Solape Akinpelu

Co-Founder and CEO, HerVest

Professional Overview
Solape Akinpelu is a seasoned marketing and communications professional with over a decade of experience in the financial services and technology sectors. As the Co-Founder and CEO of HerVest, she is spearheading the mission to empower women in Nigeria and across Africa through innovative financial solutions and digital platforms. With a strong background in brand strategy, marketing, and corporate communications, Solape is a recognized leader in the African tech ecosystem.

Experience Summary

Current Role
As the Co-Founder and CEO of HerVest, Solape is responsible for driving the overall strategic direction and operational execution of the company. She has been instrumental in securing funding, building a talented team, and launching HerVest's flagship products, which have already reached over 10,000 women in Nigeria. Under her leadership, HerVest has positioned itself as a trailblazer in the fintech industry, providing customized financial services and educational resources to underserved women entrepreneurs and professionals.

Career Progression
Prior to co-founding HerVest, Solape held senior roles at Meristem Nigeria, a leading investment banking and securities trading firm, where she led the marketing and corporate communications functions. She has also worked in advertising and media, serving as a Senior Copy/Strategy Executive at SO&U and a Society and Brands Reporter at City People Magazine. Solape's diverse experience has equipped her with a deep understanding of the Nigerian business landscape and a proven track record of driving strategic initiatives and achieving measurable results.

Academic Background
Solape holds a Bachelor's degree in Mass Communication from the University of Lagos, Nigeria, where she graduated with honors. She is a passionate advocate for women's empowerment and has completed various leadership and entrepreneurship programs, including the Stanford Graduate School of Business Executive Education program.

Areas of Expertise

• Fintech and financial services

• Digital marketing and brand strategy

• Startup management and operations

• Women's economic empowerment

• Corporate communications and public relations

Professional Impact
Under Solape's leadership, HerVest has emerged as a leading fintech platform in Nigeria, offering affordable and accessible financial products and services tailored to the unique needs of women. The company has received recognition from industry organizations, including the FinTech100 list and the African Fintech Awards. Solape's contributions to the African tech ecosystem extend beyond HerVest, as she serves as the Global Co-Chair of Marketing for WOMEN IN TECH - Global Movement and the Country Manager for Nigeria, where she is actively working to promote gender diversity and inclusivity in the tech industry.

Conclusion
With her deep expertise in marketing, communications, and fintech, combined with a passion for women's empowerment, Solape Akinpelu is positioned as a trailblazer and influential leader in the African tech ecosystem. As the Co-Founder and CEO of HerVest, she is driving innovation and creating a lasting impact on the lives of women in Nigeria and across the continent.