Building power and creating change: in conversation with Bayo Adelaja MBE

Naomi Brown

8 July 2026

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Naomi Brown, head of Ellwood Atfield’s Not-for-Profit practice had the pleasure earlier this week of leading an engaging conversation with Bayo Adelaja MBE, founder and CEO of Do it Now Now, at a Women in Charity Network event exploring how we build power and create lasting change.

Bayo is a social entrepreneur, changemaker and passionate advocate for a more equitable future. Through Do it Now Now, she has supported Black-led organisations, social entrepreneurs and community leaders to build sustainable impact and challenge systemic barriers.

Drawing on her own journey, Bayo spoke candidly about founding and scaling an organisation, leading with purpose and conviction, building influence to drive systems change, and the realities of navigating barriers as a woman of colour in leadership. Members then broke into small groups to discuss the themes Bayo had raised. Two takeaways in particular stayed with us.

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Growth happens outside our comfort zones

Bayo’s story is a reminder that development rarely comes from standing still. We should encourage ourselves, and those around us, to take on new challenges, embrace opportunities when they arrive, and keep pushing our boundaries. Just as importantly, it is ok to fail. Failure handled honestly is part of how leaders, and organisations, learn and grow.

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Imposter syndrome is more common than we think

Many in the room recognised this immediately. Feelings of self-doubt are far more widespread than most of us assume, at every level of seniority. The discussion showed that through honesty, support and shared experiences, we can break down those barriers and build confidence together, which is precisely what a network like this exists to do.

Many female leaders and future leaders engage members of Ellwood Atfield’s coaching panel (inc link) to help counter the challenges of imposter syndrome and self-doubt. Three in four women executives (75%) have experienced imposter syndrome during their careers, according to KPMG's Women's Leadership research - a stark reminder that self-doubt is often experienced even by the most accomplished leaders.

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Looking ahead

The afternoon was a strong reminder of the depth of talent and ambition among women leading across the charity sector. Our thanks to Bayo for her openness and generosity, and to everyone who joined the conversation and brought such energy to the breakout discussions.

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