Teenager wins international essay competition, proposes innovative solutions for food security in Africa

In a significant milestone for TeensThink, the renowned organization dedicated to nurturing leadership and educational excellence among teenagers, their fourth annual edition has evolved into an international essay competition.

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

With the theme of “Food Security,” the 2024 edition emphasized TeensThink’s commitment to addressing pressing global challenges through the lens of youth empowerment and education. Among the participants, Aboyeji Toluwanimi Elizabeth of Funaab International School, Abeokuta emerged as the overall winner of the competition. Her profound essay not only delved into the complexities of food security challenges but also proposed innovative solutions for sustainable agriculture in Africa.

Securing the first and second runners-up positions were Otito Ofolue and Owoeye Ayomide from Babington Macaulay, Lagos, and Advanced Breed Comprehensive, Lagos, respectively. Their essays also presented compelling perspectives on tackling food security issues.

The winners were recognized with prestigious awards, including Lenovo laptops, cash prizes, and gift packs, highlighting TeensThink’s commitment to academic excellence and nurturing young leaders. Aboyeji Toluwanimi Elizabeth received a cash prize of N150,000, while Otito Ofolue and Owoeye Ayomide were awarded N100,000 and N70,000, respectively.

Kehinde Olesin, the Convener and Founder of TeensThink, expressed pride in the participants’ achievements and reiterated the organization’s dedication to equipping teenagers with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate global food systems. Olesin emphasized the transformative power of education and leadership in addressing challenges like food security.

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

Adeboye Adeyemi, Chairman of the Advisory Board at TeensThink, commended the winners for their exceptional contributions, noting that their essays have the potential to spark meaningful conversations, challenge societal norms, and pave the way for a more secure future.

The 2024 edition of TeensThink was made possible through the support of partners and sponsors such as Sifax Group, Nigerian Breweries, Multichoice, Tulcan Energy, Nigeria, Friesland Wampico, STL Trustees, Hansol Geonetworks, Viju, MTN, and Pepsi.

TeensThink, initiated by MarchMedia, a prominent marketing and communications agency based in Lagos, Nigeria, is a dynamic leadership and educational platform dedicated to cultivating exceptional leaders with marketable skills and a passion for education and global issues. Through innovative programs and initiatives, TeensThink continues to empower youth and shape a brighter future.