The Sanitary Pad Media Campaign (SPMC) on Friday hosted an inspiring public speaking webinar to commemorate the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child, empowering young girls with communication skills and mentorship opportunities.
The virtual event brought together the top 30 finalists of the ‘My Period Stories’ Essay Competition and featured seasoned professionals who shared insights on leadership, confidence, and overcoming barriers.
Declaring the webinar open, Anikeade Funke-Treasure, Convener of SPMC, said the programme aligned with the global theme: “The Girl I Am, The Change I Make: Girls on the Frontline of Crisis.” She noted that the initiative was designed to raise a generation of bold female voices who can speak up on social issues, especially menstrual health and gender equality.
“We believe this programme will empower these young girls to become better versions of themselves and positive influencers in society. Through mentorship, we are nurturing future icons,” she said.
Seasoned Speakers Inspire Participants.
The session featured accomplished women leaders including: Oriyomi Pamela Sosu Otuka – Curator, National Museum of Unity, Ibadan. Betty Dibiah Akeredolu-Ale – CEO, BRANAMA TV, and Sophie Enitan Oluwa, Esq. – Executive Director, NATINEEE
Together with the convener, the mentors delivered powerful lessons on confidence-building, storytelling, leadership, and resilience. They also engaged participants in interactive sessions, encouraging them to embrace their voices and purpose.
As part of its mentorship drive, SPMC announced the pairing of essay competition winners with professional mentors:
Essay Winner Institution Assigned Mentor: Abasiekeme Eshiet, University of Uyo. Sophie Enitan Oluwa, Klistivitonyon Ogunlana, Betty Dibiah Akeredolu-Ale
Temitope Akinyinka and Pamela Oriyomi Otuka
The mentees expressed gratitude to SPMC for what they described as a life-shaping opportunity. Temiloluwa Ajala, one of the participants, said the programme had built her confidence and broadened her perspective on menstrual health advocacy.
A highlight of the event was a moving spoken-word performance titled “Menstrual Flow” by Victory Alleson, which received resounding applause for its emotional message against period stigma.
Speakers reiterated that menstruation should never be a source of shame, and called for menstrual health support for girls in IDP camps, conflict areas, and underserved communities. They also advocated for national reproductive health policies that guarantee access to sanitary products and education.
“Girls should know they can be anything they aspire to be. They must never be afraid to dream big,” said Betty Dibiah Akeredolu-Ale.
In her contribution, Sophie Enitan Oluwa, Esq. encouraged girls to become active advocates for others, particularly the vulnerable.
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Closing the event, Pamela Otuka stressed the importance of investment in girls’ education, health, and leadership.
She also encouraged the involvement of men and boys in menstrual health campaigns to break cultural barriers and promote gender understanding.
The webinar is one of SPMC’s ongoing efforts to promote menstrual health education, end period poverty, and amplify the voices of girls across Nigeria.
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