Celebrating the Power of Girls in STEM: The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead

In celebration of the International Day of the Girl Child 2025, Success Waymarks Foundation, in collaboration with SWIS Africa, Tech Girls Club, and Deeper Life High School (DLHS), hosted a powerful virtual event. This inspiring gathering reached over 1,000 girls across 24 DLHS campuses in Nigeria.

The Theme: Girls as Everyday Leaders

Themed “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead: Girls as Everyday Leaders,” the event provided an empowering platform for young girls. They learned, connected, and reflected on their leadership potential. The focus was on exploring ways to create meaningful change in their communities.

The program began with a warm introduction by Dr. Grace Oluwadebi, the Founder of Success Waymarks Foundation. She encouraged the students to see themselves as capable leaders and agents of positive change. Her words resonated deeply, igniting a spark of ambition in the hearts of many.

Introduction to AI Technologies

Before the keynote presentation, Faith Akinyemi delivered an insightful session on “Introduction to AI Technologies.” She highlighted the growing importance of artificial intelligence and how young girls can seize opportunities in the tech world. This session opened their eyes to the vast possibilities that lie ahead.

Keynote Address: Building Tomorrow

The keynote address by Cherry Wang, titled “Building Tomorrow: The Leadership Journey that Shaped Me,” inspired participants with personal stories of growth, leadership, and purpose. Cherry encouraged the girls to embrace resilience, self-belief, and lifelong learning as keys to success. Her journey was a testament to the power of determination and vision.

Panel Discussion: Insights from Leaders

A lively panel discussion anchored by Esosa featured Olajumoke Olarewaju, Mary Obiechina Ifeakandu, and Faith Akinyemi. They shared practical insights on leadership, mentorship, scholarship opportunities, and launching innovative ideas. Their stories motivated students to take bold steps toward their goals and make a difference in their schools and communities.

Participants described the event as inspiring and life-changing. Many noted that it gave them a new sense of direction and belief in their potential. It was a moment of awakening, where dreams began to take flight.

The Impact of Empowerment

This event reflects the shared mission of SWIS Africa, Success Waymarks Foundation, and Tech Girls Club. Together, they aim to empower young girls, promote leadership, and support the next generation of women in STEM, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

When girls are empowered and equipped, they become unstoppable forces for positive transformation in their communities and beyond. This is not just a statement; it’s a reality we are witnessing every day.

Building a Supportive Community

Creating a supportive community is essential for nurturing future leaders. Organizations like SWIS Africa and Tech Girls Club play a crucial role in providing resources, mentorship, and opportunities. They help girls navigate the challenges they face and encourage them to pursue their passions in STEM fields.

The Role of Mentorship

Mentorship is a powerful tool in the journey of personal and professional growth. Having someone to guide you can make all the difference. Mentors provide insights, share experiences, and offer encouragement. They help young girls build confidence and resilience, essential qualities for success in any field.

Celebrating Achievements

Celebrating achievements, no matter how small, is vital. It reinforces the idea that progress is possible. When girls see their peers succeeding, it inspires them to strive for their own goals. Recognizing accomplishments fosters a culture of encouragement and support.

The Future of Girls in STEM

The future is bright for girls in STEM. With the right support and resources, they can break barriers and redefine what is possible. The world needs diverse voices and perspectives, and girls are ready to contribute.

As we move forward, let’s continue to uplift and empower young women. Together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable future.

In conclusion, the event was a remarkable success, showcasing the potential of girls as leaders. It was a reminder that when we invest in our youth, we invest in a brighter tomorrow.

Let’s keep the momentum going and support one another on this journey. After all, the girl I am today is the change I lead tomorrow.