Bramble Network
On 11 October 2025, Bramble Network hosted a gathering of 60 incredible girls from rural and marginalised communities, celebrating the International Day of the Girl Child with the powerful theme: The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead; Girls on the Frontline of Crisis.
This day was about more than just marking an occasion for us, it was about lighting a spark of hope, courage, and leadership in the hearts of girls stepping up to lead despite the challenges they face.
A Safe Space for Changemakers
Tobi Akala, the learning manager at Bramble Learning Space, during the theme declaration opened the celebration with words that set the tone for the day: “The girl child is much more than just biology, she’s a changemaker.” She reminded everyone why it is so vital to create safe, nurturing spaces where girls can flourish, dream big, and explore their strengths without fear. “The girl child has to be given a safe space to thrive and explore,” she said passionately.
Learners Leading Change
It was deeply moving to hear from Ola Elizabeth, one of our pioneer learners at the Bramble Learning Space, who shared a powerful spoken word message: “The role of the girl child is beyond a conformist but that of a changemaker.” Elizabeth’s words stirred the room, forcing everyone to rethink outdated expectations and recognise the radical potential of every girl to shape her future on her own terms and at her own pace.
Another learner from the Bramble Learning Space, Ode Bose, added her voice of resilience, reminding us all that progress does not always look fast but is unstoppable: “Slowed down but definitely not stopping,” were her words during her spoken words session.
Challenging the Narrative
Bolade Ajimisogbe, the Programs Manager for Bramble Network, delivered an empowering message that resonated deeply with everyone present. She reminded the girls that they are not defined by limitations or stereotypes. In her words, “you’re not ‘too anything’ to be anything,” encouraging them to reject negative labels and embrace their unique strengths.
Her challenge to the girls was clear: “Don’t allow anybody to paint your weaknesses at you. Find strength in what you are doing. You own your definitions. Don’t bow to the lies.” In Bolade’s powerful words, the girls found permission to be bold narrative changers, rewriting their stories and leading with courage.
The Unstoppable Power of the Girl Child
The keynote speaker, Rev’d Mrs Rita Agboaye, moved the audience with stories of girls and women rising above hardship in rural communities. Her message was loud and clear: “The power to change the world is with a woman.” She inspired every girl to dream boldly. “The girl child is unstoppable, whatever you can dream, you can make it happen.”
Rev’d Agboaye reminded the girls that change is a journey, built step by step with courage and empathy. “The first point of change is the girl child herself.” This was a call to action and a celebration of the vital role girls play in building a better tomorrow.
Writing the Future Today
Throughout the day, the energy was palpable as the girls expressed their dreams on colourful post-it notes, small promises to themselves and their communities. The speed mentoring sessions offered lively exchanges filled with advice, encouragement, and heartfelt stories from women leaders eager to support the next generation.
The event closed on a high note, with joyful affirmations, laughter, and a renewed sense of purpose. These young changemakers left knowing that they are not waiting for the future, they are shaping it right now.
Bramble Network’s 2025 International Day of the Girl Child celebration showcased the heart and soul of a movement dedicated to girl child empowerment. It proved that when given the right environment, girls will embrace their identity, rise above adversity, and lead powerful change.
The message is clear and inspiring: the girl child is unstoppable, unbreakable, and already driving transformation in communities across Nigeria and beyond.
What change will you lead today? Join the conversation and share your story to amplify the powerful voices of girls leading change.
