Foundation celebrates Int’l Day of the Girl Child

Focused on challenging social norms that hinder the development of girls while equipping them with the tools needed for self-advocacy and leadership, Beyond the Classroom Foundation through its Beyond Her Odds Initiative hosted International Day of the Girl Child event in Abuja.

The event which brought together over 500 participants, including girls from more than 20 government and private schools, to inspire and empower the next generation of female leaders is part of a year-long project funded by Inspiring Girls and Grassroots Networks for Inclusive and Transformative Education (IGNITE), a consortium that includes the International Rescue Committee (IRC), Urgent Action Fund-Africa (UAF-Africa), and the Partnership for African Social and Governance Research (PASGR).

In a keynote address, Executive Director of Tabitha Cumi Foundation, Tayo Erinle, encouraged the girls to rise above obstacles and believe in their capacity to be leaders. “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.”

Founder of CentreStage Company, Dr. Naomi Osemedua, inspired the participants with her focus on personal confidence. She said, “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.”

In a panel session with Founder of Builer Academy, Mrs. Yejide Ipadeola, Founder of Save Our Boys Initiative, Coach Ebuka Ede, Country Director of Self Help Africa, Mrs. Joy Aderele, they addressed importance of gender equality in education and leadership, stressing the critical role of education in empowering girls to break societal barriers.

Founder and Executive Director of Beyond the Classroom Foundation, Raquel Kasham Daniel, noted that through ‘Beyond Her Odds’ they are creating an environment where girls feel empowered to not only dream but take action towards those dreams. We are building a future where girls are unafraid to challenge social norms and claim their rights. Seeing the passion in these young girls is a reminder that the work we do is vital. The Initiative is all about ensuring that no girl is left behind, and today is just the beginning of that movement.”

One of the beneficiaries, a student of Destiny Child Scientific Academy, Guduwa, Rejoice Sunday, who expressed her excitement about the event: “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.”