By Ephraim Oseji

In celebration of this year’s International Day of the Girl Child, HACEY Health Initiatives, a non-governmental organization honored the remarkable strength and resilience of girls as powerful agents of change through films and essay competitions for girls in secondary schools in Lagos.

This year’s theme, “Girls’ Vision for the Future,” emphasizes the vital importance of listening to and amplifying girls’ voices, and also serves as a reminder of the immense strength embodied in girls’ voices and the urgent need for everyone to listen and respond when they speak.

According to HACEY, the essay competition’s topic is “How can girls use technology to break barriers and build a brighter future for themselves and Nigeria?” Over 1000 entries were received. 

Additionally, the two films screened were, ‘’Afefe,’’ which delves into the societal challenges that impede women and girls from exploring and expanding their economic opportunities; and ‘’Period,’’ which tackles the critical issue of period poverty, demonstrating how girls can become catalysts for change when given the tools and platforms to voice their concerns and advocate for themselves.

Commenting, Rhoda Robinson, the Executive Director at HACEY, reiterated the organization’s dedication to providing support and platforms for young girls to achieve their dreams. 

She also mentioned that the organization is committed to empowering over 150 girls from Lagos State to envision a brighter future and inspire societal transformation.

‘’Today, we gather to honor the 2024 International Day of the Girl Child, embracing the theme, “Girls’ Vision for the Future.” This occasion serves as a vital reminder of the immense strength embodied in girls’ voices and the urgent need for us to listen and respond when they speak.

‘’Over the years, we have witnessed a remarkable rise in girls’ empowerment, as they increasingly demand and advocate for the essentials required to lead healthy, sustainable lives. 

‘’This event highlights the diverse challenges they face and showcases their resilience in overcoming these obstacles. It also calls upon us—key stakeholders and adults in our society—to ensure that every girl has equal opportunities to pursue her aspirations,’’ Robinson said.

She continued: ‘’We are excited to screen two powerful films today in partnership with the Staying Alive Foundation.  The first, Afefe, delves into the societal challenges that impede women and girls from exploring and expanding their economic opportunities. It illustrates the transformative potential that emerges when they are supported to transcend societal and gender norms.

‘’The second film, Period, tackles the critical issue of period poverty, demonstrating how girls can become catalysts for change when given the tools and platforms to voice their concerns and advocate for themselves.

Speaking further, Robinson said: ‘’We are thrilled to welcome over 150 girls from various schools across Lagos State. Today, we aim to empower them by affirming their ability to demand societal change. 

‘’As an organization, we are committed to supporting their journey by providing essential platforms through initiatives like the PAVE project, which creates safe spaces and offers empowerment opportunities for girls.’’

The highlight of the occasion was the announcement of the essay competition winners. Ogwogho Mercy Olohimai Owadamilo from Dabitos College took home the grand prize of N200,000 and a laptop for her outstanding entry. 

The first runner-up, Odesola Emmanuella Ayomikun of Itolo Girls Junior Secondary School, received N100, 000, while Nnalue Emmanuella from The African Church Model College secured the second runner-up position, earning N50,000.