EMPOWERED WOMEN FOR CHANGE

 

WOMEN'S VOICES IGNITE CHANGE AT DAY ONE OF CHANGE MAKERS CONFERENCE.

The Change Makers International Conference kicked off on August 15, 2024, with a powerful emphasis on women’s roles as catalysts for change.

Running for six days, the conference began with a two-day spotlight on womanhood, recognizing women’s indispensable contributions to shaping families and society at large. 

This focus is not accidental, it resonates with the belief that change makers are relentless in their pursuit of a better narrative, and that every story can ignite a movement, and every woman's voice has the power to transform the world.

The event, organized by the Change Makers International and convened by Pastor W.F. Kumuyi, gathered a diverse group of outstanding speakers, specialists, and stakeholders from various religious and political backgrounds to enhance social impact.

The inaugural day was marked by the recitation of the national anthem while an uplifting session featuring musical performances from a band associated with celebrated artist Chioma Jesus, energized both the physical and virtual audience simultaneously.

Mrs. Annko Briggs, set the tone with her impactful goodwill message, urging women to initiate change in their local spheres. She stated, “When a woman who sells garri in the market beats her container or manipulates a fruit to hasten its ripening process, this reveals that, if such have access to millions and trillions in public service, she will mismanage such public funds”

This assertion underscored the critical role of accountability in leadership.

Adding to this, Mummy Esther Kumuyi, praised the initiative to begin the conference with a focus on women, promising tangible outcomes: “We will do you proud by becoming change makers in our families, communities, and society.” she said.

She emphasized that real change starts with a personal determination stating,

“You must be determined to increase in knowledge, empathy, love, compassion, and participation, because you can give what you don't have.”

The conference also welcomed the President of the Rivers State Supreme Council of Islamic Affairs, Hajiah Aisha Moore, who commended the opportunity for Muslim women to engage in the dialogue. Her message resonated deeply, emphasizing the importance of morals in child upbringing.

“Your morals to your children as caregivers matters in building a better nation.

“Mothers, you need to train your child in the way of God while embracing patience and dedication which are the foundation upon which a bright and prosperous future is built.”

Echoing these fact, President of the Islamic Sisters Association,Hajiah Mariaam Usman, highlighted the necessity of unity among women, stating, “When there is unity, the country will become better.

Without blaming the government, let the change begin from our neighborhood.”

Moreover, The women leader for PFN, River States, Pastor Mrs. Alibaba Dagogo Jack, reiterated that the burden of change lies with women, asserting, “The burden of everything happening around us lies solely on us.”She urged an examination of parental roles, cautioning against the erosion of values in contemporary child upbringing.

Concluding the goodwill messages, Barrister Ibiwari Clapton Ogolo, stressed the importance of equipping women with 21st-century skills to foster innovation and empowerment.

She summarized her insights, declaring that- “women need economic empowerment, personal development, emotional intelligence and ability to embrace their unique voice inorder to create a better world for all”

 

The day one of the conference culminated in a compelling session from the keynote speaker, titled "The Miriams and Mothers of Change Makers," where Pastor Kumuyi used the acronym SISTER and MOTHER to articulate the influential roles women can embody, framing them as essential agents of change, who should be;

S – Single-minded Shield

I – Intelligent Initiator

S– Strategic Supporter

T– Thoughtful Timer

E– Emotionally Exemplary

R– Reliable Restorer,

while MOTHER should play their roles as-

M– Methodical Mentor

O– Objective Optimist

T– Transformational Teacher

H– Hopeful Helpers

E– Exemplary Educator

R– Resilient Retainer.

His insights encouraged attendees to see themselves as pivotal figures in nurturing future generations.

The first day of the Change Makers International Conference was transmitted live from General Yakubu Gowon Stadium, Elekahia PortHarcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria, setting a promising tone for the week ahead.

 

The conference will continue with various sessions focusing on the Global men’s Conference, Global Workers Training, and a Special Global Leadership Development Programme, ensuring that the momentum of change continues to build.

The Change Makers International Conference stands as a testament to the belief that empowered women will indeed reshape the narrative and future of the society.