On Saturday, February 7, in Lagos, the world gathered—not through borders or passports, but through food, music, colour and a shared commitment to giving. Beneath the open skies of the Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Small World marked three decades of charitable impact with a celebration that felt as global as it was deeply Nigerian.
What began almost 30 years ago as a modest initiative to bring women of different nationalities together for charity has grown into one of Nigeria’s most enduring philanthropic traditions. Over time, Small World has become a living example of what happens when unity meets purpose—and when generosity is sustained, year after year.
Small World was born in 1996 with a clear but powerful aim: to unite women from diverse cultures in support of local charities. Its very first event, themed “It’s a Small World,” raised ₦300,000 for three charities. At the time, few could have imagined how far that seed would grow.
As the years unfolded, the initiative evolved—changing venues, expanding its reach and formalising its structure. By 1998, the organisation had adopted the name Lagos Joint Women’s Groups, began selling advertising space to boost fundraising, and steadily increased the number of charities it supported annually. By 2000, the event had become known simply as Small World, a name that reflected both its warmth and its growing popularity.
Through themed celebrations such as “Kaleidoscope,” “Moments in Time,” “Go Green,” and “Trip Around the World,” Small World blended culture with conscience. Each year raised more funds, supported more causes and drew in a wider community of supporters—eventually operating as an NGO under the name International Women’s Organisation for Charity (IWOC).
Even in the face of adversity—heavy rains, national elections, public health crises and a global pandemic—the organisation endured. During the COVID-19 years of 2021 and 2022, when large gatherings were impossible, Small World still quietly supported 20 charities with ₦1 million each, proving that its commitment went far beyond annual festivities.
The 2026 edition of Small World was more than an anniversary—it was a statement. Hosted once again at the Federal Palace Hotel, the outdoor event surpassed all previous records, raising over ₦70 million, the highest amount in the organisation’s history.
From the moment the gates opened at 6pm, guests were welcomed into what felt like a vast, open-air global kitchen. Country tents lined the arena, each offering local cuisine and drinks—Chinese, Indian, Lebanese, Nigerian, Filipino, French, Indonesian, Kenyan, American and more. The air buzzed with laughter, aromas and colour, as attendees moved freely from tent to tent, tasting dishes from across continents.
Many guests arrived dressed in their national colours or traditional attire, adding to the visual richness of the evening. Some danced, others chatted in clusters, while many focused happily on sampling as much food as possible. It was immersive, joyful and effortlessly inclusive—exactly what Small World represents.
As dusk settled, guests were ushered into the stage area for the evening’s performances. Glow sticks were shared, setting the tone for a night of energy and celebration. Hosts Hero Daniels and Habiba Balogun opened the show with warmth and infectious enthusiasm.
A vibrant flag parade followed, with participating countries proudly represented, before the Society for the Performing Arts in Nigeria (SPAN) took to the stage. Their electrifying choreography instantly lifted the crowd and set the rhythm for what was to come.
One by one, countries presented dance performances—Indonesia, the United States, Nigeria, France, Kenya, the Philippines, China, Lebanon and India—each bringing its own cultural expression to the spotlight. The performances were a reminder that while traditions differ, joy is universal.
At the heart of the evening was a deeply moving address by the Chairlady of the Small World Committee, Titiloye Ashamu. Speaking on the theme “Pearls of Time,” she described each year of Small World’s journey as a pearl—formed through patience, pressure, teamwork and love.
She paid tribute to the women who, over 30 years, gave their time, creativity and resources to uplift communities across more than 22 states in Nigeria. The moment of remembrance for the late Chief Olufunke Athur-Worrey, an esteemed trustee, brought quiet reflection to the celebration, underscoring the depth of commitment behind the organisation’s success.
Ashamu also announced the launch of Threads of the Journey, a commemorative coffee table book documenting Small World’s three-decade legacy, with proceeds directed entirely to charity. Then came the announcement that drew a standing ovation: over ₦70 million raised, providing support for 29 Nigerian charities.
A slideshow that followed showed how funds raised over the years have supported schools, children and institutions nationwide—clear, visual proof that the celebration translates directly into change. These were not abstract figures, but lives improved and dignity restored.
The night concluded with a final SPAN performance and a breathtaking fireworks display that lit up the Lagos sky for over five minutes. Phones were raised, cheers echoed, and for a brief moment, the world truly felt small—in the best possible way.
Small World’s 30th anniversary was not just an evening of music, food and colour. It was a reminder of what sustained generosity looks like. It showed that charity does not always have to be solemn; it can be joyful, communal and deeply human.
In bringing together people from different nations, backgrounds and cultures for one purpose, Small World reaffirmed its enduring message: we are stronger together, and everyone has a role to play in making life better for others.
After 30 years, the pearls continue to form—and the story, by all indications, is far from over.
Melissa Enoch and Faridah Abdulkadiri
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