By Chioma Obinna

The Love for Change Women Foundation, LCWF, has raised the alarm on the technology gap faced by young girls in underserved communities, warning that the lack of access to STEAM opportunities is stifling their potential as future innovators and leaders.

Speaking at the conclusion of the INNOVAT STEAM Bootcamp 2.0 in Lagos, the Founder and Executive Director of the foundation, Mrs. Modupeola Bello Olukoya, highlighted the programme’s mission to tackle these challenges head-on. “Every girl deserves the opportunity to explore, innovate, and lead—to break generational barriers,.

“This workshop celebrates that belief and reaffirms our commitment to nurturing future-ready, purpose-driven young women,’ she stated.

The eight-week bootcamp, which hosted over 200 participants virtually and invited 75 outstanding girls to an in-person finale, introduced groundbreaking elements such as robotics, Python programming, and a Fashion & Design Workshop, held in partnership with Lisa Folawiyo Studio. For many girls, these opportunities represented their first exposure to advanced tech skills and creative innovation.

“Our participants are not just learning skills—they’re building the confidence to lead and innovate,” Olukoya added.

Reflecting on the challenges, she acknowledged the critical role of partnerships in sustaining such initiatives.

She lauded the Lagos State Government and other supporters for their contributions, calling for more collaboration to scale the programme across Nigeria. “We need more opportunities like this. The impact is clear, but we can do so much more with broader support,” she said.

As the INNOVAT STEAM Bootcamp 2.0 wraps up, Olukoya also noted that plans are underway to establish an alumni fellowship, ensuring that participants remain connected to mentorship and future opportunities. She said the step aims to build a pipeline of female tech leaders who will redefine innovation and leadership in Nigeria and beyond.

“We’re not stopping here. This is just the beginning of a journey to empower girls to learn, dream, and lead in ways they never imagined.”

Also speaking, the Project Assistant at the foundation, Ms Bukola Adeyemi, explained the vision behind the initiative.

According to her, “Research shows that young girls in underserved communities often lack access to technological skills that could transform their futures. We’re bridging that gap by teaching coding, data analysis, critical thinking, and problem-solving. These foundational skills help them imagine a future as STEAM queens or tech leaders.”

Adeyemi noted the success of last year’s bootcamp, where 90 percent of participants reported a renewed interest in STEAM careers.

“This year, our goal is even more ambitious,. We’ve expanded our reach, engaged more participants, and introduced additional elements to make the program more impactful.”

The workshop also focused on leadership and emotional intelligence, with sessions led by Ms. Oluwatoyin Banjo, a global development leader and entrepreneur.

Banjo stressed the importance of equipping young women with the tools to navigate male-dominated spaces confidently.

“Our female tech stars must rise boldly and lead with purpose,. They must recognize their ability to influence, solve problems, and create change. Without emotional intelligence and self-awareness, they risk losing opportunities and being sidelined.”

The program’mes comprehensive approach extended beyond tech skills, incorporating lessons on leadership, service excellence, and emotional resilience. Participants were inspired by women who have excelled in STEAM fields, underscoring the possibility of achieving success against the odds.

She said the l holistic intervention, which has already yielded significant results, aligns with the foundation’s broader goals to promote sustainable mentorship, practical learning, and creativity.