As part of its ‘Beyond Her Odds Initiative,’ Beyond the Classroom Foundation is empowering young girls to overcome challenges and embrace their leadership potential. This was highlighted in the keynote address by Tayo Erinle, Founder and Executive Director of Tabitha Cumi Foundation, during an event held in Abuja to mark the 2024 International Day of the Girl Child.
According to a statement issued on Saturday, the event brought together over 500 participants, including girls from more than 20 government and private schools. The initiative aimed to inspire and equip the next generation of female leaders with tools for self-advocacy and leadership.
The event was part of a year-long project funded by IGNITE (Inspiring Girls and Grassroots Networks for Inclusive and Transformative Education), a consortium that includes the International Rescue Committee, Urgent Action Fund-Africa, and the Partnership for African Social and Governance Research. The activities of the day focused on challenging social norms that hinder girls’ development while providing support for their growth.
Represented by Mrs. Nendi Ohah, Erinle encouraged the girls to “rise above obstacles and believe in their capacity to be leaders.”
Erinle added, “Your future is bright, and you have every right to pursue your dreams. Never let anyone tell you that your place is less important because you are a girl. You belong wherever you choose to go.”
A student from Destiny Child Scientific Academy, Gaduwa, Rejoice Sunday, who expressed her excitement about the event, noted, “It feels amazing to be part of something so big. I’ve learned today that I have the right to speak up and pursue my goals. I don’t have to wait for anyone to give me permission.”
The statement added that another speaker, Dr Naomi Osemedua, Founder of CentreStage Company, inspired the participants with her focus on personal confidence, saying, “Your voice is your power, and as young girls, you have the opportunity to set the narrative. Be bold, be brave, and never shrink yourself for others.”
It continued, saying, “Raquel Kasham Daniel, Founder and Executive Director of Beyond the Classroom Foundation, shared her thoughts on the success of the event: ‘The turnout today shows that there’s a hunger for change, and we are here to help these girls realise their full potential. Our goal with Beyond Her Odds is to create an environment where girls feel empowered to not only dream but also take action towards those dreams. We are building a future where girls are unafraid to challenge social norms and claim their rights.”
Raquel added that “seeing the passion in these young girls is a reminder that the work we do is vital. The Beyond Her Odds Initiative is all about ensuring that no girl is left behind, and today is just the beginning of that movement.”
