By DADA AYOKHAI
The NextGen Youth Community Project’s first summit in Benin City was a huge success, focusing on empowering young Nigerians with skills and opportunities in technology, creative industries, and entrepreneurship.
The event brought together diverse youths, introducing them to career pathways and providing practical empowerment through conversations on skills productivity and earning opportunities.
Otene Monday, the team lead, emphasized that the summit is a space for young people to learn, connect, and recreate, designed to empower and impact youth in several ways. The first edition served as a foundation for a larger and more comprehensive summit series planned for the future.
Ehi Soetan, the Assistant team lead, highlighted that the event focuses on practical empowerment, exposing young people to conversations around skills productivity and earning opportunities. This helps them discover sustainable ways to create value for themselves while positively contributing to society. She noted that this event is part of a broader program planned for rollout across Nigeria
Keynote speaker Ambassador Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen encouraged youths to be creative and exploit entertainment, information, and education.
Other speakers emphasized the importance of mentorship, with Engr Pere Ganranwei stating that youths need guides to achieve their goals. Mr Osagiator Izevigie highlighted the power of communication, urging youths to pursue their passions
The event included a pledge session led by SSA on Youth welfare and Development to the Governor, Mubarak Jimah where participants committed to self-awareness, integrity, and positive values. Beneficiaries, like Princess Amaka and Momoh Martina, appreciated the opportunities and grants received, promising to make good use of them.
Notable collaborations included the partnership with Bini Film Academy, and the presentation of ₦50,000 to five beneficiaries, with one receiving a scholarship to learn cinematography.
