Empowering Young Women at the Catalyst Symposium
The Catalyst Symposium aims to cultivate emerging leaders by emphasizing the importance of mentorship opportunities that empower young girls to engage meaningfully in nation-building efforts. This call to action was articulated by officials during the event held in Akure, which was centered around the theme “Maami Ajuro.”
This one-day symposium attracted a diverse gathering of enthusiastic young girls, students, emerging leaders, professionals, and mentors. It presented a dynamic blend of intellectual discourse and vibrant cultural expression, making it a memorable experience for all attendees.
Designed to empower young girls, the symposium encouraged participants to challenge social barriers and take bold actions. The event aimed to inspire them to build a legacy that could positively impact future generations. Through various sessions, the symposium sought to ignite a sense of purpose among young women, encouraging them to contribute actively to their communities.
Moderated by Adeyemo Ademola Richard and Dr. Macaulay Barnabas, the event maintained a lively atmosphere that facilitated engaging discussions and interactions throughout the day. Their seamless coordination ensured that the symposium was both impactful and enriching for all attendees.
In his welcoming address, convener Arogundade Dolapo emphasized the significance of mentorship as a vital conduit for driving systemic change. He urged participants to approach their personal and professional lives with courage, consistently making choices that help them create a lasting legacy.
The symposium was particularly inspired by the 91st birthday celebration of Princess Christina Monisola Ajulo, mother of Ondo State Attorney-General Dr. Olukayode Ajulo. Her life, characterized by grace, wisdom, and selfless service, serves as a powerful influence in the mentoring of girls and fostering legacy building within the community.
The keynote address, delivered by Professor Adenike Temidayo Oladeji, the first female Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), and represented by Professor MT Olowokere, highlighted a remarkable journey of academic achievement and leadership. This powerful narrative serves as a beacon of possibility for young girls, reinforcing the idea that bold dreams and integrity can lead to significant accomplishments.
Adeoye Dideoluwa Goodness, a brand strategist and founder of VOGENTI and LUMA, urged attendees to transition from passive dreaming to proactive execution in her presentation titled “Be the Girl Who Starts: Ignite Bold Action and Build a Legacy Early.” The program showcased a refreshing cultural interlude where FUTA students performed traditional Yoruba eulogies, theatrical skits, and impactful spoken word pieces, highlighting the resilience and leadership potential of girls.
Other noteworthy sessions featured Mary Szabo, who offered practical insights on transforming confusion into clarity, and Adegunle Boluwatife Grace’s presentation on the challenges girls face in leadership and career development. Meanwhile, Rahman Adekunle Yusuf discussed the role of journalism in empowering girls and fostering an intergenerational legacy. Adekunle Morire Mercy addressed the issue of low self-esteem in girls, drawing from her experiences as a skincare therapist and model.
Azimuda Peace Boluwatife concluded the event with her inspiring journey from the University of Ilorin to successfully establishing a food business franchise in Ibadan and Akure, in her presentation titled “She Didn’t See It, So She Became It.” Participants departed from the symposium invigorated, empowered, and equipped with practical tools to rise with confidence and intentionally shape the legacy of future generations, not just in Nigeria, but throughout the African continent.
