In celebration of Children’s Day, African Power Girls partnered with Knorr and Zedcrest Group to host a special screening of the movie “Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti” at EbonyLife Cinemas, Victoria Island, Lagos. The event was designed to empower and inspire young African girls by sharing the powerful story of Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, a pioneering Nigerian political activist and women’s rights advocate, who is one of the women featured in the first volume of the book, “African Power Girls”.
The event featured an impressive lineup of speakers, including Stephanie Busari-Bediham, Senior Editor Africa, CNN; Mrs. Godrey Ogbechie, Group Executive Director, Rainoil; Nancy Isime, TV Host and Actress; Shaffy Bello, Actress; Genoveva Umeh, Actress; Renah Osiemi, COO, ZedCrest Group; Omawumi Megbele, Singer and Actress; Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende, Honorable Commissioner for Youth in Lagos State.
These distinguished speakers shared their journeys and insights, encouraging over a hundred female students from various secondary schools across Lagos to pursue their dreams with confidence and determination.
Stephanie Busari-Bediham, highlighted the importance of storytelling in shaping perspectives and inspiring change. Mrs. Godrey Ogbechie, emphasized the need for strong female leadership in every sector of society. Speaking to the girls, Ms. Osiemi, reminded them of the importance of self-awareness, introspection, and being true to themselves while working towards their goals.
Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende, the Honorable Commissioner for Youth in Lagos State, underscored the government’s commitment to youth empowerment and the importance of events like this in shaping the future of young girls.
Several notable guests attended the event, including Adedayo Amzat, CEO of ZedCrest Group; Danjuma Ernest, CEO of Dendaworks; Mrs. Bolanle Austen-Peters, Executive Producer and Director; and Adetutu Laditan, Senior Product Manager at Google.
Adebola Williams, the visionary behind the African Power Girls initiative, remarked, “This initiative is a gift to every African girl, so they know they come from a lineage of great women and do not need permission to become who they are meant to be.”
The screening of “Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti” provided the young attendees with a vivid portrayal of the life and legacy of one of Nigeria’s most influential women. The movie’s powerful narrative served as a catalyst for discussions on leadership, resilience, and the importance of having role models.
The partnership with Knorr and Zedcrest underscores a shared commitment to creating an environment where young girls can be inspired by the paths forged by extraordinary women. This Children’s Day celebration not only honored the legacy of Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti but also aimed to instill a sense of pride and ambition in every girl present.