Street Project Foundation Fosters Cross-Cultural Learning and Development at Legislative Theatre Lab for Kosofe Youths

The second edition of the Youth Legislative Theatre Lab, organized by Street Project Foundation (SPF) in collaboration with Demo.Reset, a program by Extituto, Colombia, concluded a transformative three-day training program in Lagos State.

This vibrant gathering empowered young voices and fostered a dynamic cross-cultural exchange, reinforcing SPF’s mission of using creative expression as a catalyst for social change.

The opening day buzzed with energy as participants dove into interactive exercises on the Art of Persuasive Communication, led by Rita Ezenwa-Okoro, Founder and Lead Visionary of SPF. Through spirited role-play, they mastered clear expression, decoded the power behind non-verbal cues, and honed the subtle skill of active listening—transforming ordinary conversations into compelling tools for advocacy.

“Our goal is to create spaces where young people can discover the power of their collective voices, understand the role diplomacy plays in becoming effective communicators for change,” Rita shared passionately.

“Strengthening their capacity for public speaking, advocacy, and movement building prepares them for learning about the implementation of legislative theatre.”

The momentum intensified with sessions on Advocacy and Movement Building, led by SPF’s COO, Mrs. Eduvielawhe Olutimayin, and Community Engagement and Media Officer, Mr. James Okewu.

Participants stepped into the roles of community leaders and activists, navigating real-life scenarios designed to challenge their problem-solving skills. Their voices rose in passionate debates, embodying the spirit of civic engagement.

Reflecting on the experience, Eduvielawhe Olutimayin remarked, “We created a vibrant learning environment using Nigeria’s present realities to simulate scenarios. The Lab’s success lay in transforming traditional learning into an engaging, hands-on experience, proving that education can be both fun and life-changing.”

“Using Jenga as a metaphor helped participants visualize how fragile governance structures can be without inclusivity,” recalled Dr. Oluchi Igili, Expert of Legislative Theatre in residency.

Each wooden block represented a stakeholder or policy, and the tension grew with every piece removed—until the tower’s inevitable collapse mirrored the destabilizing effects of poorly crafted laws.

Participants explored key concepts such as Forum Theatre, Metabolizing Cell, Spect-actor, and Joker. A documentary from the first edition provided a local context, illustrating how Legislative Theatre can be a powerful deliberative model within communities.

The program’s playful, imaginative, and improvisational approach ensured that no youth was left behind, regardless of educational background.

Recognizing that policy alone cannot address systemic challenges, the final day shifted focus to entrepreneurship. Led by Mr. Uche Anoruo, the session tackled unemployment—a key issue highlighted in the Lab’s first edition.

Participants brainstormed business ideas rooted in their community’s needs, pitching concepts with infectious enthusiasm.

Interactive activities, including teamwork challenges and financial planning games, resonated deeply. Women participants especially embraced entrepreneurship as a pathway to self-reliance and empowerment.

Lessons included the importance of documentation, understanding agreements, the value of rest in business management, and the resilience needed to build with life’s challenges.