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By Enyeribe Ejiogu
Mrs Roseline Anijekwu is a dedicated teen coach, author, and founder of the Caverra Empowerment Foundation, who is passionate about empowering young people to reach their full potential. Anijekwu is a proud ambassador of Federal Government College, Kano, where she had her secondary school education and had her teenage years formed by a reliable, honest senior student who acted as her school mother. It was back in the days when you could hand over an 11-year-old child to the manager of a station of the Nigerian Railways Corporation and simply tell the official that child is a new student of a Federal College (with proof of her admission letter). From that moment, the child became the personal responsibility of the officers on the train – particularly the ticket master, who would ensure that the child was properly handed over like baton in a relay race, from one team of train officials to the next until the train arrived at the final destination, where officials of the particular college would come to the railway station to pick up the child and others.
The beautiful experience she had in school is a far cry from what obtains in secondary schools these days. It sorry and saddening reality. As a parent of young people and aunt to several nieces and nephews Anijekwu yearns for teenagers to have the wonderful guidance she got in her formative teenage years.
In this interview, she talks about the “special missionary work” she is doing to help young people discover, maximize their potentials and excel.
Describe in some detail the work you are doing with young people.
My mission is to provide guidance, mentorship, and support to help teenagers to navigate life’s challenges, discover their true selves, and excel in all areas.
Through my work, I believe that every young person deserves the opportunity to thrive and become the best version of themselves. My book, “Discover, Maximize, Soar,” is a testament to my commitment to empowering the next generation.
I’m passionate about creating opportunities for young people to grow, learn, and succeed, and I’m committed to working tirelessly to make this vision a reality. That is why I established Carreva Empowerment Foundation, (also known as Caverra World. It is a non-governmental organization dedicated to nurturing and empowering teenagers to become responsible, purposeful leaders.
Caverra Empowerment Foundation was born out of a vision rooted in compassion, awareness, and a deep desire to transform lives. The journey began during my time at Federal Government College, Kano, when I was in SS1. At that early stage, I became increasingly aware of a troubling reality—many teenagers around me were gradually losing focus, struggling with identity, and finding it difficult to stay grounded due to the overwhelming influence of peer pressure.
I saw brilliant young minds, full of potential, slowly drifting away from their purpose, not because they lacked ability, but because they lacked guidance, direction, and the right support system. That realization ignited something powerful within me. I knew that if nothing was done, many of these young people would grow up without discovering who they truly are or what they are capable of becoming.
Out of that burden and determination, Caverra Empowerment Foundation was intentionally founded—not just as an organization, but as a movement dedicated to reshaping the narrative of the younger generation.
At Caverra, we are driven by a clear and unwavering vision: to help teenagers discover their true identity, rise above societal pressures, and embrace their unique purpose in life. We believe that every young person carries greatness within them, and with the right guidance, they can become confident, responsible, and impactful individuals.
Through mentorship programmes, seminars, cultural engagements, celebration of National Teenager Day, Teens Camp, Teens talk show , leadership training, and empowerment initiatives, we create safe and inspiring spaces where teenagers can grow intellectually, emotionally, and socially. We do not just educate, we ignite purpose. We do not just speak, we inspire transformation.
Our mission goes beyond addressing challenges; it is about building a generation that is self-aware, confident, disciplined, and future-driven. We are committed to raising young leaders who are not easily swayed by negative influences but are equipped to make informed decisions and contribute meaningfully to society.
Caverra Empowerment Foundation stands as a beacon of hope—a platform where dreams are nurtured, voices are heard, and potentials are unlocked. We inspire purpose, we build confidence, and we shape the future—one teenager at a time.
Looking back, what would you say prompted or motivated you to start mentoring teenagers?
My mentorship experience at Federal Government College, Kano, was a very significant part of my personal journey and leadership development. During my time there, I had the opportunity to have great and supportive teachers, who guided and supported students, listened to their concerns, and helped them navigate the many challenges that came with adolescence. That experience opened my eyes to how much teenagers need guidance, encouragement, and a safe space to express themselves.
The environment at FGC Kano also taught me the value of discipline, leadership, and community. Those early experiences shaped my understanding that when teenagers are given the right support, mentorship and positive orientation, they grow into confident and responsible young adults.
Today, as the founder of Caverra Empowerment Foundation, I see a clear connection between those formative experiences and the work I am doing now. Through our programmes—such as seminars, mentorship sessions, outreach programmes, and the celebration of National Teenager Day—we are creating platforms where teenagers can be guided, empowered, and inspired to make positive choices.
In this age of the Internet and social media, where young people are constantly faced with distractions and pressures, our work is focused on helping them build strong values, self-confidence, and a sense of purpose. We strive to give them the tools to navigate these influences wisely while discovering their unique potential.
Reflecting on the past eight years of working with teenagers through the foundation fills my heart with deep joy and fulfillment. Knowing that many young people have been encouraged, mentored, and positively influenced through our initiatives gives me a strong sense of inner peace. It reminds me that every conversation, every programme, and every opportunity we create for teenagers truly matters.
For me, this journey is more than a project—it is a calling. The impact we see in the lives of these young people reassures me that the seeds planted years ago during my mentorship experience at FGC Kano have grown into a meaningful mission that continues to touch and transform lives.
What inspired the creation of National Teenagers Day?
The inspiration behind National Teenagers Day came from a deep realization that teenagers are at a very critical stage of life where guidance, exposure, and positive influence are essential. We saw the need to create a platform that celebrates them while also equipping them with the right values, mindset, and opportunities to thrive. It is our way of investing in the future by shaping the present generation.
What is the vision and mission of Caverra Empowerment Foundation?
Cavern Empowerment Foundation is committed to raising a generation of confident, purpose-driven, and socially responsible young people. Our mission is to guide teenagers in discovering their true identity, developing their talents, and making informed life decisions. We achieve this through programmes like seminars, mentorship programs, teens camp, teens hangouts and the National Teenagers Day.
Why is it important to dedicate a day specifically to teenagers?
Teenagers represent the bridge between childhood and adulthood, and decisions made at this stage often shape their future. Dedicating a day to them helps amplify their voices, recognize their potential, and address the challenges they face such as peer pressure, identity struggles, and societal expectations. It reminds them that they are seen, valued, and supported.
How does this event impact the lives of teenagers?
The impact is both immediate and long term. Teenagers leave the event with a renewed sense of purpose, improved confidence, and better awareness of their potential. Over time, we see them make better decisions, pursue their goals with clarity, and even become role models to others in their communities.
What role does your partnership with NDLEA play in National Teenagers Day event?
Our partnership with NDLEA is very significant. They bring awareness on drug abuse prevention and educate the teenagers on the dangers of substance abuse. This collaboration ensures that we are not only inspiring teenagers but also protecting them by equipping them with knowledge to make safe and healthy choices.
What kind of support are you seeking from organizations and individuals?
The Caverra Empowerment Foundation welcomes partnerships, sponsorship, and support from individuals, corporate organizations, and stakeholders who share our vision. Support can come in various forms—financial support, mentorship, or even volunteering. Together, we can create a greater impact and positively transform more young lives.
The Caverra Empowerment Foundation is proud to partner with esteemed organizations like the OCI Foundation Australia and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). Together, we’re working towards creating a society where young people can grow into responsible adults, learn, and succeed.
I’m excited to share my ideas and explore new collaborations to empower Nigeria’s youth and shape a brighter future for our nation. By working together with stakeholders, I’m confident that we can make a lasting impact and create a better tomorrow for our young people.
What motivates you personally to continue working with teenagers?
My motivation for working with teenagers comes from my passion for building a better tomorrow, nurturing responsible leadership, and contributing to the growth of a greater nation. I strongly believe that teenagers are the foundation of the future, and if we want a stronger society, we must be intentional about laying the right foundation today.
By guiding, mentoring, and empowering teenagers to make the right choices, we are shaping the leaders, innovators, and change-makers of tomorrow. Teenagers are not just a part of the future—they are a vital and powerful part of it.
What advice would you give to teenagers?
My advice to teenagers is to believe in themselves, remain focused, and never be afraid to dream big. Be intentional about the choices you make and ensure your decisions align with the future you desire. Remember that you are the CEO of your own life; your background does not determine your destiny, but your mindset, values, and actions do.
Always understand that every decision carries consequences. When you say “yes” to things that are not right for you, you may unknowingly be saying “no” to your growth, your future, your purpose, and even the values you believe in. Choose wisely, stay disciplined, and never lose sight of the great future ahead of you.
