The Teens Evolution Conference 2.0: A Platform for Empowerment and Growth
The Teens Evolution Conference 2.0 recently took place in Mowe, Ogun State, on Thursday, bringing together secondary school pupils and young adults from across the state. The event, themed “Building Human Capacity,” aimed to address the growing narrative that formal education is no longer valuable. Instead, the conference encouraged participants to embrace learning as a powerful tool for personal development and empowerment.
Mrs Bola Akinteye, the convener and head of the Bimpe Olubola Akinteye Foundation, emphasized the importance of challenging the belief that school is a scam. She shared her own experiences growing up, explaining how the foundation was created to help teenagers and youths develop themselves and use their time effectively.
Akinteye urged the participants to invest in knowledge and seek more learning opportunities. “Nothing you learn in school is a waste,” she said. She also advised the students to set clear goals and surround themselves with the right people. “Building a tactical team is key because your network determines your net worth,” she added. According to her, choosing individuals who can act as goalkeepers, defenders, strikers, and midfielders—those who push you toward your goals—is essential for success.
Ebele Akinteye, one of the event coordinators, described the conference as a movement designed to help youths discover themselves and manage their time purposefully. She stressed the importance of being both book and street smart, reinforcing the idea that education is not just about academic knowledge but also practical life skills.
Tolulope Olugbenga, co-founder of the foundation, highlighted the support provided to seven teenagers for their 2026 UTME registration. Others received awards and national competition slots based on merit and commitment. “The certificates given to speakers and students are to show appreciation and encourage community building,” he noted.
Keynote Speeches and Interactive Sessions
The conference featured a range of activities, including keynote speeches, interactive sessions, and recognition awards. These elements were designed to empower teenagers aged between 13 and 21. Mr Ajani Adeniyi, the keynote speaker, delivered a thought-provoking talk on “Becoming the Future You Want to Be: Building Capacity Beyond the Class.” He emphasized that success requires more than just academic knowledge. “Building capacity involves developing soft skills, pursuing passion and interests, and seeking mentorship and role models,” he stated.
Another speaker at the event, Mrs Temitope Seweje, addressed the challenges students face, especially in politics. She encouraged them to make positive choices despite peer pressure. “Politics is a game and it has both good and bad sides, but you choose the part you want to go for,” she said. Seweje added that the country needs more people with a positive mindset to change the narrative in politics.
Participant Reactions and Impact
Participants, including Adesan, the Head Boy of Community High School, and Udo Joshua, expressed that the program reshaped their views on leadership and learning. “My expectations for this programme have been met. I have gained knowledge that reshaped my thinking as a student and as a teenager,” he said.
Oluwaseyi Jesudetan of Leadership Cornerstone College shared a similar sentiment, stating that the conference strengthened her resolve to embrace education. “I’ve learned that I can face my fears regardless of what is happening. Education is not a scam but a stage where we learn things that even the world can’t teach us,” she said.
Conclusion
The Teens Evolution Conference 2.0 served as a platform for inspiring young minds and fostering a renewed appreciation for education. Through engaging discussions, motivational speeches, and interactive sessions, the event highlighted the importance of personal growth, goal setting, and community building. As the participants left the conference, they carried with them new perspectives and a stronger commitment to their future.