By Isaac Mission
GlowPulse 2.0, a youth development programme in Enugu, is helping children build emotional intelligence, resilience, leadership skills, digital awareness and practical knowledge needed to navigate everyday challenges.
The four-day initiative, which began on August 6 at Omedel Luxury Hotel, Enugu, brought together children between the ages of eight and 15 for interactive sessions covering emotional wellbeing, first aid, child protection, health awareness, leadership, digital responsibility and career development.
One of the programme's most memorable moments came from 15-year-old Isioma Idika, who travelled from Abakaliki to attend the event.
Idika, who lives with cerebral palsy, demonstrated her artistic ability during a live painting session. Using a paintbrush held in her mouth, she produced an artwork without the use of her hands or preliminary pencil sketches.
Her brother supported the presentation by preparing the paints, cleaning the brushes and helping to keep the canvas steady.
The demonstration highlighted the importance of encouragement and practical support in helping children with disabilities discover and develop their abilities.
During the opening phase of the programme, Ebere Nwafor, a disaster management officer and first aid trainer with the Nigerian Red Cross in Enugu, introduced the participants to basic first aid and CPR through practical exercises.
Officials from the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) also engaged the children on child trafficking, teaching them how to identify possible dangers and take steps to protect themselves.
Professor Theresa Nwagha, Chief Executive Officer of the UNTH Foundation, spoke to the participants about cancer awareness, while Enugu State Commissioner for Agriculture, Patrick Nwabueze Uburu, discussed career choices and opportunities.
The sessions were moderated by Ophilia Alete, an ambassador and on-air personality with Correct FM Enugu.
The programme continued on August 11 at Hotel Presidential Enugu by Amber, where attention shifted to leadership, self-awareness and responsible use of digital platforms.
Chukwuma Ephraim Okenwa, founder and CEO of Lead Network Africa, encouraged the children to view leadership as more than holding a position or title. He described leadership as the ability to influence positively, support others and create opportunities for people to grow.
Digital responsibility was addressed by Onyedikachi Bernard Asadu, popularly known as The King of Boys. He cautioned the children about interacting with strangers online and encouraged them to maintain healthy boundaries when using digital platforms.
Uzoamaka Nwachukwu, co-founder of Cope and Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation and COLI Mental Health Academy, led a session on self-awareness.
The children participated in exercises designed to help them understand their emotions, identify their triggers, recognise their strengths and weaknesses, and reflect on their values and personal standards.
Games, group discussions and other interactive activities were also incorporated into the programme to strengthen teamwork, communication and mutual support.
GlowPulse 2.0 reflects the growing recognition that children's development goes beyond academic achievement. Skills such as emotional awareness, resilience, effective communication and responsible digital behaviour can shape how young people handle difficulties and interact with others at home, school and within their communities.
The programme is scheduled to continue on August 18 at De Angelo Event Centre, Golf Estate, Enugu, with activities focused on games, play therapy and resilience.
The closing and celebration ceremony is expected to take place on August 25 at The Andover Hotel, Enugu. The final phase will feature vocational activities as well as discussions on self-regulation, bullying and cyberbullying.
Organisers say the broader goal is to provide children with a supportive environment where they can understand themselves, develop practical abilities and become better equipped to deal with life's challenges.
Idika's painting demonstration captured that message in a powerful way, showing that with opportunity, encouragement and the right support, children can find different ways to express their talents and reach their potential.