In our generation today, where civic engagement and community development are increasingly vital, a transformative Youth Leadership Development Program held at the American Corner, Parliamentary Road, Calabar, has emerged as a foundation of inspiration for young change makers in Cross River State.
The youth leadership development program was organised by Calabar Civic Champions; the initiative successfully brought together a vibrant mix of inquisitive, innovative, and purpose driven young leaders under one roof.
The programmes manager, Calabar Civic Champions, the youth leadership development program, Mr Golden Ibangha, gave insights about the organisation, noting that it is an organization that brings together leaders from around the state and helps them get involved in civic engagements and community developments.
Other teammates include Miss Favour Godwin, Mr John Stephen, Mr Isaac Daniel and Miss Lucy Bassey Ita.
The atmosphere was charged with energy and a thirst for knowledge. Participants who are young individuals from diverse backgrounds converged not just to listen, but to engage, ask critical questions, and explore meaningful pathways to leadership and societal impact.
With a focus on real-world relevance, the program bridged the gap between aspiration and action, theory and practice.
The event
The event featured a stellar lineup of accomplished speakers who are true leaders in their fields of which they brought decades of experience and insight to the room.
From policy advocates to social entrepreneurs, each speaker shared not only their journeys but also practical advice, hard-earned lessons, and inspiring messages aimed at igniting the leadership spark within the youth.
The speakers
The distinguished speakers were Sct Omojefe Orezime Kennedy AKA DR PUSH, Goal coach , Business strategist and CEO, Ore Innovations; Leader Ntufam Victor Egbe, seasoned student leader and champion of social justice and child welfare; and Mr. Godslove Divine Ngbechukwuyem, community development practitioner and youths advocate.
Interactive sessions allowed for robust dialogue between the speakers and participants. Questions were answered with thoughtfulness and clarity, sparking deeper interest and reflection among the attendees.
These exchanges reflected the core values of the program, which are participation, empowerment, and sustainable development.
Beyond the talks, the program fostered an environment of mutual motivation. Young leaders connected over shared passions and ideas, planting the seeds for future collaborations and initiatives. It was a safe space to dream boldly and to plan realistically.
As the event drew to a close, the room buzzed with excitement. The impact was unmistakable, young people left more empowered, more informed, and more committed to leading change in their communities.
The Youth Leadership Development Program is more than just an event; it is a movement, and these young minds are its future torchbearers.
#YouthLeadership #CalabarCivicChampions #CommunityDevelopment #CivicEngagement #FutureLeaders #AmericanCornerCalabar
