Cakasa Ebenezer Foundation, OGAV Mark 11yrs of GLAM Camp Impact, Pledge Support for Girl Child Development

Dike Onwuamaeze

The Cakasa Ebenezer Foundation (CEF), in partnership with Ornaments of Grace and Virtue Foundation (OGAV), has declared its commitment to empowering the next generation of Nigerian girls.

CEF made this declaration during the recent celebration of the conclusion of the two-week 2025 edition of the GLAM Summer Camp with the theme “I AM A GIRL,” which was held at the Government Senior College, Agege, Lagos State.

The summer camp brought together 1,000 girls from public schools within Lagos Education District 1.

It said that this year’s camp marked the 11th anniversary of OGAV’s flagship initiative, which has continued to provide mentorship, leadership development and educational opportunities for girls across Lagos.

The girls were immersed in sessions focused on self-discovery, digital inclusion, health and wellness, financial literacy, and long-term career exploration.

From self-assessment workshops to a dynamic career fair and personalised career pathway passports, the camp was designed to help the girls understand their strengths, set goals, and build the confidence needed to pursue their dreams.

The Executive Director of CEF, Mrs. Helen Egbe, in her remarks highlighted the importance of supporting girls in underserved communities.

Egbe emphasised that the foundation’s contributions were investments in future leaders.

She said: “Over the years, we have supported with learning materials, facilitation, and mentorship. But more than that, and this I say with quiet joy, 19 girls who once sat where you sit now are currently on scholarship, through secondary school and up to university level, because of our shared commitment with OGAV.

“These are 19 stories; 19 rising stars; 19 daughters who will never forget that someone believed in them when it mattered most.”

She also disclosed that further donations from CEF included two branded laptops that would be awarded to outstanding girls for academic excellence; 24 branded school bags; over 1,000 branded jotters and pens and lunch support for 200 girls throughout the camp.

Egbe said that “to be a girl is not just about appearance, it’s about power, purpose, and possibility. At CEF, we are proud to stand behind these girls as they rise and lead.”

In her keynote address, the Tutor-General/Permanent Secretary, Educational District I, (TG/PS EDD1, AGEGE), Dr. Idowu Olufunke Oyetola, who was represented by Ms. Kolade Abiola, reflected on the ethos behind the GLAM Camp, which is helping girls to make informed career choices while developing character, integrity and ambition.

The Special Guest Speaker, Mrs. Anuoluwapo Ajayi, challenged the girls to take ownership of their future, saying that “no one owes you anything. It is up to you to set goals and work hard.

“With the foundation you have gained here, there is no excuse not to soar.”

Speaking during the occasion, the Founder of OGAV, Mrs. Olubukola Kolade, offered heartfelt encouragement to the girls, urging them to make good use of the training and to appreciate the CEF for its partnership and commitment to the foundation.

One of the most inspiring moments of the ceremony came from Adeola Bakare, a 2019 GLAM alumna and current Philosophy student at Lagos State University, who shared how OGAV and CEF’s support has shaped her journey.

Bakare said: “OGAV made me believe that being a girl child is not a mistake, it’s a gift,” as she recalled how her scholarship opened doors that once seemed closed.

The event was graced by facilitators, educators, and representatives from partner organisations, including the Lagos State Social Work Department, the Tutor General Office of Education District 1, Rely Supply Limited, Lotus Bank, UAC Foods, and the Parent Forum of Education District 1.

The event also witnessed the presentation of achievement awards and academic bursaries to six students for the upcoming 2025/2026 academic year, which was followed by a spirited student led “Show and Tell” session.

The OGAV’s GLAM Summer Camp has remained a beacon of mentorship, character building, and educational support for girls in Lagos State.