About Us

Where Women Become Legends

Women in Development (WID) exists to empower women and children—particularly those facing economic, social, and employment barriers—with the education, resources, skills, mentorship, and opportunities necessary to become self-sufficient, financially empowered, entrepreneurial, employable and equipped to create lasting generational impact. Our mission is to build pathways from survival to stability, from stability to independence, and from independence to leadership and legacy. Through charitable and educational programs, workforce development, financial literacy, entrepreneurship training, leadership development, mentorship, and access to supportive resources, Women in Development works to help women and girls overcome barriers, develop sustainable livelihoods, strengthen their families, and become productive leaders within their communities. We are especially committed to serving underserved and economically disadvantaged women and girls, including low-income women, single mothers and caregivers, immigrant and refugee women, women experiencing unemployment or underemployment, women returning to the workforce, aspiring entrepreneurs, and women rebuilding their lives after significant hardship. Our purpose is simple but powerful: Educate women. Empower women. Create opportunity. Build independence. Develop leaders. Transform generations. Women in Development — Where Women and children Become Legends.

Our Mission

Restore dignity, create opportunity, and unlock the potential of women and girls through education, entrepreneurship, and leadership.

Our Vision

A world where every woman and girl has the knowledge, opportunity, and resources to become self-sufficient and create generational impact.

Core Values

Charitable impact before personal interest
Dignity, nondiscrimination & respect
Transparent financial stewardship
Evidence-informed programs

Founder

Carmella Maduekwe

Admin

Carmella Maduekwe Founder of Women in Development | Leadership Coach and Mentor | Writer | Wealth Educator Carmella Maduekwe is a woman of faith, purpose, and vision whose life has been shaped by her African roots and the aspirations she carried while growing up. Her journey has strengthened her belief that where a person begins does not have to determine how far they can go. With determination, education, faith, and support, people can grow into their potential and help create new possibilities for others. Carmella is the founder of Women in Development, a global nonprofit dedicated to helping women build pathways to employment, entrepreneurship, financial empowerment, and self-sufficiency. Founded in Indiana, the organization is guided by a vision that reaches beyond borders: to equip women with practical skills, support, and opportunities to shape their futures, strengthen their families, and contribute to their communities. Carmella believes that when women are empowered, the impact can reach generations. A former scientist with an MBA, Carmella is a writer, author, speaker, Wealth Educator, Leadership Architect, leadership coach, and mentor. She works with individuals who want to develop their leadership, build confidence, strengthen communication, and take purposeful steps toward personal and professional goals. Her approach is grounded in encouragement, accountability, learning, and the belief that leadership grows when people remain committed to their development. Carmella’s commitment to coaching and mentorship is connected to her own aspirations and experiences. She understands the value of having someone who recognizes your potential, offers guidance, and encourages you to keep moving forward. She strives to provide that support to others, especially women who are pursuing entrepreneurship, entering or returning to the workforce, building a new path, or gaining confidence in their abilities. Carmella is a devoted daughter, wife, mother, and sister. Her family is central to her life and to the legacy she hopes to build. These relationships have deepened her understanding of love, patience, responsibility, resilience, and the importance of creating opportunities for the next generation. She believes sisterhood is a powerful source of encouragement and that women can make meaningful progress when they learn, grow, and support one another. Alongside her husband, Charles, Carmella leads Legacy Champions, where she supports leadership development and financial education. She believes leadership is shown through service, consistency, and a willingness to help others see what is possible. In her work, she encourages people to take ownership of their growth, put their values into action, and use what they learn to serve their families and communities. Carmella is a believer in kingdom impact: using her faith, gifts, influence, and work to serve others and contribute to something greater than herself. She sees impact not only in accomplishments, but also in the woman who discovers a new opportunity, the leader who gains confidence, the family that builds a stronger foundation, and the community strengthened by people who are equipped to contribute. Through Women in Development, leadership coaching and mentorship, writing, and community leadership, Carmella continues to pursue a vision of lasting change. Her message is rooted in faith and conviction: a person’s beginnings do not define the full measure of their potential. With support, knowledge, courage, and consistent action, women can build lives that reflect their purpose and inspire others to do the same.