Growing Up Joke Silva The Magazine for Young People Pursuing a Professional Career in Acting
Girls On Your The Move! Sexuality Iwaya Out-Of-School Questions Girls Taking Steps To Improve Answered Their Lives
Assertiveness How to Stand Up For Yourself Without Putting Others Down
Teenage Festival of Life 2013 D1 Speaks On 5 Things You Need To Succeed
Volume 21 No.1 January 2014 PUBLISHER Action Health Incorporated (AHI)
Vol. 21 No. 1 January 2014 ISSN-118-4574
CONTRIBUTORS Temitope Alfred Isaiah Owolabi Rhoda Robinson Vweta Ariemugbovbe Paul O. Ojajuni Adeola Faseyi Stella Nwogo
PHOTOGRAPHERS Gbile Oshadipe Emmanuel Eshiett Cover Photo: Sandra Agenge Damilola Ayivoji
INTERNS/YOUTH ASSISTANTS Natasha De Gregorio Anjola Otoki Graduation Event for Empowerment Programme Ayodele Noutouglo Adrian Obinna Orji Williams Elizabeth Talatu John Oyadougha Temitope Banjo Justina Uffort Girls On The Move:
GRAPHIC DESIGN & LAYOUT Dejan Nikolic and Milos Janojlic Empowering the PRINT PRODUCTION Fine Print Limited
SPECIAL THANKS Iwaya Community The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation for funding magazine production igeria’s adolescent girls hold the key to the wellbeing of their fam- Action Health Incorporated - (AHI) tion and skills; critical knowledge and the capacity to protect their governmental organization N ilies, neighborhoods and the nation. If given quality basic educa committedis a non-profit, to improving non- the health - and development of adolescents in Nigeria. Since its establishment in health; and the confidence and opportunity to grow and prosper, their con tributions will be multiplied many fold. Unfortunately, many adolescent- for youth and a catalyst for change haviourgirls in Nigeria as a means still liveof survival. in conditions of abject poverty, suffer from multiple 1989,by increasing AHI has public served awareness as an advocate of sexual and reproductive health socio-economic deprivations, and thus remain exposed to risky sexual be Following an action-oriented research conducted by Action Health Incor-
issues,development and implementing programmes. innovative education, health and youth The views expressed in the porated (AHI) to understand the realities, needs and concerns of adolescent magazine are those of the authors areasgirls in by Lagos, the Lagos a multi-dimensional State Urban Renewal empowerment Authority. project In partnership was launched with in communityIwaya, one ofmembers the numerous and relevant communities state governmentdesignated asagencies blighted including or slum those of AHI or any of our donor andorganizations. do not necessarily reflect - Address all correspondence to: videdthe Lagos adolescent State Agency girls in for Iwaya Mass with Education, the opportunity 108 out-of-school to enroll girlsin various were identified to benefit from the pilot phase of this initiative, which has pro
The Editor, Growing Up Magazine programme options that included formal education, non-formal education Action Health Incorporated, someand vocational of the adolescent skills acquisition girls in Iwaya through who apprenticeship participated in with the accreditedempower- 17E-mail: Lawal [email protected] Street, Jibowu, Lagos artisans in the community. As told by themselves, these are the stories of P.O.Web: Box http/www.actionhealthinc.org 803, Yaba-Lagos, Nigeria contributing to the wellbeing of their families and neighborhoods. 02 January 2014 ment initiative, and are now taking bold steps to improvewww.actionhealthinc.org their lives while “I had always dreamed about running my own hairdressing salon”
amilola Kucheopon is 22 years old stylist and interested in helping drop- - out girls like us.” Many of Ded Jibowu Junior High School and was attend- the girls remained ada- ing Mainlandan indigene Senior of Badagry, High School Lagos when State. she She becameattend mant and some even had pregnant at 19 and had to drop out of school. Damilo- to plead with their parents la blames her misfortune on the norms and practices and guardians before they could gain their support that it was considered normal for young girls to have to join the scheme. Dami- prevalent within her community, Iwaya. She explained- lola and some other girls ing for their needs and those of their families. “It is seen from her neighborhood theiras a sign boyfriends, of maturity” even she if they said. were The girls much are older, also providexpect- joined the programme to ed to reciprocate these gifts by granting the boyfriends be trained as hair-styl- - ists. “I had always dreamt nancies like it happened to her. Although Damilola’s about running my own sexual favours, which often results in unwanted preg hairdressing salon” she school because she didn’t think she could deal with the said. “This is two years af- babyshame died and subsequently, humiliation she she knew said wouldshe did be not awaiting go back her to among the school administration and her classmates. ter,more. I have The learntsame communityhow to retouch, members wash areand now set hair,saying as - wellthey asare do happy Ghana- for weaving, us; many pedicure, of them evenmanicure came and for lotsour graduation ceremony. I have a lot of plans for myself- I Fromselected then when on, shethe beganAHI team selling came water to identifyas a way girls of con for hope to have my own big shop and lots of apprentices tributing to her family’s income. Fortunately, she was - community members said all kinds of things about how knowledged that she now understands the risk of hav- thethey empowerment did not trust the programme. scheme and Damilolaeven tried said, to discour “Some- ingin this multiple coming partners year,” she and said. has Inlearnt addition, the importance Damilola, ac of age me and other girls who were selected from partic- using protection and keeping herself safe from sexual ipating. They did not believe that anybody would be abuse. “I know education is important and my children must have it”
ose Kujannayin is 20 - years old. The third ually Transmitted Infections and HIV during one of Bchild in a family of Bose recalls, “When we were being taught about Sex have never been the type that go around with different had been enrolled in the themen. evening She enthused classes, about I thanked how useful God silently the opportunity because I five children, although she attending school in Prima- past,ry 2 sheand was started stopped hawking from hadwhat been I want for fromher, saying my life. “The I know training I don’t they want gave to us rush has helped me set good goals for myself, and I now know “I have always wanted to to have a proper court marriage. I have also learned to fish to support her family. intocontrol marriage my anger and and if marriage stay out eventuallyof trouble”. comes, I want so happy when the empow- learnerment how opportunity to sew, so Icame was Bose shared how so many people in her community
Bose. She lamented over all surprised when she and her colleagues graduated. tothe myefforts community,” of her extended said didn’t initially believe in the programme, so they were family members who had tried everything possible to convince her parents to give her and her sisters out for Today, many of the community members are awaiting a - similar programme to come their way again. Bose, who speaksto have proudly3 children about in the how future well sheand now she willsews, make and surehow marriage,he always butwanted her fatherthem torefused. learn one According trade or to the her, oth al- shethey has all getcultivated formal education.the habit of “I saving, know education says she wantsis im- thougher and growhe was up unable to be tosuccessful afford keeping women. them “He in gave school, me portant and my children must have it” she said. every support to join the empowerment scheme when they were registering girls in my area”
www.actionhealthinc.org January 2014 03 “I am proud to say that I am a tailor.”
andra Togbe family’s ten children had never been to school. Her S , 15 years old and the ninth of her seller. When asked why she had never been enrolled in father, has other wives and her mother is a fish - school, Sandra said, “My parents can’t afford to send me tomany school parents and preferlike me, that many we goyoung and peoplehawk for in the this family. com munity would also like to learn a trade. Unfortunately, can bring back after selling every day”. They are satisfied with the little money their children She recounted her experiences before her selection for
theNaira”. girls’ She empowerment narrated how scheme.men would “When offer hawking to pay more fish for my mother, I would walk very far just to get 200
money for her wares, in exchange for sex. “They will asksaid. me “I knowto come that into I am their too house, young saying and if thatI dare they get would preg- give me 1,000 Naira for my fish, but I would refuse,” she
nant, I can die during labour. All I wanted was to just discourage my mother from allowing me to learn this learn“Now aI trade,am proud not getto say pregnant.” that I am a tailor. I like my life er no longer find me at home. Some people tried to and my body feels better. I do not have constant head- money and support our family better. I even sew for my trade,other brothersbut she didn’t and listensisters. to I them. am also Now learning I make myto readown and write from the evening classes I attend three times achesby my likehouse I used so that to, whenwe could I used go andto hawk. visit boysI am togethalways- a week after we close from work at my training place”. busy at work, so those of my friends who used to come “Poverty made my sister run away from home.”
that the level of poverty in her family was so unbearable tunity,that one because of her sistersher parents once rancouldn’t away afford from homeit. She to said an-
spoke about how her life has changed since she start- other man’s house. With a very bright smile, Damilola-
edaround attending my area school, complements “I am always me so about busy mystudying, good bees- peciallyhavior. I am solving so grateful mathematics for this problems,opportunity and that everyone is help- ing my family. They enrolled my younger sister and I in
says that once she completes primary school she would school.”like to go Damilola, on to Jibowu whose High best School subject and is then basic attend science, the University of Lagos which is a short walking distance from Iwaya community. She aspires to get a degree in medicine and eventually builds a hospital in her com- munity and help save lives.
“Whentell her. I Shegot mywas report so happy card and for ourshe lastbought exam, popcorn and I saw for thatme to I camecelebrate third my overall, passing I ran well to myin school.”mother’s Damilola shop to condemns the exclusion of girls from education and amilola Ayivoji is from a family of 12 children and her father has four wives. Damilola narrat- long as the person is willing to study.” She burst into Ded how much happier she has become since she says,tears “Everyoneas she recalled should how be oneallowed of her to friends go to school, who was so enrolled at Premier Foundation Primary School. Ac- she wished that parents would just stop giving out their school like some of her peers but never had the oppor- forcedchildren to when get married they are died still duringso young. childbirth, and said cording to her, she had always wished she could attend 04 January 2014 www.actionhealthinc.org “I and my parents have agreed that I will complete schooling before marriage”
eborah Achou is 14 years old and in prima- - Dment on the out-of-school girls’ empowerment ry school. Before she was identified for enroll- sisting her mother with her petty trade and hawking programme, Deborah’s daily routine centered on as
fishvery around young. herIt is neighborhood part of what Iin have Iwaya to todo support to help hermy family.parents. She I believe said, “I that started it is whatselling you fish do from to your when parents I was that your children will also do to you.” She is one of the more fortunate young girls in her community whose
with enough money to contribute towards the family’s parentsexpenses. haven’t given out, in marriage to an older man
the house chores assigned to her before she sets out Althoughevery day. she “I isjust now have enrolled to make in school,sure I wakeshe still up doesvery
for someone to help me interpret what the customer is earlyschool to as do an my excuse work, not and to help myher motherparents beforewith share I go saying anytime I had to sell anything to them. I also help toof theschool.” housework. According to her, she cannot use going to my mother read messages sent to her mobile phone and write letters she wants to send to people in our “This empowerment programme came just to protect hometown- this always makes her very happy” girls like me - who want to go to school but our parents don’t have the money. It is saving us from the hands of events in her family especially because any talk about want us to come and sit in their house and have chil- Deborahher getting herself married is quiteis not pleasedon their aboutagenda. the “I and turn my of wickeddren for men. them” They she willsaid. not send us to school, but they parents have agreed that I will complete schooling be- - fore marriage. I know that I want to be a lawyer and I am going to do everything I can do to complete my “Now I can read and write, and when I attend to cus education.” tomers in my mother’s shop, I can speak English with “Nobodythem, not like before believedwhen I will always thathave to look I could be change this much…”
did not even trust that she would be retained on the es.empowerment Her father, a programmefisherman and when her she mother was selected.a fish trader, She attributed the turnaround she experienced to her par- ticipation in the sexuality education classes organized by AHI as part of the out-of-school girls’ empowerment
understand herself and relate better with other family scheme.members There, and neighbours. she said, was “I have where been she registered learnt how in the to hair-dressing and beautician training and after about
because they said I had changed”. So far she has learnt six-months, my parents started treating me differently-
how to do hairweaving, ‘didi’, hair attachment and ex tension fixing, pedicure and manicure. “Every day now, eatrice Gandeh is 18 years old and she shared whenat the myend mother of the month gives me I have 100 some naira I for can my use meals, to buy I usemy how she used to be so rebellious and did whatever some of it to buy food and I try to save the rest, so that B - sanitary pads, creams and sometimes clothes.” www.actionhealthinc.orgshe wanted to without minding the consequenc January 2014 05 “Nobody believed that I could change this much and become so respectful. They did not even think I would last up to one month at my place of work before my Beatrice,hairdressing says shop that andonce be she able completes to take careher trainingof her sib on- boss would have to chase me away because of my rude- thelings empowerment and parents. She scheme, also advisesshe wants other to set young up her girls own “... don’t go and fall for those type of friendship where they expect you to pay them with what you have” ness,them “it but is Ithose have empowerment changed. Now, people whenever ooo!” people ask my mother what she did to make me this calm, she tells “I know I will become a medical doctor someday.”
andra Agenge is 16 years old and was born in a village not too far from Badagry. She recalls that Sher parents relocated to Lagos with herself and her other four siblings when she was eight years old. “I had since waited for the day I would put on a uniform
the dire circumstances of her family’s poverty made it tounviable go to school for her like to acceptsome of the other option girls”. of schoolingUnfortunately, pro-
clinch the option of attending vocational trainings of- videdfered toon the the older empowerment girls. scheme. Rather, she had to
“I am so glad I was able to join the scheme. I have been able take myself from my harsh life situation and I am now doing something better with my time. I didn’t al-
was selected to train as a hairstylist and from attending ways look this fine- I used to be so untidy. But after I looking very different…. When I look at myself in the the personal hygiene classes, I have noticed that I am
mirror,“I wake Iup am early happy every with day who to I help see.” with the housework before getting ready to go to work at the hairdressing salon where I am registered. I really like the place and my boss is very understanding. I work very hard too and never miss the evening classes three times a week after school.”
Sandra,as an idle says mind she is hates where being the idledevil and will is build always a very looking big to be involved in ventures that that keep her busy, “… - house.”nity to goWhen to school. asked aboutI still herhave plans faith for and the I’m future, working she said,hard “Iwith have my not present stopped hairstylist trusting training– God for the but opportu I know I will become a medical doctor someday.” Lessons from Iwaya are a call for action
s the girls on the Iwaya programme move to- Thus the lessons AHI and our partners are learning from this initiative to support girls in the three prima- Aso much remains to be done for girls in similar poorly wardsresourced improvements communities in theirby all lifestakeholders— trajectories, social and economic empowerment—are of relevance government and the private sector. Although the pat- ry, interconnected dimensions of their lives—personal, Nigeria as a whole. not only for Iwaya and other slum communities, but for terns seen in communities such as Iwaya are magnified by the grinding poverty and dense population, they are not unique to slum areas and are of national relevance. 06 January 2014 www.actionhealthinc.org Poems
“Gender Equality; Girl Power” Against Her Wish
She came into the world to succeed Never for once was I celebrated Get a good education Growing up, I felt intimidated
Excellence was what she wished for All the boys, they got preferential treatment And live a fulfilled life WeEven lived at home, our lives it wasn’t in inferiority any different Fate put her in a community Never believing in our capability Where her dreams were shortened Some of us felt this abnormality Her dreams became nightmares Others simply thought it was just part of humanity What can she do now than to conform to the culture? Now I can tell because I’ve learnt When she thought all hope was gone empowerment is the only weapon we possess Her nightmares became amazing smiles Success abounds but you need to search She could go for what she dreamt of Education is your one sure guide What could she have done? Kunmilade Adedokun, 18 years (female) But for that little mighty chance She found herself in the middle of ecstasy The “She” That chance is empowerment
And works with determination She can now live a fulfilled life. John Oyadougha, 19 years (male) She useswalks the with gifts confidence of her hands Females Count! In acquiring wealth for the land It has been from the beginning of time And intelligent in brains And lingered through many ages past /An abnormal ex- ShatteredShe becomes she equipped becomes with skills clusion has it been At the cruel hands of culture But these days give a chance as we’ve seen Oh! She sighs…… At the bliss of marriage Nullifying their dreams and wannabes She stands at the edge IsDiscriminating nothing but a against loss to naturethe female human species, Longing to leave lest she perishes As it lacks their outputs as creatures A smile on her face From overcoming the maze She now knows to be true SoEmpower they would a man, achieve you have more empowered in more than his a family few places It all begins and ends with you WorkingEmpower with a woman, smiles you in winsome have empowered radiances the nation Elizabeth Williams, 18 years, Female This is what people need to understand simply Every individual counts under the clear blue sky
In every way, we all have things to offer NoutougloIf we can take Ayodele, the leap, 19 years we’ll (male)be better.
www.actionhealthinc.org January 2014 07 Dear Diary by Adeola Faseyi
Sunday 17th November, 2013 to their various classes almost immediately. We were all - One of the major announcements in church today was that pal’s long and boring sermon today. It was not until close Christmas Carol rehearsals would be starting next week ofhappy, school because that Tammy whoever and fainted I found saved out usthat from Ozomma the princi was Sunday and dancers should come with their rehearsal the one who fainted. We rushed to the sick bay immedi- ately and helped her home. not I should join the expression members this year again consideringclothes. Oh well, the fact Dear that Diary, I almost I am yetbroke to decidemy legs whether last year… or Aunty Kike asked why I got home late today but I just told whoops! To be a dancer is not easy o…Khadijat dey try! her that I had extra classes and walked straight to my
- ofroom. course. Dear Even Diary, Khadijat Ozomma, doesn’t my friend know is yet p..ppr…pregnant! and I honestly sheEhnehn, decided by the to cometime I and rushed visit back us since to the the sitting tussle room between yes Sincerely, this is between me and you and well, Tammy ASUUterday, and Aunty FGN Kike is still was on. the She August went visitor with inme November to visit my – do not intend to tell anyone in this house, not even Aunty one of her apprentices. Kike. Please, keep this a secret for me…sighs! Goodnight. mentor, Fumbi and even started thinking of enrolling as
Wednesday 20th November, 2013
Monday 18th November, 2013 tired. I simply dragged myself to the bathroom and got myselfDidn’t haveprepared dinner for yesterday,school before so dad I woke ends up up hungry leaving and me they were all done. The weekend had been a long one for and then I have to go and board the bus. But that was what Up 6am, I double checked my assignments and made sure happened in the end as mum told me while serving me breakfast that dad didn’t come home from work last night me and I must say, I had so much fun. - eryone was tired of the principal’s long speech. Even on The assembly was just too long today, it was obvious ev- facebecause when he I hasheard an this early was morning like “WHHAAAAATTT!!!” meeting today. Instead, “Remember he just lodged in a hotel around his office. The look on my thestudents teacher’s…(everyone faces, one screamed) could tell. Senior He finally School said is theSerious say - ingbusiness” with . whichAnd we he all usually marched ends to our his classes. speech, ford to be late to his class. His punishment would leave myMr. bodyTikola useless is first forperiod the reston Wednesdays, of the week. soI ran I couldn’t to the bus af elder sister was getting married in two weeks. Surprised - During recess, Khadijat informed Tammy and I that her gling to enter the only bus which came after 20 minutes in Khadijat’s family and we didn’t want to go over the long stop and prayed for a miracle. Oh Dear Diary, while strug as we were, we tried not to show it as this was the custom stepped on a pregnant teenage girl. She sat on the ground Khadjiat was tired of hearing that there was little or even of waiting at the bus stop, I noticed that someone had nothingtalks of whatshe could is right do andto change what isher not… parents For allbelief we know,about shiver down my spine as I watched her and I didn’t know child marriage. Tammy and I just nodded and promised whencrying, I Ijumped could feeldown it, fromthat shethe wasbus toin helppain. her I felt stand a cold up to be there. and pack her scattered things into her bag. She must have been going for her antenatal as I saw her hospital card in her bag too. I later helped her to get on another bus and even paid her t-fare. I had shared my lunch money with By the way, Dear Diary Ozomma wasn’t in school today.
thisher byheavy paying too herand t-fare then shebut Iwould was less have concerned, to stop school all that to Tuesday 19th November, 2013 attendfilled my antenatal thoughts instead was Ozomma, and that very bigheaded soon she Ibo would trader be boyfriend of hers? What is he even doing about this issue? Someone fainted on the assembly ground today and was
08 January 2014 www.actionhealthinc.org rushed to the sick bay, and everyone was asked to march Thursday 21st Novemebr, 2013 Sunday 24th November, 2013
- I joined the choristers today. I already know the songs tress in her class said that to her this morning. Ozomma “Ozomma, you are getting fat o!” Abeke, the tatafo“unsee mis- for me. able” and hears the “unhearable”. they have chosen to sing for this year’s Carol, so less work toldsat to us discuss during the recess. way That forward girl isin evil, one sheof the sees old the buildings Mum just left my room now; she came to ask why I ex- Ozomma, Tammy and I claimed yesterday while we were watching that movie. to keep the baby”. Tammy and I looked at each other and in our school. Ozomma voiced her opinion, “ I don’t want actually hiding something from my mum. She however - Dear Diary, I almost told her o, this is the first time I am agethen motherhood at her. Deep and down, worst we ofalso all didn’twe didn’t want know her toa thingkeep aboutit, because abortion we – didn’t Won’t want she die? to loose our friend to teen toadvised an adult. that “ifA I problemcan’t tell sharedher, I should is a problem either talk half to solved,” Aunty sheKike concluded. or my school counsellor whichever way, I should talk
Friday 22nd Novemebr, 2013 Monday 25th November,2013 On my way home from school today. I thought about how We had to let Khadijat know about Ozomma’s pregnan- already. I thought about how Ozomma had fainted on cy today. She discovered we were hiding something from the assemblyweek had groundgone, and and couldn’t she had believe lied to theit was old weekend and lazy her and started withdrawing from us. Ozomma suggested - purging.nurse that she had a headache, and she had joyfully given growingwe let her “zygote” know, since away. she She is however one of us. said Surprisingly, she would Khad bring her paracetamol - that’s all she gives, even when you are itijat to knew school what as soonOzomma as she could is able drink to thatlay her would hands flush on the it. I thought about how Ozomma’s aunt who she lived with Her sister keeps it in her wardrobe and unless she is able ever since the death of her parents would react when she found out about Ozomma’s pregnancy. It was her aunt’s myto lay initial her handssuggestion on the of keys,talking she to won’t the school be able counsellor to get it. Ozomma without any choice other than to depend on her wasSince shut we out.all agreed that we didn’t want anyone to know, fault anyway, she doesn’t provide for her niece and leaves
Thetrader three boyfriend. of us parted And now,ways the today end to result… go and PREGNANCY. gather infor- mation on what to do about this issue on ground. Dear Di- Tuesday 26th November, 2013 ary, should I talk to mum or Aunty Kike or both of them? “For fertilization to take place, sexual intercourse must oc- cur in order for the semen to be ejaculated and then swim to fuse with ovum. Millions of sperms are released at the point Saturday 23rd November, 2013 of ejaculation and when ejected they swim towards the fe- male egg with their thread-like tail. After a long journey, It’s another pap and akara day. I did a little painting today many of the sperm would have died out in their efforts to with the little materials I have. Dad promised to get me reach the egg, though some still have the potential to fertil- ize it. Each will attach itself to the ovum but only one would bothered. succeed in penetrating it. When these happen, fertilization the rest by the end of the month. It’s close, so I am not has taken place and pregnancy has occurred”. These were I later joined Mum and Aunty Kike in the sitting room the words of Mrs. Nkem during biology class today. How I to watch a movie that was being shown on Africa Magic. wish all the sperms died on their way to Ozomma’s egg or The movie was about a young girl who got pregnant in they even missed their way… the secondary school and decided to get an abortion after
hasn’t been able to lay her hands on the keys yet… We all minutesmuch persuasion after getting from homeher boyfriend, because shebut unfortunatelycouldn’t stop At the close of school, Khadijat explained to us that she bleeding.died. She hadThis gone movie to ascared quack me doctor so much. and had I didn’t died aeven few know when I shouted “she is not going to do it!”. It was left depressed, hoping for better news tomorrow… when Aunty Kike and Mum chorused “Do what?” that I knew I had thought aloud. I just said nothing and hurried to my room. www.actionhealthinc.org January 2014 09 Every Girl Is A Shero by Vweta Ariemugbovbe
- from such a young age doesn’t tend to go well with their ed and under-resourced Aneighbourhoodjegunle, a densely populatwithin likeeducation, a fair trade. they soon realize they have to forfeit one for the other. Unfortunately, their education always seems the city of Lagos, is home to • Many girls who live in the slums have no positive about 300,000 Ilaje and role model to look up to. To the best of their knowl- Yorubamany speaking of whom people are en of- Southgaged Western in low-income Nigeria, university so there is really no one to motivate them to employment and pursueedge, no their girl fromeducation. their community has graduated from trades. This commu- nity has a primary • Some of the young girls revealed that their moth- health care centre ers often discourage them about taking education that is not function- too seriously b a woman who is too educated or intelligent.” and secondary schools y telling them, “No man wants to marry that wereal, as closed well as down primary be- - - troduced the “Meet a Shero” segment. Using technology andAlong computer with other softwares intervention like skypemethods, and the google project hang in- is about 10 minutes away fromcause the of community flooding. The by stubus ridedents and were about moved 30 minutes to another away school by foot. compound, which over who have gotten education at all cost and are in- outs, we introduced participants to Sheros the world
fluencing their communities positively. andWhile boys) on a were visit notto this in school. community I also forlearnt the thatfirst the time rate in scholarships for: six (6) Sheros through Junior and Se- September 2012, I noticed that many teenagers (girls, niorSince secondary this project school began, and we three have (3) successfully Sheros through secured any
Iof knew teenage I had pregnancy,to contribute school to change dropout within and the illiteracycommu- nity;amongst no matter girls was how very big high. or small. Without a second thought, hairdressersfederal university who agreedof their to choice. take them In addition, on as interns. we have linked over 7 of our Sheros with caterers, actresses, and I launched a project called “Empowering Women of the In the 15 months since I began working with this com-
Future - a flagship of Asha Initiative” with 20 teenage Theymunity, have I have truly seen become these Sheros; young champions girls transform of change into schoolgirls from dropout this community.and illiteracy Together, amongst we the identified teenage girls the andconfident, advocates resilient for the and education determined of the girl-child young women. within ofreasons this community. for the very high rate of teenage pregnancy, their community. were: Specifically, some of the major problems we identified • There is a dearth of adequate facilities combined with a poor learning environment. students have to share one school compound with an- In particular, the - other school, and as a result the classrooms are always overcrowded. Consequently, concentration in class be •comes Most increasinglyof these girls difficult are from for verythe students. poor homes, with parents and guardians who are barely able to feed them. The burden of catering for the needs of their - family quickly fall on them as soon as they reach puber ty010 – theyJanuary start 2014 hawking or become sex workers, in order www.actionhealthinc.org to fulfil this responsibility. Taking care of their family Teenage Festival of Life Was The Place To Be
Partner of Red Media Group. He is also a writer and public speaker known for a string of nationally viral Nasovember TFL by 9th young 2013, people was the in thegrand public finale second of the- speeches and for motivating young people around the ary schoolsannual around Teenage Lagos. Festival Action of Life, Health popularly Incorporated known world to take action on their own behalf. His life and (AHI) has organized TFL over the last 20 years and it work has centered on creating opportunities for young has grown to become a keenly anticipated event that Nigerians and using the media as a proactive tool for celebrates the creativity of young people while provid- positive social action. In line with the 2013 theme on - other challenges youth face in Nigeria today. Based on teer to serve as a facilitator during the prepa- ing a platform to speak about the sexuality issues, and- theratory media, stages AHI was and excited then as to host have at him the volungrand
the selected theme, young people share their perspec tives using the medium of the creative arts - drama, finale.Chude talked about the types of media ac- poetry, music and essay writing. The theme for 2013 - TFL was “The Media and Promotion of Youth Sexual cessibleas well to as young mobile people applications today: TV, like ra and Reproductive Health,” and it explored issues safety. dio,WhatsApp magazines, and Facebook,2go. He Twitter,highlighted etc on access, opportunities, challenges and media how the media continues to be the This year’s host was young and ebullient most formidable tool that young peo- - ple have today to exercise their power - as catalysts for change. He also opened Chude Jideonwo, an award-winning jour - preneur.nalist, leading Chude expertis the Founder on new/social and Managing me people in the audience. dia and youth lifestyles, and a media entre up the stage for questions from young www.actionhealthinc.org January 2014 011 - - Remarks were made by Dr. Olubunmi Odiakosa, Chair Dayo D1 Ministryperson, AHIof Education Board of delivered Trustees on and her a goodwillbehalf by mesMrs. sage from the Honorable Commissioner, Lagos State 5 Things You Sewanu Amosu, Director Special Programmes. In her Need To Succeed message, the Commissioner congratulated the young givingpeople, them present a voice at the to eventspeak sayingup about that the participation challenges Get an education: Education is very important. theyon the struggle TFL platform with the adults had contributed and policy makers significantly who at to- tend the programme as well as serving as an avenue to 1 - learn from the facilitators about how to address those You may already know that King Sunny Ade, the issues. taughtrenowned himself to Juju read musician, and write. who Otunba has Ganiyu been clas Ad- sified as the most influential musician of all time,- gress (OPC) also went back to school at the age of 40. ams, the national leader of the Oodua People’s Con Followingand supporter the formal for almost speeches, a decade Chief Dayo Adeneye, TFL’s longstanding host was welcomed to the stage amid peers”.Ganiyu has been quoted as saying that “…going back cheers and a resounding to school gave him the confidence to talk among my applause. The celebri- 2Have a game plan: No one is too young to have ofty the showbiz famous personality, music la- be a agood plan, carpenter. find something Parents you also are need passionate to approach about popularly known as D1, their andchildren set achievable with an open goals. mind If you and are support a carpenter, them Primetime Entertain- bel, Kennis Music and- spected entertainment czar in theirBe chosenan Optimist: fields. Do you know that President ment Africa, is a widely re- - cantly to reviving the music in- 3tion to put a man on the moon and return him dustrywho and hasplacing contributed Nigeria signifion the safelyJohn to the F. Kennedy earth before in the the USA, end challenged of the 1960s? his naOn global music scene. moon. Do not hang around people who speak neg- He appreciated the audience for the warm welcome ativelythe 20th about of July, everything 1969, Neil and Armstrong never see landed possibilities. on the and immediately proceeded to present his motivation- al piece on the “5 important things young people need numerous examples of people who have carved nich- to succeed” esEven for here themselves in Nigeria, because with all of the their difficulties, “can do” we spirit- have
Five young people who have established themselves as namespeople whoselike Alhaji stories Aliko speak Dangote, of what the can richest happen man if we in rising media experts and entrepreneurs were also fea- setAfrica, our Dr.minds Mike on Adenuga, the possibilities. and Dbanj are household tured in a panel discussion alongside the three winners of the Essay writing category in the TFL competition. Be prepared to work smart: Working smart means leveraging the resources and connec- personality and presenter on TVC; Stephen Oguntoyin- 4tions around you. At no time more than today The media experts were: Ms. Lola Shiffatu, an on-air has there been so many resources and connections available for people to tap into especially because Mahometbo; Shola Centre.Edu, a blogger; Dayo Israel, a preacher and of the advances in information and communications media entrepreneur; and Samuel Isichie, the CEO of hands with Ben Murray Bruce and asked how come technology. I recall the occasion when I first shook
his hands are so soft and supple. His reply was, “I don’tChoose do much, your I just friends sell ideas.” carefully: Friendships can make or mar you. I will always give you the ex- 5ample of my longtime friend and business part- my life positively. I really encourage you to choose yourner, Kenny friends Ogungbe wisely because - our relationship one’s friends has can impacted greatly
012 January 2014 influence whether one will be successfulwww.actionhealthinc.org or not. Mr. Dayo Israel is an astute motivational speaker and Stephen Oguntoyinbo is the CEO of Top Village Inter- national and a Resource facilitator. He was also a Peer He also has twelve years of work experience in interna- Educator in AHI during his high school days. Stephen tionaladviser development to leaders, business with the executives, United Nations. and politicians. Mr. Isreal informed young people about the challenges and dan- gers of using the social media wrongly. He advised platforms such as Facebook and smartphone applica- tionsspoke are on available‘media accessibility,’ to young people. saying He that mentioned many media the especially the ones that can tarnish their identity. He many Facebook accounts and BlackBerry phones with alsoyoung told people them not to beto mindfulpost just of any the picture kind of on information Facebook, they access and provide on the various social media these for marketing and earning money. He even shared platforms available today. He spoke about the numer- thatthousands he earns of contactsabout 100 he pounds has, and on howevery he BlackBerry has used broadcast he sends. - iousous opportunitiesself-development social prospects media provides,that abound like all taking over thecourses world. online, searching for schools abroad and var blogger. He is the CEO of Deluxe Creations Studio. Mr. EduMr. Shola shared Edu his is experience an animator, of howa graphic he learnt designer about and ani a-
He explained that one does not need a computer to ac- Following the discussion segment, there were three- mations and blogging via the internet, using YouTube. ingpresentations workshops each were in helddrama, for music,291 secondary and poetry. schools Long on smartphones and even java phones. frombefore the the six presentations Education Districts at the grand in Lagos finale, State script-writ on the cess these platforms, as they are very much available Samuel Isichie is a British Council/World Bank devel- wereevent’s scored theme and and selected concept. for presentations After three months, following the a audience on using podcasts. He enlightened that pod- seriesparticipating of selection schools processes. submitted At the their end scripts, of the enter which- castingopment is knowledge done when facilitator, mobile phones and he are enlightened used to record the MP3s. He added that he has used podcasts to promote - his own course creatively. He said that young people taining and educating presentations, the contestants who won the first through third positions were award stations or even publish it on the internet. awardeded trophies, included: while those in the fourth to sixth positions could create their own news, record it and send it to TV were presented with recognition plaques. The schools
www.actionhealthinc.org January 2014 013 The winning schools were no doubt excited as the audi- his own solo (composed with the theme of TFL 2013 ence went agog with thundering applauses and chants as further edutainment for the youth audience) and a as the results were announced. The best male and fe- - dinating teachers too were not left out-they received ‘WhizKid’ song called ‘Omo Jaiye Jaiye’ to the thrill of appreciationmale performers, handshakes were also and awarded small gift prizes. items The for coortheir the audience. His ‘Omo Jaiye Jaiye’ performance was fromsupported around with Lagos hip-pop attended dance the fromevent. the There ‘SLYD’ were dance also they prepared for participation in the various compe- group. In all, almost 2,000 young people and adults titionselfless stages. commitment and support for the students as and radio stations. representatives from six media houses, including TV Other high points were performances from the popular The event ended with a vote of thanks to schools that and vibrant artiste Omolayo Wale- one of the well-loved submitted entries for the various competition catego- contestants in the recently concluded MTN Project Fame. He mesmerized the crowd at TFL with his warm personality and beautiful voice as he performed a solo ries, youth members on the TFL Planning Committee ballet dance to a soft and moving song by Celine Dion. lookingand everyone forward one to an in even attendance better and at star-studded the grand finale. TFL 2014.As it’s always the case, many folks are already eagerly
During his second appearance on stage, he performed
014 January 2014 www.actionhealthinc.org
www.actionhealthinc.org January 2014 015 Day In The Life… Joke Silva, Actress and Director
researching the designated character’s personal traits andscripts, circumstances auditioning toin betterfront of portray directors them and to producers, the audi-
directions. ence, and performing the role following the director's
radioIn addition too. I toalso acting, direct I producestage plays plays, for primarilytheatre and for as the a theatre, even though I’ve produced for the movies and
director, one is responsible for the creative decisions actorsof a production; to help them selecting portray cast theirmembers, characters directing better the duringwork of rehearsal. the cast and crew, as well as working with the
- tions on using acting skills to enhance corporate skills andBeyond I run acting a school and directing, called the I trainLufodo corporate Academy organiza of Per-
basics of acting. forming Arts, where young people are trained in the What is your typical day’s schedule like?
I wake up early to say my prayers. Then I have coffee
venueand water, early take enough my bathand sitand in getthe readycar to forread the my day. script On a day I have to go for a theatre rehearsal, I get to the
and go over my lines, so that when I’m called on stage director has received several nominations and to play my part, I can give the best possible delivery. The renowned Nigerian actress, producer and runsWhen the I’m family’sdone in thecompany theatre and for attendthe day, to I goany straight other Movie Academy Awards. She graciously granted Grow- home to respond to my mails, meet with my son who awards for her work, including multiple African- - business there is, before I go to bed. More often than careering Up in an acting. interview about the educational qualifica not, an actor’s work hours are long and irregular; typi tions, skills and qualities required for a professional cally, my routine includes evening, weekend and public- What does your job entail? holiday work. For those of us who work in theatre, a lot there’sof travel also is involvedthe travel especially, to work on when location. you have a tour ing show across the country and as an actor in movies, in television shows/ movies. The job entails reading As an actor, I portray characters on stage, on radio and 016 January 2014 www.actionhealthinc.org What qualification/skills/qualities What do you find difficult about your work? does one need to be an actor?
production in Abuja where there was a particular day weIt can rehearsed be quite all tasking. night into I just the cameday of intothe performanceLagos from a- To succeed in acting, you need to get formal education from three o’clock in the morning till 10 o’clock at night and the minimum requirement is a secondary school when the show ended. There are also times I have gone ordinary level certificate. Even though a university- from a stage performance straight to a movie set. I went degree is not a pre-requisite, you should attend if you to a movie location from a stage performance one day have the opportunity – today, many actors have a bach and was there from 11pm till 8am the following morn- elor’s degree. In the university, you also do not have to ing. study theatre arts, you can always enroll in an acting school or academy to get the training required. In my case, I trained to be an actor; I didn’t just walk into it. may have to be kept on hold as a result of the job’s de- You need training to understand the skills necessary- mandYour schedule on your time-is also this not is your one ownof the and occupational your social haz life- for stage, camera, and even radio. And because this is ards. a practice-based industry, it takes many years of prac- ticeshops to or develop mentoring the skillsby a drama required coach. to be successful, so What do you find exciting about your work? you find many actors continuing to train through work
into and tearing a script to pieces; getting to know the As for the qualities and skills required, a very strong I find everything about my work exciting! I love delving sense of discipline is one of the qualities a good actor a character and generally understanding the character. andmust portray possess- the for characters’ instance, Ifeelings always ensureand motives that I inget the to character, finding out the various layers that make up- mostthe set believable punctually. way; You memorization also need creativity skills to to learn interpret and ing than enjoying what you do and getting paid for it. This, for me, is very exciting and nothing is more fulfill What’s the greatest perk about wordsrecall yourso that lines the flawlessly; audience understands and speaking them. skills to say working in this profession? your lines clearly, project your voice, and pronounce How did you start in this career?
I started out acting after completing my A-levels and toThere get aare couple so many of items perks, and I thenwas someonein Abuja goes recently “…wait for had a gap year. A lot of things happened to me during a stage play called Jiji, and I went to the supermarket that gap year that changed my life. I wasn’t sitting at - a minute, is that not Joke Silva?” And another person whom I also did not know answers, “Oh yeah, she’s here home idle, I worked with the University of Lagos Cul- for Jiji, haven’t you seen the posters all around.” And do tortural too Troupe, and also I workedwith the withNational the Theatre Nigerian as Television an actor. alreadyyou know, paid she for went an economy ahead and class bought ticket meand a then bottle I get of Authority (NTA) as an actor, worked on radio as an ac champagne? At other times, I have been at the airport, the various areas of the industry before I travelled to for you in the business class cabin!” There are so many England.I worked Iwith went top to peopleEngland in to the get industry, a diploma getting in dramat to see- on the plane and they’ll say, “No way, we have a space in admiration of the roles we’ve played over the years” started working on two series at the same time - Mirror favours people grant those of us in the performing arts, Inic arts,The Sunmajoring and Second in acting. Chance- Then acting I came as back different home char and- acters on both series.
www.actionhealthinc.org January 2014 017 Your Questions Answered 5 Things You Should Know About HIV and AIDS
ou may already know that young people are greatly affected by the HIV/AIDS pandemic and - • Sharing bath water or swimming pools portion of the burden of HIV. HIV stands for Human • Sharing toilet seats or using public toilets in Nigeria, young women carry a staggering pro- • Bites from mosquitos, bed bugs, or other insects. - ing• Tears gums or may sweat. increase risk of kissing) Immunodeficiency Virus, a virus that attacks and weak • Saliva or kissing (HIV is not in saliva, but cut or bleed Syndrome.ens the body’s All immunepersons system,living with allowing AIDS infectionsare infected to contain blood. develop. AIDS stands for Acquired Immune Deficiency • Urine and faeces do not transmit HIV if they do not AIDS. AIDS is only the end stage of this infection. 3. How can a person know if he or she — or his with HIV, but not all persons with HIV infection have or her sex partner — has HIV? YBecause young people are so vulnerable to HIV infec- Millions of people who are HIV-positive feel and look - tiontion, canit is end essential HIV and to AIDS.be well informed about HIV risks and have no idea that they are passing the virus to oth- and prevention strategies, so that together, our genera completely healthy for years. They have no symptoms, 1. How Is HIV Spread? she is infected with HIV! ers. You cannot tell by merely looking at a person if he/ The only way to know if you have been infected with with the virus. A person who is HIV-positive can pass HIV is to take an HIV test. The only way to know if your theHIV virusis present to others in the through bodily their fluids semen of persons (including infected the sex partner is HIV-positive is if he or she takes an HIV test and shares the result with you. The HIV test detects special cells (called HIV antibodies) that are present if blood.drops ofThe “pre-ejaculate” virus is most commonly fluid that transmittedflow from the through penis the person is infected. Tests can usually detect HIV an- theprior exchange to ejaculation), of semen vaginal and secretions,vaginal secretions breast milk, during or tibodies within six to eight weeks of exposure. In rare sex. HIV is transmitted not only through vaginal or anal sex between a man and a woman; it can also be trans- level to be detected by a test. mitted through anal sex between two men. Oral sex also cases, it may take as long as six months for the antibody carries some risk for HIV transmission. HIV can also be A positive HIV test means that the person has HIV an- passed from an HIV-positive mother to her baby during
tibodies and is infected with the virus. If the first test HIVpregnancy, can also delivery, be passed or breastfeeding. to others by transfusion of in- theis positive, person isa notsecond, infected different with HIV. test Or may it may be conductedmean that fected blood or by sharing needles with an infected heto confirmor she is the infected results. but A hasnegative not yet HIV made test enoughmeans thatHIV - antibodies to test positive. Someone who tests HIV-neg- though using contaminated instruments during mani- ative but suspects that he or she was recently exposed individual for drug use, body piercing, or tattooing. Al- to the virus should take the test again in a few months. unlikely.cures, pedicures, or shaving may carry a risk of infec 4. Prevention of STIs/HIV tion, HIV transmission through these routes is highly 2. Ways that HIV Cannot Be Transmitted - There are many myths about how HIV spreads. HIV tectAfter yourself reading from this, becoming or if you infected. know someone There are who many has cannot be transmitted by any of the following: thingsHIV or you AIDS, can you do: probably want to know how to pro
- sex as an adolescent is an unwise idea for many rea- ging• Touching, or shaking sneezing, hands). or coughing. sons• Abstain – including from all the forms high riskof sexual of HIV intercourse. to those who Having begin • Casual contact at work, school, or home (such as hug having sex at a young age. 018 January 2014 www.actionhealthinc.org • Sharing food, drink, or utensils. - 5. What About Living with HIV or AIDS? - ly• Stay involved away with from an situations adult. Do that not cause allow youanyone to feel to pres- People who are HIV-positive can live for a long time and suresured you or intimidated.into unwanted For or example, unsafe sex do –not or getother intimate unsafe can maintain a productive life. They may marry and someone – anyone – tries to persuade or prevail upon - activities. You have the right at any time to say no. If anthave to families. ensure However,they start they prompt need treatment proper medical and under care,- to a trusted adult. standcounselling, the importance and social of support. taking good Counselling of themselves is import and you to have unwanted or unsafe sex, report that person their health in general. Counselling can also prepare a use male or female condoms. person feel more comfortable about disclosing his or • If you choose to have sex, ensure you and your partner her HIV status to current and past sex partners and to unsafe sex. family members. • Never pressure another person to have unwanted or If you have a friend or family member living with HIV or risky• Avoid behaviour alcohol and that drugs. you regret These later. substances affect your judgment, and make it more likely you will engage in help. There is a lot you can do. The most important is to - AIDS, you may feel overwhelmed and not know how to plete• Never testing share and needles. treatment. to take their medication (even if it causes side effects) • If you suspect you have an STI, seek prompt and com andprovide to keep love medical and attention. appointments. You can If remind the person the person is sick be sure it has been properly screened for HIV and other STIs.• If you need to receive a transfusion or blood product, cleaning. - or weak, you can assist with chores like shopping or - • If your skin is going to be pierced (by a needle, sy ringe, or other equipment), check to be sure that the- Finally, you can educate others. You can help them un ti-HIVequipment medication being used can greatly is sterile. reduce the chances of be- andderstand that people how HIV living is – with and isHIV not and – transmitted. AIDS have a Youright can to coming• If someone infected. is raped,It is very immediate important treatment to seek immediate with an livealso freeremind of stigma others and that discrimination. every person deserves dignity, care if one is raped.
THE AHI YOUTH CLINIC
* Are you between the ages of 10 and 21 years? * Are you struggling with a health or relationship problem? * Have you been sexually abused/raped and don’t know what to do? * Are you worried about getting pregnant or contracting a sexually transmitted infections/ HIV?
Telephone:Send a text message, 0812-344-5837 email, give us a call or visit our centre! Email:Address: [email protected] Lawal Street, Off Oweh Street, Jibowu, Yaba, Lagos Website: www.actionhealthinc.org Hours of operation: Monday – Friday: 8:00am – 5:00pm Saturday: 9:00am – 1:00pm
CONFIDENTIALITY IS GUARANTEED
www.actionhealthinc.org January 2014 019 Breast Self-Examination (BSE)
WHY DO I NEED BSE?
Girls should be aware of how their breasts normally - port any changes. Regular BSE will help with this. Do- inglook BSE (shape, help color you to and detect size) changes and feel orso lumpsthat you that can may re does not necessarily mean there is a cancer. cause cancer. However, finding a breast change or lump - ing because your breasts are least likely to be tender or Do BSE every month, but not when you are menstruat swollen. You can do it a few days after your period ends. CHANGES TO LOOK FOR! change in your breast(s) that causes you concern. CheckChanges with in your your breasts health may care include: provider if you find any
• Development of a lump
• A discharge other than breast milk
• Swelling of the breast
• Skin irritation or dimpling -
• Nipple abnormalities (such as pain, redness, scali INness, FRONT or turning OF A inward)MIRROR to right and back to the upper part near your armpit).
Step 1: Begin by looking at your breasts in the mirror with your shoulders straight and your arms on your While you do this, press down a little bit but not too hard so that you can detect any lumps. At the nipple,- pressid or blood).gently toRepeat look forthis any for signsthe left of breastfluid coming by raising out hips. Here's what you should look for: ofyour nipple left hand(this couldto the beback a watery, of your milky, head orand yellow then useflu your right hand for the circular motion and check for • Breasts that are their usual size, shape, and color the same signs. swelling • Breasts that are evenly shaped without distortion or IN THE BATHROOM
If you see any of the following changes, bring them to your doctor's attention: the skin wet and slippery and this reduces friction - Youwhile can you also touch do andstep feel 3 in your the breast.bathroom. Cover Water your makesentire •ple Dimpling, (pushed puckering, inward instead or bulging of sticking of the out) skin • A nipple that has changed position or an inverted nip step 3 breast, using the same hand movements described in LYING DOWN Step• Redness, 2: soreness, rash, or swelling changes Step 4: Now, raise your arms and look for the same folded towel or pillow under your right shoulder and Step 3: your rightFeel hand your behind breasts your while head. lying Then down, examine placing your a
While you're at the mirror standing, place your- right hand at the back of your head. Then, take your righttouch) breast starting with from your the left outer hand. upper With part fingers of your flat, breast press left hand with fingers flat to your right breast. Remem gentlyand then in spiral a circular towards motion the nipple (using (as a described firm and smoothabove). ber to keep your fingers flat and together throughout. Check for the same signs. Cover the entire breast from Starting from the outer upper part of the breast, go in 020 January 2014 www.actionhealthinc.org a circular motion with a firm smooth touch (from left is so that you know what is normal for your breasts. If - topcleavage. to bottom, Repeat side same to side—fromfor your left your breast collarbone by placing to cover lumpiness in one breast or feel something "dif- the toppillow of your behind abdomen, your left and shoulder from your and armpityour left to handyour you find a lump, it is important not to panic. If you dis behind your head. ferent" in the tissue, or if you feel a definite lump, there- Disclaimer: This self- examine is not a substitute for peri- may be valid reason for concern, and it is important to odic examinations by a qualified doctor. contactnipple discharge a health careor skin provider. changes Sometimes, such as dimpling the lumpi or ness may be due to menstrual changes, but if you have- What if you find a lump? vider right away. It is natural to be frightened when puckering, you may want to see your health care pro- One of the most frightening moments for a girl is seeing cer keep you from taking action. Remember that most or feeling something different or unusual while per- discoveringbreast lumps a arelump, benign but do(not not cancerous). let the prospect of can forming breast self-examination. One of the most im- portant reasons to do regular breast self-examinations Have fun while doing this!
Source: BreastCancer.org: http://www.breastcancer.org/symptoms/testing/types/self_exam/bse_steps and National Breast Cancer Foundation: http://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-self-exam
Testicular Self-Examination (TSE)
The testicular self-examination located at the top of the back part of (TSE) is an easy way for boys to each testicle. This is a normal lump. check their own testicles to make - ally the right one) is slightly larger suresign ofthere testicular aren't anycancer. unusual lumps •than Remember the other that for mostone testicle guys - this(usu is or bumps - which can be the first also normal. Although testicular cancer is rare in common cancer in males between feel for any lumps or bumps along teenage boys, overall it is the most- •the When front or examining sides. Lumps each may testicle, be as ant to try to do a TSE every month small as a piece of rice or a pea. theso you ages can of become 15 and familiar 35. It's withimport the normal size and shape of your testi- What to do in case you discover a - swelling or lump: thing feels different or abnormal in right after a hot shower or bath. The the future. cles, making it easier to tell if some scrotum (skin that covers the testi- • It's best to do a TSE during or changes in the size or color of a tes- Here’s what to do: makes it easier to examine the tes- If you notice any swelling, lumps, or ticles.cles) is most relaxed then, which ticle,know or right if you away. have any pain or achy areas in your groin, let your doctor Lumps or swelling may not be can- both hands to gently roll each tes- ticle (with slight pressure) between • Examine one testicle at a time. Use your doctor as soon as possible. cer,Testicular but they cancer should is bealmost checked always by curable if it is caught and treated your fingers. Place your thumbs early. over the top of your testicle, with the index and middle fingers of each hand behind the testicle, and- then roll it between your fingers. • You should be able to feel the epi didymis (the sperm-carrying tube), which feels soft, rope-like, and slightly tender to pressure, and is Source: Teens Health: http://kidshealth.org/teen/sexual_health/guys/tse.htm www.actionhealthinc.org January 2014 021 Can you tell us about your educational background? study for my first degree and second degree and the I attended Immaculate Heart Com- professional career I desired. Looking back now, I am fulfilled that I achieved these goals and much more. - with AHI because I discovered my passion for working prehensivetion at the University High School, of Lagos Maryland, for my Mywith career young path people was andgreatly providing influenced information by my contact about Lagos, Bachelor’s studied Mass degree Communica and subse- sexual and reproductive health generally. All through
my Master’s degree in on a part-time basis and was privileged to anchor two quentlyPublic inHealth 2009, fromobtained the my undergraduate years, I continued working with AHI Royal Tropical Institute was shown on Lagos Television (LTV) weekly. Going on in the Netherlands. TV programmes -‘Youth Forum’ and ‘Growing Up’, which for reaching out to young people with positive sexual- And your ityair wasinformation. fun for me The and, TV of shows course, also it satisfiedgave me myleverage thirst professional during my course of study as a Mass Communication background? and ability to express myself to an even larger audience My work experience student,– something as well not as many empowered young people me with my the age confidence could do actually began immediately after I completed second- at that time. I also represented Nigeria at global youth ary school in Action Health Incorporated (AHI) where I
1998. I continued with AHI on a part-time basis from programmesto face whatever in Portugal, challenge India life wouldand U.S.A. bring through my way. AHI. worked2000-2003. as a AfterYouth graduation Assistant from from Julythe University1997-December of La- By the time I graduated from the University, I was ready You also started your own youth focused non- Communication Program on the COMPASS Project for governmental organization (NGO)? gos, I worked with John Hopkins University, Center for- ily Health International 360 (FHI360) before joining - threeUNFPA years, in July and 2011 afterwards where II nowworked work briefly as a Behaviourwith Fam Communication Change/ Advocacy Analyst. Yes,something I did. Byto alsothe timemake I agraduated difference from for youngthe Universi people ty of Lagos in 2002, I was all fired up and ready to do How did you get to apply for the Youth Assistants - Programme at AHI? so, I started a youth focused NGO named Youth to Youth Initiative (Y2Y) with three young people with a simi I actually learned about Action Health Incorporated lar vision. Y2Y was set up to promote behavior change (AHI) through a friend of mine who was a member of amongwhat we young had gainedpeople throughthrough AHIpositive and peerother influence. agencies the AHI-initiated Health and Life Planning Club in my Aswith founding other young members, people. we wanted to share so much of secondary school. Although I wasn’t a member of the - How would you describe your work now as a BCC/ Advocacy Analyst at UNFPA? club, I was actively involved in the educational and out- reach activities at the AHI Youth Center. Soon after we What I do as a Behaviour Change Communication and left secondary school, one of my friends who had start Advocacy Analyst with UNFPA is mainly to provide tech- edinto working 1997 and at thehad AHIto leave youth-friendly thereby creating clinic asa vacancy. a Youth nical assistance to our partners at the State and Federal Assistant,I on the other gained hand admission was still intoawaiting the university my university midway ad- mission results so I applied for the job and was hired. - I worked there for the remaining part of the year and levels,munication as well programmes as the Non-Governmental to improve the sexualOrganizations and re- also throughout 1998. thatproductive we work health with, (SRH) to implement of women evidence-based and young people. com We also support youth participation to give young peo- What was it like working at AHI as a fresh ple a voice to advocate on issues that affect them at the secondary school leaver? -
I was 17 years old when I started working with AHI community,meet the needs state of our or national target audience. level. Similarly, we sup and my experience with the organization helped me port the government to provide quality SRH services to From your experience working in youth learnt how to manage my time and resources and was development, what have you found to be some becomealso able focusedto set my and life more goals; responsible. I knew what Personally, I wanted to I of the biggest challenges facing young people in 022 January 2014 www.actionhealthinc.org Nigeria today? sustaining the pool of skilled workers providing SRH services. The basic systems to provide information to The challenges young people face today are essential- people on SRH are also lacking especially to reach ru- ly the same as years ago when I was a teenager- early ral and hard to reach areas. If people remain ignorant - about simple life saving information such as - marriage,cess to information teenage pregnancy,and services sexually to ad- trans birth attendant or early diagnosis and mitteddress these infections, problems HIV/AIDS etc. The and health lack of ac use of contraceptives, delivery by a skilled indicators on SRH for young people will continue to occur. The media - treatmentcan play of a STIs, prominent preventable role deathsto en- ly and the dynamics and context lighten people with accurate SRH haveare even not more improved complex significantthan they information and promote positive were before. Another problem health behaviours. is unemployment; a young per- son completes schooling and has Are there any emerging nothing to do. And you know the solutions to help address these challenges? workshop’. This situation makes saying,young people ‘an idle vulnerable mind is the to engagingdevil’s - number of private sector organizations ity of education is poorer now than it was interestedYes, take in youth the case development of the increasing today- in risky behavior. In addition, the qual - well to partner with NGOs to create win-win relation- aalso decade need ago, to be and taught as a result livelihood we produce and entrepreneurial uni ships i.e. that’sthe private a good sector thing. organizations However, they tap would into the do versityskills very graduates early to that enable are unemployable. them start their Young own people busi- expertise of competent youth development NGOs to nesses. while the NGOs secure indigenous funds to implement supporttheir social their development corporate social missions responsibility thus reducing initiatives, their over-reliance on international donor funding. Theneed parent-childto pay attention communication to supporting gap, their which children is with now evendeveloping wider, values doesn’t and make social things skills anyneeded easier. to maintain Parents - healthy and responsible relationships. This is why the vate sector and NGOs also need to design their pro- United Nations is helping the government to take re- Variousgrammes development based on evidence partners, and the as cultural well as context the pri of sponsibility for the health and development of young the communities where they choose to carry out their
there are problems of child marriage in the northern people. For instance, on the issues of early marriage SRH and youth development initiatives. For instance, amongyoung people girls, earlyand the childbirth government. and maternal and child violence against young women and harmful traditional mortality, the UN acts as the intermediary between partpractices of the in country,the southern while parts. there This are makes serious it issuesessential of And what are some of the biggest challenges facing to ensure that development programs are informed by those working in the youth development and SRH documented evidence of the community’s needs. field in Nigeria today? What’s your advice for a young person interested in working in international development or starting a this is because sexual and reproductive health educa- youth focused initiative? Thetion firstprogrammes and biggest and problem services isare access not usually to funds, a coreand part of the government’s budget. Unless the govern- The young person must have a passion and drive to will continue to have the current challenges with sus- and ready to pay his/her dues. S/he has to be patient ment increases investments in youth programmes, we make a difference in the field; must be self-motivated implementation of the Family Life and HIV Education tainability and impact of programmes. For instance, to develop the expertise required in the identified area because of the over-reliance on external donors for ofknown interest, for?” adopt That’s the the values only way to liveyou’ll by be and able be to able carve to (FLHE) in schools is inadequate across various states- answer the question “what do I stand for or want to be gramme government has designated as the country’s programmekey education funding. sector Meanwhile,response to thisaddress is the the main HIV proepi- a niche for yourself in your chosen field. demic affecting young people. If government seriously commits to implementing the FLHE programme and chance of achieving universal coverage. allocates the resources required, there will be a better opportunities remains a challenge to developing and Inadequate capacity building and on the job training www.actionhealthinc.org January 2014 023 International Day Of The Girl Child Event
cells. He also emphasised the need for a vaccine for fe- Initiative hosted the 2nd International Day of the - OGirln Thursday, Child Event October in Nigeria 10th, 2013,held at HACEY’s the main Health audi- torium of the University of Lagos. The program started cervicalmale children. cancer Hein Nigeriasaid ‘Awareness and Africa and in general’. community in with an opening remark given by Mr Isaiah Owolabi the volvement is key in our fight against high incidence of Mrs Ketimu Musa, the Deputy Director of Education on the objectives of the Hands up for HER initiative and gave the keynote address on behalf of the Lagos State herProject activities Director in ofthe HACEY’s 24 African Health countries Initiative. it currentlyHe spoke Commissioner of Education. She began the address by - stating that the education and empowerment of the girl erment’ and more effort should be put into it. child is very important. Education is important as a pro- runs in. He said educating the girl child means ‘empow cess of thinking and self discovery. It is an investment Speakers at the event were: Dr Olufemi Olaleye CEO of Optimal Healthcare Foundation; Mrs Ketimu Musa, , MD/- educated.in ‘human Acapital’ good educationand helps inmakes character a girl building. child strong She tion; Dr Y. O. Duze Dr Joe andshared enables that aher girl look child after questions herself. authority She concluded only when that Okei-Odumakin Deputy Director, Lagos State Ministry of Educa good girl child education is a key to development and Initiative; and Ms Yemisi, Action Ransome-Kuti Health Incorporated; - - geria Network of ,Non President, Governmental Women Organization. Arise for Change tional level. , Founder, Ni should be prioritized at the family, community and na Dr Olufemi Olaleye - Dr Y. O. Duze - - corporated spoke on behalf of the organization. As a , gave his address on cervical can , a Medical Doctor from Action Health In- thatcer ‘a 25 disease people that die dailyis preventable’. from it. He Hespoke said on cervical cancer canrisk tion is essential to the total wellbeing of every girl child. cer is a commonly talked about terminal disease, and Sherepresentative reminded herof Dr audience Uwem Esiet, that 2she of notedthe 8 Millenniumthat educa single cell with cellular origin can predispose to cancer. Development Goals are on education. Dr Duze conclud- Hefactors, said preventionsexual history and is management, a risk factor and and that that multi every- ed her presentation by stating that education is not a luxury but a right of the girl child.
-ple HPV sexual as a viruspartner that is causesa ‘predisposing cervical cancer. risk factor’. He empha In his- Dr Joe Okei-Odumakin sisedaddress, the Drneed Olufemi for screening talked about tests forthe early causative prevention. factor her involvement in creating awareness about the need to educate the girl child; ,she in said her presentationa girl child deserves shared
024 January 2014 www.actionhealthinc.org During screening, the cervix is examined for abnormal a good education. She said that discrimination espe- tola Fawunmi were introduced. Hands up for HER am- cially for children with special needs e.g. autistic chil- bassador Ms Bukola Awoyemi gave her goodwill mes- dren should be addressed and the children catered for. sage reminding young girls to always remember they can be who they want to be. Goodwill messages were critical for a nation’s growth. Girls should be involved also given in absentia by the World Association of Girls In her address, she said the girl child empowerment is - the mandate that every girl child is educated. She also izens Development Foundation. stressedin decision the making importance and be of empowered,the health of anda girl to and ensure en- Guide and Girls Scout, and by the President, African Cit Ms Rhoda Robinson in her closing remark thanked the for ourselves dies with us but what we do for the world stays’.couraged everyone to work towards this - ‘what we do individuals present for being a part of the program. She emphasizedspeakers, representatives the importance of oforganizations, the girl child schools in the fam and- Ms Yemisi Ransome-Kuti - work of Non Governmental Organization spoke on the need for students to challenge, the Founder,themselves Nigeria and learn Net Presentationsily and urged everyone given during to keep the fightingevent are for as her follows: rights. how to think and come up with solutions for problems. She said the brain counts even more than physical ca- pacity and most barriers for students achieving results are psychological. She urged students to become peo- • Fortune school - a play on the ‘voice of the girl child’ ple with integrity so they can be proud of who they are. • Landmark College - a play on ‘the girl child’ She said religion is key and that knowledge about the • Babbington Macaulay College – a play and song on the religion one chooses helps us understand things more. ‘Rights of the Girl Child’ The• Lekan event Owonikoko was attended – Song by and students poem forfrom the 42 girl second child - Mr Theophilus Aboderin over 15 media organizations including radio and TV , President of the Carrington ary Schools across Lagos state, representatives from- aYouth youth-based Fellowship initiative Initiative created (CYFI)Alumni, by the United spoke States on dia. Representatives from over 50 civil societies and consulatethe CYFI program. in Nigeria He in shared2011. The that aim the of CYFI the program is non-governmentalstations, newspaper organizations and magazines, were and presented. online me In bringing and developing youth with exceptional skills summary, one thousand two hundred and seventy together to make social change in their communities. He seven (1277) registered individuals were present said the applications for 2014 cycle will be announced at the event. soon and ended by encouraging young change-makers - Special appreciation to Nestle plc for brand and prod- to apply and share their vision through CYFI (www.cy finigeria.org). uct support; GSK for resource support, TV and Radio- - lagContinental Anti-AIDS for and media EnactUs support, clubs. University of Lagos, US The Ambassadors of ‘Hands up for HER’ present – Mrs Consulate Carrington Youth Fellowship Initiative, Uni Florence Karl Ogwo, Ms Bukola Awoyemi, and Ms Omo For more details on the Hands Up for HER Campaign: Visit: www.handsupforher.org Follow us at: www.facebook.com/handsupforher; @handsup4her; www.youtube.com/handsupforher Contact us via: [email protected] www.actionhealthinc.org ; +234813967570, +2347046835377 January 2014 025 Life Skills To Acquire Assertiveness
We all have the right to express ourselves and our wish- People tend to admire others who are assertive and re- spectful. They are more likely to have honest relation- ships and to achieve what they want. es. It might feel more difficult to speak your mind if- someone disagrees, or if someone tries to pressure or- Basic Assertiveness Skills outintimidate infringing you. on To the ‘assert’ rights means of other to expresspeople. Theyour skill be liefs, feelings and needs in a straightforward way, with It is easier to be assertive if you know your own values is focused on exactly that: How to stand up clearly for yourselfrequired and to do your so isrights called without assertiveness putting andthe otherthis piece per- son down. speaking up for yourself. This can include seeking op- and have good communication skills. You can practice portunities (such as seeking a school leadership posi- Being Assertive - How Is It Different from Being Aggressive, Manipulative and tion), asserting your rights (such as not wanting to be Passive? that other people want from you that are not what you married off while you are a child), or refusing things think is best for yourself. Assertiveness -
involves firmness or clear and straightfor Do not be afraid to set limits and to repeat your mes- invitesward presentation the other person of views, to have without dialogue. oppressing others. Assertiveness is positive and affirming. Assertiveness proud of yourself. Aggressiveness means standing up for one’s rights at sage. If you are true to yourself and honest, you will be the expense of the rights of others. It is negative and whether you are initiating a discussion or responding - Here are some tips to help you be more assertive, prisedemanding. that aggressive Some examples communication are blaming, is not good criticizing, for re- to someone: lationships.starting an argument, or even being violent. It’s no sur 1. Know what is most important to you. This helps you - - tecting my health” or “Not getting in trouble” may be Manipulation involves using deceiving, misleading, ly draw boundaries and keep them. For example, “Pro can see that it is not the same as being straightforward your priorities. anding, orassertive. blackmailing someone to get what you want. You
Passiveness is failing to express one’s needs and feel- 2. Take a clear position: Convey your message calmly, that you will be either misunderstood or ignored. want to apply to be a student leader. I’d like to ask for ings at all, or expressing them so weakly or indirectly honestly, directly, and courageously. For example, “I Benefits of Assertiveness your support.”
Asserting yourself can make a big difference. Learning 3. Use “I” statements. Rather than putting your message to be assertive can also help you meet your own goals. Say what you want or feel. in terms of someone else, speak up on your own behalf. For example, you can learn to tell a teacher you’d like a special responsibility. You can clearly communicate a Being assertive can also help you resist pressure to do - somethingrequest to ayou friend do not or familywant to member. do. This may be resisting 4. Practice assertive body language: Your body language peer pressure to skip your homework. It may be know- should match your message. Stand straight, look some (Smiling while you refuse something may lead to your ing what to say and do if you experience sexual harass- one in the eye, practice using a strong tone of voice. ment. It can also help you avoid or resist pressure from being misunderstood.) someone who tries to force you to have sex. 026 January 2014 www.actionhealthinc.org 5. Give reasons for your position (especially if it is not a aggressiveness. Someone might think you are “over-re- - acting” by stating your feelings directly. It is even possi- ly at home most times since my brother left for board- stranger), such as: “I’d like have a pet because I’m lone even punish you for being “disrespectful”. ble that if you are assertive, someone in authority might ing school“, or “No, keeping late nights exposes me to When the two people communicating do not have the danger”, or “No, I have decided to finish school before- pledating” who or are “No, always we could drinking get expelled” alcohol or or smoking “No, I am ciga too- young to marry”, or “No, I don’t like being around peo same social status, it can make it difficult for the person prepare me to have a satisfying career”. wifewith andless powerchildren or may status not to feel be direct. the liberty For example, to speak in di a- rette”, “I want to continue to university because it will marriage where the husband has absolute control, the that family members will feel freedom to assert their like: “I always thought you were smarter than that” or ideasrectly. or In feelings. a marriage that is more equal, it is more likely “I6. Turncan’t believethe discussion: you would If need ask be,me tryto dosaying that. something I thought you were my friend”. - - 7. Rely on your instincts or self- conviction: If a situa- siveSimilarly, even becauseif they are as inchildren a situation we are where taught they to dobe notre feelspectful safe. of adults, some young people remain submis tion doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t right. If you are Self-assessment: How do I communicate toin danger,that same leave scene immediately as that may without suggest discussion. you have hadWalk a when I am feeling uncomfortable? changeaway with of mind. a confident attitude. Be sure not to return Do you communicate more directly and respectfully The “ASSERT” Formula in some situations than in others? Take this self-
Another way to think about assertiveness is the follow- communication. ing formula of what assertiveness entails: assessment quiz to learn more about your own style of When I am in an uncomfortable situation with a A: Attention: Get the other person to agree to listen to boy, I tend to be: him/her focus. Passive Aggressive you. Find the right time, place, or method that helps Indirect or manipulative Assertive, respectful soon as your rights have been violated. Look the person When I am in an uncomfortable situation with a inS: Soon,the eye simple and keep and commentsshort: Speak to theup whenpoints. possible, as girl, I tend to be:
- Passive Aggressive Indirect or manipulative exactlyS: Specific what Behaviour: behaviour Focus disturbed on the you. behaviour that com Assertive, respectful promised your rights, not on the person. Tell the person When I am in an uncomfortable situation with an E: “Effect on me”: Share the feelings you experienced as adult male, I tend to be: a result of the person’s behaviour. “I get angry when...” Passive Aggressive Indirect or manipulative “I get frustrated when...” (NOT You did to me.) Assertive, respectful you would like to see happen instead and ask for some When I am in an uncomfortable situation with an feedbackR: Response: on it. Describe your preferred outcome, what adult female, I tend to be:
T: Terms: If all goes well you may reach an agreement on Passive Aggressive Indirect or manipulative or simply come to a compromise. Even if no agreement Assertive, respectful how to handle the situation in future, agree to disagree When I am in an uncomfortable situation with someone whom I do not view as my equal, I tend to isWhy reached, Isn’t you Everyone have asserted Assertive? yourself with dignity. be:
Cultural norms sometimes get in the way of being as- Passive Aggressive Indirect or manipulative their behaviour will be misunderstood as rudeness or I cannot answerAssertive, this because respectful I view everyone as my sertive. Some people fear that if they are assertive, www.actionhealthinc.org January 2014 027 equal For me, expressing feelings of anger is: For me, expressing when I feel vulnerable or weak is: Fairly easy (but I sometimes respond aggressively) Fairly easy (and I never respond aggressively or Fairly easy (but I sometimes respond aggressively) with violence) Fairly easy (and I never respond aggressively or with violence)
Neither easy nor difficult Somewhat or very difficult Neither easy nor difficult Somewhat or very difficult ANALYZE THIS RESPONSE
CONFLICT RESPONSE Aggressive Passive Assertive
a. Lulu, I’m upset that you were making fun of me. A girl is upset that her friend Lulu 1 Lulu, you’re the dumbest person in the world and b. has been making fun of her to Amina. I’m going to spread stories about you! She says: c. Oh, it’s okay, I guess. d. Um, thank you. 2 Comfort passes a magazine seller on the way home. He offers her chocolates. Comfort does not want to I have no interest. I do not want you to ask me e. accept them. She says: again. f. Thank you, but I do not want to. Sorry. 3 A boy asks a girl to go out with him. g. Um....okay. She does not want to. She says: I would never go out with someone like you. Just h. get away from me. i. Can’t you do anything on your own? Lanre’s friend calls him for a copy 4 I do not feel comfortable about it. We’re expected j. of the answers to the homework. to do our work on our own. Lanre says: k. If I have to . . .
Answer Key: Assertive responses are: a; e; f; j. Passive responses are: c; d; g; k. Aggressive responses are: b; h; i h; b; are: responses Aggressive k. g; d; c; are: responses Passive j. f; e; a; are: responses Assertive
[Note: In some situations, if you feel endangered, it is more important to ensure your safety than to be respectful. TakeawayDo you think Conflict Message #2 presents a danger to Comfort?]
Assertiveness is not the same as aggressiveness or manipulation. Being assertive has many advantages; particu- Assertiveness is the act of expressing your belief, feelings and needs without violating the rights of other people. morelarly, itassertive can help –it’s you afeel skill respected worth developing. and safe as well as build honest relationships. However, certain factors such as culture and gender roles may make it difficult for individuals to be assertive. Remember, everyone can learn to be The article is adapted from Action Health Incorporated’s publication – “Family Life and HIV Education Students’ Handbook for Junior Secondary Schools”
028 January 2014 www.actionhealthinc.org Married Adolescent Girls Go Back To School in Adamawa and Kaduna States
- Significanttion complications numbers andof Nigerian sexually adolescent transmitted girls infec are- Heads,(LGAs) villageacknowledged heads andthat youththere leadersare a variety in Jimeta of rea in- burdened with unwanted pregnancy, unsafe abor Yolasons Northwhy men and give Kaduna out theirNorth daughters local government in marriage areas at 50 % of girls in the country are already married by age an early age; reasons that included the need to get the tions,20. Although including there high are levels regional of new variations HIV infections. in the nature About not wanting their girls to engage in pre-marital sex the magnitude of the problem is greater in Northern Ni- bride price from the prospective husbands, to parents of sexual and reproductive (SRH) problems they face, husbands also do not permit their wives to continue onceschooling they becausereach puberty. they expect Once them they getto stay married, at home some to geria, where hundreds of thousands of young girls, due take care of the children. to various reasons especially the lower age at marriage, lowerlevels of access illness to and modern death family as a result planning of pregnancy methods, and as wellchildbearing. as pre and Pregnancy post-natal and care, childbearing are exposed also to higher affect - Following agreements with the community leaders, continuing schooling when they get married. school retention rates adversely, with many girls dis With funding support from the United Nations Popu- - rently working in collaboration with community lead- lation Fund, Action Health Incorporated (AHI) is cur Affairs in the states of Adamawa and Kaduna to address ersthese and challenges the Ministries of Health, Education and Women
Some of the girls with their Creche facility provided in Yola Overthe barriers the period to retaining of 2013, agirls series in school.of advocacy Some activities District babies and the nanny
www.actionhealthinc.orgwere conducted to discuss and find ways to remove January 2014 029 outreach activities were undertaken to seek the support anisms have also been set up with the youth-friendly clinics established as part of the project in the Primary who were interested in returning to school. By the end - of parents, guardians and husbands of the young girls, duna to increase the girls’ access to sexual and repro- 100 married girls and their families to surmount some Healthductive Centreshealth information in Ajiya, Yola and and services Unguwan including Shanu, fam Ka- of the barriersfirst school to reenrollment term in 2013, in AHI school had including worked witha lot ily planning.
Noteworthy is the decision made by the Ministry of Ed- of paperwork and navigating the required formalities. ucation in Adamawa State to waive school fees for these With the support of the State’s Ministry of Education, GovernmentKaduna were Day designated Secondary as schools School, toOld enroll GRA, the Yola young and - Governmentmothers. To Girlsaddress Secondary some of School,the challenges Unguwan of reten Sarki,- girlstries inof theWomen state, Affairs and the in promise both project of support states to indicated the girls - throughouttheir commitment their years to continuing of study. Insupport addition, for thethe Minisinitia- vided for the schools and crèches established within tive to ensure sustainability. tionthe premises for adolescent so the girls,,young sanitation mothers have facilities a place were to leave pro their babies while they attend classes. Referral mech- Commemorating World AIDS Day
commemorated to raise awareness about HIV/ EveryAIDS yearand toon demonstrate December 1, international the World AIDS solidarity Day is ipantsavailable had for the those opportunity who wanted to ask to questions know their and HIV clarify sta- misconceptions, free HIV counselling and testing was- rials (pamphlets and t-shirts with HIV prevention mes- inStrengthening the face of the Results pandemic for anand AIDS-Free since 2011, Generation.’ the theme tussages) while were red distributed ribbons, educational/promotional to all participants. mate forBearing World in AIDS mind Day that has young been people‘Shared are Responsibility critical to the in
(AHI) commemorated the day with 114 young people fight against HIV/AIDS, Action Health Incorporated Timecompetition was also were set asideImmaculate for games, Heart quizzes, Senior energizers, Second- choreography and even drama skits. Leading the quiz fromto offer secondary HIV prevention schools educationaround the and AHI testing Youth Centreservices. in School (2nd position) and Angus Memorial Senior High Lagos on December 6, 2013 and used the opportunity arySchool School (3rd (1st position). position), Other Mainland schools Seniorthat participated Secondary The information session conducted by programme staff addressed the modes of transmission and how to School and Morocco Junior High School. Prizes were prevent infection as well as issues of stigma and dis- are Shomolu Senior High School, Jibowu Junior High- crimination against people living with the virus. Partic- petitions. also awarded to the winners of the quiz and dance com
030 January 2014 www.actionhealthinc.org Make 2014 Your Year to Shine
Yes! Go on Ahead and Make a Plan to Succeed at What’s Important To You During This Year
"Some people want it to happen, some wish it would happen, others make it happen."- Michael Jordan
Goal Setting Worksheet
My Top Priority is: ______
Date I will Achieve: ______
Daily Steps I will Take Towards this Accomplishment:
1. ______
2. ______
3. ______
4. ______
5. ______
My Second Priority is: ______
Date I will Achieve: ______
Daily Steps I will Take Towards this Accomplishment:
1. ______
2. ______
3. ______
4. ______
5. ______
My Third Priority is: ______
Date I will Achieve: ______
Daily Steps I will Take Towards this Accomplishment:
1. ______
2. ______
3. ______
4. ______
5. ______www.actionhealthinc.org January 2014 031 Resources
In love and in danger by Barrie How to Say No and Keep your Girls in Power by Laura Levy friends by Sharon Scott Fingerson
ith more and more young ou may think nobody can force you to do anything you professor of Sociology at the Wor physically hurt on pur- LauraUniversity Fingerson, of Wisconsin an Assistant at adults been hit, slapped Milwaukee uses the book Girls in you todon’t do anything want to do. you In don’t a way, want you Power to examine menstruation posefor everyone. by a boyfriend or girlfriend, areto do. correct. The negative Usually, peer no one pressure forces and how it plays a part in power this book is definitely a must read discussed in this book is verbal interaction between boys and girls. In love and in Danger is a book for The book offers a fascinating and to put you down. After reading this about abusive dating relationships. pressure, when people tease you menstruation in the lives of adoles- youngThis book people helps who them have to understand questions would know what to say or do with uniquecent girls look – andat the also social in the aspects lives of Yawardsuch trouble winning traps book, as: “Come adolescents on, it’ll adolescent boys. For every girl who be fun, everyone is doing it”, “It’s no thethey causescan do about and consequencesit and helps them of big deal”, “Be cool”, “Grow up”, “Trust must read! theirto discover situation, how teaches to build them healthier what me, we won’t get caught”. The mes- menstruates, Girls in Power is a relationships. If you love him and he and do something about the situa- sage in this book is to STAND OUT, hitstion you,urgently! you need to read this book not to fill in!
To read these books and many more, visit The Library @ Action Health Incorporated, 17, Lawal street off Oweh, Jibowu – Yaba Lagos