Young minds tackle food security on international stage

By Chinenye Anuforo

In the bustling heart of Lagos,  TeensThink, a champion for young leaders, took a giant leap onto the international stage recently. Their annual essay competition, TeensThink essay competition, renowned for nurturing leadership and academic excellence among teenagers in Nigeria, transcended borders in its 2024 edition.

Held in Ikeja, the competition evolved into an international platform, attracting participants from across Africa and addressing the critical issue of food security.

This year’s competition witnessed a remarkable turnout, with students from Ghana, Zimbabwe and Rwanda joining their Nigerian counterparts. This diverse group of young minds, armed with their well-researched essays, engaged in a stimulating intellectual exchange on food security challenges and solutions.

Aboyeji Toluwanimi Elizabeth of FUNAAB International School, Abeokuta, emerged as the overall winner. Her essay not only showcased a thorough understanding of the complexities surrounding food security but also proposed innovative approaches to promote sustainable agriculture in Africa. Otito Ofolue (Babington Macaulay, Lagos) and Owoeye Ayomide (Advanced Breed Comprehensive, Lagos) secured the first and second runner-up positions with equally insightful essays, highlighting the overall high caliber of submissions.

The award ceremony acknowledged the outstanding achievements of all participants. Aboyeji received a cash prize of N150,000 while Ofolue and Ayomide were awarded N100,000 and N70,000  respectively. The financial incentives underscored TeensThink’s commitment to not only fostering academic excellence but also providing tangible support for young leaders with the potential to shape a more secure future.

Kehinde Olesin, founder of TeensThink, expressed pride in the participants’ accomplishments. He emphasized the organization’s unwavering dedication to equipping teenagers with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the complexities of global food systems. “TeensThink believes in the transformative power of education and leadership,” declared Olesin, reiterating the organization’s commitment to empowering young minds through workshops, mentorship programmes, and comprehensive educational initiatives.

The event also featured a keynote address by Deina Mayaki, co-founder and CEO of Agriarche Ltd. A prominent figure in the agricultural sector, Mayaki encouraged the participants to leverage technology in driving agricultural adoption across Africa. Her address underscored the critical role of innovation in achieving sustainable food security measures on the continent.

Adeboye Adeyemi, chairman of TeensThink’s Advisory Board, commended the winners for their exceptional contributions. “Your work is a beacon for others to follow,” remarked Adeyemi. He elaborated on the potential of the essays to spark crucial conversations, challenge existing paradigms, and pave the way for a future where food security is a reality for all.

The success of the TeensThink 2024 competition wouldn’t have been possible without the support of a prestigious group of partners and sponsors, including Sifax Group, Nigerian Breweries, Multichoice and MTN. This collaborative effort signifies a shared commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders who possess the knowledge and vision to tackle food security challenges and build a more sustainable future.

TeensThink, a brainchild of MarchMedia, a leading marketing and communications agency in Lagos, transcends the boundaries of a mere competition. It’s a dynamic platform fostering future leaders through innovative programs and initiatives. With every essay competition, TeensThink continues to empower young minds to tackle global challenges and contribute to a brighter future for all.