Girls, Women Charged To Shape Their Future Fearlessly

The Raising Women Initiative (RWI) has challenged young girls and women to shape their future by leading fearlessly, innovating boldly, and inspiring inclusivity.

According to RWI media consultant, Paschal Candle in a statement he made available to LEADERSHIP Friday, the call was made during the 3rd edition of The Raising Girls Summit 2024 held at UBEC Digital Resource Centre, Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) themed: “Girls to Women: Invest, Include, Inspire”.

The event was supported by partners including BULK Strategic Reserve Ltd, UBEC DRC, Kashton Concept Nig.Ltd, Women Institute of Nigeria, Nigeria House of Representatives, Blue Sapphire, NNPC Foundation, Rainoil, L’Avyanna Skin Naturals, GFA Technologies, Badagry Foods, Marble Hues Advertising Agency, Mellifont Grove Limited, NTA.

In her opening remarks, Executive Director of Raising Women Initiative, Dr. May Ikeora said the event was designed to empower the next generation of female leaders through thought-provoking discussions, hands-on activities, and innovative learning opportunities.

She said, “RWI is a non-profit organization (NGO) committed to empowering women and girls through education, mentorship, and community engagement.

“The annual raising girls summit is a cornerstone of their mission to inspire, invest in and include the next generation of female leaders.

“We are here for a shared mission: to shape a future where young girls and women lead fearlessly, innovate boldly, and inspire inclusively.

“We’re also here to Invest, Inspire, Engage, help you to be the best version of yourself.

“This educative and inspiring event empowers the next generation of female leaders through a day of thought-provoking discussions, hands-on activities, and innovative learning opportunities.”

In her speech, a representative of UBEC DRC, Dr. Phebe Veronica Jatau, described development as the key to guaranteeing the voice of the girl child.

“Development is key, it gives the girl child a voice,” she said.

Member of the House of Representatives representing Kosofe federal constituency and chairman of the House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Kafilat Ogbara who represented Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas urged the participants not to view themselves as less talented or inferior, but to be bold and courageous.

“Don’t see yourselves as just girls, less talented or inferior, be bold enough to speak out,” she stated.

MD, NNPC LTD/GTE, Mrs. Emmanuella Arukwe said, “Remember your dreams are valid and your potential is limitless”.

Another keynote speaker, Barr. Donald Amamgbo said, “As a woman the first thing you need is courage and conviction because if you don’t stand for anything, you will fall for anything”.

Highlights of the event, attended by over 400 participants, including young girls, educators and key stakeholders, were an icebreaker panel session which centered on STEM, Leadership and Wellbeing as well as question and answer sessions which encouraged the girls to dream big and be bold.

There was also breakout session for teachers with the theme “Digital productivity hacks for Educators” where they were equipped with innovative tools to foster progressive and inclusive learning environment.

The event also witnessed debate competition by young girls on the Topic: “Can a Woman become the president of Nigeria?” reflecting the confidence and clarity of future leaders.