Safe Haven Sustaining Sisterhood, in collaboration with the Child Aid and Sponsorship Awareness Foundation (CASAF), hosted the Confident & Poised Girls Programme, a four-day training designed to build confidence, leadership skills, emotional resilience, and academic excellence among girls aged 9 to 16.

Sponsored by Zainab Ikaz Kassim and supported by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Events, Princess Atika Ajanah, the programme offered girls a safe, empowering space to grow and thrive.

Curated and fully funded through proceeds from her book “Gratitude: 365 Days of Reflection, Lessons & Growth”, Zainab Ikaz Kassim, founder of Safe Haven and CASAF, brought together an exceptional lineup of facilitators, including herself as convener; Olawunmi Heavens, public speaking expert; Oluwatoyin Ogunkanmí, family psychologist; Hyelihara Balami, child psychologist; Ifeoma Perkins-Itoe Esq., social etiquette facilitator; Lisa Tanko, educationist; Chidinma Maduka, emotional wellness coach; and Jace Ekeh, career advocate.

Over four impactful days, the participants explored essential life skills including public speaking, leadership development, emotional intelligence, social etiquette, academic success strategies, and purpose-driven goal setting.

“Our goal was to build a strong foundation of confidence and leadership in these young girls, preparing them for the future,” said Zainab Ikaz Kassim. “I hope that through this program, we begin to build the next generation of kind, resilient, confident, and poised girls who are self-aware, courageous, and purpose-driven.”

Peace Gideon Daful, the Project Manager, shared that “it was a meaningful experience bonding with the girls and witnessing the remarkable growth that took place over the course of the program.” Mrs. Tessy Oriseje, Guidance Counselor at Noble Hall Leadership Academy for Girls, also commended the initiative, saying she was “deeply impressed by the quality and impact of the program,” and advised that “such programs should be replicated in schools across the country to foster holistic development among girls.”

Parents and participants have since shared glowing testimonials, highlighting noticeable improvements in self-esteem, communication, and personal development.