In a world where the challenges faced by orphans and underprivileged youth often go unnoticed, Focus Forward Youth Organization stands as a beacon of hope and change in Jos, Nigeria. Driven by the motto “Be the change you wish to see” Focus Forward Youth Organization is dedicated to empowering young minds, fostering community development, and creating a sustainable future through formation. This article explores the impactful activities, including celebrating the birthdays of orphans, organizing events for International African Day, and implementing a tree planting project at The House of Recab Orphanage Home.
CELEBRATING BIRTHDAYS OF ORPHANS AT KWAV FOUNDATION
One of the most heartwarming initiatives by Focus Forward Youth Organization is the celebration of birthdays for orphans at Kids with a Vision Foundation. Recognizing the importance of making each child feel special and valued, on the 31st December 2023, Focus Forward Youth Organization organizes a birthday party that bring joy and a sense of belonging to these young lives. The celebration was more than just a party; it was a carefully planned event where the children enjoy cakes, receive gifts, and participate in various games and activities. Volunteers and team members come together to ensure that each child has a memorable experience. The smiles, laughter, and excitement seen during these celebrations are a testament to the positive impact this initiative has on the children. By celebrating the special day, our organization helps to create positive memories and a sense of family among the children. This initiative has significantly contributed to the emotional and psychological well-being of the orphans, making them feel cherished and important.
INTERNATIONAL AFRICA DAY
In line with its mission to foster cultural awareness and youth empowerment, Focus Forward Youth Organization collaborated with Young University Students in the Parliament in Rome, to organize a significant event for International African Day. This event was hosted online and it was designed to celebrate African heritage and promote cultural pride through the importance of names. One of the highlights of the event was a series of discussions involving Young University Students in parliament and Focus Forward Youth Organization members. These sessions focused on the importance of cultural heritage, the challenges faced by African youth, and the ways in which young people can contribute to the development of their communities through collaboration and creation of global network. The active participation and enthusiasm displayed by the youth were inspiring and demonstrated a strong commitment to making a positive impact, and collaborating together between Nigerian youths and European youths to work on the promotion of the common good. This event not only celebrated African heritage but also served as a powerful reminder of the need to preserve and promote the continent’s rich cultural legacy, but it also emphasizes on the need to continue collaborating with Young University Students in Parliament in Rome and Focus Forward Youth Organization in Nigeria to actively engage in community development through local and international formation.
TREE PLANTING PROJECT: NURTURING DREAMS AND THE ENVIRONMENT
In an effort to promote environmental sustainability and ecological conservation, Focus Forward Youth Organization launched a tree planting project at the House of Recab Orphanage Home. This initiative aimed not only to create a greener environment but also to serve as a powerful metaphor for the orphans to nurture their dreams in the same way they would care for the trees.
The orphans were encouraged to see each tree as a representation of their dreams. They were taught that, like a tree, their dreams need to be planted in fertile soil, cared for, and protected from challenges. By watering, pruning, and tending to the trees, the children would also be nurturing their own ambitions and goals. By involving the children in the tree planting process, our organization not only educated them about environmental issues but also empowered them to take proactive steps in pursuing their dreams.
The project served as a practical lesson in sustainability and personal development, highlighting the importance of nurturing and perseverance. Through this initiative, our aims is to inspire the orphans to dream big and work diligently towards achieving their goals, knowing that with the right care and effort, their dreams, like the trees, will flourish and contribute to a brighter future.
CONCLUSIONS
To be the change we wish to see, each one of us have a role to play. As such, working with young people that have a vision to transform their community is the way forward in promoting the common good, and collaborating with Young University Student in Parliament on sustainability project is one of the way to be the change makers.
Focus Forward Youth Organization’s mission of “Be the change you wish to see” is a powerful call to action. It emphasizes the importance of community involvement, collective responsibility, and proactive efforts in creating a better and more inclusive society.
As Focus Forward Youth Organization continues to expand its projects and foster partnerships, it remains dedicated to building a future where every young person has the opportunity to thrive and make a positive impact. No one is too young to dream and no one is too old to act.