The second edition of the FinishedWork Girl-child International Conference 2024 celebrated the resilience and aspirations of young girls, addressing challenges they face and inspiring them to chart bold futures.
Held at the Afe Babalola Hall, University of Lagos, the event centred on the theme ‘Girls’ Vision for the Future’. It underscored the importance of education, self-reliance, and resilience as pillars for empowering the girl-child.
Founder Lechi Eke, author of **The Girls Are Not to Blame,** highlighted the unique purpose every girl possesses. She called on participants to embrace their individuality and pursue their God-given assignments despite societal hurdles.
This book explored the journey of a girl seeking to discover her identity and fulfill her ambitions within the constraints of marriage. “The girl-child,” Eke reminded the audience, “is not merely a helper or companion but an individual with a unique purpose assigned by her Maker.”
Her message called on every girl to discover and pursue their God-given assignment, no matter the challenges they face.
The significance of this message was heightened as speakers examined the realities confronting girls today. Forced marriages, discrimination, inadequate access to education and societal pressures continue to hinder progress. However, the conference provided a platform for addressing these issues head-on, sharing insights and inspiring a generation to dream beyond limitations.
Keynote speaker Dr. Harriet Nkechi Akubuiro, president of the Chartered Institute of Loan and Risk Management of Nigeria, emphasised self-reliance and education as tools for overcoming obstacles, urging girls to take charge of their destinies and build lives defined by integrity and purpose.
Titled, ‘X-raying the Risks Facing the Girl-Child and How to Mitigate Them,’ she reminded the audience that while governments worldwide have made strides in addressing these challenges, the ultimate responsibility lies with each girl.
“Your vision for the future is in your hands,” she declared. Akubuiro emphasised self-reliance, urging girls to take control of their destinies, embrace education as the most powerful tool, and build strong personal brands characterized by integrity and purpose.
Prof. Bose Afolayan of the University of Lagos, spoke on ‘Hopes of the Girl-Child,’ further emphasising the conference’s focus on education.
She highlighted critical barriers, including early pregnancies, forced marriages and a lack of access to health and educational resources. For many girls, these obstacles are compounded by societal expectations and cultural norms.
Yet, Afolayan stressed the transformative power of education. She said: “Education is the key to life. It enables a girl to dream, aspire, and achieve a better future than her mother’s.”
She painted a hopeful picture of the girl-child as someone determined to succeed in a variety of fields whether as a professor, banker, or entrepreneur, adding that the value of wealth lies in its ability to positively impact others. At the same time, she cautioned against chasing money at the expense of health or integrity.
The importance of resilience and intentionality was reinforced by Mrs. Ayodeji Megbope, CEO of No Left Overs Nigeria Limited. Sharing her inspiring journey from selling moi-moi (bean pudding) to addressing global audiences, including an encounter with Michelle Obama, she reminded the attendees that their current circumstances should not define their futures.
She said: “Don’t let your background deceive you. Be intentional about your goals, focus on your education, and don’t allow anyone to distract or defile you.” Megbope called on girls to embrace their childhood, work diligently, and carry themselves with dignity and self-respect.
A recurring theme throughout the conference was the call for a balanced approach to empowerment. While the focus was on uplifting girls, several speakers, including Lechi Eke, noted the need to educate boys as well.
“If we only train the girl-child, how can she succeed in society without the understanding and support of those around her?” Eke asked. Educating boys on respecting and valuing girls was seen as a crucial step in building a more equitable world.
The conference also provided practical advice for girls to navigate their journey. They were urged to avoid distractions like social media’s portrayal of fake lifestyles and instead focus on their studies and long-term goals.
“Don’t waste precious time trying to keep up with the Joneses,” Eke advised. “If no one is paying for your education, pray and find ways to pay for it yourself it’s worth it.”
Ultimately, the event highlighted the need for girls to take ownership of their lives, make informed decisions, and believe in their ability to create change.
Dr. Akubuiro reminded attendees: “You are the most valued gender in the world. Develop a plan, stay firm and don’t let challenges derail your vision.”
The conference also shone a spotlight on the broader hopes and dreams of the girl-child. Prof. Afolayan emphasized the importance of imagination and intuition, noting that these qualities could guide girls to make impactful choices. Meanwhile, Mrs. Megbope challenged girls to rise to opportunities, stay true to their values, and strive for excellence. “The future we envision for the girl-child is one of resilience, audacity, and self-confidence,” she concluded.
The FinishedWork Girl-child International Conference 2024 stands as a testament to the power of dialogue, mentorship and action in addressing the needs of the girl-child. It is a call to society to nurture and support girls, enabling them to reach their full potential and fulfill their purpose in life.
