On September 24, 2024, Clementina Busayo Odetola took part in an enriching civic engagement session with the students of Estate High School, Shagari, Akure, Ondo State. The theme for the day was “Identity and Self-Esteem,” an issue close to Clementina’s heart. For her, the event was not only an opportunity to inspire the students but also a nostalgic reminder of her own secondary school years. During those days, Clementina had admired two Corps members—one for his impeccable dress sense and the other for her genuine kindness. These figures represented to her the ideal combination of character, confidence, and compassion. In those formative years, she believed education could shape character and instill both compassion and style, and looking back, she now realizes that this belief, held so strongly in her youth, was both true and enduring.
As an emerging political leader, Clementina understands the tremendous responsibility she carries to influence the next generation positively. Her involvement with the Emerging Political Leaders Fellowship (EPLF), founded by His Excellency, Sen. Liyel Imoke, has provided her with a platform to do just that. The EPLF is dedicated to fostering leadership qualities in young individuals, and Clementina is fully committed to using her position to nurture and empower the next generation of leaders. Her visit to Estate High School was a significant opportunity for her to engage directly with students, guiding them to explore their own identities and self-worth as Nigerians. In doing so, she aimed to encourage a deeper understanding of their roles in shaping the future of their communities and the nation at large. The foundation of this discussion was the understanding that true patriotism begins with cultivating healthy self-esteem and recognizing one’s inherent value.
Core Objective
Her goal was to help the students explore their identities as Nigerians, underscoring the importance of healthy self-esteem as a key to realizing their potential and contributing to society.
Key Outcomes
The event began with a warm and heartfelt welcome from the school’s counsellor, Mrs. Olakitan, and teachers like Ms Oluwabusayo Clementina was greeted with enthusiasm, and the students were eager to participate in the session. Over 220 students attended the engagement, with 120 girls and 100 boys actively involved in the conversation. Clementina used affirmations as a tool to help the students reinforce positive self-images and recognize their self-worth. For example, affirmations such as “I am female/male, I am fearfully and wonderfully made,” became powerful mantras, echoing through the room as the students internalized these messages of self-empowerment.
The session was a dynamic and engaging one, filled with interactive elements like singing, clapping, and the enthusiastic repetition of affirmations. The energy in the room was palpable, and both the students and teachers were actively engaged. As part of the Gender Tuesday Assembly, Clementina’s friend Mr. Lanre led the boys in a separate discussion about their own identity, while Clementina took the time to remind the girls of the importance of self-perception. It was a powerful moment as the students reflected on the values of identity and self-esteem that Clementina emphasized.
The teachers were impressed by the level of engagement and the positive energy that permeated the room. Following the session, the teachers expressed their gratitude and extended an invitation to Clementina and her team to return for future sessions. This warm reception encouraged Clementina to think beyond the day’s event and to plan for more ways in which she could contribute to the students’ academic and personal growth. She felt particularly motivated to offer guidance to help students make informed decisions about their academic futures, especially as they approach higher learning.
Key Highlights/Achievements
One of the key highlights of the day was Clementina’s donation of 30 copies of “Career Guide for Graduates & Students: A Guide to Understanding Your Career Path,” written by Engr. Seyi Osanyinbi. This book, which outlines various academic courses and career paths available to students, was a valuable resource for the SS3 students. It covers everything from university and polytechnic programs to vocational training and international career opportunities. By providing these books, Clementina aimed to equip the students with practical knowledge that would help them make informed decisions about their future. Each copy was personally signed with a handwritten note from Clementina, adding a personal touch that further emphasized her commitment to their success.
On Friday, September 27, 2024, Clementina had the honor of presenting these books to the SS3 class of Estate High School. This gesture was not just about donating physical resources, but about imparting wisdom and encouraging the students to take the next step in their educational journey with confidence and clarity. The gesture was well-received, and the students were deeply appreciative of the thoughtfulness behind the donation, as well as the practical advice Clementina provided during her visit. This act of giving also served to reinforce the idea that self-esteem and identity go hand in hand with making purposeful choices for the future. It was a day of empowerment for both the students and Clementina, who left the school knowing she had made a meaningful impact.
In conclusion, Clementina Busayo Odetola’s engagement with the students of Estate High School, Shagari was a resounding success. It was an opportunity for her to give back to the community, inspire young minds, and remind them of their intrinsic value. Through affirmations, open dialogue, and practical advice about career paths, Clementina left a lasting impression on the students, encouraging them to embrace their identities and take ownership of their futures.
Leave a Reply