Five students from three schools have emerged winners at a two-day Financial Aid and Arts Programme for primary school students organised by Ark Zero Five Foundation in Lagos.
The programme,tagged: Creative Talent Incubator Programme, had over 40 students from seven schools within the Ejigbo Model School Complex, featured interactive workshops, mentorship sessions, competitions, exhibitions and hands-on art creation.
Facilitated by experienced creative professionals and art teachers, the programme aimed at teaching students essential drawing techniques and encouraging their artistic growth.
The students were given cash prizes ranging from N30,000 to N20,000 respectively with arts starter packs to support their creative journeys.
Participating schools include: Imakiyo Primary School, Ejigbo Model Primary School, Fadu Memorial Primary School, Oba Muruf Primary School l, Adegboyega Nursery and Primary School.
Speaking at the event, Olajide Olukayode Babalola, a member of Ark Zero Five Foundation, emphasised the importance of nurturing young talents as a means of empowering children and youth to overcome societal challenges.
The initiative celebrated young talents while promoting a sense of community and collaboration.
“We are a non-profit NGO driven by a dream to create a better environment and industry for our youths.
“This programme is part of a broader effort to support children and youths, helping them harness their talents as a viable means of social action,” Babalola said.
He elaborated on the foundation’s vision, explaining the importance of follow-through in nurturing young talents.
“What we are doing here goes beyond just identifying talents; it’s about developing and supporting these children so they can use their gifts to fight poverty and build a brighter future. We aim to follow up on their progress, ensuring that this isn’t a one-time intervention but a continuous process of growth and empowerment.”
Babalola also noted the challenges of limited access to resources and opportunities for many talented youths, stressing the need for sustainable support systems.
“Our goal is to create a foundation for these children to stand on. They may not have wealth or access to resources now, but through initiatives like this, they can realise their potential and achieve their dreams,” he said.
Babalola expressed optimism about the future, stating that the foundation plans to expand its efforts and continue empowering the next generation through similar initiatives.
Head of Social Mobilisation at Oshodi-Isolo Local Government, Mrs. R.M. Gbadamosi, who lauded the organisers for empowering the children and nurturing their creative talents, said: “Efforts toward empowering our children to become who God has designed them to be can never be overemphasised.
