It was an electrifying atmosphere on the 29th of May 2018 at the 5th edition of Discovery for Youths (D4Y) annual Conference which held at Excellence Hotel, Ogba Lagos.The theme was ‘Raising Champions III’ and was hosted by sensational OAP Onome Igugu and rising comedian MC Mario. The Conference was indeed a Democracy day not many will forget in a hurry as the over 1,500 participating youths in attendance left the conference highly charged and re-invigorated.The Conference which kicked off on a high note at about 9:50am with the National Coordinator of D4Y, Mrs Francisca Adefolarin-Ajakaiye who addressed the youths present as the next best thing that could happen to the Nation if they would believe in themselves. Her charge set the tone as other speakers took the podium to touch on critical areas especially around the theme ‘Raising Champions III’ The Conference Had a beautiful line-up of speakers, panel sessions and Special song renditions.
Yemi Solade, a veteran Nigerian actor talked about acquiring necessary skills where applicable,above all, he said, to rise,its imperative to take pride in oneself, regardless of background or ethnicity.The sensational Movie actress,Mercy Aigbe emphasised the power of focus as she delved into her rise to fame story. Fela Anikulapo-Kuti former Band Mate, Keji Hamilton spoke on Substance abuse especially Codein abuse and its numerous effects. There were two panel sessions on ‘Politics and Youths’ moderated by the popular Communicator /PR specialist, Mr Peter Oguduro. Panelists included about 7 politicians including Segun Adaju, Bimbo Daramola, Tunde Eso, Timi Olagunju, Kunle Bolarinde, Abiodun Dabiri, and Adekunle Olatunde and another session had Saraphina Igbinobaro take on 3 panelists including Dolapo Ayo-Ojo, Omowunmi Dada and Dj Gosporella on ‘Entertainment and Mind Control’
The highpoint of the day was the speech delivered by the key note speaker,the energetic Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, who amongst many things is a renowned Social Entrepreneur and Founder, Arise Network . Her message was blunt and direct…The youths must take charge and do it now! She emphasised that there is no challenge that is worth being called limitations. She shared her personal story,which left all participants in awe.Tim Godfrey shared story of becoming a renowned Gospel artiste was another inspiring story which brought nothing short of hope to all. On a final note, Woli Arole took to the podium to explain that encounter must be made of the D4Y Conference as this helps to create a lasting impact and an everlasting memory of the gathering. He added that asides high spirituality,the culture of deliberate preparedness must be embraced
The Visioneer, Pst Lawrence Onochie who himself is an epitome of hope,seized several opportunities at every point to remind the youths that resident inside of them resides an an undiscovered potential and its time they began to live up to the dreams they have, only them alone can determine the person they become.
The Conference ended beautifully with a special song ‘Ghetto Child’ performed by the official D4Y Choir led by Ayo Adeoba(MarioSlim)
The D4Y Conference was powered by The Kings Heritage Church and supported by Nestle Nigeria, Sparklett water, Classic Chops Ogba, Nescafe, Ikeja Electric Distribution Company (IKEDC) and Friesland. Breakfast and Lunch was served.