By Jose Oby 
May 23, 2025 – Warri, Delta State Nigeria.
By Jose Oby & Mercy Irabor.
It was a day of empowerment, learning, and inspiration as the Ruth Gender Foundation hosted its highly anticipated “SHE CAN” event, dedicated to equipping young girls with knowledge, confidence, and the tools to thrive in today’s world.
The event, held on Friday, May 23, drew dozens of students for an experience that blended education, personal development, and real-world skills. Anchored by popular radio host Enkay, the day began with an opening prayer led by a student, followed by the national anthem.
In her welcome address, organizer Mrs. Coker Tuoyo who introduced the SHE CAN initiative, outlined its mission to inspire girls to recognize their rights, speak up against injustice, and realize their potential.
INSPIRING VOICES AND PRACTICAL LESSONS:
The first keynote speaker, Mr. Emmanuel Ekpoto, educated the girls on their legal rights and personal responsibilities, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and community engagement.
On her part,CSP Agbede Zuokumor,DPO of the Nigeria Police Force,Ugborokoko Divisional Headquarters, Effrrun, encouraged the girls to speak out when faced with difficult situations.
She also urged them to dream big affirming that“There are no limits to what you can become,” while stressing the value of courage and integrity.
Building on this, Pastor Edewor Egedegbe the, Executive Director Value Rebirth and Empowerment Initiative VREI, spoke about the spiritual and moral dimensions of empowerment, reinforcing the responsibilities of the girl child in society.
A POWERFUL MESSAGE FROM THE HOST:
The highlight of the event came with a heartfelt and powerful speech from Mrs. Ruth Collins Edema, founder of the Ruth Gender Foundation. In her address titled “SHE CAN,” she unpacked the subtle ways abuse often begins and provided practical tools to identify and prevent sexual harassment.
“The earlier we teach our girls to recognize abuse, the better we protect their futures,” Mrs. Edema stated.
SELF DEFENSE AND FUTURE PLAN:
A Wing Chun self-defense session brought the empowerment theme to life, giving the girls hands-on techniques to boost their confidence and personal safety.
In an interview with the press, Mrs. Edema expressed gratitude for the overwhelming response and announced that SHE CAN will now be held quarterly, with the next edition dedicated to boys.
COMMUNITY APPLAUSE:
CSP Zuokumor praised the initiative as “timely and essential,” while Mr. Ekpoto emphasized the role of mentorship in shaping future leaders. Pastor Egedegbe lauded the program’s lasting impact.
Students and teachers were visibly moved, with many pledging to carry the message forward into their schools and communities.
“Today reminded us that girls are not just the future—they are the now,” one student remarked.
Empowered, informed, and inspired, the girls left with a new mantra echoing in their hearts: She can. She will.