As part of the effort of Rep. Babajimi Benson, member House of Representatives, Ikorodu federal constituency to bring valuable opportunities to his constituents and to engage teens while on their summer holiday, through his iCare Foundation he partnered with Focus Teens Foundation to launch a five-day career summer programme.

The programme, launched in 2017, provides a platform for professionals from various industries to share their experiences and insights with young participants, offering career guidance, mentorship, exposure, and internship opportunities.

Currently, 150 teens from Ikorodu Federal Constituency are participating in the programme, benefiting from the wealth of knowledge and expertise shared by the speakers.

According to Olaonipekun Kazeem, founder and principal of Focus Teen Foundation, “This initiative helps teenagers make informed decisions about their future. We bring in professionals from different careers to engage with these teenagers, providing them with more information and insight about their respective careers, enabling them to compete locally and globally.”

With a lineup of esteemed speakers, the conference offers a unique opportunity for youths to learn from the best in their respective fields.

Kazeem further urged participants to take advantage of the conference, saying, “Focus, pay attention, and make the most of the learning opportunities. Turn out well and give back to others in the future.”

Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, First Lady of Lagos State, who was represented urged participants to make the most of the opportunity, emphasizing the importance of hard work, perseverance, and focus in achieving success.

She highlighted initiatives from her office, including the fight against sexual and gender-based violence, the Boy-Child Project, and the War Against Drug Abuse campaign, emphasizing the need for collective action in creating a society free from violence and drug abuse.

Dr. Sanwo-Olu encouraged the participants to be aware of the dangers of drug abuse, make informed choices, and adopt positive attitudes to shape their destiny, emphasizing that they are the leaders of today and tomorrow.

She commended the Focus Teens Foundation for organizing the transformative program and wished the participants all the best on their journey.

Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, highlighted the importance of paying attention and learning from the experiences of others.

Ogunlende encouraged the teens to be attentive and engaged throughout the event, stating that many individuals had taken time out of their busy schedules to share valuable insights and knowledge.

He commended the founder of the initiative, saying, “I commend my friend, the founder, for taking time out and making personal sacrifices for these teenagers. Thank you for your dedication and commitment to their development.”

Ogunlende emphasized that the purpose of the gathering was to mold the teens into responsible citizens of Lagos and Nigeria, and that it was crucial to instill discipline and good values in them from a young age.

Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, Ooni of Ife, represented by Oba Muraina Adebanjo Adedini, commended Focus Teens Foundation, calling it an asset that embodies the spirit of great Nigerians. The program, held from July 29 to August 2, 2024, aims to empower, inspire, and ignite the dreams of young people, providing a platform for career exploration, skill development, and mentorship. The Ooni encouraged participants to fully engage and make the most of the opportunity, reminding them that they are the present and future of Nigeria.

Raheem Owodeyi, ED/COO of Sterling Bank, stated the importance of taking ownership and responsibility for their lives and choices.

He shared his personal experiences and encouraged the youths to be attentive, take lessons from the speakers, and develop an entrepreneurial spirit. Owodeyi stressed the need for discipline, focus, and fairness in their interactions with others.

He also highlighted the theme “Being Young is an Asset” and shared examples of how young people can provide valuable insights and perspectives. Owodeyi encouraged the participants to seize opportunities, be open to learning, and take responsibility for their future.

Bashir Are, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority, emphasized the importance of self-discovery and development, encouraging the teens to identify their passions and strengths to build a strong foundation for their future.

He stressed the need for young people to acquire skills and knowledge, connect with others in their field, and seek guidance from experienced mentors to navigate their journey.

Are also encouraged teens to set clear goals, stay focused, and believe in their abilities to achieve success. “To be a future leader, you must learn from this array of speakers, also study hard and apply the knowledge you gain,” he added.

Odiri Ogini, CEO of United Capital Asset Management, highlighted the importance of embracing the gifts of being young. She identified five unique gifts: energy, time, adaptability, friendship, and curiosity.

Ogini encouraged the teens to leverage these gifts to pursue their passions, invest in themselves, and build meaningful relationships. She emphasized the importance of using time wisely, embracing change, and staying open to new experiences.