Catalyst Symposium Series Empowers Emerging Leaders

The Catalyst Symposium Series has empowered emerging leaders across Nigeria while promoting inter-ethnic harmony.

Launched in February 2025 under the theme. “The Future Conversations,” the series aims to bridge leadership talent and spark innovation across sectors.

The inaugural event in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) marked the beginning of a platform that has since expanded to Lagos, Akure and Benin, attracting hundreds of participants and fostering critical discussions on leadership, innovation and sustainable growth.

Each edition of the symposium focused on distinct themes. In Abuja, discussions explored emerging trends in governance and innovation; Lagos examined emotional intelligence and strategic thinking; Akure centered on entrepreneurship and social change; while the Benin event, held on December 1 at the University of Benin, highlighted issues of identity, liver health, and policy innovation.

Notable speakers included Dr Olukayode Ajulo (SAN), Toyin Alasi, MC Casino, and Dr Ikponmwosa Aikpitanyi, who shared expertise across law, business, health and social advocacy.

The Benin edition also featured talks such as “Guarding the Gateway: Unmasking Liver Toxicity’s Grip on a Generation” and “Navigating Identity: Overcoming Crisis and Rediscovering Self-Worth,” with speakers including Dr Olufemi Adekanmbi, Prof. Odigwe Nwaokocha and Dr Efosa Emmanuel Iyamu.

The symposium series combined keynote addresses, panel discussions, and hands-on workshops, providing participants with practical tools to drive impact in their communities.

The organisers emphasised that the gatherings are designed to nurture empathy-driven leadership and counter divisive narratives, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The convener of the series, Arogundade Dolapo, said, “The Catalyst Symposium has ignited a movement. Small sparks lead to big change, one conversation, one idea, one step forward.”

He further announced plans to expand the series to additional cities, calling on partners and leaders to join in fostering innovation and collective growth.

The organisers noted that the ripple effects of the 2025 symposiums are expected to sustain collaborations across sectors, reinforcing Nigeria’s potential as a hub for transformative leadership.