She-ild Initiative

Today, we She-ild Initiative proudly join the world in celebrating the International Day of the Girl Child with the theme 'Girls' Vision for the Future.' When girls are empowered, educated, and given the chance to lead, they have the power to shape a brighter, more equitable world. It is our collective duty to create safe spaces where they can thrive and fully realize their potential. In commemoration of this day, we visited the students of Girls Secondary School Owerri to reaffirm the validity of their dreams and aspirations. We encouraged them to stay committed to their academic pursuits as the architects of their own futures. We urged the girls to break free from cultural and societal stereotypes, reminding them that success is not defined by gender but by determination, vision, and resilience. Understanding the impact of inflation and the rising cost of menstrual products, we also gifted the girls with sanitary pads to ensure that their menstrual hygiene is maintained. We believe that no girl should have to compromise her education or well-being due to a lack of access to essential hygiene products. Let’s continue to invest in their dreams, support their ambitions, and walk alongside them on their journey to becoming the changemakers of tomorrow. #BuildingUpWomanhood #ShieldInitiative #InternationalDayoftheGirlChild2024 #DayOfTheGirl #GirlsVisionForTheFuture #EmpowerHer Amaka Nwosu-Nnah Ijeoma Ann Nwafor Ijeoma Nne Udensi Ogechi Ikeh Blessing Duru Chinma Ekeanyanwu Victoria Ibezim-Ohaeri YAFafrica OSAI FOUNDATION Nigeria Youth SDGs Network

In the face of gender-based violence, sexual assault, and harassment, the strength and resilience of women and girls around the world shine brightly. Every day, you demonstrate incredible courage and determination, standing up against injustices that should have no place in our society. To every woman and girl battling these challenges: you are not alone. Your bravery in sharing your stories, supporting one another, and advocating for change is creating ripples of transformation. Each voice raised against violence is a powerful testament to the unyielding spirit of women everywhere. Remember, your worth is immeasurable, and your safety is paramount. Let us continue to support, uplift, and empower each other, striving for a world where respect, equality, and justice prevail. Together, we are stronger, and together, we can make a difference. Stay resilient, stay hopeful, and keep fighting for a future where every woman and girl can live free from fear and violence. #EndGenderBasedViolence #StopSexualAssault #WomenEmpowerment #StandTogether Ijeoma Nne Udensi Blessing Duru Ogechi Ikeh Rejoice Wobilor-Agua (Adiele) Amaka Nwosu-Nnah Chidinma Emma-Ochu Mnia Chidinma Marvey Ihekoronye Ijeoma Ann Nwafor Victoria Ibezim-Ohaeri

"Leave No Child Behind" Today, as we observe World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, we stand united under the theme "Leave No Child Behind." This day is a poignant reminder of the pervasive and insidious nature of human trafficking, a crime that strips away the dignity and freedom of millions of people worldwide, including countless children in Imo State, Nigeria. In Imo State, human trafficking remains a critical issue, affecting the most vulnerable members of our society—our children. Traffickers exploit children for forced labor, sexual exploitation, and other forms of abuse, robbing them of their childhood and future. The impact of these heinous crimes reverberates through families and communities, perpetuating cycles of poverty and suffering. She-ild Initiative in collaboration with NACTAL NIGERIA Imo and NATIONAL AGENCY FOR THE PROHIBITION OF TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS (NAPTIP) Imo State, proudly conducted a sensitization awareness program at Umuagwu Mbieri, Imo State, to raise awareness on human trafficking, its various forms, and referral pathways. The village head Chief Manford Nze, Hon Irish Ibeh a representative of the local government and members of the host community welcomed and pledged tgeir support to this cause to ensure a safe society. Together, we are committed to protecting our children and ensuring they grow up in a safe, nurturing environment. Let's continue to educate and empower our communities to combat trafficking and support survivors. Also present were members of theof press. #WorldDayAgainstTrafficking #LeaveNoChildBehind #EndHumanTrafficking #ImoState #SHEILDINITIATIVE #NACTAL #NAPTIP #ProtectOurChildren Amaka Nwosu-Nnah Ogechi Ikeh OSAI FOUNDATION Rarduja Development Organization Nigeria Ijeoma Nne Udensi Blessing Duru Rejoice Wobilor-Agua (Adiele) SPACES FOR CHANGE ActionAid Urgent Action Fund-Africa Chinma Ekeanyanwu Victoria Ibezim-Ohaeri

In the face of gender-based violence, sexual assault, and harassment, the strength and resilience of women and girls around the world shine brightly. Every day, you demonstrate incredible courage and determination, standing up against injustices that should have no place in our society. To every woman and girl battling these challenges: you are not alone. Your bravery in sharing your stories, supporting one another, and advocating for change is creating ripples of transformation. Each voice raised against violence is a powerful testament to the unyielding spirit of women everywhere. Remember, your worth is immeasurable, and your safety is paramount. Let us continue to support, uplift, and empower each other, striving for a world where respect, equality, and justice prevail. Together, we are stronger, and together, we can make a difference. Stay resilient, stay hopeful, and keep fighting for a future where every woman and girl can live free from fear and violence. #EndGenderBasedViolence #StopSexualAssault #WomenEmpowerment #StandTogether Amarachi Judith Ohaegbu Grace Ifeoma Jimmy Ijeoma Nne Udensi Blessing Duru Rejoice Wobilor-Agua (Adiele) Chidinma Marvey Ihekoronye Chidinma Emma-Ochu Mnia Ogechi Ikeh Amaka Nwosu-Nnah Ijeoma Ann Nwafor

Sheild Initiative, in collaboration with NACTAL IMO, is gearing up for a public sensitization program via radio to curb human trafficking. This initiative aims to inform the general public about the dangers and tactics of traffickers, provide information on referral agencies, and address gender-based violence. We extend our gratitude to Rev. Fr. Ray Nzereogu, Director of Osiza FM, for joining us on this journey. Stay tuned for more details. #EndHumanTrafficking #PublicAwareness #GenderBasedViolence #CommunityEngagement

Strengthening Civic Advocacy and Local Engagement in collaboration with the NATIONAL AGENCY FOR THE PROHIBITION OF TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS (NAPTIP) and NACTAL NIGERIA convened a stakeholders policy implementation dialogue targeted at addressing the critical issue of human trafficking, emphasizing the need for a multi-sectoral approach to combat this crime. Key discussion points included the causes such as poverty, greed, unemployment, and illiteracy, lack of coordinated referral mechanisms and the importance of treating information from victims with utmost confidentiality. Key Actions Needed: ▪️Implementing a state task force with trained partners. ▪️Training law enforcement officers to enhance awareness. ▪️Providing shelters and a strong referral system for victims. ▪️Engaging the media to create awareness. ▪️Ensuring active involvement from the Ministry of Women Affairs. Collaboration is essential to effectively address and combat human trafficking. #EndHumanTrafficking #Collaboration #SocialJustice #HumanRights

Celebrating Children's Day 2024 Happy Children's Day 2024! 🌟 This year's theme, "Empowering Every Child for a Brighter Tomorrow," reminds us of the importance of providing our children with the tools and opportunities they need to succeed. Let's commit to ensuring every child has access to quality education, health care, and a safe environment. Together, we can build a brighter future for all our children. 💖✨ #childrensday2024 #EmpowerEveryChild #BrighterTomorrow #sheildinitiative #buildingupwomanhood

She-ild Initiative and OSAI FOUNDATION organized a one day school sensitization program, aimed at empowering students with knowledge on the various forms of gender based violence, available helplines, agencies committed to their wellbeing, and the VAPP Law that safeguards them. Our facilitators were well seasoned professionals in the field and let no stone unturned, from The Imo State Commander of NATIONAL AGENCY FOR THE PROHIBITION OF TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS (NAPTIP) Ernest Ogbu Mrs Marjorie Ngozi Ezihe frontliner and GBV Advocate Ogechi Ikeh Executive Director OSAI Foundation And the delectable Amaka Nwosu-Nnah Executive Director of SHEILD INITIATIVE. We applaud their commitment and dedication to ensuring the eradication of GBV in our society. The event was capped up with the establishment of the “Student Vanguard”, a school club in the participating schools. We appreciate the support of the principals of the participating schools and their teachers. A big shout out to Youth Alive Foundation YAFafrica our sponsor partner for this impactful program. Together we can eliminate GBV. #endgbvnow #endviolence #safeguardingchildren #studentvanguard Ijeoma Ann Nwafor Ndubuisi Chidomere Ogechi Ikeh Amaka Nwosu-Nnah Jessica Ohagwa Udochukwu Chikwendu Chinma Ekeanyanwu

Conversations about gender-based violence among teenagers are crucial for raising awareness, fostering empathy, and empowering young people to recognize, prevent, and address such issues in their communities. These discussions can help break the cycle of violence and promote healthy relationships built on respect and equality. #sheildinitiative #buildingupwomanhood #EndGenderBasedViolence #breakthesilence #breakthecycle Global Fund for Women @youthalivefoundation ActionAid OSAI FOUNDATION Ijeoma Ann Nwafor Ogechi Ikeh Joan Unachukwu UN Women Ekeagbara Ugbonma Chinma Ekeanyanwu Jessica Ohagwa Ihuoma Chidire Madu Dikachi Pauline Ijeoma Nne Udensi Maryjoy Amachukwu Kenneth Obiakor (U) Chidinma Marvey Ihekoronye Chidinma Emma-Ochu Mnia Okoh Hogan

Folorunso Alakija inspires inclusion by championing diversity, advocating for equal opportunities, and breaking down barriers in business and philanthropy. We celebrate you ma’am Thank you for inspiring us all. #inclusion #equity #peacefulcoexsitence