In the heart of Ojo-Okoko, a remarkable journey unfolded on August 19th at our skill empowerment centre, an experience that highlighted the true wealth of our nation: its human capital. For two weeks, in partnership with Oracle Academy, we hosted a STEM Summer Camp for a vibrant group of young individuals, ages 12 to 19. These young minds, brimming with untapped potential, were immersed in an intensive program that sought to expand their minds and improve their skills.
Every day, we dedicated ourselves to nurturing these young thinkers, introducing them to conversations about values, entrepreneurship & innovation, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Beyond theoretical discussions, we equipped them with practical skills, offering training on the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and boosting their computer literacy through hands-on sessions. The use of social media was transformed from a mere pastime into a tool for social good, while an exciting bonus course on fashion entrepreneurship provided a creative outlet for many participants, some of whom were already designing their own pieces.
One of the most powerful moments came from meeting the incredible young people who attended the camp. As we interacted with these young minds, we encountered personalities that reinforced our belief in the potential of every child, no matter where they come from. There was the 12-year-old aspiring surgeon, whose admiration for Ben Carson painted a picture of his future in medicine. Then there was Ayokunle, a budding designer whose self-crafted jeans could rival those of established fashion brands, showcasing an attention to detail and creativity beyond his years. Then there was Festus, a natural scholar and gifted orator, whose eloquence in expressing his ideas was beyond his years. And who could ever forget Idowu, the shy yet passionate tech bro with a burning desire to master computers and data.
These remarkable young individuals represent exactly why we do what we do at Lead for Good Africa. Our mission is to help young people look beyond the limitations of their environment by connecting them to opportunities that develop their skills and unlock their potential. By empowering them with knowledge and tools, we not only help them become valuable assets to themselves, but also to their families, communities, and the nation at large.
This journey wouldn’t have been possible without our incredible partners, Oracle Academy through the lovely Lady Bekere Amassoma, who sponsored the initiative, and the dedicated facilitators who poured their energy into making this camp a success. In the end, collaboration truly is the secret ingredient to transforming lives and securing a brighter future for our nation.
