Shaping the Future Conference

In June 2025, we conducted a survey to better understand the mental health realities of Nigerian men. The findings reveal an urgent need for intervention: 1. 68% showed symptoms of depression within just two weeks. 2. 88% reported being mocked or shamed for expressing emotions. 3. 92% believe joblessness and family expectations negatively impact their mental health. 4. Yet, only 11% have ever consulted a professional. These numbers underscore a pressing truth: Nigerian men and #boys are navigating heavy mental health burdens, often in silence. Cultural norms, financial pressures, and limited access to services create barriers that discourage help-seeking and perpetuate stigma. This is why the work we do at @boyschampions is so important. Through our programs, we create safe spaces where boys can speak openly, learn resilience, and challenge the harmful stereotypes that silence them. We believe that supporting boys early means raising men who are healthier, more informed and better equipped to lead. #boystomenprogram #boyschampions #positivemasculinity #creatingasafespace #boysmentalhealth

At the 2nd International Conference of the Faculty of Education, NOUN, held on 27th August 2025, the team presented a paper on “The State of Nigerian Men: Solution-Based Strategies for Sustainable Change.” During the presentation, Rosemary Akpoga highlighted urgent realities in Nigeria: over 7.4M #boys out of school, rising mental health crises, negative masculinities, suicide and harmful gender norms that limit opportunities for #boys and men. The session was recognized as timely and urgent by Prof. Bamikole O. Ogunleye Dean of the Faculty of Education, with participants pledging to “join hands to support the boy child.” To build on this momentum, we introduced the participants to the DearMen Radio Show and the DearMen Podcast as platforms to extend the conversation and reshape masculinities across Nigeria. As an organization, we believe that true systemic change is possible, but only if we pursue it collectively. #BoysChampions #DearMen #SocialJustice #GenderEquality #SustainableDevelopment #positivemasculinity #reshapingmasculinities

Hope for African Children stands with the brave students of the Ogbomoso Training Centre for the Blind. We are calling for justice, accountability and safe inclusive schools. @oyostategovt @NigEducation #HopeforAfricanChildren #Everychildmatters

Insightful moments at our Boys’ Parents Breakfast Meeting with Alison Milofsky Mojto and Maxwell Thurston. We talked parenting, pressure, and the real work of raising boys with intention. Speaking to the boy child is not enough, we must speak to those who raise him.

When a girl is educated, healthy, and empowered, she becomes a catalyst for progress but it’s not just for herself but for her family, community, and the society at large. By giving girls good access to education, healthcare, and opportunities, we create a better world.

Children with disabilities face incredible challenges every day even among their peers. Helping them is knowing them first. What do you think the biggest barrier is? Let’s discuss!

Educating girls in rural areas faces significant obstacles that goes beyond the classroom. From long distances to schools, inadequate infrastructure, and a scarcity of qualified teachers, to deeply entrenched cultural norms that prioritize boys' education over girls.

We are very keen on building and enhancing the capacity of institutions while investing in human resources to support children with disabilities. Additionally, we work together to strengthen access to good facilities for the wellbeing of the children.

To mark the 2024 International Youth Day celebration, @boyschampionsNG & @digitaldreamslimited are collaborating to host this transformative capacity building program 4 young people on August 12th #boyschampions #digitaldreamslimited #iyd2024 #unitednations #youth #tech #digital

At Boys Champions, we've seen countless examples of young people making a difference. Whether they're standing up against injustice or calling for climate action, our young leaders are not just dreaming of a better future for all, they're actively participating in creating it.

With a rapidly growing population of young people, Africa’s next generation is stepping forward as powerful catalysts for change, challenging existing narratives and redefining the continent’s trajectory. Shaping the Future is here to continue to support them.

Our ultimate vision for the future is that young leaders in Nigeria will embrace innovation and entrepreneurial skills, through our programs, to foster sustainable development while we continue to shape the future of entrepreneurship, innovation and leadership on the continent.

“We have a powerful potential in out youth, and we must have the courage to change old ideas and practices so that we may direct their power toward good ends.” Mary McLeod Bethune

Through our leadership development initiatives, we aim to equip young leaders with the skills, knowledge, and networks needed to drive meaningful impact in their communities and beyond. Fidel Nnadi shares her experiences as one of the leaders of the Shaping the Future YPP

"We can change the world and make it a better place. It is in your hands to make a difference." -Nelson Mandela

Shaping the Future offers a hub where emerging entrepreneurs and leaders connect, unearth their purpose, & advance their professional paths. Our mission is to provide a stage for upcoming leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators to forge prosperous careers and make meaningful input

Throwback to the 2023 Shaping the Future Conference with entrepreneurs and young leaders changing the world and challenging stereotypes in communities across the country.

As Boys Champions strives to create positive change, the need for collaboration with other organizations arises to maximize the effectiveness of our collective efforts. We’re excited to engage with other organizations like YouthHubAfrica to create an equitable community for all.

The 2023 Shaping the Future Conference, which focused on accelerating the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals through Entrepreneurship and Civic Engagement convened most of Nigeria’s young leaders, entrepreneurs and Changemakers in one room! These young people give us hope and we all at Boys Champions are happy to continue create an opportunity and a platform for close collaboration and deliberation between stakeholders. #boyschampions #shapingthefutureconference #changemakerschallenge #STF2023 #stfc #changemakers #sustainability #leadership #entrepreneurship #innovation