By Kemi Olatunde

A Non-Governmental Organisation, Youth Health and Life Skills Development Initiative (YHLDI), has empowered young women to embrace their leadership potential.

The event, tagged ‘Becoming 2025 Symposium’, was held at the Christ Event Centre, Akure.

According to the convener, Dr. (Mrs) Yetunde Olagbuji, the Becoming 2025 Symposium: Raising Female Leaders aimed to foster dynamic dialogue on female empowerment and leadership development.

She noted that it aligned with the 2025 International Women’s Day theme: ‘Accelerate Action and March Forward.’

She stated that the event brought together students, educators and accomplished female leaders to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing young women in the 21st century.

While addressing participants on Finding Yourself: Navigating Identity as a Young Woman Today, Olagbuji cautioned against the pressures of social media and unrealistic beauty standards.

She urged young women to prioritise their mental health, cultivate individuality, and focus on their passions and interests.

She emphasised the importance of using social media as a tool for self-expression rather than validation and encouraged attendees to voice their truths authentically.

Representing the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), Professor Christianah Ijagbemi, in her keynote address, highlighted the underrepresentation of women in leadership despite making up 51 per cent of Nigeria’s population.

She attributed the disparity to cultural norms, gender-based violence, and limited economic participation, stressing the need for women to cultivate self-will, self-esteem, and a relentless pursuit of education.

Professor Ijagbemi urged young women to embrace their potential, strive for excellence, and leverage opportunities in the digital age.

A vibrant panel discussion featured students from Ijapo High School, BGB Model College, and Fiwasaye Girls Grammar School, who explored inspirations, challenges, and solutions related to female leadership.

The students cited role models ranging from doctors and journalists to family members and educators.

They identified challenges such as gender inequality, the prioritisation of male siblings in families, and societal pressures on mental health.

They also suggested solutions, including fostering self-esteem, seeking parental support and developing strong self-belief.

Ms Bukola Oladeji, the second speaker, spoke on Breaking the Stereotypes, stressing the need for women to reject biased perceptions and embrace their authentic selves.

She outlined key attributes of female leaders, including strength, wisdom, dignity, and effective communication. She also provided practical steps for personal development, mentorship, and spiritual grounding.

Ms Oladeji encouraged attendees to define their own success, invest in personal growth, and embrace opportunities with courage.

Similarly, Mrs Temitope Momoh, who focused on The Leader in You – Purpose, Passion, and Leadership: Developing Your Passion and Purpose, stated that every individual is created with a unique purpose. She underscored the pivotal role of mentorship in bridging the gap between an individual and their destined purpose.

Her session empowered participants to actively seek and cultivate their passions, recognising that the journey to leadership begins with self-discovery and a clear understanding of one’s purpose.

The symposium also featured a panel session, where resource persons provided insights and answered participants’ questions.

It successfully ignited a spark of empowerment and inspiration among the young women in attendance, equipping them with valuable insights and tools to navigate their leadership journey.

The event, as gathered, served as a powerful reminder of the importance of fostering female leadership and creating a more equitable future for all.