On a warm February evening in Lagos, something truly special unfolded not just a celebration, but a powerful testament to what compassion, collaboration, and cultural unity can achieve when people come together with a shared purpose. On February 7, the Small World charity event marked its 30th anniversary, bringing together communities from around the globe under the open skies of Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island to celebrate three decades of giving, culture and impact.
What began in 1996 as a small gathering of women from diverse nationalities, united by a desire to support local charities, has grown into one of Nigeria’s most inspiring philanthropic traditions. The very first event themed “It’s a Small World” raised just ₦300,000 for three charities. Few could have imagined the journey that lay ahead, but each year since has added a new layer of generosity, purpose and cultural celebration.
Over the years, Small World evolved from humble beginnings to a globally recognised platform blending culture, cuisine, music, dance and charity. Its colourful themes from “Kaleidoscope” and “Go Green” to “Trip Around the World” brought people together not just to raise funds, but to connect through shared experiences and mutual respect. The event grew in scale, reach, and impact, eventually expanding under the umbrella of the International Women’s Organisation for Charity (IWOC), an NGO rooted in sisterhood, service and tangible change.
The 30th anniversary felt bigger and brighter than ever. Guests entered a lively space adorned with country tents where local delicacies and traditional dishes from around the world Chinese, Indian, Filipino, Kenyan, Lebanese and more were shared freely, mirroring the spirit of the night: unity through diversity. Many attendees wore their national attire, adding to the colourful tapestry of cultures.
Music, dance and performance played centre stage, showcasing how cultural expression can bring people from different walks of life closer together. Dance troupes from numerous countries, including Indonesia, the United States, France, Kenya, the Philippines and Lebanon, delivered vibrant performances that drew cheers and applause, highlighting that joy and compassion are languages we all speak.
uring the event, IWOC also launched Threads of the Journey, a commemorative coffee table book documenting Small World’s 30-year heritage of compassion, culture and impact. Proceeds from the book will go directly to charity, further expanding the organization’s reach and influence.
This year’s edition set a new milestone, raising over ₦70 million the highest amount in the event’s history and supporting 29 charities across Nigeria. But the true value of Small World isn’t just in the figures; it lies in the lives touched, the opportunities created and the hope restored. Through IWOC’s longstanding commitment, schools, children’s homes and community institutions have felt the powerful difference that compassionate, well-directed giving can make.
The night closed with a spectacular fireworks display, a fitting tribute to three decades of selfless service and global solidarity. As lights danced across the Lagos sky, one thing was clear Small World is not just an event. It’s a living story of what happens when women lead with their hearts, cultures merge in celebration, and generosity becomes a way of life.
