……harnessing talents to foster youth engagement
……Mobilize productivity and societal transformation
By Tracy Ohovwore, Benin City
In a proactive approach to empower youth and shape society, Street Art Foundation launches a youth empowerment movement on Friday, April 11, 2025, in the heart of Benin City.
The youth led change themed, “Artvocacy,” is an initiative created to unlock the potential of young individuals as well as drive forward positive changes
The event kickstarted with auditioning of talents ranging from spoken words, musical presentation, monologues and many other creative presentations.
Speaking at the event, the founder and lead Visionary, Mrs Rita Ezenwa-Okoro, reaffirmed her commitment towards positively impacting the lives of youths across Nigeria into active contributors to the society; promoting the spirit of patriotism.
She informed that the resilience and Artvocacy movement had began as a result of the 2020 Endsarz protest which showcased the strength and determination of the ‘Gen-Z’.
The founder added that the movement had began in other states across Nigeria like Abuja, Akwa, Enugu, Abeokuta, Lagos, Port harcourt and finally Benin city with a selection of 34 persons who will kick off the advocacy movement in Benin City.
One of the participants at the Artvocacy audition, Ruth Eniya expressed gratitude for the creative movement which will empower youths to contribute positively to the society.
“I like the street project Artvocacy which is promoting creativity. I believe this platform is best for me to come into the limelight.” She stated.
Also, Testimony Odey who auditioned as a participant, commended the movement stating that it will foster youths who will drive forward positive changes.
According to her, “I think it’s great to have socially conscious youths. They say children are the leaders of tomorrow and for a better Nigeria, we need young people who are passionate and patriotic that can drive a change.”
Another youth who engaged at the Artvocacy movement, Staged name Uncle Nat, acknowledged the initiative which according to him will not only promote youth empowerment and community development but will also create a medium for impactful networking.
Addressing the youths, Consultant to Street Project Foundation, Mr Ezenwa-Okoro, urged the youths to take advantage of the opportunity to develop themselves.
He further called on the government and relevant stakeholders to join in the youth empowerment movement, equipping young people with the required skills and harnessing their talents to shape their own future and drive positive changes in their environment.
