Sterling Bank Leads Initiative to Empower Over 300 Girls in Lagos
In celebration of the International Day of the Girl Child, Sterling Bank, alongside partners Sterling One Foundation and Giving.ng, organized an impactful empowerment event for over 300 girls at Aje Comprehensive College, Sabo, Yaba, Lagos. This initiative, supported by Sterling Bank’s Bloom Network, was designed to equip young girls with the skills and knowledge essential for personal growth and career success.
Empowering Young Girls Through Education and Mentorship
The event focused on inspiring girls to pursue their dreams, build self-confidence, and develop critical life skills. Workshops and motivational talks covered key topics, including goal setting, mental health, purposeful living, good hygiene, and financial literacy. These sessions aimed to instill a sense of purpose and preparedness in the girls, helping them envision and work towards brighter futures. Omotola Adedapo, Head of Human Resources at Sterling Financial Holdings Company, urged the students to stay focused on their ambitions. “As a girl, it’s essential to have a vision for your future. Map out a path towards the life you want to create,” she advised, encouraging them to set their sights high and stay determined.
Addressing the Needs of Young Girls in Nigeria
The Vice Principal of Aje Comprehensive College, Oyin Depreye Oji, emphasized the importance of girl-child education and highlighted concerns about gender-based violence. He called for further investment from both public and private sectors to protect and empower young girls. In his remarks, Oji noted that empowering girls is crucial to shaping the future of the nation. Olapeju Ibekwe, CEO of Sterling One Foundation, underscored the broader impact of initiatives like this. “Empowering young girls means equipping them with skills and inspiring them to see themselves as future leaders and changemakers,” she explained. According to Ibekwe, providing opportunities for girls to thrive fosters a society where each girl has the potential to lead, innovate, and make lasting contributions.
Omotola Adedapo, Head of Human Resources at Sterling Financial Holdings Company, encouraged the young participants to pursue their dreams with a clear vision. She said, “As a girl, it’s essential to have a vision for your future. Map out a path towards the life you want to create.-
Looking Ahead
The event was a reminder of the vital role girls play in Nigeria’s development. By addressing key issues and fostering confidence, Sterling Bank and its partners are paving the way for girls to become strong, capable leaders. This initiative serves as a model for organizations seeking to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young girls, offering them the tools and inspiration they need to shape their futures.
In conclusion, Sterling Bank’s initiative in partnership with Sterling One Foundation and Giving.ng has empowered over 300 girls from Aje Comprehensive College, equipping them with critical life skills and knowledge. By focusing on personal development, financial literacy, and mental well-being, this event has opened doors to future success for each participant. This celebration of the International Day of the Girl Child highlights the significance of investing in girls’ education and mentorship. As these young girls continue on their journey, they are now better prepared to overcome challenges, pursue their dreams, and contribute meaningfully to society. Such initiatives are essential in fostering a generation of strong, capable, and inspired young women in Nigeria.
