YouthHubAfrica Hosts Fourth Edition of the DARE Conference: A Call for Youth Empowerment and Sustainable Development

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

YouthHubAfrica successfully organized the fourth edition of its flagship DARE (Determine, Aspire, Re-Imagine, Express) Conference, themed “Youths and the Pact for the Future.” Held in Abuja, the event brought together vibrant young individuals from across Nigeria to discuss youth empowerment, sustainable development, and proactive contributions to nation-building.

The conference served as a platform to inspire and educate participants on career development, personal growth, and the critical role they play in shaping Nigeria’s future. Distinguished speakers, thought-provoking panel discussions, and interactive sessions equipped attendees with practical knowledge and strategies to excel in their personal and professional lives.

Country Director of Plan International Nigeria, Charles Usie, emphasized the value of practical experience and skill acquisition. “Volunteering will open doors, give you experience, and hone your skills. Your experience is more important in achieving your goals than acquiring certificates,” he stated.

He also called for a shift in Nigeria’s education system, adding, “Education is not overrated, but we need functionality. It’s time to integrate real-world application into our educational processes so young people can create value and lead impactful lives.”

Founder of Virtual Jobs Bootcamps, Damilola Anwo-Ade, encouraged participants to explore opportunities in the digital workspace. “There are 7 billion dollars in the remote workspace to be made; we must connect to seize this opportunity. Your profile is your digital real estate, so position yourself for greatness.”

She also noted, “With your phone and internet, you have access to endless opportunities. Understand the digital landscape and leverage it to achieve your goals.”

Executive Director of YouthHubAfrica, Rotimi Olawole, highlighted the importance of youth involvement in shaping Nigeria’s future. “We want young people to come together and discuss how they can contribute to the future. While the government has its role to play, young people—who represent the largest segment of Nigeria’s population—must be inspired, educated, and motivated to drive the change they desire,” he remarked.

He further explained, “Education should not just be about acquiring certificates but gaining knowledge that creates value. Follow your passion—whether in entrepreneurship, fashion, or public policy—and use it to inspire others, improve communities, and influence national growth.”

A standout moment of the conference was the panel session titled “Youth Power and Policy: Igniting the Interest of Africa’s Next Generation in Governance.”

APC National Youth Leader, Dayo Israel, shared practical advice on leadership and civic engagement. “Everything rises and falls on leadership, but leadership is not everything. Get involved at the local political level. Silence apathy by becoming part of the system,” he urged.

Programmes Director at the Leadership Advancement Foundation (LEAF), Chimdi Neliaku, called on privileged young people to become role models. “If you’re in a position of privilege, you must know you are a beacon of hope. Use that position to inspire others and serve as a springboard for their success,” he advised.

He further added, “You can’t complain about a system you refuse to be part of. Be proactive in contributing to the change you want to see.”

Mandate Secretary of the Women Affairs Secretariat, Mrs. Adebayo Dayo-Laniyi, encouraged youths to embrace leadership roles. “Young people must rise to the challenge and participate actively in governance. Your voices and actions are essential to driving the change Nigeria desperately needs,” she asserted.

The event emphasized the role of youths in sustainable development and highlighted pressing challenges they face. Speakers reiterated that young Nigerians must be proactive in governance and policymaking to catalyze meaningful growth in their communities and beyond.

“Youths are the driving force of Africa’s future,” Olawole reiterated. “With the right mindset and tools, they can build a Nigeria that thrives on innovation, equity, and progress.”

The DARE Conference, organized by YouthHubAfrica, fosters collaboration among African youths, governments, and Civil Society Organizations to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The annual event facilitates learning, networking, and identification of opportunities in four thematic areas: Health, Democracy & Governance, Employment & Entrepreneurship, and Education.

The 2024 edition brought together over 500 young Africans to engage with speakers, artists, and thought leaders who shared personal stories, success strategies, and a collective vision for achieving a better future for Nigeria and Africa. It challenged attendees to harness their energy toward addressing pressing societal challenges, especially those impacting women and girls.

The conference ended with a resounding call for action. “The future of Nigeria lies in the hands of its youth,” Olawole concluded. “Now is the time for young people to rise, take charge, and transform their passion into progress.”