YALI Network Lagos convenes maiden physical meeting with over 40 participants

Michael Olumide

Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) Network Lagos successfully hosted it’s first face-to-face meeting, drawing over 40 active members plus interested guests in attendance, marking a significant milestone in the network’s commitment to youth leadership, collaboration, and community impact in Lagos State.

The meeting, which commenced at 11:00 AM and concluded at 2:00 PM, was presided over by the Deputy Coordinator, Adeyemi Oluwabunmi, and opened with a prayer.

Members were warmly welcomed and commended for their dedication to the growth of the network.

An overview of the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) structure was delivered by the Financial Secretary, Theresa Chibogu, who explained the three major components of YALI; the YALI Network, the YALI Regional Leadership Center (RLC), and the Mandela Washington Fellowship.

This was followed by an interactive networking and introduction session among members.

A major highlight of the meeting was a highly engaging Vision Board session facilitated by Chukwunenye Rita, which provided members with practical insights into goal-setting, purpose, and personal development.

The YALI Network Lagos Executives were formally introduced, after which the Coordinator, Rabihat Omotoyosi Rabiu, addressed members. She expressed deep appreciation for the turnout, emphasized unity and collaboration, and urged members to uphold integrity, particularly during the election period, while rejecting all forms of electoral vices.

The meeting also featured a moving spoken word performance by Praise Anolefo, which resonated strongly with attendees.

The General Secretary, Ugomma Arhuere, presented an overview of the current tenure, highlighting engagements with past coordinators for leadership guidance, resolution of pending issues with stakeholders, and the hub’s participation in the Financial Literacy Program at the U.S. Consulate.

In line with strengthening governance, the Deputy Coordinator announced the formation of committees, including the Partnership Committee and Programs Committee, while nominations were presented for the Audit, Disciplinary, and Welfare Committees.

The Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee, Francis Tolushe Davids, addressed members on accountability, ethical conduct, and timely reporting of issues.

Members were also encouraged to actively participate in location-based subgroups—YALI Eko, YALI Ikeja, and YALI Epe—to foster closer engagements across Lagos.

Supporting entrepreneurship within the network, Katherina, founder of Ota’s Tasty Confectioneries, showcased her pastries business, which provided refreshments for the meeting.

Additional updates included voluntary contributions to support the network, recognition of January birthday celebrants, a medical outreach update, the ongoing Volunteer Bank, and information on the YALI Nigeria Mentorship Program, which will feature mentors from the Mandela Washington Fellowship.

The Communications Officer, Emmanuel Odeyemi, emphasized timely responses to communication requests, while members shared observations and safety suggestions to improve future gatherings.

The meeting concluded with a strong call to action for members to leverage opportunities within the network, collaborate meaningfully, and make a lasting impact, reinforced by the collective affirmation: