Girls have been urged to remain resolute, be definitely optimistic, always have a trump card, and have a clear vision.
These and more are the words shared with girls who participated at the one-day event to mark this year’s International Day of the Girl Child, organized by the African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA), Nigeria (Lagos Branch) at Government Senior College Agege, Lagos.
According to the keynote speaker, Awlan Bibian Aloba, the immediate past National Secretary General, AWLA Nigeria, who spoke on the theme: “Girls: Vision for the future,” there is no success story without intentionality. She shared valuable insights on realizing one’s dreams.
Dignitaries from the educational sector and the AWLA NIG leadership presented diverse perspectives on empowering young girls to pursue their aspirations without constraints, particularly in STEM fields, career paths, and personal growth.
In her welcome address, president of AWLA Nigeria, Awlan Caroline Ibharuneafe, to have self-confidence, not to keep quiet in the face of abuse, and to speak out to the right people in their environment should they experience abuse. She equally shared AWLA Nigeria’s hotline to call.
Awlan Tawa Toriola, Assistant Secretary General Secretary AWLA Nigeria, delivered a talk on; STEM and the girl child. She highlighted the common misconception that science, technology, engineering, and mathematics are primarily for boys, explaining that it is untrue. She encouraged the girls to pursue opportunities in these fields. She concluded by advising the girls to search for role models and find their passion, as anyone, regardless of gender, can excel in these fields.
Pst Mrs.Titilola Oyeshile emphasized the importance of remaining focused and not succumbing to distractions, particularly in pursuing one’s dreams.
The event featured interactive sessions, games, and gifts, effectively engaging the girls and ensuring that the messages were heard and felt. The students expressed gratitude for the enlightening lectures, which significantly impacted their lives. The event’s slogan, “I am a girl child, I can be whatever I want to be”, captured the theme of promoting confidence and ambition among young girls.
Gracing the occasion include Mr. Sanni, District One’s director of Education; Mrs. Adebunm Adefowoke, the assistant director of Education; and Mrs. Titilola Oyeshile, a teen teacher at De Cross Chapel.
Awlan Olasunkanmi Fasule, Coordinator, Awla Nigeria, Lagos Branch introduced the association and encouraged the students to speak out when facing challenges. The event was anchored by Awlani Adesola Bello, the Vice Coordinator, Awla Nigeria, Lagos Branch, and other members in attendance including Awlan Felicitas Nwaobi, Vice President, Awla Nig, Awlan Julie Onyeagba, National Treasurer Awla Nigeria, Awlan Sherifat Busari, treasurer, Awla Nigeria, Lagos Branch, Awlan, and some new members of the association. Awlan Sherifat Busari, treasurer of Awla Nigeria, Lagos Branch, prayed for the participants.
