Commemorating International Women’s Day, 2025 through the “Becoming Symposium”
Every year, March 8th serves as a powerful reminder of the need to break barriers, challenge biases, and create opportunities for women and girls worldwide. As we celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025 with the theme “For All Women and Girls: Rights, Equality, Empowerment” and the bold slogan “Accelerate Action,” it is a call for all of us to take decisive steps toward gender equality.
At the Youth Health and Life Skills Development Initiative (YHLSDI), we are deeply committed to this cause. This year, in alignment with the global IWD celebration, we hosted the Becoming 2025 Symposium, themed “Raising Female Leaders.” This symposium was designed to equip, inspire, and empower young girls to rise above societal limitations and step into leadership roles with confidence and purpose.
Guidance, Resources, and Events: Empowering Young Girls through Knowledge
Achieving gender equality starts with knowledge empowerment. When young women recognize their potential, understand their rights, and explore available opportunities, they are better equipped to make informed decisions about their futures.
At the Becoming 2025 Symposium, we created a platform for mentorship, leadership training, and career guidance, helping adolescent girls and young women build the confidence to navigate both personal and professional spaces.
A major highlight of the event was the keynote address, which was to be delivered by Prof. Adenike Oladiji, the First Female Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA). She was ably represented by Prof. Christianah Ijagbemi, the First Female Professor of Sustainable Engineering at FUTA, Ondo State, and the South-West, and the second in Nigeria. Her presence and insights reinforced the powerful message that women can excel in any field with determination, resilience, and the right support system.
In addition, Dr. Yetunde Olagbuji generously provided each female participant with a copy of her book, “Evolving Giants: Exploring the Quiescent Potentials of Adolescents.” This invaluable resource, given at no cost to over 200 young girls, serves as a guide to self-discovery, personal growth, and leadership development, ensuring that the impact of the symposium extends beyond a single day.
By equipping young women with guidance, resources, and inspiration, we are actively shaping a future where they can step into leadership roles with confidence, purpose, and a clear vision for success.
This initiative aligns with the IWD 2025 focus on providing guidance, events, and resources to young girls, ensuring that no dream is too big and no ambition is out of reach.
Philanthropy: Raising Awareness and Funds for Gender Equality
To accelerate action for gender equality, philanthropy plays a crucial role. Raising awareness is important, but providing tangible support for disadvantaged young women is even more critical.
As part of our efforts to uplift young girls facing financial barriers, we are excited to announce the upcoming launch of the Yetunde Olagbuji Youth Empowerment Seed (YOYES) Foundation later this year.
The YOYES Foundation is dedicated to financially empowering out-of-school adolescents, particularly those who have been forced to drop out due to poverty. Through this initiative, we aim to:
*Support young girls in returning to school
*Provide vocational training for skill acquisition
*Ensure they have a pathway to financial independence and a productive future
We are calling on individuals, organizations, and stakeholders to support the YOYES Foundation. Whether through funding, partnerships, or advocacy, your contribution will make a lasting impact in breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering young women to thrive.
Uplifting Women: Celebrating Achievements and Raising Visibility
A significant barrier to gender equality is the lack of visibility and representation of women in leadership, business, and various industries. This year, we are intentionally celebrating the achievements of women and raising their visibility to inspire the next generation.
By showcasing female leaders, trailblazers, and change-makers, we are sending a strong message that women belong in every space where decisions are made. The Becoming 2025 Symposium provided a platform for young girls to engage with accomplished female leaders and see firsthand what is possible when women are given the right opportunities.
Collaboration: Strengthening Partnerships for a Shared Vision
True change happens when organizations, individuals, and communities work together toward a shared mission. The Youth Health and Life Skills Development Initiative is committed to fostering collaborations with key partners, stakeholders, and organizations that share our vision of empowering young women through education, mentorship, and financial support.
We invite corporate bodies, NGOs, government agencies, and individuals to join us in this mission. Together, we can accelerate action for gender equality and create a world where every girl has the chance to thrive.
A Call to Action: Let’s Accelerate Change Together!
As we commemorate International Women’s Day 2025, let us remember that progress is not automatic—it requires deliberate effort, strategic action, and collective commitment.
*Support the YOYES Foundation to help disadvantaged girls return to school or learn a vocational skill.
*Mentor and guide a young girl—your words and support could change her life.
*Advocate for policies that promote gender equality and create more opportunities for women.
*Celebrate and amplify the achievements of women and girls around you.
At the Youth Health and Life Skills Development Initiative, we remain steadfast in our commitment to empowering young women, breaking barriers, and accelerating action toward a future where every girl has the opportunity to lead and succeed.
Join us in making a difference! For partnership, sponsorship, or support, reach out to us today @yhldi2017@gmail.com or 07089051241 or reach out to us on our social media handles IG @yhldi_ngo or Facebook- Youth Health and Life Skills Development Initiative
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