In a country where slavery can be as much a psychological state as a physical one, Salimata Lam tackles it holistically.

Investing in women is smart economics. Research has repeatedly revealed that whenever women are actively involved in their local economies, a positive ripple effect is felt throughout their communities. But how does this actually work and could it be the solution to the extreme poverty that continues to plague millions of people around the world? This series seeks to find out by following six women who are doing just that – in Kenya, Brazil, Ghana, Nicaragua, Papua New Guinea and Rwanda.
In a country where slavery can be as much a psychological state as a physical one, Salimata Lam tackles it holistically.
Pursuing her dreams has brought Niloofar Rahmani more trouble than she imagined, but she’s determined to succeed.
Hafsat Mohammed uses hope to counter hate, but the activist knows the threats she faces are all too real.
In rural Ghana, bursaries and extra training are helping girls stay in secondary school and shape their futures.
Hero fought in the resistance against Iraq’s Baathist regime – 50 years later, a new generation follows her example.
A doctor in Papua New Guinea finds that involving men in family planning is the key to reducing maternal mortality.
An intimate portrait of Atifete Jahjaga, the 40-year-old president determined to help survivors of wartime rape.
One organisation helps women in rural Nicaragua to escape poverty by gaining land rights and farming skills.
How football is helping Rwandan women overcome the trauma of the 1994 genocide and become drivers of economic growth.
Brazil’s Straw Hat project helps women affected by domestic violence leave abusive situations and enter the economy.
Indian publisher Urvashi Butalia has given women and marginalised voices a platform for over three decades.
How Kenya’s female water tank masons are delivering measurable benefits to their communities – and their country.
Host Femi Oke explains why women are key to sustainable development and what’s at the heart of Women Make Change.