I also contribute to efforts to create spaces for the development of t — Funmi Olonisakin

"I have worked for many years in the field of international security, a field populated largely by male experts and often dominated by male-led military and security establishments."

"I have aimed to make my own contributions through creating a fellowship programme that offers opportunities for young African women to competently and confidently articulate feminist ideas for change in order to champion change in the male dominated spaces that shape their lives."

"I call myself a feminist because I promote and defend the rights of women to realise their fullest potential, free from the oppression of patriarchy in all its forms."

"I head a policy research unit at Kings College London on conflict, security and development, direct a peace and security Fellowship programme for African women and teach."

"As a scholar, mentor and activist I am constantly inspired by seeing the incredible talent that exists in the next generation of African feminist leaders and witnessing unfolding opportunities for them to unleash that talent and potential."

"The programme exposes African women to current thinking and national, regional and international institutions involved in tackling conflict, peace and security in Africa."