Teen Offers Solution to Food Security in Essay Contest

TEENSTHINK, known for its role in encouraging leadership and educational excellence among teens, reached a major milestone with its fourth annual edition, which has now grown into an international essay competition.

The event took place at the Radisson Blu in Lagos, Nigeria, and attracted participants from various corners of Africa, including representatives from Nigeria’s geopolitical zones, as well as Ghana, Zimbabwe and Rwanda.

The theme of the 2024 edition, “Food Security,” highlighted TeensThink’s commitment to addressing pressing global challenges through the lens of youth empowerment and education.

Aboyeji Toluwanimi Elizabeth from Funaab International School, Abeokuta emerged as the overall winner of the competition. Her in-depth essay not only explored the complexity of food security challenges but also proposed innovative solutions for sustainable agriculture in Africa.

Otito Ofolue and Owoeye Ayomide, from Babington Macaulay, Lagos, and Advanced Breed Comprehensive, Lagos respectively, took first and second place with equally convincing prospects.

The prizes, which included Lenovo laptops, cash prizes and gift packs, recognized the winners’ outstanding achievements.

Aboyeji Toluwanimi Elizabeth received N150,000, while Otito Ofolue and Owoeye Ayomide received N100,000 and N70,000 respectively.

These awards underscore TeensThink’s commitment not only to academic excellence, but also to providing concrete support to nurture the potential of young leaders.

Kehinde Olesin, convener and founder of Teens Think, expressed pride in the participants’ achievements and emphasized the organization’s commitment to equipping teens with the skills and knowledge essential to navigate global food systems. “TeensThink believes in the transformative power of education and leadership,” Olesin said.

“Through our comprehensive programs, workshops and mentorship, we empower young minds to proactively address challenges like food security.”

The event also featured Deina Mayaki, Co-Founder and CEO of Agriarche Ltd. as a special guest. Mayaki, a prominent agri-entrepreneur, encouraged participants to use technology to drive the adoption of agriculture across Africa. Her keynote address emphasized the critical role of innovation in achieving sustainable food security measures on the continent.

Adeboye Adeyemi, chair of the advisory board at TeensThink, praised the winners for their exceptional contributions. “Your exceptional work sets a benchmark for others to follow,” Adeyemi noted. “Your essays have the potential to spark meaningful conversations, challenge societal norms, and pave the way for a safer future.”

Sifax Group, Nigerian Breweries, Multichoice, Tulcan Energy, Nigeria, Friesland Wampico, STL Trustees Hansol Geonetworks, Viju, MTN and Pepsi were among the partners and sponsors for the 2024 edition of TeensThink.

TeensThink is a dynamic leadership and education platform initiated by MarchMedia, a leading marketing and communications agency based in Lagos, Nigeria. Committed to developing exceptional leaders with marketable skills and a passion for education and global issues, TeensThink continues to empower youth through innovative programs and initiatives.

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