The maiden edition of the Rising Stars Young Authors Awards held recently in Lagos was a celebration of creativity and literary brilliance where exceptional young Nigerian authors between the ages of 8 and 19 who have taken bold steps to publish their debut books were honoured.

   The event, organised by ABIS Global Africa, in partnership with Laterna Ventures, brought together parents, educators, literary enthusiasts, and the media who witnessed the recognition of six young authors whose works reflect passion, creativity, and a strong desire to impact their generation through storytelling.

   Among the awardees were: Oreoluwa Falola (18) , an undergraduate of Business Administration at the University of Ilorin, honoured for her book, Tears of the Innocent, Esther Chioma Okoro (10), who celebrated her 10th birthday by authoring Isabella the Poor Girl and Other Stories, Williams Ariyo (10), author of the impactful story The Honest Boy, Mofeoluwa Adeshina (12), celebrated for her inspiring book Princess Sparkle, Heritage Ariyo (13), was  honoured for his debut work, The Unknown Secret of the Universe and  Damilola Igbeda (17),  a 100-level Economics student at Babcock University, recognised for her novel Torn Apart.

   The Convener, Mrs. Izehi Hannah Agunkejoye, a seasoned author of over 13 published books and the Lead Consultant of ABIS Global Africa, expressed deep joy over the success of the programme with her team. She noted that the event was born out of a desire to give young voices a platform to be heard, appreciated, and encouraged. She said: “We are raising a new generation of thinkers, storytellers, and leaders. This award is not just a celebration of books but a celebration of boldness, vision, and youthful creativity.”

   Agunkejoye also encouraged parents to nurture the creative gifts in their children, describing them as not just the leaders of tomorrow, but leaders of today.

   A representative of Laterna Ventures, shared the company’s enthusiasm about supporting youth development initiatives, particularly those that promote education, literacy, and creativity among children.