This week, Ezekiel N. C., program manager for the Youth for Technology Foundation’s (YTF) PeaceOpoly program, will be representing YTF and the PeaceOpoly platform in Uganda as a Generation Change Fellow. United States Institute of Peace (USIP)’s Generation Change program empowers and builds the capacity of civically engaged youth as they emerge as leaders in their communities. Ezekiel has successfully spearheaded PeaceOpoly, which helped strengthen voices and capacities of participating youth in view of the 2015 Nigerian general elections. We’re excited to see what Ezekiel has to offer and learn from Generation Change program.
Here is a peek at Ezekiel’s experience with YTF since 2010.
How did you first become involved with YTF? What was your motivation for joining?
I got to know about YTF from a YTF student named Oganiru Ugwujo. Back then, I was working at a newspaper company called Champion Newspaper, where I got to learn about the power of [information and communications technology] ICT.
When I heard about YTF, I was intrigued because I thought it might be a great place for me to work. I was very much into developing my ICT skills, and thought YTF could be a perfect place for me.
What’s your role at YTF?
I’m responsible for running the PeaceOpoly and YTF Academy programs. It’s a lot of work to oversee both programs, so there’s always a lot on my plate.
With the PeaceOpoly program, for example, I organize civic education workshops in all six geo-political regions in Nigeria, mobilize youth and women to join the PeaceOpoly network, nominate and train PeaceOpoly peace ambassadors – the list goes on.
The work keeps me busy, but it’s very fulfilling – I was so touched to see PeaceOpoly students put into practice what they learned from the program and stay actively engaged in the 2015 Nigerian general election, particularly on social media. They helped make the election successful, and I’m so proud of them.
As an YTF Academy program manager, I engage in various tasks, which include recruiting talent, developing relationships with key partners and agencies, monitoring and evaluating program results, etc.
Tell us about your typical work day.
I get to the office at 9 a.m. After writing my name down in the attendance registry, I start my day at work.
YTF Academy morning sessions run from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and afternoon sessions from 2 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. I’m usually fully involved in both sessions. When I’m not involved in the afternoon sessions, I’m out for marketing.
I also spend about two hours on the PeaceOpoly program everyday.
What memory stands out the most during your time at YTF?
I would say the time spent with my lovely students. It makes me feel so fulfilled.
Who’s the most memorable student you had?
That’s a hard question, the list is actually endless. I have so many students who touched, inspired, and challenged me.
What do you like most about your job?
I love that YTF has presented me with wonderful learning opportunities. YTF has allowed me to go to places I wouldn’t have been able to go otherwise and meet people who challenged me to better develop my professional career. I feel like I can compete with my peers in any part of the world thanks to the skills I learned at YTF.
In your opinion, what does YTF stand for?
I think YTF represents opportunities and empowerment.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I’d love to be still be involved with YTF if the circumstances are right. I’m also considering possibly running my own business utilizing the skills I learned at YTF!
