By Chinenye Anuforo
Nigeria’s youth are stepping up to the plate, and Ashoka, a renowned social innovation champion, is taking notice. The organization recently unveiled its impressive third cohort of Ashoka Young Changemakers in Nigeria.
This inspiring group of young minds, between the ages of 15 and 20, is brimming with fresh ideas and an unwavering commitment to making a positive impact in their communities.
“These aren’t just dreamers; they’re doers,” said Angelou Ezeilo, Co-President of Ashoka Africa, highlighting the action-oriented nature of this new cohort.
Unlike bystanders waiting for change to happen, these Young Changemakers are actively seeking out and tackling pressing issues in their communities. From environmental concerns to gender equality and educational access, they’re crafting impactful solutions.
But they know they can’t go it alone. Collaboration is key, emphasizes Paula Ugwu, Ashoka’s West Africa Youth and Partnerships Manager. These young leaders are forming strong teams with friends, family, and volunteers, ensuring their solutions have a lasting effect.
This collaborative spirit extends beyond their peers. The Young Changemakers are actively forging connections with experienced leaders, including government officials and social entrepreneurs. As Ezeilo explains, this exchange of knowledge and resources is vital for creating sustainable change.
The program’s impact goes beyond recognizing exceptional youth. This year, it expands to include teachers, fostering a year-long journey of shared learning and development.
“Empowered teachers can inspire future generations of changemakers,” said Josephine Nzerem, Ashoka Africa’s Director of Venture and Talent. This unique approach fosters a supportive environment where both students and teachers can develop the skills needed to become effective agents of change.
As the guest speaker Samuel Onyemelukwe, Managing Director of TRACE, Anglophone West Africa, emphasized, partnerships are a powerful tool for amplifying positive change. “We’re building a collaborative space where teachers and students can work together,” said Nzerem. This echoes Onyemelukwe’s message about the importance of shared goals and working together.
The Young Changemakers program exemplifies this perfectly. By fostering collaboration between young people, experienced leaders, and educators, Ashoka is cultivating a critical mass of future leaders who understand the power of partnership.
Ashoka’s Young Changemakers program is more than just a program; it’s a movement gaining momentum. “We’re building a collaborative space where teachers and students can work together,” said Nzerem. This equips future Young Changemakers with the necessary skills and, more importantly, cultivates a critical mass of future leaders prepared to address Africa’s challenges.
Ashoka champions the power of shared leadership, where everyone contributes their strengths for a greater collective impact. “We’re energized by these young changemakers’ journeys and their ability to inspire others,” said Ezeilo. “Their dedication exemplifies our ‘Everyone a Changemaker’ movement, proving that positive change can start anywhere, regardless of age or background.”
The future is bright, and Nigeria’s passionate and dedicated youth are helping to shape it. Ashoka’s Young Changemakers program serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring young Nigerians nationwide to become active participants in building a better tomorrow.