The S.H.E Project (Strength, Hope, and Empowerment) is a significant initiative orchestrated by the Social Sciences Students’ Association (SOSSA) at the Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Lagos. This program is committed to empowering young women by fostering education, mentorship, and community engagement, focusing on personal growth, leadership, and impactful social outreach. The launch of the S.H.E Project consisted of two key segments: the S.H.E Conference and the S.H.E Outreach, both aimed at inspiring and empowering women and girls across various life stages.
The S.H.E Conference
The S.H.E Conference was held on Thursday, February 5, 2026, in the Faculty of Environmental Sciences Auditorium at the University of Lagos. This event garnered an impressive number of 859 registrations, with 520 attendees, including enthusiastic young women, men, students, professionals, and community members who participated in enriching discussions centered on leadership, empowerment, and personal development.
The conference was skillfully hosted by Akomolafe Deborah and Banjo Kayode Michael, whose engaging approach contributed to the event's success.
The day commenced with a welcoming address from Morenikeji Omaiboje, whose insightful remarks set an inspiring tone for the event. It was followed by a compelling keynote speech from Funto Ibuoye, whose powerful message struck a chord with attendees, igniting meaningful discussions about women's leadership and empowerment.
The conference showcased an inspiring array of speakers across three distinct panels. The Older Generation Panel, moderated by Pereira Adaun, featured Funto Ibuoye alongside Osarume Akenzuwa and Dr. Gbenusola Akinwale, who generously shared their rich experiences and insights on overcoming challenges, thriving in careers, and making significant impacts in their fields. Similarly, the Younger Generation Panel, moderated by Wuraola Oyebola, included Amanda Dara, Kaosarat Aduagba, Oyindamola Fadare (Most Beautiful Girl in Lagos State 2025), and Moyosola Olowokure, who addressed the balance between ambition and purpose in today’s dynamic environment. The Student Panel, including Moyosore Abisuga (36th LASU Vice President), and John Unachukwu (President of the Nigerian Economics Students’ Association—NESA, UNILAG Chapter), provided relatable narratives and valuable advice for young women navigating academic pathways.
In addition to the panel discussions, specialized sessions led by industry experts also took place. Debbo Africa conducted an informative health and wellness session facilitated by Dr. Sharon Akinola, offering free HIV testing and discounted health packages at 10,000 naira to ensure quality healthcare was accessible to the participants. Furthermore, Face of Liberty International provided powerful insights on empowerment and leadership development, encouraging attendees to realize their full potential.
The success of the S.H.E. Conference was made possible by the generous contributions of its sponsors and partners. W Community and Access Bank served as the Headline Sponsors, demonstrating their commitment to supporting women’s empowerment through both funding and active engagement.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to BellaNaija for its invaluable media partnership, the Press Club UNILAG for outstanding media coverage, and CWAY, Iya Moria Canteen, Cadbury, and Keystone Bank for their contributions that enriched the overall experience.
We also acknowledge our student brand sponsors—Boyin Scents, Girls You’ve Got It (GYGI Africa), Wekoya, Tosar Treats, 19th_stitches, and Adedot—who played a crucial role in supporting the conference, showcasing the power of youth entrepreneurship and collaboration.
The S.H.E Outreach
The S.H.E. Outreach program took place on Friday, February 7, 2026, at the Correctional Center for Girls and the Special Correctional Center for Girls in Idi Araba, Lagos. This segment of the project sought to extend the empowerment ethos beyond university grounds, reaching out to young girls who often face marginalization. A total of 105 girls were touched through this outreach, receiving not just material aid but also motivation and the message that their lives are filled with valuable potential.
The outreach included inspirational speakers who shared messages of resilience and hope with the participants. Karina Ololo, CEO of Pull Her Network, delivered a motivational discourse that resonated profoundly with the young attendees. Additionally, Esther Olalere from Pad Bank and Nancy Duffour from Needy Relief Africa tailored their messages specifically to the girls’ experiences, encouraging them to pursue their ambitions despite challenging circumstances. These interactions created a supportive atmosphere for the girls to engage, seek guidance, and envision promising futures.
The outreach was made feasible through the generous backing of sponsors and partners. Pad Bank provided essential sanitary supplies to the girls, addressing a crucial need for menstrual health and dignity. Needy Relief Africa contributed books, toiletries, and educational materials, fostering opportunities for learning and self-improvement.
Moreover, Stand to End Rape (STER) and Wetech participated as media partners, amplifying the outreach's message and importance. We also express our gratitude for the financial contributions to the S.H.E. Fund, which assisted in distributing food and hygiene items to the girls, meeting fundamental needs and bringing them comfort.
Acknowledgement
We would like to express our sincere appreciation to everyone who ensured that the inaugural edition of the S.H.E. Project was a remarkable success. Special thanks to the Faculty of Social Sciences Management, including the Dean, Sub- Dean/Staff Advisor, and all board members, along with the SOSSA Executive Team, The Imperium. We deeply appreciate all sponsors, partners, speakers, dedicated volunteers, and donors who contributed support for the girls at the Correctional Centers for Girls. Your enthusiastic efforts and belief in our vision facilitated meaningful change in the lives of many.
We recognize the exceptional S.H.E. Project Team for their dedication and hard work in bringing this vision to fruition. Aboyeji Favour Abimbola, the pioneering and first female (58th) President of the Faculty of Social Sciences, laid the groundwork for this transformative initiative.
Adetona Adeboyin Oreoluwa, our Project Manager, steered the project adeptly, ensuring seamless execution across all facets. The conference team, led by Kola-Kareem Abiola as Head of Conference, made a significant impact on over 500 participants. The outreach team, guided by Egbedun Esther Oluwasolape and Oyeniran Oyepeju Semilore as co-leaders, compassionately touched the lives of 105 girls.
The administrative foundation was fortified by Elufidipe Ayomide Wuraola and Adebiyi Nofisat Omotayo, who ensured smooth operations. The Sponsorship and Finance team, directed by Adeyemi Enitan Olatokunbo and Lawal Kafayat Oluwatosin, successfully secured necessary partnerships and resources.
Chiamaka Immaculata Chima and Oginni Precious Tolulope managed the impressive lineup of speakers effectively, while Adegbamigbe Mercy Adefisayo and Okafor Mmesomachukwu worked diligently to maintain participants' comfort throughout both events.
Awodiji Oluwadamilola Ayomide, as Head of Logistics, oversaw crucial operational aspects, while Nwosah Angel and Oghenetejiro Atagana created memorable experiences at the conference and outreach. Finally, Mohamed Adijat Idey and Jadesimi Halimat ensured professionalism at all proceedings as part of the protocol team.
Lastly, Akinyemi Maryam Temitope and Akeju Peace, who headed Publicity, amplified our mission’s visibility. We owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to every S.H.E. Project Team member; your relentless commitment and passion for empowering women have made this dream a reality. This collaboration exemplifies the essence of HERfluence and driving narrative change.
The S.H.E Project has illustrated that when we unite behind a common vision of empowerment, we can effect change that transforms lives for the better.
We eagerly anticipate future iterations of the S.H.E. Project and to perpetuate our goal of empowering the next generation of female leaders.
For more information and updates on the S.H.E Project, follow on Instagram:
Social Science Students’ Association (SOSSA),
Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Lagos.
BellaNaija is a Media Partner for S.H.E Conference.
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