Farida Yahya Habu is a Nigerian entrepreneur, author, and advocate for women’s empowerment, currently serving as the President of the Mandela Washington Fellowship Alumni Association of Nigeria (MWFAAN).

Born and raised in Borno State, she attended the University of Maiduguri, where she earned a degree in biochemistry. Farida began her career as a laboratory assistant at Dangote Flour Mills before transitioning into entrepreneurship. She founded Lumo Naturals, a company specializing in natural hair care, and has since played a key role in business development and mentorship through initiatives like The Brief Academy and the Future Females Business School.

A strong advocate for gender equity and youth empowerment, Farida has mentored over 200 young women in career development, skills acquisition, and political inclusion. She is also a member of the technical working group for SDGs Nigeria, helping to localize sustainable development goals at the sub-national level.

Her contributions to leadership and social impact earned her recognition as a Mandela Washington Fellow and a place in Leading Ladies Africa’s “100 Most Inspiring Women in Nigeria” in 2020.Farida is also an accomplished author, having written Redefining Beautiful, a book that chronicles her journey in the natural hair care industry and provides insights for aspiring entrepreneurs.

She continues to influence business, policy, and social development through her work with organizations such as Shecluded, Republican Group, and KSH Foundation. Through her leadership, mentorship, and advocacy, Farida remains a driving force in empowering Nigerian women and youth to achieve their full potential.