E kaaro, Nigeria! Good morning, Nigeria! On a vibrant morning in Lagos, I had the immense honor of speaking at the 2025 Career Day, hosted by the Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education. Addressing a dynamic audience of students, educators, and leaders, I shared my journey, my vision, and an exciting new chapter with DoTheDream Youth Development Initiative (YDI). The energy in the room was electric, and the experience left an indelible mark on my heart.

In my speech, I expressed deep gratitude to the Ministry for their unwavering commitment to shaping the future of our youth and for giving me the platform to connect with such an inspiring group. I celebrated the dreams and potential of the students, emphasizing the power we share to change the world together. Reflecting on my own journey—marked by challenges, disabilities, and triumphs—I shared a core truth: we rise together.

I saluted Adebusuyi Olutayo Olumadewa, the visionary founder of YDI, whose passion for empowering youth through education is truly transformative. It was a privilege to announce my new role as Vice President of Growth and Development at YDI, an organization based in Lagos that champions gender equality, advances the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, and empowers young people to shape their futures. I shared how my life’s work with The World’s Mayor Experience —a platform built over a decade using podcasts, films, books, and events—aligns with YDI’s mission to uplift communities and amplify voices.

Drawing from my own experiences growing up in an underserved community and battling disabilities, I spoke about the systems that helped me rise, like Media Company in a Box , which empowers anyone to monetize their gifts with minimal resources. These tools, which fueled my journey to becoming an award-winning filmmaker, producer, and international bestselling author, are now part of YDI’s mission to provide students with the skills, resources, and opportunities to turn their dreams into reality.

The heart of my message was directed at the students: you are the future. I shared my own struggles of feeling overlooked and limited, but also the power of building community from scratch. I encouraged them to see their skills not just as a path to a job, but as a way to shape their destiny. With YDI, we’re breaking down barriers to help them soar, ensuring no dream is too big and no goal is out of reach.

I closed with a call to action, urging the students to embrace their brilliance, unleash their potential, and join hands to build a future where every voice rises. The response was overwhelming—the passion and determination in the room were palpable, a testament to the bright future ahead for Nigeria’s youth.

This moment was about more than a speech; it was a celebration of possibility and a commitment to collective action. I invited everyone to join the movement by visiting DoTheDream Youth Development Initiative to learn how they can be part of creating a brighter, bolder future. Together, we’re making history—and I’m thrilled to be part of this journey with YDI and the incredible youth of Nigeria.