversations on leadership presence for African women globally.

Also speaking, the Aegis Global Women’s Retreat featured several distinguished women leaders as facilitators, including First Lady of Kwara State and Board Chair of Aegis Global Advisory, Ambassador Prof Olufolake Abdulrazaq, who emphasised the power of women occupying spaces of influence and becoming the footprints for the younger generation to follow.

She noted that relationships and collaborations among women could shape a stronger future, adding that true leadership is rooted in kindness, grace, and the patience to carry others along.

This year’s retreat featured several distinguished women leaders as facilitators, including Ambassador Prof (Mrs) Abdulrazaq, Dineo Mathlako, Deputy High Commissioner of South Africa to the United Kingdom; Elizabeth Johnson, Founder of Medical Tourism Africa; and Abiola Adelana, Head of Tourism Business at Sterling Bank.

The masterclass was sponsored by Eloise Beauty, a UK-based beauty brand, alongside Varda Beauty products.