Plenty of positive feedback and energy coming from the youth
“I’M HAPPY I’m in a space where I can pronounce my full name,” said Oluwatobi Balugun attending a youth conference for the Nigerian diaspora in Rua Red.
The event was organised by the Irish branch of Nigerian in Diaspora Organisation Europe (NIDOE), to have Nigerian youth in Ireland reflect on their cultural identity and encourage them to take an active part within their community through NIDOE.
After an “overwhelming” success with over 50 youths attending the event on Saturday, October 5, NIDOE Ireland board member Yemi Ojo said the conference is set to become an annual event and participants already planned a Christmas dinner to meet each other again.
“The event was about bringing young people on board. It shouldn’t be only adults in our organisation keeping our culture alive” she said.
“We wanted to give them a space where they feel loved and appreciated, and proud of where they come from, while also appreciating their new home.
“At the end of the day, even when you say you’re Irish, you’ll always going to be asked ‘where are you originally from?’
“This is the first platform where they can link with people coming from their same background, have a dialogue with adults and give back to their community too.”
NIDOE-Ireland Executive Chair Dr Badmus gave the opening speech, and “awareness, inclusion, and empowerment” were mentioned as the Youth Conference goals.
The singing of Nigeria National Anthem was followed by Solicitor Waheed Mudah, one of the founding members of NIDOE Ireland, officially launching the NIDOE Ireland Youth Conference.
“That was my highlight of the day,” said Yemi, “with a lot of positive energy and feedback coming from the youth and Mr Mudah being an inspiring example as he’s been here for 20 years.”
When Oluwatobi said he was glad to finally pronounce his full name without having to shorten it or repeat it, Yemi felt “so fulfilled, as every kid attending could relate.
“It was the achievement of the day.”
Challenges and opportunities were discussed, from the “Evaluation and way forward” panel by Dcns Ruth, to the “Strength, Weakness, Opportunities and Threats” (SWOT) segment by Yetunde Joyce.
Yemi discussed the challenges Nigerian youths face at home, in school or at work.
Music, poems, and games, along a three-course meal contributed to a great day, and everyone left with a goody bag provided by Tallaght West Credit Union.
NIDOE Ireland Vice Chair Hon Grace Ayanwu wrapped up the event thanking all the organisers and attendees.
“Thank you to everyone in the organising committee, our sponsors and volunteers, and Rua Red for hosting us,” added Yemi.
