Source:Chioma Obinna
The Love for Change Women Foundation (LCWF) has raised strong concerns over the widening technology gap limiting the potential of young girls in underserved communities. Speaking at the close of the INNOVAT STEAM Bootcamp 2.0 in Lagos, Mrs. Modupeola Bello Olukoya, LCWF’s Founder and Executive Director, stressed the urgency of bridging this gap to unlock the next generation of female innovators and leaders.
“Every girl deserves the opportunity to explore, innovate, and lead—to break generational barriers,” Olukoya said.
“This workshop celebrates that belief and reaffirms our commitment to nurturing future-ready, purpose-driven young women.”
Empowering Girls Through Tech and Innovation
The eight-week hybrid bootcamp attracted over 200 virtual participants and hosted 75 exceptional girls for an in-person finale. The curriculum featured robotics, Python programming, and a Fashion & Design Workshop in collaboration with Lisa Folawiyo Studio—a first-time tech experience for many attendees.
“Our participants are not just learning skills—they’re building the confidence to lead and innovate,” Olukoya emphasized.
The program also offered leadership development, service excellence, and emotional resilience training, helping girls develop holistically beyond technical skills.
Scaling Impact Through Partnerships
Olukoya praised the Lagos State Government and other partners for their support, urging broader collaboration to replicate and scale the program nationwide.
“We need more opportunities like this. The impact is clear, but we can do so much more with broader support,” she said.
Plans are underway to launch an alumni fellowship, ensuring that graduates remain connected to mentorship, resources, and future opportunities.
Beyond Code: Building Confident, Emotionally Intelligent Leaders
Leadership and emotional intelligence were focal points of the bootcamp, with sessions led by Ms. Oluwatoyin Banjo, global development leader and entrepreneur.
“Our female tech stars must rise boldly and lead with purpose,” Banjo said.
“Without emotional intelligence and self-awareness, they risk losing opportunities and being sidelined.”
Closing the STEAM Gap for Good
The bootcamp aligns with LCWF’s broader goals of sustainable mentorship, practical learning, and creative empowerment. Research cited by the foundation shows that girls in underserved communities often lack access to foundational STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) education, which can be life-changing.
According to Olukoya, last year’s cohort reported that 90% of participants developed a renewed interest in STEAM careers.
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