At Youngpearl Women and Girls Initiative, our founder and CEO, Abigail Okpebholo, is a relentless advocate for girls’ education and gender equality. With unwavering determination, Abigail leverages her voice as a formidable instrument for social change, passionately educating and sensitizing community members, local stakeholders, and interest groups on the urgent need to eradicate harmful practices such as early and forced marriages. She challenges deeply entrenched traditional norms that stifle girls’ educational aspirations, making a compelling case for the transformative power of education.

Abigail’s approach is multifaceted and deeply engaging. She conducts dynamic workshops, town hall meetings, and strategic dialogues with local chiefs, religious leaders, and community influencers. Using powerful narratives, stark statistics, and real-life testimonials, she lays bare the devastating consequences of early marriages—ranging from domestic violence and abuse to severe health complications and lifelong psychological trauma. Her message is clear and unyielding: girls deserve the chance to pursue their dreams without being shackled by regressive cultural practices.

The impact of Abigail’s tireless efforts is monumental. Her advocacy has led to a seismic shift in community attitudes towards girls’ education. In several regions, traditional leaders who once endorsed early marriages are now vocal advocates for education, implementing policies that support and protect girls’ rights. For example, in the UDU community, Abigail’s influence has inspired a landmark policy imposing fines on families that neglect to send their daughters to school. This has significantly increased school enrollment and retention rates, fostering a community culture that values and prioritizes education for all.

Through her relentless dedication, Abigail Okpebholo is not just altering individual lives—she is igniting a cultural revolution. Her initiatives have empowered countless girls to break free from the cycle of poverty and oppression, equipping them with the education and confidence needed to challenge the status quo. Abigail’s work is forging a path towards a future where every girl can realize her potential, unhindered by harmful traditions and societal expectations. Her impact resonates far beyond the classroom, creating a legacy of empowered women who are poised to lead, innovate, and transform their communities and the world.