Stephanie Okereke Linus is a shining star in Nigeria’s Nollywood industry. However, she has gone beyond just being an entertainer and has used her platform to champion causes that are close to her heart.

Her advocacy work has earned her the remarkable achievement of making history as the first Black person to win the prestigious Lennox K. Black International Prize for Excellence in Medicine.

This award is typically presented to doctors and researchers who make significant contributions to medicine. However, Stephanie was recognized for her impactful work, particularly for her film “Dry”, which sheds light on the distressing realities of VVF – a childbirth injury which affects numerous women in Africa. Her powerful storytelling impressed the selection committee, demonstrating entertainment’s enormous influence in creating and driving social change.

Stephanie’s passion for women’s health goes beyond her TV work to make a difference. Through her foundation, Extended Hands, she provides critical medical care and support to women suffering from VVF, giving them hope where there was once despair.

Her tireless efforts have earned her several accolades, including the Miriam Makeba Award for Excellence in 2017 and the Beyond the Tears Humanitarian Award for her work against rape and VVF. She also served as the regional ambassador for maternal and reproductive health for the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) from 2017 to 2020.

The Lennox K. Black Prize may have honoured Stephanie Okereke Linus, but its significance extends far beyond her individual accomplishments. It is a symbol of the resilience and strength of Black women.

Stephanie’s historic achievement is an inspiration to us all. She started out as an actress but ended up changing lives through her activism. Her journey reminds us that no matter who we are or where we come from, we all have the power to make the world a brighter, better place.