Ogun First Lady, Ariyiike Dimples, and Influencers Empower Girls to Discover Purpose and Identity

In a gathering designed to inspire and mentor young girls, women from various sectors came together to discuss identity, purpose, and personal growth at the first edition of the Girl Talk With Ariyiike (GTWA) Conference, held at The Sanctuary, Eti-Osa, Lagos. The event focused on equipping girls to recognize their worth, pursue their dreams, and navigate life with confidence and authenticity.

The conference was organized by Nollywood actress Ariyiike Owolagba, popularly known as Ariyiike Dimples, and featured discussions on themes such as “Balancing Purpose, Ambition, and Authenticity” and “Thriving in Career and Life”. Esteemed speakers included Bamidele Abiodun, First Lady of Ogun State, Mojibade Sosanya, Adeton Adefajulo, and other prominent women leaders and advocates.

Reflecting on the origin of GTWA, Owolagba revealed that the initiative began nine years ago after losing her job at a television station. She sought a new purpose that would create meaningful impact for women and girls.

“I wanted to create a space where women could share ideas, experiences, and support one another. I started a podcast in 2016, and although it ended in 2018, it inspired me to continue empowering girls through GTWA. We went to schools, provided menstrual healthcare, worked with therapists, and shared sanitary towels. This program ran for six years, and it has grown into something bigger today.”

Owolagba recounted her journey of resilience and faith, emphasizing that material success, social connections, or titles do not define a person’s true identity.

“When I started planning this year’s conference, I had just N200 in my account. God guided me, aligned the right mentors and partners, and opened doors. Your achievements, family, friends, or education do not define you. Who you are is anchored in God’s truth—your essence, value, and purpose.”

She also highlighted GTWA’s measurable impact, noting that five girls have graduated under the program, and emphasized her continued commitment to menstrual hygiene education and ensuring that girls in underserved areas can attend school during menstruation.

Beyond adolescent empowerment, Owolagba extends her outreach to widows and military families through initiatives like Cover by Tabitha, providing essentials to wives of soldiers, and Matto Homes Legacy, honoring her late father.

Speaking at the event, Bamidele Abiodun, First Lady of Ogun State, encouraged the girls to pursue education and lifelong growth:

“No age is too big to acquire a degree. It is never too late to learn, to grow, or to achieve your dreams. I am living proof that continuous learning and growth are possible at any stage of life.”

The GTWA conference marked a milestone in mentoring, empowerment, and advocacy, creating a platform where girls are encouraged to explore their identity, embrace their purpose, and strive for excellence. With the support of mentors, partners, and community leaders, GTWA continues to nurture the next generation of Nigerian girls, equipping them to overcome barriers, make informed choices, and confidently pursue their dreams.