Past project · 2019

Foundations of Impact

Leadership and Career Development Bootcamps, 2019.

One of RISE Initiative's early community engagement efforts was a series of Leadership and Career Development Bootcamps organised for secondary school students in Oyo town.

Designed to broaden perspectives and inspire ambition, the bootcamps brought together leadership experts, accomplished professionals, and experienced facilitators who engaged students on leadership, career development, self-development, sustainable development, and community building.

Through these sessions, participants were encouraged to think beyond their immediate circumstances, develop a stronger sense of purpose, and recognise their potential to contribute meaningfully to their communities and society.

Reaching more than 600 students, the initiative created valuable opportunities for learning, mentorship, and personal growth while reinforcing a belief that continues to guide our work today: when young people are connected to the right knowledge, role models, and opportunities, they are better equipped to lead, succeed, and create positive impact.

What it achieved

Impact highlights.

More than 600 students reached
Leadership experts and career professionals engaged as facilitators
Multiple secondary schools participated across Oyo town
Focus areas included leadership development, career awareness, self-development, sustainable development, and community building

From the bootcamps

Gallery.

Aatan Baptist Comprehensive High School

Best Legacy International Secondary School

SPED International Secondary School

Testimonials from the bootcamp

The impact, in their own words

Years after the 2019 bootcamps, former participants reflect on the ideas, confidence, and sense of purpose they carried forward.

Moses AdetoroFounder, MedicPreneurBest Legacy International Secondary School, Awe
“It didn't just introduce me to a goal; it showed me a problem worth dedicating my career to.”
My journey into healthcare advocacy began when RISE visited my secondary school and introduced us to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). SDG 3, Good Health and Well-Being, stood out to me and showed me that healthcare access was something we could build, not just wish for.
Read full story from Moses Adetoro
Oluwatofunmi OlabodeValedictorian, Ajayi Crowther University (Class of 2025)Best Legacy International Secondary School, Awe
“Learning how science and innovation can improve health outcomes changed the way I saw my own path.”
One of the experiences I will always be grateful for is RISE's visit to my secondary school in 2019. It was my first introduction to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) particularly resonated with me. Learning how science and innovation can improve health outcomes changed the way I saw my own path and inspired me to pursue Biochemistry with a newfound sense of purpose.
Read full story from Oluwatofunmi Olabode
Timilehin AyoolaCo-Founder, Career Forge AfricaAatan Baptist Comprehensive High School, Koso, Oyo town
“I hope to continue giving back to students and communities just as they once invested in me.”
My passion for community impact did not start today. It began when RISE visited my secondary school and taught us about leadership, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and what it takes to create a positive change in our communities.
Read full story from Timilehin Ayoola
Maryam ThabitVice President, Nigeria Economics Students' Association, Obafemi Awolowo UniversitySPED International Secondary School, Akinmorin
“RISE helped build my confidence and shaped my approach to leadership.”
One of my clearest memories is being introduced to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for the very first time. We were given printed copies of the SDGs, making the goals feel tangible and relevant to us as young students. I was inspired by the idea that young people have a role to play in creating positive change in their communities. I also remember the excitement when one participant was recognized for reciting all the SDGs from memory.
Read full story from Maryam Thabit
Hawau A. OjerindeMedical Student, University of IbadanSPED International Secondary School, Akinmorin
“It was the boost I didn't know I needed.”
I attended the Boot Camp in my first year of senior secondary school, inexperienced and unsure how to navigate life with my big dreams. Though it was years ago, I still remember how seen, supported, and at peace I felt. It was the boost I didn't know I needed.
Read full story from Hawau A. Ojerinde

More voices of RISE