Abiodun Essiet is a feminist and a gender activist with more than eight years' experience advocating for community development and igniting and inspiring youths' desire for social change. Currently, Abiodun is a special adviser to the executive chair of the Abuja Municipal Area Council, focusing on finding smart solutions to community problems and service delivery. She also works toward creating an enabling environment for members of civil society to engage the government in sustainable development agendas and advocate for open government policies. Her commitment to ensuring smart city solutions led to her appointment as the Africa regional director for World Smart Cities Organization. Abiodun holds a master's degree in Public Health and a diploma in Leadership Development. She received a Fellowship on women's development from Coady International Institute. Upon completion of the Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders, Abiodun plans to use the skills and knowledge gained to advocate for the inclusion of young women in government and politics.