Source: Chioma Obinna
In a bold move to bridge Nigeria’s gender and technology divide, the Love for Change Women Foundation (LCWF) has wrapped up its INNOVAT STEAM Bootcamp 2.0, equipping hundreds of young girls with cutting-edge tech and leadership skills designed to break generational cycles of inequality.
Held in Lagos, the eight-week programme welcomed over 200 virtual participants and hosted 75 outstanding girls at a dynamic in-person grand finale. The bootcamp covered hands-on learning in robotics, Python programming, data analysis, and even fashion design through a creative partnership with Lisa Folawiyo Studio.
Empowering Future Innovators
“Every girl deserves the opportunity to explore, innovate, and lead—to break generational barriers,” said Mrs. Modupeola Bello Olukoya, LCWF Founder and Executive Director.
“Our participants are not just learning skills—they’re building the confidence to lead and innovate. This is just the beginning.”
The initiative targets underserved communities, where many girls face limited exposure to science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM). LCWF’s mission is to fill this critical gap by sparking curiosity, confidence, and long-term interest in STEAM careers.
A Lifeline for the Future
According to Ms. Bukola Adeyemi, Project Assistant at LCWF, the bootcamp goes beyond coding lessons.
“We’re bridging the opportunity gap by teaching problem-solving, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence—skills these girls can use to transform their lives.”
She noted that 90% of last year’s bootcamp participants reported a renewed interest in STEAM careers. This year’s programme expanded in size and depth, adding leadership development and emotional resilience workshops led by global development expert Ms. Oluwatoyin Banjo.
“Our female tech stars must rise boldly and lead with purpose,” Banjo emphasized. “Without self-awareness and emotional intelligence, they risk losing opportunities and being sidelined.”
Building Beyond the Bootcamp
LCWF isn’t stopping at a single program. Mrs. Olukoya revealed that the foundation is working to establish an Alumni Fellowship, ensuring that girls remain connected to mentors, internship pipelines, and future learning opportunities.
“We’re building a movement—a generation of STEAM queens ready to shape Nigeria’s future.”
The programme’s success was bolstered by key supporters, including the Lagos State Government. LCWF is now calling for broader national partnerships to replicate the bootcamp’s success across the country.
“The impact is clear, but we can do so much more with broader support,” Olukoya concluded.
Tech empowerment isn’t just about skills—it’s about creating a new future for girls who were never handed a chance. LCWF’s bootcamp proves that when young women are given the tools, they don’t just catch up—they lead.
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