The Hopesalive Initiative for Africa (HAI), in a significant move to bridge the gender gap within Africa’s rapidly expanding digital economy, has officially inaugurated the She-Levate Tech Digital Empowerment Bootcamp. This transformative 16-week program, which began on July 1, 2025, and is set to conclude in October 2025, is designed to train and empower 60 young women. These participants are drawn from 10 underserved communities across Lagos State, specifically targeting vulnerable communities within six local council areas, including Bariga, Yaba, Ikorodu, Kosofe, Mushin, and Surulere.

The initiative is generously supported by the French Embassy Fund for Civil Society Organisation (FEF-OSC) and implemented in partnership with Edunity.ng. The official flag-off ceremony, themed “Equipping Underserved Young Women with World-Class Digital Skills, Mentorship, and Opportunities,” took place on Monday, June 30, 2025, at the HAI Digital Learning Hub in Gbagada Phase 1, Lagos.

Mr. Olusegun Akapo, Head of Programs at Hopesalive Initiative for Africa, articulated the profound vision behind She-Levate Tech, describing it as “more than just a training program, but positioned as a movement.” He emphasized that the program aims to provide hands-on digital skills in high-demand areas such as UI/UX Design (Product Design), frontend and backend Web Development (Python/Django), Data Analytics, WordPress Web Design, and Digital Marketing. Akapo further stated, “This is about restoring voices, reawakening dreams, and reshaping futures for young women who deserve a seat at the table. We are not just offering training; we are building futures and raising digital queens.”

Beyond skill acquisition, participants are set to benefit from comprehensive professional mentorship, career coaching, crucial internship placements, and the completion of capstone projects. A key objective of the program is to place at least 70 percent of the cohort in internships or direct employment opportunities. Furthermore, the initiative commits to providing a long-term support network through the She-Levate alumni community, ensuring sustained growth and connectivity. HAI also harbors plans to extend this impactful program to other states across Nigeria.

Her Regal Majesty, Olori Temitope Enitan-Ogunwusi, Deputy Convener and wife of the Ooni of Ife, expressed her gratitude for the King’s support and underscored the far-reaching impact of the initiative. She remarked, “Changing a girl’s life is to change a nation. It is a life-transforming project. Together, we will join hands to keep hope alive and that is our identity.” This statement highlights the initiative’s commitment to fostering national development through the empowerment of its young female populace.