The Sustainable Impact and Development (SID) Initiative on Saturday, June 21, held a close-out ceremony in Lagos for the We Lead Project, a five-year sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) initiative targeted at young people in underserved communities. The event also featured the launch of a documentary and an Impact Story Booklet chronicling the experiences and transformation of rightholders in Lagos, Oyo, and Osun states.
Funded by HIVOS, the We Lead Project (2020–2025) focused on empowering adolescent girls, young women, persons living with HIV (PLWHIV), and persons with disabilities (PWDs) through community-led advocacy, digital media, and capacity building. The initiative reached over 200 young people, equipping them with tools and knowledge to advocate for their SRHR and drive change within their communities.
Executive Director of SID Initiative, Ms. Elizabeth Talatu Williams, described the project’s impact as deeply personal and community-driven. “The stories in this booklet and documentary are not just reflections,” she said. “They are testimonies of transformation and proof that when young people lead, communities thrive.”
The event drew participants from youth-led organizations, development partners, government agencies, and the media. In goodwill messages, representatives of partner organizations applauded SID’s inclusive approach and youth-led model.
“The work SID has done is loud and visible,” said Suru Emmanuel of ISHRAI. “We’re proud of the commitment and can’t wait to see what comes next.” Halima Olaniyan of Afay Health, Assumpta Khalil of SUOF, and Ifeoluwa Asaolu of Value Female Network (VFN) also praised the project’s impact and called for sustained collaboration.
Beneficiaries of the project shared personal testimonies of growth. “I am grateful for the knowledge gained and excited for what SID will do next,” said Okiki Eretan, one of the rightholders.
Rt. Hon. Itunnuoluwa Soniregun of the Lagos State Youth Parliament expressed admiration for the documentary and a desire for future partnerships. Dr. Wuraola Adeyemi, representing the Lagos State Ministry of Health, reiterated government support, describing SID’s approach as “innovative and empowering.”
Closing remarks were delivered by Board Member Blessing Bamidele, who praised SID’s consistency and quality of work.
SID Initiative, a youth-led NGO, continues to focus on empowering adolescents and young people in both urban and rural communities through comprehensive sexuality education, advocacy, and digital innovation.
