On the occasion of International Day of the Girl Child, the Sterling One Foundation has emphasized the critical importance of empowering girls, particularly in Nigeria and across Africa. The foundation notes that this day serves as a reminder of the significant potential girls possess to shape the future. The 2024 observance, themed ‘Girls’ Vision for the Future,’ underscores the necessity for urgent action while fostering hope through the voices and aspirations of girls. By connecting this message to the broader context of global development, Sterling One Foundation highlights how empowering girls is not merely a moral imperative but a strategic necessity for achieving lasting societal change.
Olapeju Ibekwe, CEO of the Sterling One Foundation, expressed how vital it is to empower girls so that they can actualize their visions for the future. She pointed out that such empowerment is foundational to creating a more equitable society, and the foundation’s various programs aim to equip girls with the necessary tools and opportunities to thrive as leaders in their communities. This proactive approach reflects an understanding that empowering girls will not only benefit them on an individual level but will also contribute to the socio-economic development of their surroundings.
A critical initiative led by the foundation, called STEM for Her, has successfully impacted over 2,000 girls, especially those from rural backgrounds. This program aims to spark interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) among girls, providing them with essential skills that equip them to lead and innovate. By focusing on global challenges like climate change and offering mentorship, the initiative encourages practical learning, thereby fostering a generation of informed and capable young women. The foundational belief is that equipping girls with STEM education can result in transformative social and environmental solutions.
In addition to empowering girls through education, the Sterling One Foundation tackles gender-based violence, which has pervasive impacts on girls’ ability to pursue their dreams safely and effectively. With over 3,000 beneficiaries impacted, the foundation collaborates with various partners, including the United Nations Population Fund and Live Abundantly, to raise awareness, advocate for protective policies, and provide essential support to survivors. These efforts are crucial for creating an environment where every girl feels safe to pursue her ambitions without the fear of violence or discrimination.
The commitment of the Sterling One Foundation to expand its reach and create lasting impact is evident in its ongoing initiatives. The foundation stresses the need for a collaborative approach to ensure that every girl has access to the education, resources, and protection she deserves. By rallying stakeholders from different sectors, including government, non-profits, and private enterprises, the foundation aims to establish a supportive ecosystem for girls, enabling them to thrive and contribute meaningfully to society.
In conclusion, the Sterling One Foundation calls upon all stakeholders to join forces in crafting a world where every girl’s voice can be amplified, and their visions for the future are realized. The call to action is not only focused on policy change but also on community engagement to foster a cultural shift that values and empowers girls. As we commemorate International Day of the Girl Child, it is imperative to recognize that the empowerment of girls is integral to social progress and global development, and initiatives like those of the Sterling One Foundation are essential in advancing this vital cause.
