Manny Ita –
Dr. (Amb.) Temitope Mayegun, the Founder and President of Avila Naturalle Ltd, has been honored with the International Women’s Entrepreneurial Challenge (IWEC) Award 2026. The prestigious ceremony, held in the Kingdom of Bahrain, convened a global assembly of influential women business leaders from over 25 countries to recognize those driving innovation, economic growth, and social change.
The recognition underscores Dr. Mayegun’s trajectory as a visionary leader in Africa’s Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) and natural wellness sectors. Under her stewardship, Avila Naturalle has evolved from a small startup into a major manufacturer, promoting health-conscious alternatives to chemically processed goods.
Since its inception in 2017, Avila Naturalle has championed the cause of safe, natural skincare and nutrition. Dr. Mayegun, a former investment banker, was motivated to establish the company to address the health risks posed by synthetic products and skin-bleaching agents.
”Our world has been significantly altered by excessive processing and chemical modifications in food and personal care products,” Dr. Mayegun stated. “At Avila Naturalle, we are committed to restoring the goodness of nature by offering healthier alternatives that promote wellness without compromising taste or quality.”
The company’s diverse portfolio now spans skincare, haircare, and oral care, alongside a robust Water and Beverages Division that produces Avilan Premium Water and natural juices. These operations are anchored by a modern manufacturing facility in the Ikotun/Igando axis of Lagos State, which operates under strict Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and contributes significantly to local employment.
Dr. Mayegun’s journey to the IWEC stage followed her nomination by Women in Management, Business and Public Service (WIMBIZ). The event provided a platform for international cooperation across industries ranging from technology and finance to agriculture and healthcare.
Reflecting on the global nature of business, she noted, “The IWEC experience reminded me that entrepreneurship is a global journey. When purpose meets preparation, opportunities expand beyond borders.”
The award itself—a real shell and pearl from Bahrain—carries deep symbolic weight for the entrepreneur. Dr. Mayegun drew a parallel between the formation of a pearl and the challenges of building a business. “A pearl forms when irritation enters a shell and, through patience and pressure, becomes something valuable. That perfectly represents my journey — every challenge helped shape the value we see today,” she explained.
The IWEC recognition is the latest in a series of international accolades for Dr. Mayegun, who was also recently named Social Entrepreneur of the Year at the 2024 AWIEF Awards in South Africa. As Avila Naturalle continues to expand its footprint across Africa and into global markets like the UK and USA, Dr. Mayegun remains focused on her original vision: “Avila Naturalle was birthed from a vision to help people break free from the long-term adverse effects of harmful products. We are passionate about empowering lives through safe and transformative natural solutions.”
She expressed gratitude to the Avila team, partners, and customers, affirming that the recognition is a shared victory. As the company looks toward 2027 and beyond, it remains dedicated to innovation and the promotion of a chemical-free lifestyle for consumers worldwide.
