The Global Lead of Leadership By Design International Initiative (LBD), Daniel Ezimadu, has said the initiative is leading efforts to empower Nigeria’s next generation of leaders through mentorship and skill development. The goal is to equip young Nigerians with the tools necessary to lead with integrity and purpose, driving positive change within their communities.
In a recent interview, Ezimadu discussed how the initiative is helping the youth unlock their potential and become impactful leaders. He emphasised that leadership is not solely about technical skills but personal growth and service. “Leadership is about discovering who you are, embracing growth, and channelling it into service that fosters positive change,” Ezimadu stated. Under his leadership, LBD has created a comprehensive ecosystem focused on mentorship, personal development, and community engagement, allowing young Nigerians to thrive as leaders.
Ezimadu reiterated that LBD’s mentorship model is personalised to meet the unique needs of each participant. “We understand that every young person has a different journey, and we work to ensure that mentorship is aligned with their aspirations while upholding core leadership principles,” Ezimadu explained. This tailored approach, he noted, has been key to the initiative’s success.
He noted that another core element of LBD’s success is its focus on community-driven growth. By empowering local leaders and alumni to oversee programs, LBD reduces operational costs while maintaining cultural relevance and sustainability. “This approach fosters leadership from the ground up, creating a lasting impact,” Ezimadu added.
According to him, the organisation continually adapts its programs through participant feedback, gathered via surveys and focus groups. “Listening to our participants and mentors helps us improve and adjust to the changing needs of the youth we serve,” Ezimadu stated.
Speaking on future plans for the NGO, Ezimadu expressed optimism about LBD’s potential to create lasting change. He also explained that the initiative plans to expand its mentorship network, increase program accessibility, and introduce new workshops focusing on critical skills like financial literacy and digital leadership.
He noted that the LBD is also exploring international expansion to reach young leaders across Africa and other emerging markets. “By scaling our programs, we aim to influence a larger global community of young leaders committed to positive change,” Ezimadu said.
Ezimadu also sees emerging technologies as pivotal in expanding the reach of LBD’s programs. Virtual mentorship platforms, AI-driven personalized guidance, and gamified learning environments are expected to revolutionise how young people engage with leadership development. These tools will make mentorship more accessible and provide immersive, interactive experiences to better prepare youth for leadership roles.
Reiterating LBD’s commitment to shaping the leaders of tomorrow, Ezimadu said, “Together, we are building a brighter, more hopeful tomorrow, one leader at a time. “ Through mentorship, community engagement, and innovation, LBD is empowering young Nigerians to lead with purpose, resilience, and integrity, paving the way for a transformative future in Nigeria and beyond.
