Two-day programme themed “Empowered to Lead” equips young girls with digital, career and personal development skills
Girls in Tech Initiative, in collaboration with Junatel Foundation International and The Winning Damsels, joined other stakeholders for the 2026 Girl Child Empowerment Programme, held from August 14–15, 2026, at LICC, 62 Captain Ayeni Road, Yenizue-Epie, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
The two-day programme, themed “Empowered to Lead,” brought together young girls for an engaging learning experience focused on digital skills, career development, self-confidence, leadership and personal growth.
The programme opened with prayers, a dance session and welcome remarks from the organisers. Miss Happiness God’s Time also presented the Girl Child Guide, setting the tone for meaningful conversations around the importance of equipping girls with the knowledge, confidence and values needed to thrive.
Mrs. Blessing Joseph, Convener of Junatel Foundation International, encouraged the participants to believe in themselves, embrace opportunities and develop the confidence required to become leaders in their schools, communities and future careers.
One of the highlights of the programme was an interactive session on Artificial Intelligence, facilitated by ICT expert Teresa Briseimo – Founder, Girls in Tech Initiative, and represented at the event by Ms. Jennifer Gbonhinbor. The session introduced participants to the growing relevance of AI and its practical applications, helping the girls understand how emerging technologies can support learning, creativity, productivity and future career opportunities.
The programme also featured an engaging career development session led by Grace Asah Joel, who guided participants through the process of identifying suitable career paths and introduced them to different career opportunities available in today’s changing world.
Beyond the technical and career-focused sessions, participants took part in interactive games and activities designed to encourage teamwork, participation, confidence and social connection.
The organisers described the programme as an impactful platform for exposing young girls to knowledge and opportunities that can shape their future. The collaboration also reinforced the importance of partnerships in creating sustainable opportunities for the girl child, particularly in the areas of technology, education, leadership and entrepreneurship.
For Girls in Tech Initiative, participation in the programme aligns with its commitment to ensuring that girls and young women are not merely consumers of technology but are equipped to understand, create, innovate and lead in the digital age.
Speaking on the importance of initiatives such as this, the organisation emphasised that empowering girls with digital knowledge early gives them greater confidence to explore opportunities in technology and prepares them to participate meaningfully in the future workforce.
The 2026 Girl Child Empowerment Programme forms part of Junatel Foundation International’s broader mission of “Impacting the Girl Child, Inspiring the Next Generation,” while strengthening collective efforts to create a generation of confident, skilled and empowered young women.
Chinemelum Ogbu Ezinne – Member, Gitibayelsa