The Cakasa Ebenezer Foundation (CEF) has joined forces with the Ornaments of Grace and Virtues Initiative (OGAV) to launch the 2023 Girl’s Leadership & Mentoring (GLAM) Summer Camp in Lagos. This year marks the 6th edition of the camp, with the theme “I’M A Girl: Career Exploration with Health & Wellness.”
Speaking at the inauguration of the 6th edition of GLAM and the 10th anniversary of OGAV, Mr. Barnabas Olise, the Managing Director/CEO of Cakasa Nigeria Company Limited (CNC), represented by the Executive Director, CEF, Mrs. Helen Egbe, expressed his pride in this significant milestone. He emphasized CNC’s commitment to empowering young girls from low-income families in Education District I, Agege, Lagos State.
Mrs. Busola Kolade, the President and Founder of OGAV, received sincere appreciation from Olise for her unwavering dedication and vision in creating an organization that empowers girls to become independent, responsible, and influential young women who positively impact society.
The CEO quoted Eleanor Roosevelt, saying, “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent,” highlighting the importance of empowering girls to overcome challenges and believe in themselves. Olise acknowledged the transformative power of education and mentorship, lauding the collaboration between OGAV and CEF. He mentioned that through this partnership, 10 outstanding girls from previous OGAV camps have received scholarships through CEF, enabling them to pursue their dreams at various Nigerian universities.
Olise emphasized that education extends beyond the classroom, and initiatives like the Summer GLAM Camp equip girls with essential academic, social, and emotional skills for success. He commended OGAV’s commitment to providing a safe environment for the girls during their summer holidays.
Addressing the issue of access to basic hygiene products hindering girls’ education, Olise recognized OGAV’s efforts in providing reusable sanitary pads to ensure proper menstrual hygiene maintenance. This support not only promotes the girls’ health and well-being but also enables them to attend school without disruptions.
As part of its corporate social responsibility, Cakasa Nigeria Company through CEF reaffirmed its commitment to empowering girls through education and leadership. Olise expressed delight in CEF’s collaboration and eagerness to support the 2023 Summer GLAM Camp, aiming to create lasting change within the entire school community in Education District I, Agege, Lagos State.
In her goodwill message, Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), congratulated the Founder of OGAV, Mrs. Busola Kolade, for her contributions to nation-building through the empowerment of the girl-child. Dabiri-Erewa stressed the importance of education imbued with social and emotional skills, enabling the rise of confident and independent women.
The Founder and Executive Director of OGAV, Mrs. Olubusola Kolade, encouraged the students to be change agents in society, emphasizing the enriching experiences offered by the summer camp in a safe environment.
The 2023 Summer Camp, hosting 1000 girls from 15 different schools, will run from July 24 to August 18.
