IMPACT WEDNESDAY: S.M.I.L.E Supports the First-Ever TEDx Mowe Event

Meet Gbenga Adebayo, a dedicated changemaker, a proud alumnus of S.M.I.L.E’s 2016 Young Leaders Mentoring Program (YLMP) and the 2021 Executive Mentoring Program for Youth (EMPY), and currently an active member of the S.M.I.L.E Team. Driven by passion and purpose, he got the license to organize the first-ever TEDx Mowe event, a platform designed to amplify ideas, inspire leaders, and spark meaningful conversations within the community.
TEDxMowe 2025 had an incredible lineup of visionary speakers such as Mr Idy Enang, Chude Jideonwo, Olawale Bamidele, Caleb Faletti, Barr Labake Adetunmbi and a host of others who are redefining what’s possible across leadership, innovation, enterprise, media, technology, creativity, and nation-building.
From global thought leaders to homegrown changemakers, each speaker is stepping onto the red dot with one mission: To share ideas capable of re-engineering the future from right here in Mowe.
In alignment with our mission of supporting young leaders and empowering them to bring their vision to life, we are proud to be one of the sponsors of Gbenga’s history making and groundbreaking TEDx event.
Additionally to reinforce our commitment to continuous mentorship and youth development S.M.I.L.E also sponsored 18 youths to attend and benefit from the wealth of knowledge shared by the distinguished speakers.
We are incredibly proud of our dear Gbenga’s vision, leadership, and dedication and honored to be part of this milestone moment.
We will continue to support young leaders and amplify the impact of their ideas.
Congratulations Gbenga 🥳🥳🥳🥳🥳
We celebrate you, greatly 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

Behind every smooth transition, every welcoming smile, and every unforgettable moment, there’s a dedicated team of people working selflessly to make it all happen.

From early mornings to late nights, these incredible individuals gave their time, energy, and skills to ensure everything ran seamlessly. They are the true definition of service, teamwork, and passion.

We celebrate you. We appreciate you. We couldn’t have done it without you!

#YLS2025

#Evolve2025

#YouthLeadChange

#YouthDayLagos

#IYD2025

The 2024 Young Leaders Mentoring Program, our young trailblazers joined YLS 2025 ready to learn, connect, and grow, discovering that the journey to leadership can start early and evolve endlessly.

Through engaging sessions, powerful conversations, and moments of reflection, they left with renewed confidence and a bigger vision for the future.

Their presence was a reminder that when young minds are nurtured early, the possibilities are limitless.

#YLS2025

#Evolve2025

#YouthLeadChange

#YouthDayLagos

#IYD2025

The NYSC members, in their crisp uniforms, stood out not just for their appearance but for their enthusiasm and dedication.

The NYSC members, in their crisp uniforms, stood out not just for their appearance but for their enthusiasm and dedication. They added a youthful spark to the atmosphere, embodying the spirit of service and unity that the Corps represents.

Their involvement went beyond attendance, they actively participated in the day’s conversations, celebrations, and connections, leaving an impression of commitment and camaraderie that enriched the entire event.

#YLS2025

#Evolve2025

#YouthLeadChange

#YouthDayLagos

#IYD2025

It was a beautiful moment to witness, LASUSTECH students coming together to honor the President of S.M.I.L.E, Mrs. Bimpe Bamgbose-Martins.

This wasn’t just about handing over a plaque. It was about saying “thank you” from the heart, for the countless seeds she’s sown, the doors she’s opened, and the way she continues to believe in and invest in young people.

Mrs. Bimpe Bamgbose-Martins, your kindness, leadership, and unwavering support have left footprints on many lives, and today, we celebrate you.

#YLS2025

#Evolve2025

#YouthLeadChange

#YouthDayLagos

#IYD2025

Keynote Address: Mr. Kola Oyeneyin, CEO of Opportunik Global Fund, took the stage for his session on EVOLVE: Building Future-Ready Leaders, delivering a powerful truth

Mr. Kola Oyeneyin, CEO of Opportunik Global Fund, took the stage for his session on EVOLVE: Building Future-Ready Leaders, delivering a powerful truth:

“Skills don’t expire, they only grow when you renew them again and again.”

A reminder that growth isn’t a one-time achievement, it’s a lifelong habit.

#YLS2025

#Evolve2025

#YouthLeadChange

#YouthDayLagos

#IYD2025

Youth Mentor of the Year: Mr. Oladapo Kehinde

Youth Mentor of the Year: Mr. Oladapo Kehinde

Recognizing Mr. Oladapo Kehinde, a powerhouse of guidance and inspiration. His unwavering commitment to mentoring has transformed countless lives, empowering young leaders to rise and thrive.

True leadership in action, shaping futures and building legacies that will last for generations to come.

#YLS2025

#Evolve2025

#YouthLeadChange

#YouthDayLagos

#IYD2025

Strategy for Mentoring Initiative and Leadership Empowerment (S.M.I.L.E) is a youth leadership development and mentoring non-profit organization established in Lagos. Nigeria in 2011 (S.M.I.L.E) and in Maryland, United States of America in 2017 (S.M.I.L.E Initiative)

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