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In many communities across Nigeria, the girl child grows up facing barriers she did not create—barriers that silence her dreams, limit her potential, and force her into roles she is not yet ready for. Early marriage, poverty, cultural norms, and lack of access to education continue to deny thousands of girls the opportunity to live fully and freely. But in the heart of Bauchi State, a quiet revolution has begun. At Leap Empowerment for Sustainability Initiative (LEAPESI), we believe that empowering a girl is empowering a generation. Through our programs, we are committed to building a future where every girl has the right to learn, lead, and thrive—regardless of her background.
LEAPESI was founded to address a growing need: the urgent demand for youth-centered, community-driven empowerment in underserved areas. Our communities are full of brilliant, passionate young people who simply need access to the right opportunities. Too often, girls face the hardest struggles—early marriage, school dropouts, and lack of vocational mentorship. We created LEAPESI to change this narrative.
Our flagship program, Her Future, Her Voice, is a transformational girls’ empowerment initiative designed to break the cycle of early marriage, illiteracy, and poverty in Birshi/Miri communities of Bauchi Local Government. This 12-month project provides:
In a community where young people often struggle with limited opportunities, low self-esteem, and a lack of career direction, Leap Empowerment for Sustainability Initiative (LEAPESI) is changing the narrative through its groundbreaking Youth Mentorship & Leadership Development Program. The initiative is designed to nurture confident, purpose-driven young leaders who are equipped to navigate life's challenges and contribute meaningfully to their communities. The program brings together youths aged 15-24 for weekly mentorship circles that provide a safe space for learning, expression, and growth. Under the guidance of trained mentors-ranging from educators and entrepreneurs to community role models-participants engage in interactive sessions on leadership, communication, emotional intelligence, mindset transformation, and goal-setting. LEAPESI believes that empowerment goes beyond technical skills; it begins with the development of the mind. That is why the program integrates practical coaching on self-worth, identity, and resilience-equipping youth with the essential life skills necessary for both personal and professional success. Through peer-to-peer discussions, storytelling, and reflective exercises, participants learn to build confidence, overcome fear, and take ownership of their futures. Mentorship is paired with hands-on activities such as community service projects, group presentations, and small leadership tasks. These activities help youth apply their learning in real contexts, strengthening their sense of responsibility, teamwork, and civic engagement. The impact has been deeply inspiring. Many participants report improved confidence, better communication skills, and a renewed sense of purpose. Some have taken bold steps-returning to school, starting small businesses, taking up leadership roles, or mentoring younger peers. LEAPESI's team-composed of experienced facilitators, youth mobilizers, and passionate volunteers-ensures the program is inclusive, supportive, and transformative. Their dedication reflects the organization's belief that every young person deserves guidance, encouragement, and access to opportunities that ignite their inner leadership. Through the Youth Mentorship & Leadership Development Program, LEAPESI continues to build a generation of resilient, visionary, and empowered young people ready to shape a brighter future for their communities. One of the most impactful elements of the initiative is the involvement of local entrepreneurs and financial experts who serve as facilitators and mentors. Their real-world experience provides participants with practical insights, motivation, and guidance on sustaining a small business or building a career. Many mentors also offer opportunities for internships or apprenticeships, deepening the program's impact. The response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive. Participants have expressed increased confidence, improved financial awareness, and greater motivation to pursue entrepreneurship. Some have already launched small ventures such as tailoring services, bead-making, and mobile phone repairs-demonstrating the program's immediate effect. LEAPESI's dedicated team of trainers, mobilizers, and youth development specialists ensures the program remains inclusive, practical, and transformative. Their commitment reflects the organization's vision: to build a generation of self-reliant, skilled, and innovative young leaders capable of driving local economic growth. Through the Youth Entrepreneurship & Job Readiness Initiative, LEAPESI continues to demonstrate that with the right opportunities, guidance, and skills, young people can rise above barriers and create sustainable futures for themselves and their communities.
In an era where technology and innovation are reshaping opportunities for young people, Leap Empowerment for Sustainability Initiative (LEAPESI) is stepping forward with a powerful solution. This year, the organization launched its flagship Youth Digital & Vocational Skills Empowerment Program-a transformative initiative designed to equip young people across Birshi/Miri communities in Bauchi State with the skills, confidence, and mentorship they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. The program targets youth aged 15-24, many of whom face limited access to digital tools, employment opportunities, or career guidance. Through a combination of digital literacy training, vocational skills development, and mentorship, LEAPESI is creating pathways for employment, self-reliance, and leadership among underserved young people. Participants receive hands-on training in essential computer skills, online productivity tools, basic graphic design, and digital marketing. To ensure inclusiveness, the program also integrates non-digital vocational skills such as tailoring, bead-making, and crafts-empowering youths who may prefer hands-on, artisanal careers. This dual approach ensures that every young person finds a skill that aligns with their strengths and ambitions
LEAPESI works with:
As we grow, our vision remains clear: to build empowered communities driven by educated, confident, and skilled young people. Soon, we plan to expand our vocational hubs, introduce digital skills programs, strengthen our alumni mentorship network, and reach even more girls across Bauchi State and beyond.
This quarter, LEAPESI continued its mission to empower vulnerable girls in the Birshi/Miri communities of Bauchi State. Our activities focused on community sensitization, beneficiary identification, and strengthening partnerships with local leaders.
