Ashoka, a global network of social innovators, has unveiled the fourth cohort of its Ashoka Young Changemakers (AYC) and recognized outstanding secondary schools in Lagos for their exceptional performance in its Changemakers training programme.
Nine outstanding young individuals were inducted into the AYC network—an initiative that identifies and supports youth who demonstrate exceptional leadership, teamwork, and a drive to solve social problems within their communities.
During the 2025 Young Changemakers Festival held in Lagos, Ashoka celebrated these emerging leaders and presented cash prizes totaling ₦875,000 to three schools that excelled in the Changemakers programme:
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First Place: Abule-Eko Community Junior Grammar School, Badagry – ₦500,000
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Second Place: Ijaya Ojokolo Junior High School – ₦250,000
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Third Place: Apo Junior Secondary School, Lagos – ₦125,000
The event marked a significant milestone in Ashoka’s mission to foster youth-led innovation and civic responsibility.
Josephine Nzerem, Regional Director for Ashoka Anglophone West Africa and Director of Venture and Talent at Ashoka Africa, highlighted the journey of selecting and training the nine young changemakers.
“It has been a transformative process—from selection to training. These nine youths represent the spirit of change and resilience we need,” she stated. “Instead of sitting back and complaining about the issues they face, they’re creating solutions.”
She added that the initiative has rapidly expanded since its inception: “We started in 2022 with 50 schools, and by 2023, we launched the CTEACH Programme. We’ve now grown to 100 schools and plan to reach 200 or more in the near future.”
Angelou Ezeilo, President of Ashoka Africa, emphasized the programme’s broader goal—to inspire a movement where every individual becomes a changemaker.
“This platform empowers children, educators, parents, and community leaders to collaborate and equip young people with the skills and tools needed to thrive in a dynamic world,” she said. “It’s about creating a society where changemaking is the norm, not the exception.”
The festival served not only as a celebration of youth leadership but also as a rallying call for greater community support in nurturing the next generation of social innovators.
